The Family
Southwestern Journal of Theology
Volume 49, No. 1 – Fall 2006
Managing Editor: Malcolm B. Yarnell III
By Bruce K. Waltke. New International Commentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2004. 693 pages. Hardcover, $50.00.
Bruce K. Waltke, Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Regent College, Vancouver and Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Florida, is perhaps best known for his contributions in the field of Hebrew language studies. He brings to whatever project he is tackling an impressive reserve of linguistic knowledge and insight. In producing his two volume commentary on the book of Proverbs, he does not disappoint in this regard and also succeeds in bringing a pastoral perspective in relating the importance of the contents of this oft used, but also often misunderstood, book of the Bible.
Proverbs carries with it distinctive problems and issues involving its authorship, genre, and purpose. To each of these issues, Waltke has spoken with the caution of a scholar, but the conviction of a believer. He appropriately highlights the multilayered status of the book in its compilation and construction, yet argues forcefully for the scholarly unpopular inclusion of
Solomon as a major force behind the book. Furthermore, while carefully noting that proverbs as a genre is not strictly promissory in nature, he correctly notes that it is much more than a category of “pithy sayings” that is often applied to any text that is considered proverbial in nature. As a result he has composed a commentary that is lucid, helpful and a great addition to both the pastor’s and the scholar’s library.
If there is one qualm to be had regarding the work, however, it is that Waltke sometimes seems to forget that not all of his readers have the depth of understanding of Hebrew that he possesses. This despite the fact that he highlights in the author’s preface that he is attempting to address the “average Bible reader.” Certainly, there are whole discussions within which such a reader will be totally lost and wondering exactly what it is that Waltke is arguing as he presents the nuances of certain Hebraic constructions and relationships.
Proverbs requires a gentle hand in navigating the path between over- simplification and obfuscation through examination of minutiae. For the most part, Waltke applies such a touch to his interpretations and discus- sions. In those places where he wanders into the latter, he is to be excused because seldom does he do so without good reasons. In the end, this first volume is very helpful to all those who are interested in understanding the nature of wisdom and in understanding a book that still has much to say to modern churchgoers who are looking for biblical answers to living a godly life.
