Ecclesiastes: An Earth Bible Commentary: Qoheleth's Eternal Earth

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Qoheleth is one of the most challenging and intriguing of the biblical authors. Above all, he is attentive to lifes realities, neither optimistic about the world nor unappreciative of its goodness and pleasures. In this volume, Turner examines the writings of Qoheleth in the book of Ecclesiastes and provides an ecological reading of the text that gives readers clear insights into how biblical wisdom literature can be used to respond to the challenges facing the environment in the present day, as well as advancing the field of ecological hermeneutics. In this commentary Turner looks at the concept of Qoheleths eternal earth, moving through the chapters of Ecclesiastes with an ear attuned to the voice of the Earth as it struggles to be heard above the voice of the economy. Such a voice is not necessarily antagonistic to that of Earth, but neither is it neutral. The ecological reader knows that a prudent economy is necessary for living, but if it is given precedence at the expense of Earth, there will be no future, let alone eternity, for Earth. Eco-justice demands that contemporary readers should be mindful of future generations and heed Qoheleths counsel to value the fruits of ones labour without greed, allowing ecological hermeneutics to provide insights into contemporary environmental issues. Illustrating how a biblical framework for environmentally responsible living may be generated, Turners analysis is vital both to those studying Qoheleth and to those invested in the Bible and ecology.

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[Marie Turners] analysis broadens the basis for necessary and appropriate ongoing concern for the manner in which humankind is (or is not) stewarding the Earth home with which God has graced those whom He created in His own image. * Bulletin of Biblical Research *
It is fascinating to observe that as you read the commentary you will hear the voice of Qoheleth speaking vividly to you, but sometimes it is the voice of Turner The book is a good read on a critical subject. * Biblical Theology Bulletin *

Author Bio

Marie Turner is an adjunct Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies at Flinders University of South Australia, Australia.