The Amulet Controversy Landmarks of Jewish History

In 1751, a protracted dispute threatened to divide the congregation and led to a loss of significance for traditional Jewish institutions and structures. The son of the former chief rabbi, Jakob Emden, accused the new chief rabbi, Jonathan Eibeschütz, of being a secret follower of Sabbatai Zevi’s messianic movement. As supposed proof, Emden cited the texts of amulets that Eibeschütz had given to pregnant women during their confinement. Hence the name Amulet Controversy (or Sabbatean Controversy).

The dispute between the opponents spread ever wider. Both sides mobilized their supporters among rabbis and scholars at home and abroad. The Triple Congregation excommunicated Jakob Emden. The Danish king intervened and a trial was held before the Danish courts. Expert opinions from Christian experts cleared Eibeschütz of the accusation. However, the dispute was not settled during their lifetimes.