The Nature & Role of the Messiah | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

The Concept of the Messiah in Judaism

Who is the Messiah in Judaism?

The term "Messiah" derives from the Hebrew word Mashiach, meaning "anointed one" or a chosen leader destined to rule.
In the Tenakh, the term initially described the kings of Israel:

• The first king, Saul, was anointed by the prophet Samuel to signify his divine selection as ruler.
• While the Torah lacks explicit references to the Messianic Age, certain verses are interpreted as alluding to it:

“He shall not judge by what his eyes see, nor decide by what his ears hear, but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall slay the wicked” (Isaiah 11:1–9).

• Although the Torah does not mention the "Messiah" explicitly, it refers to the "End of Days," which is associated with the Messianic Age.
• In the 12th century, Maimonides included belief in the Messiah as one of the 13 Principles of Judaism.
• Some Jews believe the Messiah will usher in an era of perfect peace and prosperity on Earth during the Messianic Age.
• The Tenakh describes the Messiah as restoring the Jewish people to Israel, rebuilding the Temple, and establishing universal peace.

The Role of the Messiah

Diverse beliefs about the Messiah exist within Judaism due to the absence of direct references in the Torah, leading to varied interpretations. Orthodox and Reform Jews hold differing views on the Messiah.