Jewish eschatology envisions a transformative renewal marked by the coming of the Messiah, resurrection of the dead, and universal recognition of God’s sovereignty, rather than an apocalyptic destruction [1][2]. Central to this belief is the cyclical process of divine justice and the establishment of a perfected world (*olam ha-ba*) [39][17].  

Messianic Age and Universal Peace  

The prophetic tradition anticipates a future era (*aḥarit ha-yamim*) characterized by global peace, the ingathering of Jewish exiles, and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem [1]. Isaiah’s vision of nations beating swords into plowshares epitomizes this ideal, emphasizing societal harmony rather than cataclysmic destruction [2]. The Messiah, a descendant of David, will reign as a righteous leader, instituting justice and uniting humanity under divine principles [1].  

Resurrection and Final Judgment  

Resurrection of the dead is a core tenet, first explicitly described in Daniel 12:2, where the righteous awaken to eternal life and the wicked face judgment [1][4]. While some traditions associate this with a collective judgment on a future "Day of the Lord," others stress individual accountability at death [68][69]. The Talmud describes Gehinnom as a purgatorial state for purification, lasting up to 12 months, before souls enter Gan Eden (Paradise) [1].  

War of Gog and Magog  

Ezekiel’s prophecy of a climactic battle between the forces of Gog and Magog symbolizes the final struggle before the Messianic Age [1][2]. This conflict is interpreted as a divine reset against corruption, leading to Israel’s redemption and the collapse of oppressive systems. Medieval texts further elaborate on a "messiah from Joseph" who dies in this battle, paving the way for the Davidic Messiah’s triumph [2].  

Olam Ha-Ba and Cyclical Renewal  

The "World to Come" (*olam ha-ba*) represents a perfected earthly existence rather than an otherworldly paradise, restoring the covenantal relationship between God and humanity [39][17]. Maimonides rationalized this era as a spiritual and intellectual zenith, while Kabbalistic traditions envision a cosmic unification of divine energies [1][2]. Emphasis remains on human agency, with Judaism’s focus on ethical action shaping the transition to this renewed world [18][9].  

Diverse Interpretations Across Eras  

Ancient apocalyptic texts like Daniel influenced later movements, including the Qumran sect’s expectation of dual messiahs (priestly and royal) and medieval calculations of the Messiah’s arrival [2]. Modern denominations vary: Orthodox Judaism upholds a literal Messianic figure, while Reform and Conservative traditions often reinterpret the concept as a metaphorical age of enlightenment [1]. Secular movements, including Zionism, reflect a messianic impulse toward societal redemption [2].  

Role of the Individual and Collective  

Judgment in Judaism intertwines national and personal destiny. The *Amidah* prayer reinforces daily anticipation of resurrection, and the *Kaddish* underscores the communal hope for divine sovereignty [1][4]. While the Talmudic sages debated the timing of final judgment, consensus emphasizes repentance (*teshuvah*) and ethical living as pathways to merit participation in the Messianic Age [74][70].

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