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In "Menasseh ben Israel's Mission to Oliver Cromwell," the author presents a meticulously detailed account of the Jewish emissary's pivotal journey in 1655, aimed at advocating for the readmission of Jews to England. This work is notable for its rich historical context, written in an engaging style that oscillates between narrative and persuasive discourse. Ben Israel expertly utilizes theological arguments and political insights, woven together through eloquent prose, highlighting the delicate interplay between religion, politics, and social justice during a time of both upheaval and opportunity in England. Menasseh ben Israel, a prominent Jewish scholar and printer from Amsterdam, was deeply influenced by the Sephardic tradition and the broader European Enlightenment. His passionate advocacy for Jewish rights stemmed from his own experiences of exile and persecution. As a member of the Jewish community that had fled the Inquisition, his work reflects both personal struggles and a broader vision for Jewish integration in Christian society, showcasing his deep understanding of both Jewish and Christian thought. This book is highly recommended for scholars of Jewish history, early modern England, and religious studies. It offers rich insights into the historical context of Jewish life in 17th-century Europe and the dynamics of interfaith relations, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in the complexities of cultural negotiation and religious tolerance.

Menasseh ben Israel (1604-1657) was one of the most learned and prolific rabbis in Amsterdam's Jewish community. His 1650 work,The Hope of Israel,argues from scripture that Messianic redemption would not come to the Jewish people until they were scattered to all corners of the earth and that only the return of the Jews to England was needed to complete the dispersal. Translated into English in 1652--and here with a new introduction and explicit notes--this book aroused great interest and helped lead to the readmission of Jews under Cromwell in 1656.