The JPS Bible Commentary: Ecclesiastes
The Book of Ecclesiastes is part of the “wisdom literature” of the Bible. It concerns itself with universal philosophical questions, rather than events in the history of Israel and in the Hebrews’ covenant with God. Koheleth, the speaker in this book, ruminates on what—if anything—has lasting value, and how—if at all—God interacts with humankind. Koheleth expresses bewilderment and frustration at life’s absurdities and injustices. He grapples with the inequities that pervade the world and the...
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The Book of Ecclesiastes is part of the wisdom literature of the Bible. It concerns itself with universal philosophical questions, rather than events in the history of Israel and in the Hebrews' covenant with God. Koheleth, the speaker in this book, ruminates on what—if anything—has lasting value, and how—if at all—God interacts with humankind. Koheleth expresses bewilderment and frustration at life's absurdities and injustices. He grapples with the inequities that pervade the world and the frailty and limitations of human wisdom and righteousness. His awareness of these discomfiting facts coexists with a firm believe in God's rule and God's fundamental justice, and he looks for ways to define a meaningful life in a world where so much is senseless. Ecclesiastes is traditionally read on the Jewish holiday Sukkot, the harvest festival.
AcknowledgmentsviiiIntroduction to the Commentary: EcclesiastesTitle and AuthorixEcclesiastes and Wisdom LiteraturexEcclesiastes and PhilosophyxiLiterary FormsxiiDatingxivPlace in Jewish LiteraturexivStructure and UnityxvKeywordsxviiThe Challenges of Scriptural Citation, Translation, and CommentaryxxiMajor Sources Cited and Overview of InterpretationsxxiiThe Teachings of EcclesiastesxxxNotes to the IntroductionxxxiiiAbbreviations and Other ConventionsxxxviiThe Commentary to EcclesiastesIntroduction3Reflections and Meditations11Counsels and Teachings32Conclusion74Epilogue82Notes to the Commentary86
\ Canadian Jewish News“The the JPS Ecclesiastes/Koheleth is a thorough, sensitive and engaging study with much to recommend it.”—Canadian Jewish News\ \ \ \ \ Journal of Hebrew Scriptures“This is an insightful and accessible commentary that reflects many years of deep engagement with the text.”—Journal of Hebrew Scriptures\ \ \ Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society“This volume is a profitable resource for both scholars and pastors. Pastors will appreciate its brevity and clarity, and scholars will respect its depth and thoughtfulness.”—Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society\ \
