Book excerpt: Based on the Revised Standard Version -- Second Catholic Edition, this 15th volume in the popular Bible study series leads readers through a penetrating study of the Books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon using the biblical text itself and the Church's own guidelines for understanding the Bible. Ample notes accompany each page, providing fresh insights and commentary by renowned Bible teachers Scott Hahn and Curtis Mitch, as well as time-tested interpretations from the Fathers of the Church. They provide rich historical, cultural, geographical or theological information pertinent to the Old Testament book - information that bridges the distance between the biblical world and our own. The Ignatius Study Bible also includes Topical Essays, Word Studies and Charts. The Topical Essays explore the major themes of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon, often relating them to the teachings of the Church. The Word Studies explain the background to important Bible terms, while the Charts summarize crucial biblical information "at a glance". Each page includes an easy-to-use Cross-Reference Section. Study Questions are provided for each chapter that can deepen your personal study of God's Word. There is also an introductory essay covering questions of authorship, date, destination, structure and themes. Also included is an outline of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Solomon as well as several maps.