What is the meaning of 'Messiah'?

The word "Messiah" comes from the Hebrew word Mashiach, which literally means "The Anointed One". Its Greek equivalent is Christos, from which the English word "Christ" is derived. Both terms carry the same meaning: one who has been anointed.

In ancient Israel, anointing with oil was a ceremony performed to consecrate and set apart individuals for special roles ordained by God. Kings (such as Saul and David), priests, and sometimes prophets were anointed as a sign of divine appointment and empowerment. When the title "Messiah" is applied to Jesus, it identifies Him as the one specially chosen and empowered by God to fulfil the role of deliverer and redeemer that the Old Testament prophets foretold.

While Jesus is also understood by Christians to be a saviour, a beloved one, and a prince, none of these is the literal meaning of the word "Messiah." The term specifically denotes anointing, not saving, loving, or ruling. Examination questions on this topic are testing knowledge of the precise linguistic meaning of the title, not its theological implications.