In 2014, I had the opportunity to present a brief lecture on comparisons between Conversos and Samaritans in rabbinic literature. The lecture was given at the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies conference in Dallas. At first thought it may seem odd to compare a group like the Samaritans with origins in the aftermath of the destruction of the First Temple to a group of Jews whose plight began in the 14th century.
A little bit of inquiry, however reveals some interesting points of “connection.”
The file below is Power Point file I used as a reference for the lecture. While the Power Point requires elaboration, I believe it is still of benefit for understanding the Converso experience in light of other “marginal” groups in Jewish history.
Conversos and Samaritans-5-16-16
In the future, I hope to record an audio or video lecture presenting this information. If anyone reading this has any questions about it, feel free to comment.
Posted by Rabbi Juan Bejarano-Gutierrez, the director of the B’nei Anusim Center for Education, and author of What is Kosher?
B'nei Anusim Center for Education 