A Jewish Messiah: Tale of a Convincing Imposter, 1666

Siegal College Spring 2017 Lecture Series
Mon, February 20, 2017

Landmark Centre 25700 Science Park Dr. Beachwood OH 44122

Matt Goldish, Samuel M. and Esther Melton Chair of History, The Ohio State University

A messiah is usually understood to be a human agent sent by God to save or redeem people. While Christians expect Jesus’ Second Coming, the Jews too expect a messiah. Various contenders for this position have appeared over the millennia. Among the most famous was Shabbatai Zevi, whose influence was felt by Jews across the Ottoman Empire in 1665-1666. This lecture explores the historical and religious context that made Shabbatai such a believable Jewish messianic figure.

This lecture is made possible through the generous support of the David and Robert Stein Family Foundation in memory of Paul N. Stein and Robert L. Stein.