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The 17th century posed a significant challenge to the Jewish world following the appearance of Shabbetai Zevi (1626-1676), who many believed was the Messiah. Rich and poor, rabbis and common people embraced the belief that Shabbetai Zevi would replace the sultan, reinstate the Kingdom of Judah and lead the Jews to the Land of Israel. His conversion to Islam in 1666 distanced most of his followers, although some disciples converted in his footsteps and formed the Doenmeh sect.
Jewish messianic beliefs surfaced again in Poland after Jacob Frank (1726-1791) came on stage. Frank declared himself the successor of Shabbetai Zevi, conducted religious rituals of a sexual nature and eventually converted to Christianity together with his followers, claiming that the Talmud was replete with lies and blasphemy.
The various forms of Sabbatean messianism met with strong opposition throughout the Jewish world, resulting in bans, verbal and physical violence, and informants from both sides reporting to the authorities.
