Abstract
In this chapter, Etty Hillesum's diaries and letters are compared and contrasted with Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Widerstand und Ergebung: Briefe und Aufzeichnungen aus der Haft (E.T., Letters and Papers from Prison). The study introduces Hillesum in the light of Bonhoeffer's theology of a powerless and suffering (die Ohnmacht und das Leiden Gottes), that is to say of a God who shares in the world's suffering. Bonhoeffer's writings show characteristically in biblical sentiments that life and creation are imperative. The various challenges that the German Church and theology had evoked in Bonhoeffer, continued in Tegel prison. Karl Barth's Christianity or irreligious religion strongly influenced his thinking. As Peter King and Ylva Eggehorn have shown, the spiritual insights and life stories of Hillesum and Bonhoeffer are compelling witnesses to the possibility of honesty and love in complex human affairs.Keywords: Dietrich Bonhoeffer; Etty Hillesum; German Church; God; Karl Barth's religionless christianity; Tegel prison
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
