On Jews

Thomas Aquinas did not explicitly state that Jews should be placed in serfdom, but he did articulate a hierarchical and subordinated role for Jews within Christian society, consistent with the dominant theological and political views of the medieval Church.

What Aquinas Actually Said:

In Summa Theologiae, especially in discussions about law, justice, and toleration of unbelievers, Aquinas argued that:

Jews should not be forced to convert to Christianity, because faith must be voluntary.
Jews could be tolerated in Christian society, but in a subordinate position.
He believed Jews, having rejected Christ, should not hold positions of power over Christians.
He supported the idea that Jews could be subjected to certain civil restrictions, such as paying special taxes, wearing distinguishing clothing, or being excluded from public office.

In his letter to the Duchess of Brabant (1244), Aquinas wrote:

“Since then the Jews are the slaves of the prince, they ought to be treated as the slaves of those who belong to the prince.”

This line has been interpreted as justifying serf-like status for Jews, though it reflects medieval legal language, where many people (not only Jews) were considered “serfs” or “servants” of the ruler. Still, in context, Aquinas was affirming the inferior legal and social status of Jews.

Context:

Aquinas lived in a time when Jews were tolerated but marginalized under Christian rule.
He shared the medieval Christian belief that Jews, while spiritually blind, had a role to play in the divine order until the Second Coming.
His thinking influenced laws that justified second-class status for Jews, though he did not advocate violence or forced conversion.

Summary:

Thomas Aquinas did not call for Jewish serfdom outright, but he endorsed their social and legal subordination in Christian society. His writings contributed to the theological framework that allowed for discriminatory laws and restrictions—often including conditions similar to serfdom.