Entre octroi de la citoyenneté et adoption : les modèles pour penser la conversion au judaïsme à l’époque romaine

Abstract

This article explores the conceptual models that underlie the ways conversion to Judaism was thought of during the Roman period. In the works of Philo of Alexandria, the prevailing model is that of proselytes as new citizens in the politeia of Israel, whereas in rabbinic literature, several models are at work, including that of adoption – the idea is that the converts (gerim) receive a new father in Abraham. The writings of Paul, or of his disciples, show that these two models also underlie the way Paul reflects about the integration of the Gentile converts into the first Christian communities. The Pauline writings thus contribute indirectly to our understanding of the ways conversion to Judaism was thought of in a Roman context.

Keywords

• conversion
• proselytes
• Judaism
• rabbinic literature
• Philo of Alexandria
• Paul