Well…I think the title is clear. Could a new prophet show up tomorrow, or is there something in the Talmud/Torah stating that such a thing can’t happen anymore?
Jewish tradition maintains that prophecy ceased during the early days of the Second Temple. However, it is also generally believed that the return of prophecy is a possibility in the Messianic age.
Maimonides (*Mishneh Torah, Yesodei HaTorah 10) gives the general procedure for determining if one is a prophet. To be considered a prophet, one does not have to perform miracles as Moses or Elisha did, but must simply predict the future (as outlined in Deuteronomy). His prediction must come true in every detail – a single flaw in the prediction renders his prediction false. (This only applies however, if he predicts a positive matter. If he predicts a negative matter [i.e. so-and-so will die] then his prophecy not coming true does not render him a false prophet since it possible that so-and-so did repentence and no longer merited death).
One problem with this, however, is that a prophet must be tested by the Sanhedrin (Rav Hai Gaon, Teshuva HaGaonim, Sha’arey HaGaonim 14). Since we don’t have a Sanhedrin, there is a problem with this.
There is one other method – that being the testimony of an established prophet. If an established prophet testifies that so-and-so is a prophet, then so-and-so is granted the status of prophet. Since Elijah (an established prophet) will return in the Messianic Age, he could presumably establish other prophets.
It should be added that prophets were expected to men (or women) of extereme piety, advanced learning and purity. Your average shlub could not be established as a prophet.
That’s a brief overview. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.
Zev Steinhardt
According to Roman Catholicism, a Prophet is one through whom God the Holy Spirit speaks. The Christian concept of Saints superceded the Jewish concept of Prophets.
The Muslims believe Mohammed is the last Prophet , as in no more, as Mohammed’s reciept of God’s Word…in the form of the Qur’an…is perfect, complete and final.