Why Does the Hebrew Bible Refer to Cyrus the Great as a Messiah?

In the ancient texts of the Hebrew Bible, particularly in Isaiah, Cyrus the Great is acknowledged and referred to as a messiah. This unique historical and theological relationship between a Persian king and the Hebrew prophets provides insight into the beliefs and expectations of the Jewish people during the exile in Babylon.

Restoration of Israel and the Edict of Cyrus

The key to understanding why Cyrus is called a messiah lies in his pivotal role in the restoration of Israel. In Isaiah 45:1, we read: "Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have held—to subdue nations before him and to unlock the doors of bronze and bars of iron."

Cyrus, also known as Cyrus the Great, is the first official monarch of the Persian Empire and is renowned for his generous policy towards the Jewish people. Around 538 BCE, he issued the Edict of Cyrus which allowed the Jewish exiles in Babylon to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple. This act was seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to restore Israel and its people, thereby elevating Cyrus to a divine status.

Instrument of God's Will

The Hebrew Bible portrays Cyrus as an instrument of God's plan for the Jewish people. Despite not being a follower of Yahweh, his actions aligned with God's intentions for Israel. This narrative showcases how God can use anyone, even a foreign king, to achieve His purposes. The term "messiah" signifies a anointed or chosen one, which in this context, refers to someone chosen by God to fulfill a divine mission.

Symbol of Hope

The reference to Cyrus as a messiah served to provide hope to the Jewish people during a time of oppression and exile. In a period when their nation was reduced to ashes and their people scattered, the promise of a salvation led by a leader who might not even be of their own kind, served as a beacon of light. The belief that God had not abandoned them and would bring about redemption even through unlikely figures reinforced their faith.

Universal Sovereignty of God

The portrayal of Cyrus also emphasizes the universal sovereignty of God. It illustrates that God's authority extends beyond the borders of Israel and that He can orchestrate events through any leader, regardless of their background or beliefs. The narrative of Cyrus thus serves as a powerful reminder of God's omnipotence and the idea that He can use anyone to achieve His divine purposes.

Quotations from the Hebrew Bible

Several passages in the Hebrew Bible highlight Cyrus' role as a messiah and champion of the Jewish people:

"Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have held—to subdue nations before him and unlock the doors of bronze and bars of iron." (Isaiah 45:1)

"I will raise up Cyrus in my righteousness: I will make all his ways straight." (Isaiah 45:3)

"I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, who summons you by name." (Isaiah 45:3)

"Truly, you are a God who hides yourself, O God, and Savior of Israel." (Isaiah 45:15)

Further Exploration

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Conclusion

In summary, Cyrus is referred to as a messiah in the Hebrew Bible because of his pivotal role in the restoration of the Jewish people and the fulfillment of God's promises. This portrayal not only emphasizes God's sovereignty over all nations and rulers but also illustrates that He can use anyone, even a foreign king, to achieve His divine purposes. The narrative of Cyrus has left an indelible mark on Jewish history and continues to resonate with modern scholars and readers of the Bible alike.