This book could be a companion to Ferguson’s book reviewed above.  As I was reading through The Pundit’s Folly I received a copy of Eerdman’s New International Commentary on the Old Testament, by Longman.  Longman chairs the Old Testament department at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia and has authored many books—some of which have been reviewed in Equip for Ministry.  I like to read Longman.  He is scholarly and contemporary, yet he stands in the line of reformed scholars who are seeking to understand and communicate biblical truth in a fresh way.  He writes as a scholar, but with pastoral like passion. 

Unlike the above popular format book, this Ecclesiastes commentary is thoroughly exegetical.  The Eerdman’s series represents outstanding exegetical scholarship and appeals primarily to professors and pastors, yet is used by serious Bible students and teachers as well.  This work deals effectively with the usual materials of authorship, background, language, genre, and literary styles.  It is Longman’s conclusion that Ecclesiastes is written by one “who adopts a Solomonic persona”, though tradition has suggested a Solomonic authorship.  Longman effectively discusses the theology of the pundit, “Qohelet”, a nickname for Solomon, and the theology of the book as a whole.  He suggests that Qohelet represents the skepticism in Israel at that time and that the theology of the book as a whole calls the reader to focus on God and his commandments. Ecclesiastes concludes with the message and challenge to fear God; a message much needed in our day.

Both of the above books will be extremely useful if one desires to study, teach, or preach from this Old Testament book.  Open the book of Ecclesiastes for your people with these two resources to assist you.

- Charles Dunahoo, CEP Coordinator