'Behold a Man Skilled at his Work': On the Origins of the Proems which Introduce "Song of Songs Rabbah" / 'חזית איש מהיר במלאכתו': לשאלת מקוריותן של הפתיחתאות שבראש מדרש שיר השירים רבה

The article examines the five proems (Petiḥtaot) that begin Song of Songs Rabbah, and designates them as a later addition and not an integral part of the composition. This is determined by exploration of different perspectives: language and style, literary form, and ideas. The article concludes by examining the usage of the term Midrash Hazita as the title of Song of Songs Rabbah, the areas in which this title was widespread, and what this can teach us about the redaction and transmission of the Midrash.