CU5-17

** Goal ** Students will learn about messianic movements among European Jews during the period of study, with an emphasis on Shabbetai Tzevi and implications for modern belief in the coming of the Messiah. **1. Gain the attention of the learner** Ask students what they know about the idea of a Messiah and try to summarize the Christian version of the concept. ** 2. Relevant past learning ** Recall the role of David in biblical mythology, and read biblical passages anticipating the world-wide rule of a descendant of David in the “end of days.” Recall Maimondides, and point out that belief in the coming of the Messiah was number 12 among his //Thirteen Articles of Creed//, which summarized his theology. ** 3. Introduce new material ** From “The New Jewish Encylcopedia”: “The mystical belief in the coming of a personal Messiah fortified the Jew during his precarious existence both in ancient Palestine and later in the lands of the dispersion. During periods of national disaster and persecutions, when hopes for immediate salvation were dim, the people’s will to survive was given strong support by the ideal of ultimate justice and salvation that woule come miraculously through divine help in the person of a redeemer or Messiah. “It is thus easy to understand why in the course of Jewish history there arose individuals who believed that it was within their power to bring salvation to their people. These individuals, whether inspired by a genuine love for their people and religion, or unscrupulous opportunists, succedded during various periods of Jewish history in arousing the people and creating so-called messianic movements, which ended in great disappointment and despair, but which at the same time give the people an inner sense of strength. Perhaps the most significant peronality in Jewish history, who was looked upon as Messiah, was Simeon Bar Kokhba, who lead the unsuccessful revolt against Romvein the 2nd century with the support of Rabbi Akiva. “Most leaders of messianic movements are known as //false messiahs.// The most important of these wer //David Alroy// in the 12th century; //David Reubeni// in the 16th century; //Shabbetai Tzevi// in the 17th century; and //Jacob Frank// in the 18th century. It is important to note that some of the so-called //false messiahs// had the support of the great intellects and spirits of their day. Shabbetai Tzevi was accepted enthusiastically by scholars, rich men and poor men alike. The word “false” does not really evaluate either their purpose or their character.” Summarize the material in “A Historical Atlas of the Jewish People,” pp. 148-149. ** 4. Provide guided practice ** There are modern examples of individuals who have claimed to be the Messiah, including the Lubavitch Rebbe, ________. Discuss what kind of person could convince a large group of people that she or he is the Messiah. ** 5. Provide independent practice ** The traditional Jewish view of the Messiah, in contrast to the Christian view, envisions an era of peace and justice on earth. Even if not led by a single individual, we can collectively work toward achieving such a world. Ask each student to make a list of concrete things he or she can do individually or together with others to promote peace and justice in the world. (The teacher should make such a list also.)  **6. Close the lesson** Come together and share the lists.
 * 5:17 ** **The False Messiahs**