Le repos du pèlerin (Hébreux 3,7-4,11)

Abstract

The Epistle to the Hebrews deals extensively with the theme of the desobedience of Israel in the section 3,7-1 1, applying the words of Psalm 95,7-1 1 to the situation of the intended readers, calling them to strive without delay to “enter that rest”. What kind of rest is in view, a rest to be compared with the Creator’s rest, a rest from one’s works ? Several well known commentators are convinced that this is necessarily an exclusively eschatological rest, a matter of hope to be enjoyed by the faithful Christian at the Parousia or after his death. This interpretation is largely grounded on the conviction of a fixed eschatological meaning for the idea of a rest in God at the disposal of the author of the Epistle. The following study endeavours to prove that a more extended meaning, including also a partial enjoyment in this world, is to be taken into account. The religious texts of the period give evidence of a large diversity in the ways the expression is used. The logic of the demonstration undertaken by the author leads to the conclusion that a decisive step to enter the rest immediately is called for. And the idea of a “rest from one’s works” does not necessarily calls to mind the ultimate bliss. One must not forget that, besides a “futuristic” eschatology, there is in the Epistle to the Hebrews a heaven/earth dualism which gives a room for a precious relationship with the invisible realities.