Proverbs 1-9 as an Introduction to the Book of Proverbs (The Library of Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Studies) Paperback ? February 24, 2022

Proverbs 1-9 has long been called a 'prologue' and 'introduction' to the book of Proverbs, a label that this book clarifies by answering the question: how does Proverbs 1-9 function with respect to the interpretation of Proverbs 10-31? Arthur Keefer argues that, in the detail and holistic context of Proverbs, Proverbs 1-9 functions didactically by supplying interpretive frameworks in literary, rhetorical and theological contexts for representative portions of Proverbs 10-31. Keefer suggests that Proverbs 1-9 functions didactically by teaching interpretive skills, and allows interpretation of Proverbs 10-31 by instilling the competence required to explicate this material. As a result, Proverbs 1-9 provides a didactic introduction for the remainder of the book, particularly with respect to its character types, educational goals, and theology. This volume demonstrates the function of Proverbs 1-9 for Proverbs 10-31 in some of the most prominent interpretive contexts of the book, and in doing so advances current key interpretive debates within Proverbs scholarship.

Arthur Keefer is Master of Divinity and Chaplain at Eton College, UK.

Laura Quick is Assistant Professor of Religion and Judaic Studies at Princeton University, USA.

Jacqueline Vayntrub is Assistant Professor of Hebrew Bible at Yale University, USA