Wisdom Commentary Song of Songs

"Rabbi Akiba claimed that `All the world is not worth the day that the Song of Songs was given to Israel' (Yadaim 3:5). Spencer reaffirms that claim. With scholarly insight into the text, sensitivity of gender issues, and a clever yet respectful use of language, he provides a commentary faithful to the principles of this remarkable series. The contributing voices add an interesting layer to the interpretation of this poem that champions human love."

"This commentary on the Song of Songs illustrates very clearly the more recent trend in the reading of the Song."

"F. Scott Spencer has written a commentary on the Song of Songs that is not only thoughtful and illuminating but, dare I say it, thrilling! He brings a biblical scholar's depth of expertise to analyzing and interpreting the workings of the poetry and a feminist scholar's attention to the complexities of gender issues and their relationship to justice and equity. He never loses sight of what it is that makes the love poetry of the Song of Songs finally so compelling, namely, that love rules us all and we wouldn't have it any other way."

"The combination of voices in this volume provides fertile ground for theological reflection. The minimal Hebrew and style of the volume makes it accessible to non‐specialists, and the theological reflection will undoubtedly serve clergy who regularly teach with an eye toward modern theological reflection."

"F. Scott Spencer has written a fresh and lively commentary on the Song of Songs, befitting the biblical book's own celebration of love and desire. Spencer offers a rich, careful discussion of the Song's gendered imagery as well as its resonances with contemporary feminist concerns. Brimming with insights on the weighty delight of sexual yearning, Spencer's commentary is uniquely sensitive to the Song's portrayal of embodied existence and its consequences for relating to the others in society and the natural world surrounding us. He offers a commentary fully conversant with the scholarship and attuned to the pressing contemporary concerns about sexuality and the environment."

"Scholars especially will appreciate the liberal use of footnotes, while all readers will enjoy the balance of informed scholarly commentary and readability."

"Spencer offers a fresh reading on the Song's complexities in a style that is both readable and insightful. Supplemental essays from other feminist writers woven throughout add even more depth and context to Spencer's commentary, making it a significant and meaningful addition to any library."

"We should applaud him for presenting a readable commentary on the Song, which adds a refreshing voice to the choir of other Song commentaries, pays attention to literary issues and questions of justice and includes short essays of other authors who contribute their unique perspectives."