Jewish Beliefs About the Messiah
Learn how Jewish beliefs about the Messiah and the Messianic Age differ, including hopes for a human leader, peace and justice, for GCSE Religious Studies.
Jewish beliefs about the Messiah differ, but the central hope is for a future of peace, justice and faithfulness to God. Some Jews expect a person, the Messiah, to help bring about that future. Others focus more on a Messianic Age: a time when the world is transformed for the better.
The Messiah
Messiah means “anointed one”. In Jewish belief, anointing with oil marked someone as chosen for a special role. Many traditional Jews believe the Messiah will be a human leader descended from King David, rather than God in human form. They expect this leader to bring the Jewish people together and establish justice and peace.
The Tanakh, the Jewish scriptures, contains prophetic visions that shape these hopes. For example, Isaiah describes a future ruler associated with justice, while Micah pictures a time when nations will no longer learn war. Jews interpret these passages in different ways, so it is important not to present one detailed description of the Messiah as a belief held by everyone.
The Messianic Age
The Messianic Age is the hoped-for time of peace and justice. Some Jews believe a Messiah will bring it about. Others place greater emphasis on people working with God to improve the world, rather than waiting for an individual leader. Belief in the Messianic Age can therefore encourage action now, such as helping those in need and challenging injustice.
Exam mistake to avoid: Do not use Messiah and Messianic Age as though they mean the same thing. The Messiah is an expected person in some Jewish beliefs; the Messianic Age is the future state of the world. Also avoid writing that all Jews expect the Messiah in exactly the same way.
