Language:
English
Year of publication:
2005
Titel der Quelle:
Kwartalnik Historii Żydów
Angaben zur Quelle:
213 (2005) 5-10
Keywords:
Catholic Church Relations
;
Judaism
;
Catholic Church History 16th century
;
Jews History 16th century
;
Christianity and antisemitism History 16th century
;
Conversion History
Abstract:
In the wake of the rise of Protestantism, the weakened Catholic Church in Poland began to perceive a threat not only from Protestants and Orthodox Christians, but also from Jews. Synodal legislation that attempted to regulate contacts between Catholics and Jews reveals fears that Jews might convert Catholics. Rumors of such attempts circulated widely; Jews were accused of having converted children by force, as well as other crimes. While protecting the Jews against calumny, one king threatened them with death and confiscation of their property if they converted Catholics. Some anti-Jewish charges may have stemmed from economic rivalry; such charges certainly reduced Jewish participation in economic life. The synods expressed concern about the danger posed by Jews living among Christians. When the Church regained influence in the 17th century, less attention was paid to legislation aimed at protecting Catholics from Jews.
Note:
Appeared in Russian as "Боялась ли католическая церковь в Польше в начале XVI века обращения христиан в иудаизм?" in "Ксенофобия" (2003) 7-15.
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