As I understand the discussion (underneath the commit log, josevalim gives a comment), it's not about re-inventing a job queue but to offer an API for queues where you can hook in what you want. That way other services can use a queue (sending mails, processing frobnicates) through an advertised interface without having to rely on a specific implementation. You still can run resque behind it. (Caveat: I only read the discussion, this is not informed by interpreting the code)