' The times were turbulent ones: pogroms, wars, disease, and famine were widespread. The writings of the Kabbalah inspired the people in their desire for a Redeemer - a Messiah, to save the Jews.'
LIONEL BLUE describes the dramatic career of Sabbatai Sevl. a ' Messiah ' of the 17th century, and talks to
PROFESSOR GERSHOM SCHOLEM. who in recent years has opened up the field of Jewish mysticism to critical study. Producer ANGELA TILBY followed by an interlude