Shabtai Zvi exhibition explores the false Messiah who mesmerized Jews across the world

The Museum for Islamic Art is currently hosting an exhibition titled "Shabtai Zvi – Truth or Lie," commemorating 400 years since the birth of Shabtai Zvi, the 17th-century Ottoman-born Sephardic rabbi and kabbalist proclaimed as the Messiah in 1666 by Nathan of Gaza. Curated by Dr. Hadar Feldman Samet, the exhibition explores Zvi's widespread influence, noting that "at its peak, in 1666, according to estimates, something like 80% of the Jewish world believed that he was going to be the Messiah," according to senior museum guide Jenia Frumin. The display features original documents, books, theatrical posters, contemporary artworks, and video footage, examining how Zvi's claims were perceived not only within Jewish communities but also in a broader European context, particularly among Protestants who viewed it as a precursor to the Second Coming. The exhibition also highlights media coverage from the period, including depictions of Zvi and parallels drawn with figures like English Quaker leader James Naylor.