משיחא
meshicha
The English phrase "messiah" is translated into Aramaic as משיחא (meshicha).
The word refers to an extremely powerful divine figure.
Meaning: an extremely powerful divine figure (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Eastern Aramaic dialects, the variation Mŭšīḥā is also used to mean "messiah".
How do you pronounce it?
meshicha
Did you know?
- In some Aramaic traditions, the משיחא is not a single individual but can refer to a lineage of chosen leaders.
- The Aramaic משיחא is a cognate with the Arabic word masīḥ, which is the specific term used for Jesus in the Quran.
- The word משיחא shares a root with the Aramaic word for 'rubbing' or 'smearing'. This is because the term originally referred to someone who was anointed with oil.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing their beliefs.
- Sargiמהימן אנת במשיחא?Mhemen ant bi-Mshiḥa?Do you believe in the messiah?
- Gabrielאין, מהימן אנא.In, mhemen ana.Yes, I believe.
- Sargiמשיחא ייתי שלמא.Mshiḥa yayte shlama.The messiah will bring peace.
- Gabrielיומא טבא יהא.Yoma ṭava yehe.That will be a good day.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries משיחא, CC BY-SA 4.0.
