Ecclesiastes as Research: Autoethnography Through a Rear-vision Mirror

Abstract

<p>The Bible is a book of many surprises. Not least of</p> <p>these is that it contains accounts of research. In</p> <p>a collection of 66 books mostly in Hebrew, Greek,</p> <p>and some Aramaic, through more than 40 Holy</p> <p>Spirit inspired authors, stretching over one and</p> <p>a half millennia, God gives a special revelation</p> <p>of Himself and His purposes for humanity. The</p> <p>texts deal with or touch on subjects ranging</p> <p>from history, literature and philosophy to health</p> <p>and hygiene, prophecy, law, natural science and</p> <p>the environment; and more. Across this wide</p> <p>spectrum of content, no less than four distinct</p> <p>instances of research conducted by individuals</p> <p>can be identified; three in the Old Testament and</p> <p>one in the New Testament.</p>