Abstract
This monograph examines the book of Qoheleth in a new way, studying its approach to the problem of evil. Folllowing a new trend in recent research, it attempts to counter a pessimistic view of Qoheleth‘s preaching through a more „positive“ approach.
A first chapter gives a detailed exegesis of the passages in which Qoheleth confronts himself to evil. When all these passages are read in interconnection, it is possible to draw the following conclusions: Even if the author recognizes the presence of evil in this world, he does not systematize it, and does not make God as its potential creator.
Chapter two procedes in a double way: first, it carefully analyses the existential counterpoint which Qoheleth proposes against evil in a series of advices that are both practicable and realistic enough to allow a person enjoy one‘s life during the short time spent under the sun. Second, it studies the seven choruses on joy which regularly punctuate the book. Climax is reached in the gift of joy boy which God reveals himself to man.
A last chaper connects the results of the former two and relates them to the issue of God‘s judgement. This, the study holds, relates precisely to the way how a human being receives joy as a gift in everyday life.
Maussion, Marie