Daf Yomi - Taanis 17 - ULTIMATE REDEMPTION

The Gemora in Taanis 17a states that Rebbe maintains that it is appropriate for kohanim nowadays to abstain from drinking wine. This is because we anticipate the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdosh at any moment and the kohanim will be needed to perform the service. However, since the kohanim cannot identify as to which mishmar they belong to and there will be a long line of kohanim by Eliyahu Hanavi discovering their mishmar, by that time the effect of the wine will dissipate and they will be able to perform the service.

The Gevuros Ari asks that the Gemora in Rosh Hashanah (11a) cites a dispute between Rabbi Eliezer and Rabbi Yehoshua if the ultimate Redemption will transpire in Nissan or in Tishrei. Why does our Gemora rule that the kohanim cannot drink wine the entire year; it should be forbidden only during Nissan or Tishrei?

He answers, based on a Yerushalmi that while it’s true that the Redemption will occur in Nissan or in Tishrei, but the Beis Hamikdosh can be built even beforehand.

Alternatively, he answers that there are two types of Redemption. The Gemora in Rosh Hashanah is referring to the Redemption in its proper time. That will be in Nissan or Tishrei. However, there can be a Redemption that does not have a designated time and if Klal Yisroel is worthy, Mashiach and the Geulah can come at any time even if it’s not Nissan or Tishrei.

The Kli Chamdah disagrees with regard to the chronology that is implied by the Yerushalmi. In his opinion, the final reestablishment of Moshiach as king after he will have completed all the wars will take place either in Nissan or Tishrei. The original arrival of Moshiach will transpire much before then. During the time that Moshiach will be fighting, the Beis Hamikdosh will be rebuilt, and the Kohanim will be busy with the Avodah.