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.

‘Qoheleth, the speaking voice in Ecclesiastes, famously asserts that ‘there is nothing new under the sun.’ Pace 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

‘In Peterson’s landmark study, Qoheleth finally takes his place among the great philosophers of his day whose thought carries great relevance for today. Whereas previous studies have pigeon-holed Qoheleth as either a nihilist or a preacher of joy, Peterson finds just the right balance and coherence, taking into account both the negative and positive dimensions of Qoheleth’s thought through the unifying concept of value. Rigorous and engaging, Peterson’s analysis proves to be of great value to both scholar and student alike.’

William P. Brown - Columbia Theological Seminary

‘In this rich philosophical approach to Qoheleth’s key concepts, Peterson unlocks the author’s unified expression of the hub of values that revolve around our human lives. The quest for meaning in life, the reality of death and the cyclical nature of time are explored on the side of negativity and the value of existence, well-being and enjoyment on the positive side. Thus the pendulum swings between the two extremes within Qoheleth’s book, informed by a basic human need for approbation and validation (intersubjectivism), meaningful relationships and existential vindication. Peterson sheds fresh and profound light on well-worn discussions and his philosophical angle deeply enriches our understanding of this ever-enigmatic biblical book.’

Katharine Dell - University of Cambridge

‘Qoheleth and the Philosophy of Value is not only a sensitive and illuminating exegesis of a religious text, but a very informative survey of philosophical thought — past and present — concerning meaning, value, and the nature of human striving. Whether their interest is biblical studies or philosophy, readers of all levels will benefit from seeing these ideas applied in a way that is both rigorous and accessible.’

Wes Alwan - co-host of The Partially Examined Life