Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon

I am genuinely surprised this commentary isn't rated higher. It is fairly accessible to the layperson and insightful enough for pastors. It doesn't get bogged down into the technical language and grammar, which for a wisdom book is quite appropriate. After all, true wisdom is that which teaches you the right way to live. The Ecclesiastes commentary, especially, is quite good. I don't have to worry about maverick positions on authorship or historical backgrounds. The insights are succinct and profound. The other two books are also worth referencing. While there are modern volumes that justifiably take preeminence, like Waltke's Proverbs and Longman's Songs, Garrett's work is still more than serviceable. For those looking to get their feet wet into the wisdom literature, this may be the best 'bang for your buck' (3 volumes in 1) on the market.

This rating is for the Song of Songs portion, as I haven't done enough with Proverbs to rate it, and haven't looked at the Eccl. section at all yet. On SoS, Garrett is, in my opinion, far too brief. His introduction has some minimal responses to arguments for a later date of composition. The commentary itself is ok, but I'd go with Hess on SoS (BCOTWP) over this.

While not the most in depth commentary on Ecclesiastes, Garrett's treatment provides good bang for your buck. Contra Longman, Garrett argues for the unity of Ecclesiastes, which reflects on morality and how we should live in this world, in light of the events in the first 3 chapters of Genesis. Garrett argues that while Qoheleth encourages his readers to enjoy life's pleasures, ultimately life's answers are found solely in God. I recommend using it alongside Longman's commentary. As a bonus, you get a good commentary on Proverbs and a very good commentary on Song of Songs, all in one volume.

Garrett provides a nice treatment of Ecclesiastes while avoiding the over-interpretation of Longman (NICOT, 1997) and the political anger of Provan (NIVAC, 2001) - plus you get a good second commentary on Proverbs.

Evangelical discussion of these three Solomonic books with useful exegesis and theological application. [Full Review]