Messiah

• Messiah


  Anointed one who will bring about a new age for mankind
• Messiah


  • Different views within Orthodox and Reform Judaism about the nature and role
• Covenant


  Promise or agreement between God and the Jews
• Shabbat


  Day of rest for Jews from Friday to Saturday sunset
• Shekhinah


  Place where God's presence rests and can be felt
• Kosher


  Foods and practices allowed
• Synagogue


  Place of worship and learning for Jews
• Mitzvot


  Duties or commandments
• Torah


  The five books of the Tenakh
• There are no direct quotes about the Messiah in the Torah so there are many different beliefs as passages that might be relevant are interpreted with people giving different meanings. For some, especially Orthodox Jews, a belief in the Messiah is central to their faith. For some, especially Reform Jews, there is a belief that the Messianic Age can come from the good deeds (mitzvot) that people do to create peace.
• Messiah


  Comes from 'Mashiach' meaning 'anointed', This refers to the placing of oil on the head of a king showing they are trusted by God. Many Orthodox Jews pray each day for the coming of the Messiah to bring about the Messianic Age.
• Messianic Age


  Many Jews believe that the coming of the Messiah will bring about the resurrection of the dead and begin the Messianic Age – a future time of peace on earth.
• Some Jews believe there is an exact date when the Messiah will come but most Jews believe the Messiah will come when they are needed most in the world.
• There are many different beliefs. The traditional belief was that the Messiah would be a great leader and judge who will bring the world to an end. Some believe he will be descended from King David and an inspiration to others. In the Tenakh there are references to the Messiah bringing Jews back to Israel; rebuilding the Temple in Israel; brining about a time of peace for all.