8 kregel.com/academic OLD TESTAMENT INTERPRETING THE WISDOM BOOKS An Exegetical Handbook Handbooks for Old Testament Exegesis See page 27 for full series EDWARD M. CURTIS 978-0-8254-4230-8 • $21.99 Paperback • 6 x 9 • 208 pages Biblical Studies / Wisdom Literature Kregel Academic Rights: World September 26, 2017 The Wisdom Literature of the Bible (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs) is filled with practical principles for every- day life. While some Christians are deterred by the pragmatic character of these matter-of-fact guidelines, they are as inte- gral to God’s purposes for His people as the explicitly theo- logical and historical material that dominates other parts of Scripture. The wisdom books tie these two streams of God’s revelation together in a way that enriches and strengthens the church. This final volume in the Handbooks for Old Testament Exegesis series helps equip the pastor, scholar, and student to discover the riches of these books for God’s people. It examines the nature and characteristics of the wisdom genre, explores major themes, provides guidance for preaching and teach- ing, and includes numerous practical illustrations. A glossary defines useful terms, and a concluding appendix offers advice on using software and online services to aid the interpreter in exegetical work. Ed Curtis has provided this excellent volume on wis- dom literature that is breathtaking in its combina- tion of scope and accessibility. . . . Curtis’s experience as an exegete, a teacher, and a preacher are evident on every page. Those who seek to understand the wis- dom literature, or teach it, will find here a treasure trove of insight and guidance. —John Walton, professor of Old Testament, Wheaton College This handbook helpfully touches on areas of inter- preting the wisdom books, their contribution to Old Testament theology, and also how to handle these poetic wisdom books in study and interpretation. . . . Curtis’s book will help to give these wisdom books their rightful place in the preaching and teaching ministry of the church. —Ellis R. Brotzman, professor emeritus of Old Testament language and literature, Tyndale Theological Seminary Edward M. Curtis (PhD, University of Pennsylvania) is profes- sor of biblical and theological studies at Biola University. His other publications include Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs in the Teach the Text Commentary Series. CONTENTS 1. Interpreting Old Testament Wisdom Literature 2. Primary Themes in the Wisdom Books 3. Preparing for Interpretation 4. Interpreting the Wisdom Books 5. Proclaiming the Wisdom Books 6. Putting It All Together: From Text to Sermon Appendix: Computer and Internet Resources for Old Testament Exegesis