Old Testament scholar Pete Enns recently did a podcast episode on his The Bible for Normal People where he discussed the curious book of Ecclesiastes. Enns doesn’t shy away from the rather bleak outlook on life that Ecclesiastes seems to present. Life is absurd so far as Qoheleth is concerned and whatever God throws your way you just have to deal with. You can’t change a thing!
If you’ve never read the book of Ecclesiastes, give it a go. It might take you thirty minutes to get through and it is a fascinating look on life from the perspective of an ancient Jew. And listen to Enns’ episode on the book of Ecclesiastes to hear some of his insights.
Note: Enns is a Christian and so don’t be surprised that he discusses the book of Ecclesiastes as it relates to Christian belief.
The Amateur Exegete 