The King and the Commentator

The writings attributed to King Solomon have long puzzled readers and scholars alike. How did these strikingly unconventional works – the passionate poetry of Song of Songs, the down-to-earth wisdom of Proverbs, and the existential reflections of Ecclesiastes – find their place within the sacred biblical canon? Their themes and tone seem worlds apart from the rest of Scripture. In The King and the Commentator: Rashi’s Holistic Readings of Solomon’s Song, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes, Dr. Lisa Fredman offers a compelling answer based on Rashi’s commentary. Beneath the surface of Solomon’s works, Rashi uncovers deep theological insights and weaves them together into a single, coherent spiritual vision. The very works once questioned for inclusion in the biblical canon are shown to be vital expressions of faith, inviting readers to discover new dimensions of wisdom, holiness, and spiritual growth.