Judaism & the Messiah (WJEC Eduqas GCSE Religious Studies): Revision Note
Exam code: C120
Orthodox Jewish beliefs about the Messiah
What is the Jewish understanding about the Messiah?
The word Messiah comes from the Hebrew word meaning “anointed one” or someone chosen by God for a special purpose
The Messiah is expected to be a human leader, not divine, who will guide the Jewish people
This person is traditionally seen as a descendant of King David, who will restore the greatness of Israel
The Messiah will bring a Messianic Age, which is a future time of peace, justice and harmony for the whole world
The Messiah will strengthen humanity’s relationship with God, rule with wisdom and promote Torah values
Belief in a Messiah is linked to the covenant promises that God made to the Jewish people
Many Jews believe that when the Messiah comes, there will be:
An end to war and suffering
Unity among nations
The return of Jews to the land of Israel
A greater understanding of God worldwide
Jews traditionally believe that only God knows when the Messiah will come
What are Orthodox Jewish beliefs about the Messiah?
Orthodox Jews believe that the Messiah will be a real, future leader descended from King David
They believe that he will be chosen and anointed by God to fulfil a divine role
They also believe that he will restore the Jewish nation, bringing exiles back to the land of Israel
They believe that he will also help rebuild or restore the Temple in Jerusalem
Orthodox Jews believe the exact time is unknown, but many pray and hope for his arrival
Some believe that humans must act righteously to hasten his coming
Reform Jewish beliefs about the Messiah
What are Reform Jewish beliefs about the Messiah?
Many Reform Jews do not expect a single personal Messiah but believe in the Messianic Age instead
They believe this age will come about through human effort and moral improvement, not a miraculous leader
Reform Jews emphasise social justice, equality and repairing the world (Tikkun Olam)
They do not usually expect the rebuilding of the Temple or a return to the old sacrificial system
They believe that God works through people, and progress in society brings the world closer to the Messianic Age
Worked Example
Explain two Jewish beliefs about the Messiah.
[5 marks]
Answer:
One Jewish belief about the Messiah is that he will be a human leader, descended from King David. Jews believe he will be chosen by God to rule with wisdom and restore Israel as a strong and united nation. This gives Jewish people hope for the future and a sense of identity through the covenant promises.
A second belief is that the Messiah will bring a Messianic Age of peace and justice. This will be a time when war, inequality and suffering will end, and everyone will recognise God. This encourages Jews to live morally and work for Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) so they are ready for this new age. [5 marks]
Examiner Tips and Tricks
The main differences between Reform and Orthodox views regarding the Messiah are:
Orthodox Jews believe in a personal Messiah
Reform Jews believe in the Messianic Age, not a person
Orthodox Jews believe the Messiah is a descendant of King David
Reform Jews believe there is no need for a royal or divine leader
Orthodox Jews believe that the Messianic Age will bring about the rebuilding of the Temple
Reform Jews believe in spiritual renewal instead of rebuilding
Orthodox Jews believe that there will be direct divine intervention
Reform Jews believe that human responsibility is central
Orthodox Jews believe that the Messiah’s arrival is in the future and unknown
Reform Jews believe there is a gradual improvement in humanity
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