History of the Jews, Vol. 4 (of 6)

by Heinrich Graetz

"History of the Jews, Vol. 4 (of 6)" by Heinrich Graetz is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume chronicles the Jewish experience from the rise of Kabbalah around 1270 CE to the establishment of the Marranos in Holland by 1618 CE. The focus revolves around the intellectual and cultural developments of Jews during this period, detailing the evolution of Kabbalistic thought and the challenges they faced, including expulsions and societal pressures. At the start of the volume, the discussion centers around the cultivation of Kabbalah and the subsequent prohibition against certain forms of science and philosophy, highlighting key figures such as Todros Abulafia and Abraham Abulafia. It describes Abulafia's erratic life and attempts to reshape Jewish mystical thought, culminating in various Messianic claims that had both fervent followers and fierce opposition. The opening sets the stage for examining how these spiritual movements not only affected contemporary Jewish communities but also foreshadowed significant developments leading to the expulsions from Spain and the evolving Jewish identity within medieval and early modern Europe.