The heretical Jewish philosopher was excommunicated by his community in 1656 for his ideas. A newly released documentary about him had a similar reception - but critics love it

Portuguese Synagogue board apologizes to Yitzhak Melamed, saying rabbi acted without authority to declare him persona non grata due to his studies of excommunicated philosopher

Leader of Dutch city's Sephardic community declares Yitzhak Melamed 'persona non grata,' citing his 'study of Spinoza’s banned works and the development of his ideas'