Ecclesiastes

The book of Ecclesiastes is probably best known for its repeated refrain that 'everything is meaningless', or 'vanity'. However, a thorough reading demonstrates that this is not its final conclusion. Knut Heim's commentary shows that the book is intellectually sophisticated, theologically rich, emotionally deep - and full of humour. While it is realistic about life, it is life-affirming, and immensely practical. It is also politically engaged, presenting its critique of a repressive foreign regime in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.

Professor of Old Testament at Denver Seminary, USA. Previously he taught at The Queen's Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education (University of Birmingham, UK) and at Trinity College Bristol, UK. He is the author of three books and numerous articles on Proverbs, Isaiah and biblical poetry.