Encountering the Old Testament, 3rd Edition
A Christian Survey
series: Encountering Biblical Studies
Chapter
23. Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs: Israelite Faith in Everyday Life
Chapter Intro Video
Chapter Objectives
- State and discuss the themes of Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs
- Outline the basic content of the book of Ecclesiastes
- Relate the key issues surrounding the authorship of Ecclesiastes
- Outline the basic content of the Song of Songs
- Find ancient Near Eastern metaphors in Song of Songs
Chapter Summary
- The central idea in Ecclesiastes is that the only hope of surviving the trials of this life is to fear and obey God.
- The term “ecclesiastes” may mean leader or speaker of an assembly, preacher, or teacher.
- The author of the book of Ecclesiastes is anonymous.
- The Song of Songs means that this is the best of all songs.
- Song of Songs is a song about the sexual love of a husband and wife.
- Ancient Near Eastern metaphors like “your hair is descending like a flock of goats” abound in the Song of Songs.
Study Questions
Ecclesiastes
- What type of outlook on life does ¬Ecclesiastes reflect?
- How did the book get the name Ecclesiastes? What other names does the book have?
- What is the purpose of the author in writing this book?
- How is this purpose accomplished?
- According to the author, what is the whole duty of humanity? What practical meaning does this have?
- Discuss the date and authorship issues of the book of Ecclesiastes. What is the only sure conclusion concerning authorship?
- What theological themes are found in the book?
Song of Songs
- What is the meaning of the title “Song of Songs”?
- With what subject does Song of Songs deal?
- What is the book’s intended message?
- What is the overall structure of Song of Songs?
- Discuss the authorship issues of the book.
- What does Song of Songs teach about love, sex, and marriage?