The question of authorship regarding the Pentateuch (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy) is a complex and much-debated topic in biblical scholarship. Traditionally, these texts were attributed to Moses. This view is still held by some religious traditions. However, modern scholarship generally favors the Documentary Hypothesis, which proposes that the Pentateuch was compiled from four distinct sources (often labeled J, E, P, and D) over centuries, finally reaching its present form sometime after the Babylonian exile.
Understanding the authorship of these foundational texts is crucial for interpreting their meaning and appreciating their historical development. These books lay the groundwork for the entire Hebrew Bible, establishing key theological concepts such as covenant, law, and the promise of land. Exploring the different perspectives on authorship provides valuable insight into the evolution of religious thought and the historical context in which these texts were formed. Attribution affects how readers understand the authority, intent, and even the internal consistency of the narratives.