What does the Java Language Specification define?

The Java Language Specification (JLS) serves as a comprehensive guide that defines the formal syntax and semantics of the Java programming language. It outlines the rules and structures that govern the use of the language, including how various constructs like classes, interfaces, and methods should behave in different scenarios. This detailed specification ensures consistency in how Java programs are written and executed, allowing developers to understand how the language is intended to function.

The JLS does not prescribe runtime requirements, which are more related to the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and the Java Runtime Environment (JRE). Additionally, while debugging methods and the organizational structure of libraries might be important for developers, these topics are not encompassed within the JLS. Instead, they may be covered in other resources, such as Java platform documentation or best practice guides. Thus, the choice that accurately captures the essence of the JLS is its role in defining the official syntax and semantics of Java.