Definition and Meaning
Messianism in Islam refers to the belief in both the return of Jesus (ʿĪsā) and the appearance of the Mahdi, a guided figure, who together will lead society to justice, peace, and true faith. This belief intertwines with eschatological traditions within Islamic theology, emphasizing the role these figures will play in overcoming oppression and restoring truth.
Etymology & Background
The term “Messiah” originates from the Hebrew word Mashiach, meaning “anointed one,” a concept that transcends into Christianity and is known in Greek as Christos. In Arabic, Jesus is referred to as ʿĪsā al-Masīḥ (عيسى المسيح), while the Mahdi (المهدي) means “the Guided One.”
Islam inherited and adapted messianic concepts from both Judaism and Christianity, reflecting a shared hope for divine intervention at the end of time. Islamic texts, hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), and other eschatological writings provide detailed narratives about these figures’ roles.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 7th Century CE: The birth of Islamic eschatological beliefs with foundational texts from the Qur’an and hadith collections, revealing early insights into the roles of Jesus and the Mahdi.
- 9th Century CE: The compilation of significant hadith collections like Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, detailing messianic prophecies.
- 16th Century CE: During the rise of the Safavid Empire in Iran, the belief in the Mahdi became deeply rooted within Shia Islam, influencing its theological framework significantly.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Sunni Perspectives: Generally view the Mahdi as a righteous caliph who will appear before the end times to restore justice.
- Shia Perspectives: Believe the Mahdi is the Twelfth Imam, Muhammad ibn Hasan al-Mahdi, who is in occultation and will reappear.
Despite these variations, both sects anticipate a profound transformation of society under divine leadership.
Synonyms
- Messiah
- Redeemer
- Deliverer
Antonyms
- Adversary
- Tyrant
Related Terms with Definitions
- Eschatology: The part of theology concerned with the end of the world and the ultimate destiny of humanity.
- Qiyamah: The Islamic concept of the Day of Judgment.
Exciting Facts
- The belief in the Mahdi is unique to Islam, whereas the figure of Jesus as the Messiah spans across Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
- Islamic tradition holds that Jesus will descend in Damascus, join the Mahdi, and together, they will lead the world towards true faith and eradication of falsehood.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “When Jesus descends and confronts the forces of the antichrist, the unity of Abrahamic faiths will herald a new era of peace and faith” – Ibn Kathir, Islamic scholar.
References
- Al-Khalidi, Tarik. The Mahdi in Islamic History and Belief. Academic Press, 1997.
- Sachedina, Abdulaziz. Islamic Messianism: The Idea of the Mahdi in Twelver Shi’ism. State University of New York Press, 1981.
Suggested Literature
- Shariati, Ali. Expectations from the Savior.
- Lings, Martin. Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources.
- Sachedina, Abdulaziz. Islamic Messianism: The Idea of the Mahdi in Twelver Shi’ism.
Quiz Time! 📝
May your journey in understanding Islamic Messianism lead you to a deeper appreciation of our shared hopes and fates. Continue your studies, let curiosity guide you, and may wisdom follow!
- Layla Quarishi, 2023
