David Almasser

David Almasser a Jew of Moravia, who lived about the end of the 12th century, professed to be the Messiah. He pretended to make himself invisible at pleasure; and the ignorant Jews submitted to his call and followed him in masses. The governor (who was alarmed by the agitation) promised. him pardon if he would surrender himself to his hands. David did it with confidence, and was put in prison. He escaped, however, and the Jews, being threatened with severe fines, delivered up David, who this time no more escaped either the eye or the hand of the executioner. See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v .