13: Messiah — Mashiach (OT), Christos (NT), and Intertestamental Usage

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1. Hebrew Term: Mashiach — מָשִׁיחַ

Pronunciation: mah-SHEE-akh
Meaning: Anointed One; the promised deliverer and king in Israel.

Old Testament Usage:

  • Refers to priests, kings, and especially the expected future king from David’s line.
  • Central figure in messianic prophecy and hope.
    Example Verses:
  • Psalm 2:2 — “The kings of the earth set themselves… against the LORD and his Anointed (mashiach).”
  • Daniel 9:25 — Messianic prophecy concerning the anointed one.

Intertestamental Usage:

  • Jewish writings reflect various expectations of the Messiah as a political or spiritual deliverer.
  • Some texts expand messianic hopes to include multiple figures or priestly roles.

New Testament Usage:

  • Christos is the Greek equivalent, used exclusively for Jesus as the fulfillment of messianic promises.
  • Emphasizes Jesus as the suffering servant and divine King.
    Example Verses:
  • John 20:31 — “…so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christos…”
  • Acts 2:36 — “God has made him both Lord and Christos…”

Comparative Summary:

  • Mashiach embodies the Old Testament’s anointed figure of hope and deliverance.
  • Intertestamental literature shows a diversity of messianic expectations.
  • Christos in the New Testament confirms Jesus’ identity as Messiah and Lord.
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