Chabad Messianism - History of Messianism

History of Messianism

Before Schneerson's death in 1994 a significant body of Chabad Hasidim believed that he would soon become the Messiah by ushering in the Messianic Age and constructing the Third Temple. A concept believed by many talmudic scholars regarding their own leaders in talmudic times. Books and pamphlets were written containing arguments for the Rabbi's status as Messiah, some of which Schneerson opposed, but some he also encouraged on occasions.

During the later years of his life Schneerson's teachings were interpreted by many to mean that he was claiming to be the Messiah. His death in 1994 did not quell the messianist fervor, as believers found talmudic sources to explain the belief that Schneerson was the Messiah despite having passed on. Some argued that he had in fact not died at all and was still physically present, but in a concealed state. Others argued that even though he had died, proofs existed within Judaism that legitimize the Messiah returning from the dead.

(Sanhedrin 98b):

"Rav said 'If he is from the living, like Rabbeinu Hakadosh ; if he is from the dead, like Daniel, the delightful one.' " See also Rashi's commentary and commentary of Maharsha).

The development of this messianism and its impact on Chabad in particular — and Orthodox Judaism in general — has been the subject of much discussion in the Jewish press, as well as within the pages of peer-reviewed journals.