“An accomplished, celebrative volume. . . . The author describes his method of interpretation as a culmination and combination of observed poetic form, themes, imagery, and distinct vocabulary. Accordingly, he provides helpful and extensive analysis of a passage's poetic structure. . . . He exudes also an admirable commitment to lexical detail, which is both informative and refreshing. . . . Hess's enthusiastic presentation and obvious labors furnish an undeniable contribution.”

“Although Hess aims his volume . . . at scholars and those in ministry, he in fact makes this ancient love poem accessible to any reader of the Bible. . . . The textual notes that accompany the translation secure the reader's confidence that Hess's decisions are well informed. . . . Complementing his exquisite translation is the spirited language of the commentary. . . . This book is a pleasure to read.”

“Hess's highly regarded philological expertise is evident in the copious technical notes accompanying his translation, as well as in his clear discussion of many important lexical and grammatical issues in the main commentary. Readers will appreciate his aptitude for explaining features of Hebrew poetics and literary art in 'plain English.' Contemporary application abounds throughout his interpretation and in the sections designated 'Theological Implications.'. . . I can only affirm my appreciation for this balanced, practical, and sensitive contribution to scholarship and the Church. Hess's commentary will be my 'first stop' when seeking either detailed exegetical discussion or homiletical help for study and application of the 'Best of Songs.'”

“Throughout the commentary [Hess] weaves in intertextual references, thus relating the content of these poems with other biblical material. It is in the footnotes that Hess engages the insights from other commentators. Though the analysis here has been done with both care and skill, the text is quite readable. This book will be a helpful resource for students and teachers alike.”