Qoheleth and the Philosophy of Value

by Jesse M. Peterson

Overview

The book of Ecclesiastes is the Bible's problem child. Its probing doubts, dark ruminations, self- reflexive dialogues, and unflinching observations have simultaneously puzzled and fascinated readers for over two millennia. Some read the book's message as hopelessly pessimistic, while others regard the text as too contradictory to bear any consistent message at all. In this study, Jesse Peterson offers a coherent portrait of the book and its author-the early Jewish sage known as Qoheleth-by examining both through a philosophical lens. Drawing from relevant contemporary philosophical literature on meaning in life, death, well-being, and enjoyment, Peterson outlines a clear and compelling portrait of Qoheleth and his philosophical assumptions about what is good and bad in the human experience. As Peterson argues, Qoheleth's grievances concerning the pursuit of meaning in life are paired with a genuine affirmation of life's value and the possibility of a joy-filled existence.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781009513258
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	07/10/2025
Pages:	322
Product dimensions:	6.50(w) x 1.50(h) x 9.50(d)

About the Author

Jesse Peterson is an Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies in the School of Theology and Honors Program at George Fox University. His academic research brings biblical texts and traditions into dialogue with philosophy, both ancient and modern. Peterson's work on the book of Ecclesiastes and Qoheleth has been published in Harvard Theological Review, Vetus Testamentum, and the Journal of Theological Studies.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction; Part I. Qoheleth's Negative Values: 2. The value of absent meaning: 'what gain?'; 3. The harm of death: 'no further reward'; 4. Time, agency, and value: 'what he has made crooked'; Part II. Qoheleth's Positive Values: 5. The value of (non-)existence: 'a stillborn is better off'; 6. Enjoyment as intrinsic valuation: 'nothing better'; 7. Conclusion; Bibliography; Index.

Editorial Reviews

‘Qoheleth, the speaking voice in Ecclesiastes, famously asserts that ‘there is nothing new under the sun.’ Pac that somewhat crabby sage, Jesse Peterson’s erudite volume offers a novel interpretation of Qoheleth in light of contemporary philosophy. Peterson offers compelling readings of Qoheleth’s understanding of meaning (and its lack), death (and its harm), and time (and the limitations it places on agency). But not only that. While Qoheleth doubts the possibility of a meaningful life, Peterson demonstrates that Qoheleth knows of a life of value in which an attitudinal theory of pleasure and valuing capacities play crucial roles. Peterson reveals an image of Qoheleth as no mere pessimist, but someone with a mature conception of pleasure and the intrinsic value of the moment. Be prepared to learn a lot from this stunning and learned book; I most certainly did.’ Brent A. Strawn, D. Moody Smith Distinguished Professor of Old Testament and Professor of Law, Duke University

From the Publisher