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3. Poetry and Wisdom

Five poetic and wisdom books comprise about one-sixth of a one year read-through of the Bible. While reading, put the background, theme, and outline of these books into your own words and memorize. Historical dates given here are approximate.

JOB

Background

Set in the time of the Patriarchs.

Theme
The suffering of the righteous.

Outline
Satan's test, Job's dialogs with his advisors, and God's response.

PSALMS

Background

A collection of independent writings over a few centuries.

Theme
Praise, Laments, and Prayers. The Hymnbook of Israel.

Outline
Five collections.

PROVERBS

Background

Collected and written by Solomon.

Theme
Worldly and spiritual wisdom.

Outline
Proverbs for the Young, for Everyone, and for Leaders.

ECCLESIASTES

Background

Written by Solomon concerning his own search for the meaning of life.

Theme
The futility of life "under the sun".

Outline
The futility of life, advantages frustrated, where true advantages are found.

SONG OF SONGS

Background

Written by Solomon. Interpretation varies greatly.
My approach is to take it as being about human love,
NOT primarily as an allegorical or typical picture of the church and Christ.

Theme
The value of covenant love.

Outline
Mutual admiration, Bride's two dreams, Groom's praise,
Mutual expressions of love.

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Written by BrRon, updated 27 Nov 96