Abraham Shalom and the converso question in the fifteenth century

This article examines the views of R. Abraham Shalom on practice and belief, and the implications of his perspective on the converso question. It argues that, according to R. Abraham Shalom, Judaism is defined by both faith and practice. A significant and original aspect of his view is the interdependence of belief and practice: all who observe the commandments thereby demonstrate their beliefs, and it is impossible to attain supernatural truth without the practice of the commandments. This theory excludes conversos from the Jewish community, as they are unable to practise the commandments and lack a genuine understanding of Judaism. Additionally, the article compare R. Abraham Shalom’s position to more inclusive views, such as those of R. Hasdai Crescas and R. Josef Albo.