In July, the Jewish museum in Porto will be primarily open to Jewish tourism. It is expected that more than a thousand people will visit the space. Portuguese schools have officially entered their holidays and will only reopen in September.
The central theme of the museum's activities during the month of July could not be more attractive, especially for Jews: the Messiah.In Judaism, there is a prominent tradition within the Midrash (specifically Pesikta Rabbati) stating the Messiah will be born on the 9th of Av (Tisha b'Av). Historically, this day is Judaism's deepest day of mourning, commemorating the destruction of both Temples. This tradition implies that the seeds of redemption are born in humanity's darkest hour.
This year, 2026, Ticha B'Av will be celebrated on July 23rd.
The Messiah will usher in an era of global peace (the Messianic Age). He will be a mortal Jewish king from the line of King David who brings peace by leading humanity to live righteously and recognize God. In the Messianic Age, all nations will continue to exist and maintain their distinct identities and live in international brotherhood.
Regarding other nations, Jewish tradition (based on the Table of Nations in Genesis 10 and the Tower of Babel) divides humanity into 70 nations, each possessing its own unique culture, language, and role. Rabbinic and Kabbalistic traditions, the Talmud and the Bahir teach that each of the 70 nations has a heavenly sar (a celestial prince, angel, or guardian) assigned to it. The Book of Daniel famously mentions the "prince of the kingdom of Persia" and the "prince of Greece".
