References to the Messiah in the Pentateuch, Isaiah and Daniel: A Zimbabwean Perspective

Abstract

Are there messianic expectations or messianic characters in the Pentateuch, Isaiah and Daniel? This research will examine if there can be messianic expectations in the Pentateuch linked to the priest in circumstances that do not presuppose an obvious crisis. The role played by an “anointed” priest in the Pentateuch seems to come about as the perpetrators of sin sought atonement (Lev. 4:3, 5, 16; 6:22 6:15). Are the priests intervening as “anointed” one due to indirect crisis by sin? This research will examine as to whether reference to “messiah” in Isaiah 9: 44:28-45:1-8 and Daniel 9:25-27 come about as a response to social, economic, political and religious crises that emanated from the failure of Israel to uphold Yahweh’s instruction. If that be so these findings may help to examine why Mugabe had gained messianic characterization during the past decade. The researcher as a citizen of Zimbabwe queries if such characterization emanate from his involvement in the liberation struggle or dependence on scriptures as trusted source for rhetorical propaganda to legitimize his role in a bid to legitimize his authority while the country was experiencing e socio-economic crises.