Seeing What Qohelet Saw

“Anyone who reads Ecclesiastes finds it hard to discern a clear structure. Amid the tangle of proposed structures, Fyfe outlines a way forward. He argues cogently for alternating observation and wisdom panes, with ‘to see’ marking out the former. Highly recommended for those interested in Ecclesiastes and the structure of biblical books.”


—Peter Lau, Visiting Lecturer in Old Testament, Sydney Missionary and Bible College





“Like Qohelet himself, Fyfe reports what he has seen. His acute observation of the Hebrew text exposes the rhythms and artistry of Ecclesiastes. In doing so, he clarifies the meaning of this elusive book. Scholars and preachers should read this study and be stimulated ‘to find words of delight’ in the wisdom of the Preacher.”


—Richard J. Gibson, Principal, Brisbane School of Theology





“Fyfe ventures into the enigma of Qohelet’s thought and seeks to wrest a structure from the murkiness of the ancient sage’s rambling. Fyfe argues for a deliberate pattern of alternating observation and wisdom, such that there may indeed be meaning within the apparent meaningless of Qohelet’s monologue.”


—George Athas, Director of Research, Moore College