Messianism
Overview
Messianism is a religious doctrine or belief that centers on the advent of a messiah, a savior or liberator of a group of people, often a religious, ethnic, or social group. The concept of messianism originated in religions such as Judaism and Christianity, but has since been incorporated into various other religions and belief systems worldwide.
Origins and Development
The concept of messianism has its roots in ancient Jewish religious tradition. The term "messiah" comes from the Hebrew word "māšîaḥ", which means "anointed one". In the Hebrew Bible, the term was used to refer to priests and kings who were traditionally anointed with holy anointing oil as part of their religious investiture. Over time, the term came to be associated with a future Jewish king from the Davidic line, who will rule the Jewish people during the Messianic Age.
The concept of a messiah was further developed in early Christian tradition, where Jesus Christ is considered the Messiah prophesied in the Old Testament. The Christian belief in Jesus as the Messiah is the foundation of Christianity and is a major point of difference with Judaism.
Messianism in Different Religions
Messianic concepts and expectations have appeared in various religious contexts outside of Judaism and Christianity.
Islam
In Islamic eschatology, the Mahdi is a messianic figure who, it is believed, will appear on Earth before the Day of Judgment, and will rid the world of evil. There is no direct reference to the Mahdi in the Quran, but references to him are found in hadith (the reported sayings of Muhammad).
Buddhism
In Buddhist tradition, Maitreya is a bodhisattva who will appear on Earth in the future, achieve complete enlightenment, and teach the pure dharma. The prophecy of the arrival of Maitreya is found in the canonical literature of all Buddhist sects.
Hinduism
In Hindu eschatology, Kalki is the tenth and final avatar of Vishnu who will come to end the current Kali Yuga, a period of darkness and ignorance, and start a new cycle of existence.
Modern Messianism
In the modern era, messianism has taken on new forms and interpretations. Some political ideologies and movements, for instance, have adopted a form of secular messianism, in which a charismatic leader or revolutionary change is seen as the means to a utopian future.
Criticisms and Controversies
Messianism has been the subject of criticism and controversy, both within and outside the religious communities in which it is found. Some critics argue that messianic beliefs can lead to fanaticism or extremism, while others question the validity of prophetic claims or the interpretation of religious texts.