What Is The Meaning Of Messiah In The Bible?
The Meaning of “Messiah” in the Bible
The term “Messiah” is one of the most significant and profound titles found in Scripture. Rooted deeply in both the Old and New Testaments, understanding the meaning of Messiah helps us grasp the centrality of Jesus Christ in God’s redemptive plan. Let’s explore what “Messiah” means biblically, how it unfolds through Scripture, and why it matters for our faith today.
1. The Origin and Definition of “Messiah”
The word “Messiah” comes from the Hebrew word “Mashiach”, which means “anointed one.” In Greek, the equivalent is “Christos”—from which we get the English “Christ.” To be anointed was to be set apart for a special purpose by God, often through the symbolic act of pouring oil on someone’s head (such as kings, priests, or prophets).
The Spirit of the Lord Jehovah is upon me; because Jehovah hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. - Isaiah 61:1 ASV
2. Messianic Hope in the Old Testament
Throughout the Old Testament, God’s people awaited a promised deliverer—an anointed king from the line of David who would establish God’s kingdom and bring salvation.
I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David my servant: Thy seed will I establish for ever, And build up thy throne to all generations. - Psalm 89:3-4 ASV
Prophecies described this coming Messiah as both a suffering servant and a conquering king. For example, Isaiah describes the servant who would bear the sins of many:
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. - Isaiah 53:5 ASV
The anticipation of the Messiah was not just for Israel’s sake but for all nations, as God’s blessing would extend to the world through Him (Genesis 12:3).
3. Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Messiah
In the New Testament, Jesus is identified as the Christ (Messiah) who fulfills these Old Testament promises. When Peter boldly confesses:
And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. - Matthew 16:16 ASV
Jesus affirms this identity, showing that He is the anointed one sent by God. The angelic announcement at Jesus’ birth also highlights Him as the awaited Savior:
for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. - Luke 2:11 ASV
Throughout His ministry, Jesus demonstrated the marks of the Messiah by fulfilling Old Testament prophecies, performing miracles, proclaiming the Kingdom, and ultimately dying for the sins of humanity and rising again.
But these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye may have life in his name. - John 20:31 ASV
4. Theological Significance for Believers
Recognizing Jesus as Messiah is central to the gospel. Salvation comes by trusting in Jesus as the Christ—the anointed one who accomplished our redemption:
because if thou shalt confess with thy mouth Jesus as Lord, and shalt believe in thy heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. - Romans 10:9 ASV
This confession is more than a title; it is a personal acknowledgment that Jesus is God’s chosen King, Savior, and Lord. As Messiah, Jesus inaugurates God’s kingdom, brings forgiveness, and promises His return to fully establish His reign.
5. Debated Perspectives
While some have anticipated a primarily political Messiah, the New Testament clarifies that Jesus’ first coming was to save from sin and reconcile us to God. The expectation of the Messiah’s future return is also a key theme, as He will one day reign in glory (Revelation 19:16).
Conclusion
Biblically, “Messiah” means the anointed one sent by God to save and rule. In Jesus, all the promises and hopes of the Old Testament find their “Yes” and “Amen.” Believers are called to trust, worship, and follow Him as the true Messiah who reigns now and forever.