#70 Wisdom literature – Proverbs, Song of Solomon and Job
Jun 17, 2021
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Tom Wright answers listener questions on Proverbs, Song of Solomon, and the concept of 'Wisdom' in the Bible. They discuss the complexities of gender assumptions in Old Testament literature and the debate surrounding the historicity of the book of Job. The hosts also explore the allegorical interpretations of the Song of Solomon and the themes of erotic love and wisdom in Proverbs. They delve into the concept of fictionalization in storytelling and preview the next episode focused on the New Testament.
Wisdom literature in the Old Testament offers insights on living a genuinely human life through books like Proverbs, Psalms, Ecclesiastes, and more.
The Book of Job is a fictionalized account that explores the question of God's justice in the face of suffering, emphasizing the need to understand its genre and theological insights rather than seeking a literal transcription of historical events.
Deep dives
Understanding Wisdom Literature in the Old Testament
Wisdom literature in the Old Testament refers to books that are not part of the Torah or the Prophets. These writings, including Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon, offer insights on how to live a genuinely human life. The theme of wisdom emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. While each book has its unique characteristics, they all contribute to understanding what it means to be wise.
Interpreting the Song of Solomon
The Song of Solomon is a love poem that explores the intense, intimate, and cosmic aspects of romantic love. It portrays the beauty, glory, and joy of discovering another person as a profound source of rapture. This book celebrates the goodness of God's creation and challenges negative views of sexuality. Additionally, it symbolizes the union between God and Israel and carries implications for the relationship between Jesus and the church.
The Book of Job as Wisdom Literature
The Book of Job presents a fictionalized and stylized account that addresses the moral dilemma of why bad things happen to good people. While it may have drawn inspiration from a real person, the book is a work of majestic poetry designed to provoke thought and reflection. It explores the question of God's justice in the face of suffering. Understanding the genre of Job helps us appreciate its theological insights rather than seeking a literal transcription of historical events.
Tom Wright answers listener questions on Proverbs, Song of Solomon, the concept of ‘Wisdom’ in the Bible and whether we should take the book of Job literally?