Abraham Yachini

Yachini persuaded Sabbatai Zevi, who at that time was convinced that he was the Messiah, but was timid and fearful of proclaiming himself, boldly to declare his claims.

It was in Constantinople, about 1653, that Sabbatai Zevi became acquainted with Yachini, who, on account of his learning and oratorical powers, enjoyed a great reputation in his native town.

Yachini is said by some to have put into the hands of Sabbatai Zevi a spurious book in archaic characters, which, he assured him, contained the Scriptural proof of his Messianic origin.

"In this manner, and in a style imitating the ancient apocalypses, this fabrication, attributed by some scholars to Yachini, who was a master of Hebrew diction, continues to describe the vision which had appeared to the fictitious Abraham.

He gave proof of his devotion at the time when Sabbatai Zevi was in prison in Constantinople, and when even the greatest enthusiast could no longer be in doubt concerning his true character.

He is the author of one hundred and fifty psalms (composed in imitation of those in the Bible), which appeared under the title Hod Malkut (Glory of the Kingdom), Constantinople, 1655.