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The time appointed by G-d for the Messianic redemption is a closely guarded
secret. Nonetheless, we are offered many
hints to recognize its proximity: when certain conditions come about, await the
imminent coming of Moshiach.
Most of these conditions are quite disturbing, clearly displaying a
situation of the very “bottom of the pit.” One major
source describes the world-condition in those days as follows: increase in
insolence and impudence; oppressing inflation; unbridled irresponsibility on
the part of authorities; centers of learning will turn into bawdy houses; wars;
many destitutes begging, with none to pity them; wisdom shall be putrid; the
pious shall be despised; truth will be abandoned; the young will insult the
old; family-breakup with mutual recriminations; impudent leadership.
Other sources add: lack of scholars; succession of troubles and evil
decrees; famines; mutual denunciations; epidemics of terrible diseases; poverty
and scarcity; cursing and blaspheming; international confrontations — nations
provoking and fighting each other. In short, it will be
a time of suffering that will make it look as if G‑d were asleep. These are the
birthpangs of Moshiach, bearable only in anticipation of the bliss that follows
them.
“When you see a generation ever dwindling, hope for him... when you see a
generation overwhelmed by many troubles as by a river, await him.” “When you see nations fighting each other, look toward the
feet of Moshiach.”
Little wonder that some sages expressed apprehensions about those days in
terms of, “Let [Moshiach] come, but let me not see him.” The
prevailing attitude, however, is to await his coming in spite of all, even if
thereafter we shall merit no more than sitting “in the shadow of his donkey's
dung!”
The troubles and agony of chevlei Moshiach (birthpangs of
Moshiach), however, are not unavoidable:
“What is man to do to be spared the pangs of Moshiach? Let him engage in
Torah and acts of loving-kindness!”
Moreover, there are also good and happy signs indicating the imminent coming
of Moshiach: a good measure of prosperity; a renewal of
Torah-study; and opening of the “gates of wisdom above
and the wellsprings of wisdom below,” evidenced also by
scientific and technological discoveries and advances; a manifestation and
propagation of the mystical teachings of the Torah; and
also — “In the time that Moshiach will awaken, many signs and miracles will
occur in the world.”
This article is also available with references and footnotes.
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