The Messianic Time and the provisionality of Political Time

theologic dialogues with Giorgio Agamben

Abstract

The theme of this essay discusses Messianic Time and the relativity of Political Time. The use of the world is the condition and possibility of living the New Aeon, the New Life in Christ, and the political is part of this provisional state. This theme is approached through the Italian philosopher Giorgio Agamben, with dialogues from theological authors, especially the reformer Martin Luther. Both authors are interpreters of Paul the Apostle and take the Letter to the Romans as the foundation of their thought. The problem is related to the messianic interpretation of Brazilian politicians, who disregard the dimension of Messianic Time, which breaks with any possibility of enthroning political messiahs. The objective of this essay is to analyze the concept of Messianic Time and seek useful theological reflections for relevant political positions. The methodology is bibliographical and conceptual, with a focus on the work “The Time That Remains: A Commentary on the Letter to the Romans” by Agamben. As a result, we seek to clarify concepts about the profanation of worldly things from the perspective of Messianic Time as a critique of political and religious messianisms.