Rodrigo Jiménez de Rada and the Jews: Pragmatism and Patronage in Thirteenth Century Toledo

Abstract

"Rodrigo Jiménez de Rada and the Jews: Pragmatism and Patronage in Thirteenth-Century Toledo." Rodrigo Jiménez de Rada, archbishop of Toledo (1209-1247), has long enjoyed the reputation of being one of the more enlightened prelates of his day, one who did all he could to protect the lives and position of the Jews within his domain. This favorable view results from earlier scholars' surveying the record of Rodrigo's "official" actions towards the Jewish community of Toledo, notably his attempts to protect them from the strictures of Lateran IV mandating distinctive dress and the payment of tithes. An examination of his "unofficial" or semi-private acts (business dealings, land holdings, social connections, and family preferments) reveals, however, a pragmatist whose concerns were for improving his own income, increasing the power and status of his see, and promoting the welfare of his family. The Jews emerge as a locus for negotiation and potential dissent in Rodrigo's relations with the pope, his fellow prelates, and especially the chapter of Toledo.