Is 6, 3 et la qedusha dans le corpus rabbinique ancien : une approche phénoménologique

Abstract

This article systematically analyses all ancient aggadic sources referring to Isaiah 6:3 with a mainly phenomenological approach. In explaining the meaning of this verse, the rabbis are interested in four topics. First, several texts deal with the relationship between the angels and Israel and often make a distinction between their songs. We ask the following questions: Is there any agreement as to how these songs are defined and eventually connected together? To what extent is the motif of the song related to the more general topic of the relationship between the angels and Israel? According to our investigation, the answers to these questions are less simple than usually thought. Second, the second part of the verse may refer to the body of God or to the Shekhina. Third, the rabbis try to describe more precisely how the kedusha is recited by the angels. Fourth, Isaiah 6:3 is also related to practical concerns. The last part of the article explores the implications of the midrashic data already studied for a better understanding of the Palestinian and Babylonian versions of the kedusha.