Why and How to Study the Paradise Story in Economic Terms

Abstract

Why is it that the Old Testament or Hebrew Bible was not written as a book of love-themed poetry? We do find the poetry of love and desire ‘hidden away’, but only in the late books of the Old Testament - for example the Song of Songs - and even there they only occupy a space which, while not totally insignificant, is minor when compared with the enormous volume of stories that make up the Old Testament. So why should it be that ideas of love themes did not feature more prominently in the Old Testament, when to do so would have developed and portrayed a much more noble and humane image of humans and society? Why do we not know the Old Testament as a renowned piece of love literature expressed in its most lyrical form? It is important to raise these questions at the outset, since through discussing what the Old Testament texts in their very essence clearly are not, their contents, intentions, motives and themes can be more clearly understood for what they are.

Like a lily among thorns

is my darling among the young women.

Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest

is my beloved among the young men.

I delight to sit in his shade,

and his fruit is sweet to my taste.

Let him lead me to the banquet hall,

and let his banner over me be love.

Strengthen me with raisins,

refresh me with apples,

for I am faint with love.

(Song of Songs 2: 2–5)