Proverbs 1-9

Currents in Theology and Mission, Oct, 2004 by Ralph W. Klein

Proverbs 1-9. Anchor Bible 18A. By Michael V. Fox (Doubleday, $42.50). Just a few years ago it was hard to find a commentary on Proverbs to recommend; now there are a spate of them (by Clifford, Murphy, Perdue, and Van Leeuwen), and Fox's contribution is among the very best. F. incorporates learning from past commentators, including especially the medieval literal commentators (Rashi, Qimhi, etc.) The heart of the volume is his fresh translation and his masterful interpretation of these nine chapters which he divides into ten "lectures" and five "interludes." Text critical notes (64 pages) and bibliography (48 pages) are tucked away at the end where they can be consulted by specialists.

The rest is quite accessible, while being both exhaustive and comprehensive. F. is not afraid to dialogue with feminists, denying that Proverbs tries to control women's sexuality (it is actually addressed only to men) and criticizing some for cutting the "strange woman" too much slack (it trivializes her promiscuity by calling it "taking control of her own sexuality"). One can only wish the author Godspeed on finishing his second volume.