Old Testament Poetic Books & Wisdom Literature Overview

The five Old Testament Poetic Books of the Bible deal with the human heart as it copes with the problems and issues of real life. The Book of Job deals with suffering and loss. Psalms shows us how to pray and praise God in a variety of situations. Proverbs helps us apply wisdom. Ecclesiastes shows us the vanity of life apart from God. And, the Song of Solomon points to the difference it makes to pursue a God who loves us. These practical books have also been considered Wisdom Literature, particularly Job, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes due to their content.

Everything, even the Poetic Books of the Bible, were written to teach us
Some may shy away from teaching these books, claiming there isn’t a lot of meat or doctrinal value. The Poetic and Wisdom Books do, however, teach us much about the sovereign and caring character of our God who meets people where they are. Remember “all Scripture” is useful (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Everything “was written to teach us” (Rom. 15:4).

Curriculum That Provides an Overview of the Old Testament Poetic Books

Before delving into each book, providing an overview can give people a better understanding.

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For Adults: