[5] In 1524–25, Benvenida became a supporter and patron of the mystic and false messiah David Reubeni, to whom she sent money and a silk banner embroidered with the Ten Commandments.
Reubeni's travel diary mentions Benevenida with praise, stating that she fasted daily, ransomed a thousand captives, and was known for her charity.
However, in 1540, the Emperor issued an edict forcing Jews to wear a Jewish badge; following this, Benvenida and her family left Naples in 1541, eventually settling in Ferrara at the invitation of Ercole II.
His illegitimate son contested the will, arguing that a woman could not be an heir under Jewish law, which led to a major rabbinic debate over Benvenida's right to inherit in 1550–51.
Ultimately, Benvenida took over Samuel's business affairs, receiving permission to open five banks in the Duchy of Florence.