Jewish 101: Mashiach

What Is the Messiah?

The word Mashiach means "anointed one." In the Hebrew Bible, kings and priests were anointed with oil as a sign of being chosen and empowered by God. Over time, the term came to refer to the future king from the line of David, the one who would restore Israel, bring justice and peace, and establish God's reign on earth.

The Messiah in the Prophets

Throughout the Tanakh, prophets spoke of this coming figure. Isaiah described him as a righteous ruler who would bring light to the nations. Jeremiah foretold a descendant of David who would reign with wisdom and execute justice. Micah pointed to Bethlehem as his birthplace, and Zechariah portrayed him as a humble king bringing salvation.

These prophecies kept hope alive, especially during times of exile and oppression. In Judaism, belief in the coming of the Messiah is one of the central principles of faith.

Two Aspects of the Messiah

Over the centuries, Jewish writings began to distinguish between two aspects, or figures, of the Messiah: Mashiach ben Yosef, the Messiah son of Joseph, and Mashiach ben David, the Messiah son of David.

The first was seen as a humble, suffering servant who would battle evil, endure rejection, and even die on behalf of the people. The second was envisioned as a victorious king who would restore the kingdom of Israel, rebuild the temple, and bring lasting peace to the world.

This dual expectation reflected the tension between Israel's suffering and its future glory, between exile and redemption.

One Messiah Who Comes Twice

Believers in Yeshua understand that these two expectations are fulfilled in one person, not two. There are not two messiahs, but one Messiah who comes twice.

In his first coming, Yeshua fulfilled the role of Mashiach ben Yosef, the suffering servant who laid down his life, was despised and rejected, and bore the sins of many. In his return, he will come as Mashiach ben David, the conquering king who will reign from Jerusalem, restore justice, and bring peace to all nations.

Through his life, death, and resurrection, Yeshua opened the way for forgiveness and renewal. And in his coming reign, he will bring the fulfillment of every promise spoken by the prophets, when the knowledge of the Lord will cover the earth, just as the waters cover the sea.

The hope of Messiah unites the story of scripture from beginning to end: the promise of a redeemer who would dwell among his people, restore creation, and make all things new.