The Book of Ecclesiastes

Close reading in Hebrew of the Book of Ecclesiastes (Koheleth). The course will introduce students to modem historical-critical approaches to Koheleth in conjunction Hebrew reading, syntax, grammar, and exegesis. Recent commentary treatments (Longman, Bartholomew, Fox, and others) will be reviewed for strengths and weaknesses. The place of Ecclesiastes in so-called 'Wisdom Literature' will be examined. alongside its location in the canon. Older classical treatments of Koheleth (Luther) will also be evaluated. The place of the Epilogue and its hermeneutical function, as well as the traditional ascription to Solomon, will be reviewed.