Samuel Wiseman: A Disciple of Yeshua in the New Era Jerusalem
By Gershon Nerel
Samuel Wiseman was born in Tiberias into a Jewish ultra orthodox family on September 25, 1835. We have no information on how he came to believe in Yeshua, but we know that he was baptized in Christ Church in Jerusalem by the bishop Samuel Gobat on January 21, 1857. At that time he as employed as an Arabic teacher by the London Society for Promoting Christianity Amongst the Jews. In addition, he was a member of the medical staff of the Hospital of the English Mission in the city, where he worked mainly as a chemist (then the word dispenser was used). Thus he was able to testify of his faith in Yeshua to thousands who attended the hospital.
Wiseman served for a long period of time as the official translator (dragoman) of the mission in Jerusalem. In addition to English, he was in command of both speaking and writing in several other languages. Wiseman was also known as a specialist in Ottoman law and very skillfully administered the communications with the Turkish authorities. As a man of great tact, Wiseman found common ground with people of different cultures. He faithfully and humbly fulfilled his roles as both chemist and dragoman for over 40 years.
Wiseman was fluent in Hebrew and familiar with the Talmud. Therefore, he counseled residents of Jerusalem who came to receive his advice and support, among whom were Jews, both Sephardic and Ashkenazi of the old Yishuv. He helped them all and avoided prominence. During his long lifetime he was a teacher, a friend and a guide to three generations of Jews in Jerusalem who believed in Yeshua. Due to his integrity and good relationships with all parts of society – Jews, Christians and Muslims – he won the appreciation and trust of all who knew him. Samuel Wiseman died quietly in his sleep on June 19, 1920 at the age of 85, and the following day was buried in the Protestant cemetery on Mount Zion.
taken from: Zot HaBrit, Summer 2003, English Issue no. 5
