anusim Definition
Jewish people who were forced to convert to another religion, especially during the Spanish Inquisition, but who continued to practice Judaism in secret.
Using anusim: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "anusim" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Many anusim in Spain and Portugal continued to practice Judaism in secret for generations.
Example
The descendants of anusim are now seeking to reconnect with their Jewish heritage.
Example
The story of the anusim is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the Jewish people.
Phrases with anusim
crypto-Jew
a person who practices Judaism in secret, often due to persecution or forced conversion
Example
Many anusim in Spain and Portugal were crypto-Jews.
a Spanish or Portuguese Jew who was forced to convert to Christianity but who continued to practice Judaism in secret
Example
The term 'Marrano' was used to refer to anusim during the Spanish Inquisition.
B'nei Anusim
descendants of anusim who are seeking to reconnect with their Jewish heritage
Example
There is a growing movement of B'nei Anusim who are returning to Judaism.
Origins of anusim
from Hebrew 'anús', meaning 'forced'
Summary: anusim in Brief
'Anusim' [ah-noo-seem] refers to Jewish people who were forced to convert to another religion, especially during the Spanish Inquisition, but who continued to practice Judaism in secret. They are also known as crypto-Jews or Marranos. The descendants of anusim are now seeking to reconnect with their Jewish heritage, and are referred to as B'nei Anusim.
