This introductory text provides students with comprehensive coverage of the wisdom literature within a liberative framework. Ceresko explores the books of Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes (Qoheleth), Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) and Wisdom, showing the development and function of wisdom literature in the ancient world and within Israel, both as a form of literature and as a guide for daily life. He presents a general overview of the themes, structure and historical background and looks closely at significant texts from each wisdom book.