The meaning of “מָשִׁיחַ”
Understanding mâshîyach reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
anointed, Messiah. - anointed - usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint) - specifically, the Messiah 1...
מָשִׁיחַ
anointed, Messiah. - anointed - usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint) - specifically, the Messiah 1) anointed, anointed one 1a) of the Messiah, Messianic prince 1b) of the king of Israel 1c) of the high priest of Israel 1d) of Cyrus 1e) of the patriarchs as anointed kings
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Leviticus 4:16 | “And the priest that is anointed shall bring of the bullock’s blood to the tabernacle of the congregation:” Word: מָשִׁיחַ (mâshîyach) | |
| 2 Samuel 19:21 | “But Abishai the son of Zeruiah answered and said, Shall not Shimei be put to death for this, because he cursed the Lord’s anointed?” Word: מָשִׁיחַ (mâshîyach) | |
| 2 Chronicles 6:42 | “O Lord God, turn not away the face of thine anointed: remember the mercies of David thy servant. ” Word: מָשִׁיחַ (mâshîyach) | |
| Isaiah 45:1 | “Thus saith the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have holden, to subdue nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and the gates shall not be shut;” Word: מָשִׁיחַ (mâshîyach) | |
| Daniel 9:26 | “And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.” Word: מָשִׁיחַ (mâshîyach) |
Theological Word Study: Messiah
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Anointed one, Messiah
The Hebrew mashiach (מָשִׁיחַ) means anointed one—one consecrated for divine service. Prophets, priests, and kings were anointed, but the title pointed ultimately to the coming Deliverer whom Daniel calls 'Messiah the Prince' (Daniel 9:25).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Christ, Anointed One
The Greek Christos (Χριστός) translates 'Messiah'—the Anointed One. Peter confessed 'Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God' (Matthew 16:16), recognizing Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah.