Judaism
Judaism in Europe
Prior to the destruction of the second temple by the Roman emperor Titus in 70AD, the Jews were concentrated in the Israel. Afterward, the Dispora spread Jews throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia. Moving throughout Europe, Judaism developed over the Middle Ages into two distinct branches: Sephardi (Muslim-influenced) Jews and Ashkenazi (Latin-influenced) Jews.
Sephardic Jews developed in Andalusian-Spanish lands and adapted well to the Muslim culture. Unlike their brethren in Christian lands, the Sephardim were given many allowances by the ruling Muslims. Jews in Moorish Spain could serve the government, be active in political affairs, and participate in social and intellectual discourse. The Moors had strict education requirements which applied to all of it’s citizens, including the Jews. Because of their comfortable living and their advance education, leaders in the Sephardi community began to philosophically and rationally analyze Judaism. One of the developments at the peak of growth is the codex of Jewish law: the Mishneh Torah, the only text of Jewish law from the Middle ages before 1210. Although the philosophical Renaissance ended during the Almohad invasion of Spain, many Separdic Jews still live in northern Spain, North Africa and Egypt.
Ashkenazic Jews developed Franco-German lands. Unlike the Sephardim, the Ashkenazim did not integrate themselves into Christian living. Christian society was mostly closed due to prohibitions forbidding social intercourse between them, as well as most forms of earning. However, the influx of Jews from other areas as well as the violence of the First Crusade banded them together. The Ashkenazim sense of community and isolation allowed them to develop deep traditions. Much of their study focused on the mysticism of Judaism; valuing asceticism and lifelong penitence. It is through this time that the beginnings of Kabbalah developed, however, it was worshipped by only a small sect of worshipers.
The Jews of England came over after the Norman conquest (1066) promised economic opportunity. They congregated in the English cities starting in London and spreading to the other cities over hundreds of years. London had the largest community of over 300 members, and in some areas the Jewish community was limited to a single family. However, laws limited Jews to very few occupations; primarily wholesale and usury (money lending). Throughout the 12th century, Jews were persecuted heavily for accusations of sacrificing Christian children in diabolic rituals. Under the rule King John, Jews were used as a method of supplemental income to the royalty. They were often levied with heavy, unscrupulous taxes. All of a Jew’s wealth was property of the King at his death. The Barony knew Jews were financial instruments of the King; Baron who did not like the Kings rule would treat Jews maliciously.
Players considering playing Jews should keep in mind the following:
- Jews are the only people allowed to lend money with interest; this makes them very wealthy, and very hated (Many “diabolism” riots against Jews are started by people who were in debt to the Jews).
- Jews *could* convert to Christianity but don’t believing very strongly in their religion. Jews have a very closed, tight-knit society.
- If players are considering playing Jewish sorcerers they should consider investigating Kabbalah, a Jewish mysticism that is in its infancy at this time period.
- King John's charter which allows Jews to live in England, and details their rights.
