Ecclesiastes/Song of Songs
Ecclesiastes Main Point: Much like Job, the wisdom of the “Preacher” in Ecclesiastes reveals that much of life does not go as simply as the Book of Proverbs suggests. Thus, the ending of the book (Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man) summarizes the final result of much pondering.
Song of Songs Main Point: The gift of physical love is one of God’s greatest gifts when exercised within the bounds of the picture of Genesis 2.
Texts to Consider:
Eccl 9:1–10
Is the Preacher happy or sad?
Eccl 12:9–14
Who is writing this part? Is it the same author?
Song of Songs 1:1
What does this book have to do with Solomon?
What have the major approaches to interpretation been?
Song of Songs 1:2–4
This passage mentions “the king.” Is that referring to Solomon? Are there varied opinions?
Song of Songs 2:3–7
Many scholars suggest that 2:7 is a repeated phrase which indicates a formal structure. But, does it? And, beyond structure, what theme is introduced and developed?
Song of Songs 3:1–5
Another theme is introduced in this passage. What is it?
Song of Songs 4:1–5:1
What do you think about this description of her beauty?
Song of Songs 7:11–4
