This research paper by Walker Byrd, submitted to Dr. Richard Belcher for OT5300 – Poets at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, examines the theological and literary function of Ecclesiastes 12:9–14.
Byrd analyzes how the epilogue transitions from Qohelet’s first-person reflections to a third-person narrator who reorients the reader toward orthodoxy. The paper evaluates three major interpretive positions: that the epilogue affirms Qohelet’s wisdom, rejects it, or mediates between the two. Through careful study of Hebrew grammar, structure, and literary context, Byrd concludes that the narrator intentionally distances himself from Qohelet’s speculative teachings to reaffirm traditional wisdom rooted in fearing God and keeping His commandments.
The study demonstrates that the epilogue serves as a theological safeguard—preserving the book’s place within canonical orthodoxy by redirecting readers from existential uncertainty to covenant faithfulness.
Course and semester: OT5300 Poets — Spring 2022
