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What is the Jewish perspective on Moshiach?

by Mrs. Sarah Levi

  

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Moshiach and the Era of Moshiach are critical cornerstones of Judaism. Jewish philosophy states that G-d's Divine Plan for Creation will be realized with the advent of the Era of Moshiach. The Prophets are filled with references and descriptions of the individual who will be Moshiach, and what the world will be like after the change that he ushers in.

1) He will be a descendant of the great King David.1

2) He will be an outstandingly righteous individual2 and a preeminent Torah scholar.3

3) He will inspire everyone (beginning with the Jewish people) to wholeheartedly return to G-d.4

4) He will be a very charismatic and powerful leader who will lead by example.5

5) He will have what is known as a "collective" or "general" soul. This master soul will enable him to relate to all people on all levels.6

Moshiach and the Era of Moshiach are critical cornerstones of Judaism. Jewish philosophy states that G-d's Divine Plan for Creation will be realized with the advent of the Era of Moshiach
6) He will demand and achieve greatness from all humanity.7

7) He will bring about what is described as the "ingathering of the Exiles," the return of all Jews to "the Holy Land," of Israel.

8) He will rebuild the Holy Temple.8

9) He will be a HUMAN BEING--not a deity.9

The Messianic Era is described in the Prophets as being a time of universal peace. There will be no more human suffering as all diseases will be eradicated, as well as hunger and all other problems. The Jewish people will return to the Promised Land en masse, and rebuild the Third and final Holy Temple in Jerusalem. The purpose of all these magical events is to allow mankind to focus without distraction on complete spirituality. For this reason, the Prophet writes regarding the Era of Moshiach that "The world will be filled with the knowledge of G-d as the waters cover the sea bed."10

And the beautiful thing is: Moshiach comes as a result of our collective good deeds. That means me and you. We actually bring Moshiach. With the Torah and Mitzvahs, G-d gave us the tools to do just that.

Footnotes

  • 1. Isaiah 11:1.
  • 2. Isaiah 11:5.
  • 3. Isaiah 11:2; 52:13.
  • 4. Isaiah 11:10.
  • 5. Isaiah 11:3-5.
  • 6. See below, Editor's response to User Comment.
  • 7. See footnote 4.
  • 8. (Vayikra Rabba 9:6; Bamidbar Rabba 13:2; Shir Rabba end of ch. 4 etc.; followed by Rambam, Hilchot Melachim 11:1 and 4). From other sources it follows that the third Bet Hamikdash is built by the Almighty Himself (Zohar I:28a, 114a, 183b and III:221a etc. [and cf. Zohar II:240b!]; followed by Rashi and Tossafot on Sukah 41a, Rosh Hashanah 30a, and Shevu’ot 15b). Cf. Torah Shelemah, Beshalach 15:17 (especially note 211); and Sha’arei Zohar on Sukah 41a (see there; and R. Menachem M. Schneerson shalita, Likkutei Sichot Vol. XI, p. 98 note 61; Vol. XVII, p. 418; and Vol. XXVII, p. 204f.; for ways to reconcile the two views).
  • 9. Isaiah 11:1.
  • 10. Isaiah 11:9
TAGS: moshiah, mashiach

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COMMENTS

Please Clarify

Posted by: Marc, Phoenix, AZ on May 09, 2005

5) He will have what is known as a "collective" or "general" soul. This master soul will enable him to relate to all people on all levels

What does that mean in the Rabbinic/Torah tradition? Can you please explain and/or cite where this interpretation comes from?

Editor's Comment

In the writings of the Arizal (Rabbi Isaac Luria, the 15th Century founder of Modern Kabbalah), the concept of a "Neshama Klalit," a soul which includes within it, and is connected to, all other souls, is mentioned many times (usually in reference to Adam and Jacob). The notion that Moshiach will possess such a soul is mentioned by the Ramchal (18th Century mystic), and is often quoted in Chassidut.

RELATED CATEGORIES

Israel » Messiah
Torah
Torah is G–d’s teaching to man. In general terms, we refer to the Five Books of Moses as “The Torah.” But in truth, all Jewish beliefs and laws are part of the Torah.
Moshiach
The Messiah. Moshiach is the person who will usher in an era of peace and tranquility for all of humanity when there will be no jealousy or hate, wars or famine. This is a fundamental Jewish belief.
Jerusalem
Established by King David to be the eternal capital of Israel. Both Temples were built there, and the third Temple will be situated there when the Messiah comes.
David
King of Israel who succeeded Saul, becoming king of Israel in 876 BCE. Originally a shepherd, he became popular after he killed the Philistine strongman, Goliath. He is the progenitor of the Davidic royal dynasty -- which will return to the throne with the arrival of King Messiah.
Temple
1. Usually a reference to the Holy Temple which was/will be situated in Jerusalem. 1st Temple was built in 825 BCE and was destroyed in 423 BCE. The 2nd Temple was built in 350 BCE and was destroyed in 70 CE. The 3rd Temple will be built by the Messiah. 2. A synagogue.
G-d
It is forbidden to erase or deface the name of G-d. It is therefore customary to insert a dash in middle of G-d's name, allowing us to erase or discard the paper it is written on if necessary.