Resources for Biblical, Theological, and Religious Studies maintained by Tyler F. Williams

Ecclesiastes/Qohelet
OT Commentary Survey - Wisdom & Psalms

"Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh" (Eccl 12:12). It is to our benefit that scholars have ignored this verse when it comes to writing commentaries on Ecclesiates (also called "Qohelet" in Jewish Bibles). Scholars and pastors have a number of excellent works to chose from, including Seow, Murphy, Crenshaw, Longman, and -- my personal favourites -- both of Fox's volumes. In addition, Kruger's work is an excellent critical commentary, while Wright's volume is invaluable for a historical perspective.

There are just as many excellent commentaries that are easily accessible to lay people: Brown, Farmer, Loader, Murphy, and Provan are all worth having, and more conservative types will appreciate Eaton and Garrett.

Top