The Mashiach (Messiah) in Judaism

The Jewish concept of a Messiah, or Mashiach in Hebrew, has been discussed extensively by rabbis, philosophers, poets and even featured in Jewish prayer. However, much like many other Jewish concepts, there are debates amongst Jews over what a messianic era is, how or when it will come about and how to help the Mashiach arrive. Despite these debates, the belief in the Mashiach is a fundamental ideal that has been passed down for generations and has created a cohesive peoplehood of Jews, bonded over a shared history and belief of a shared, peaceful future. 

This video was co-produced by Z3 project and OpenDor Media.

Big Ideas

1. The belief in the Mashiach is an essential belief of the Jewish people.
2. There is a diversity of perspectives within the Jewish world concerning the Mashiach.
3. The belief in the Mashiach has played an important role for Jewish continuity and hope.

Essential Questions

1. What are the Jewish views regarding the Mashiach?
2. Why is the belief in the Mashiach an important one for the Jewish people?
3. Is Zionism a messianic movement?

video Transcript