Is the prophet Haggai foretelling the coming of Muhammad?

What is the biblical controversy surrounding Haggai 2, verse 7?

The controversy surrounding Haggai 2, verse 7, revolves around different interpretations of the verse and its implications.

In this verse, Haggai prophesies about the coming of the Messiah and states, "And I will shake all nations, and the Desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts."

Some interpretations suggest that the phrase "the Desire of all nations shall come" refers to the Messiah, who is the ultimate desire and hope of all nations.

This interpretation aligns with Christian beliefs about the fulfillment of this prophecy in the coming of the Messiah.

However, other interpretations focus on the phrase "the Desire of all nations shall come" as referring to material wealth or treasures, rather than the Messiah.

This difference in interpretation has led to some controversy and debate among biblical scholars and theologians regarding the true meaning of Haggai 2, verse 7, and its significance in relation to the coming of the Messiah.

Historically, who are the traditional commentators on the Bible who perceive "the Desire of all nations" of Haggai 2, verse 7, as a Messiah?

Many Christian commentators and theologians historically have interpreted "the Desire of all nations" in Haggai 2, verse 7, as a reference to the Messiah.

Some of the notable commentators who have held this view include:

1. John Calvin: The Protestant Reformer and theologian, John Calvin, interpreted this passage as referring to the coming of the Messiah, who would bring fulfillment and blessing to all nations.

2. Matthew Henry: The famous English commentator, Matthew Henry, viewed "the Desire of all nations" as a reference to the Messiah, who would bring peace, prosperity, and salvation to the entire world.

3. John Gill: The Baptist theologian, John Gill, also saw the "Desire of all nations" as a messianic prophecy, pointing to the coming of the Messiah as the ultimate fulfillment of this promise.

4. Adam Clarke: The Methodist theologian and commentator, Adam Clarke, likewise interpreted Haggai 2, verse 7, as a messianic prophecy, identifying the "Desire of all nations" with the Messiah who would bring salvation and blessing to the world.

These commentators and many others throughout Christian history have viewed Haggai 2, verse 7, as a prophetic reference to the coming of the Messiah.

There is a belief that the Hebrew word "Desire" in Haggai 2:7 and the names Muhammad or Ahmad have the same root. How is this argument articulated?

The argument that the Hebrew word "Desire" in Haggai 2:7 and the names Muhammad or Ahmad have the same root is based on a linguistic comparison between the Hebrew and Arabic languages.

In Haggai 2:7, the Hebrew word for "Desire" is "חֶמְדַּת", which is derived from the root word "חָמַד" meaning "to desire" or "to delight in."

In Arabic, the name Muhammad is derived from the root word "حمد" (Hamd) which means "praise" or "commendation."

The name Ahmad is also related to the same root word "حمد“ (Hamd) and means "highly praised" or "one who praises."

The argument suggests that there may be a linguistic connection between the Hebrew word for "Desire" and the Arabic names Muhammad and Ahmad due to the similarity in the root words and their meanings.

However, it is important to note that linguistic connections between different languages do not necessarily imply a direct historical or religious connection.

Do modern interpreters of the Bible typically see Haggai 2, verse 7, as a prediction about the Messiah, like traditional commentators do?


The interpretation of Haggai 2, verse 7, has indeed been a subject of discussion among biblical scholars. Traditional commentators often view the verse as a Messianic prediction, referring to the coming of the Messiah who is desired by all nations. However, modern interpretations can vary.

Some modern interpreters of the Bible argue that the verse should be understood in the context of its time, with the "desired of all nations" referring to the wealth and treasures that would adorn the Second Temple, rather than a prophecy about the Messiah.

Others suggest that the phrase could be translated as "the treasures of all nations will come," indicating a future time when nations will bring their wealth to the Temple.

It's also noted that the term "come" in the verse is plural, not singular, which has led to different interpretations. Some modern commentators maintain that the verse predicts the coming of the Messiah, while others believe it refers to the collective offerings of the nations.

In summary, while traditional interpretations of Haggai 2, verse 7, tend to see it as a Messianic prophecy, modern interpretations are more diverse, with some scholars focusing on the historical and literary context to understand its meaning. It's a rich area of study with a variety of perspectives.