HANCOCK PROFESSOR OF HEBREW, ETC., AND DEXTER LECTURER BOSTON: JAMES MUNROE AND COMPANY. LONDON: CHAPMAN, BROTHERS, 121, NEWGATE ST. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1846, by JAMES MUNROE AND COMPANY, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts. List of the Author, George R. Fryes, D.D. Cambridge. Recil Sept. 22, 1549. CAMBRIDGE: METCALF AND COMPANY, PRINTERS TO THE UNIVERSITY. 1422 54-130 PREFACE. us, THE present volume completes a series of translations of the Hebrew poetry which has come down to with the exception of the few pieces which are scattered through the historical part of the Scriptures. The author has been gratified by the commendation which the preceding volumes have received from critics of different denominations both in this country and in England. Their circulation, however, has been limited, as was, perhaps, for several reasons, to be expected, especially in the present state of theology. But the time which could be spared from official duties has been cheerfully given to the preparation of this volume, in the hope that this and the other translations by the author, if of any value, may contribute to a better understanding of the Bible, and give some aid toward procuring a better version of it, which may gradually win its way into general use. The Introductions and Notes were designed chiefly for the use of readers unacquainted with the Hebrew language. But in some instances it seemed desirable to give the reasons on which an opinion was founded, which can be fully appreciated only by the Hebrew scholar. In all cases, it was the design to explain the meaning of the text, rather than to furnish reading which might be edifying independently of it. The Notes were placed at the end of the book for the satisfaction of those who, like the author, do not like to have their attention disturbed by notes when no difficulty is felt. Few persons are likely to derive benefit from comments, who will not take the trouble to look for them at the end of the volume. CAMBRIDGE, February 23, 1846. |