Samuel Abravanel facts for kids

Samuel Abravanel HaNasi (1473-1551), also known as Abarbanel, was a very important Jewish-Italian businessman and scholar. He was a big supporter of Jewish communities in Italy. Samuel is most famous for being the main financial advisor to Don Pedro de Toledo, who was a powerful leader called a viceroy.

Samuel's Life Story

Samuel was born in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1473. He was the youngest of three sons in the famous Abravanel family. His father, Isaac Abarbanel, was a well-known Jewish leader.

When Samuel was young, his father sent him to Salonica to study the Talmud. The Talmud is a very important collection of Jewish teachings and laws. There, he learned from a teacher named Joseph Nasi.

Later, Samuel moved to Naples, Italy. He became the chief financial advisor for Don Pedro de Toledo, the viceroy. During this time, Samuel became incredibly wealthy. He was richer than anyone else in his family.

Samuel married his cousin, Benvenida Abrabanel. However, in 1541, the government in Naples told all Jewish people to leave the city. So, Samuel and Benvenida had to move to Ferrara.

In Ferrara, Samuel and Benvenida started helping many Jewish organizations. Their home became a popular place for both Jewish and Christian scholars to visit. People like David ben Yahya and Baruch of Benevento often came to their house.

A famous poet named Samuel Usque once said that Samuel Abravanel deserved the name "Tremegisto," which means "thrice great." This was because Samuel was great in his studies, great in his family history, and great in his wealth. The poet also said that Samuel used his money generously to help other Jewish people. He helped many orphans get married, supported those in need, and worked hard to free people who were captured. Samuel Abravanel passed away in Ferrara in 1551.

See Also

• In Spanish: Samuel Abravanel for kids