![]() A parallel use of “on earth” and “under heaven” is found in 8:14–15 where Qohelet describes an event that occurs “on the earth” in v. The twenty-nine uses of “under the sun” are parallel with two similar phrases “under heaven” and “on earth.” The first is used three times (1:13 2:3 3:1) and the later six times (5:2 7:20 8:14, 16 11:2 12:7). I agree with his latter sense of the prepositional phrase. I think this twofold approach is inconsistent. He, as well as myself, see a theocentric emphasis which shows up most often in the recurring enjoyment-of-life texts.īolllhagen in part agrees with your understanding of “under the sun.” As well as the view you advocate, he adds a second one with a general sense “encompassing the entirety of earthly existence throughout the world for all peoples” (43). I concur with Bollhagen’s overall positive position. As you mention, Steinmann’s commentary on Proverbs is also a solid work.īollhagen argues for a positive interpretation of the book in contrast to scholars like Longman and Enns who argue for an overall negative assessment of the book. I appreciate your clarifying comments, Dan, and agree with your assessment of the series. ![]() Finally, while recognizing that there is a polarized thought between negative aspects of life (such as death) and positive part (such as the enjoyment-of-life), he affirms that the overall message is to “increase wisdom and strengthen the faith of readers” (15).Īs far as Hebrew exegesis and theology of Ecclesiastes are concerned, I highly recommend James Bollhagen’s Ecclesiastes. Again, this commentary has a needed theological and pastoral perspective. For example, his positive discussion of Solomonic authorship is welcome. Further, this is a conservative commentary. In addition, because Bollhagen is committed to the inspiration, inerrancy, and authority of the Hebrew text, this is foundational for Bible believing Christians. ![]() Since he is working with the Hebrew text along with grammatical explanations (phonology, syntax, etc.) and text critical notes, this type of work is always valuable. Though I, like other Qohelethine interpreters, may disagree with Bollhagen on how to treat some specific texts and issues, these minor differences, from my perspective, do not detract from the overall value of his commentary. ![]() The commentary for each part explains its message as well as integrating theological and practical items. His textual notes deal with grammatical issues of the Hebrew text and text critical notes. Bollhagen’s translation is based on the Hebrew text. Each subsection is split into three parts: translation, textual notes, and commentary. Following the outline for the three divisions, the commentary is further subdivided into subsections. This is followed by two indices: subjects (441–56) and passages (457–75).Īs far as the commentary proper is concerned, each of the three major sections is preceded by an outline (29, 125–26, 422). In keeping with the intent of this series, Bollhagen’s commentary provides a valuable tool for seminary trained pastors and students who desire to study Ecclesiastes with a basis in the Hebrew text.Īfter a brief bibliography (xxiii–xxvi), his introduction covers the title of the book (1–2), its place in the Canon (2–4), history of interpretations (4–6), the Hebrew texts (6), its authorship (6–14), theology (14–27), and outline (27–28). The target audience for this series is pastors and teachers. This series is written from a conservative, confessional, Lutheran standpoint (xii–xiii). With each biblical book, a commentator works with the book in its original language as well as text critical, theological, and practical issues. This series is designed to cover every canonical book of both testaments. This commentary is part of The Concordia Commentary Series: A Theological Exposition of Sacred Scripture. He has also served as a professor of exegetical theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and is currently the pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in St. Bollhagen is a welcome addition to the growing number of commentaries on Ecclesiastes.
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