New edition of Ferrara bible shows how persecuted Jews kept faith alive in Spanish

The Guardian World

by Sam Jones in Madrid

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A groundbreaking discovery in Jewish history has come to light through a newly uncovered edition of the Ferrara Bible, a Spanish-translated Hebrew text printed in 1553 by exiled Spanish and Portuguese Jews living in Ferrara, Italy. This remarkable achievement not only highlights the ingenuity and resilience of a community forced into exile but also underscores their determination to preserve their faith and cultural heritage despite overwhelming odds. The story begins with the expulsion of Jews from Spain and Portugal during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Many of these displaced individuals found refuge in Italy, particularly in cities like Ferrara, which offered relative safety and tolerance under the protection of local rulers. Among these exiles were scholars and religious leaders who sought to maintain their traditions in a foreign land. Their bold decision to translate and print the Hebrew Bible in Spanish was not only a linguistic feat but also a defiant act of faith in the face of persecution. The Ferrara Bible, printed in 1553 under the patronage of Ferrara’s Duke Ercole II d’Este, marks a significant milestone in Jewish history. By translating the sacred text into their native language, Spanish and Portuguese Jews ensured that future generations could continue to study and understand the Torah despite the challenges of exile. This act of cultural preservation was particularly significant given the oppressive environment they had fled, where practicing Judaism could lead to severe consequences. The significance of this discovery lies in its ability to shed light on a lesser-known chapter of Jewish history. It offers insight into how displaced communities adapt and thrive in new environments while maintaining their identity. For readers interested in global culture, religious history, and the resilience of marginalized groups, the Ferrara Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of faith and the enduring human spirit. This story also has broader implications for understanding Jewish life during the early modern period and the ways in which displaced communities navigated hostile environments. By preserving their traditions through such innovative means, these exiles ensured that their cultural legacy would endure, even if their physical presence in Spain was no longer possible. Their actions not only preserved their own heritage but also contributed to a richer understanding of Jewish history for

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/24/2026