| Book | Traditional Authorship | Common Scholarly View | Date Written | Key Verse |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genesis | Traditionally Moses | Multiple (unknown) authors | 10th to 5th century B.C.E. | Gen 1:1 "In the beginning..." |
| Exodus | Traditionally Moses | Multiple (unknown) authors | 600 - 400 B.C.E. | Ex 3:14 "I AM WHO I AM." |
| Leviticus | Traditionally Moses | Multiple (unknown) authors | 550-300 B.C.E. | Lev 20:26 "You shall be holy..." |
| Numbers | Traditionally Moses | Multiple (unknown) authors | 550-300 B.C.E. | Num 6:24 "The Lord bless you..." |
| Deuteronomy | Traditionally Moses | Multiple (unknown) authors | c. 7th to 5th century B.C.E. | Deut 6:5 "Love the Lord..." |
- Book 1: Genesis
- Genesis, the first book of the Bible, narrates the creation of the world, the fall of human kind, and the early history of humanity, including the stories of Adam and Eve, Noah, and the Tower of Babel. It also details the patriarchal history of the Israelites, focusing on Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph, ending with the Israelites in Egypt. (Read Genesis now)
- Book 2: Exodus
- The book of Exodus chronicles the story of Moses' leadership in freeing the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, including the Ten Plagues and the parting of the Red Sea. The book also details the journey of the Israelites to Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments and other laws from God. (Read Exodus now)
- Book 3: Leviticus
- In this third book of the Bible, the focus shifts to the laws and religious rituals given to the Israelites. It details a wide array of laws, including those related to rituals, moral conduct, and holiness, primarily communicated through Moses. The book emphasizes the importance of holiness and the procedures for offerings and festivals. (Read Leviticus now)
- Book 4: Numbers
- Numbers recounts the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, led by Moses, from Mount Sinai to the border of Canaan. It includes a census of the people, various laws, and accounts of rebellion and faithlessness, highlighting the challenges and trials faced during their wanderings. The narrative also details God's guidance and provision for the Israelites throughout their journey. (Read Numbers now)
- Book 5: Deuteronomy
- Deuteronomy is a collection of Moses’ discourses delivered to the Israelites on the brink of their entry into Canaan. It is a retrospective compilation that emphasizes loyalty to God, centralization of worship, and social justice. This book acts as a theological bridge by underscoring the significance of obedience and communal responsibility. (Read Deuteronomy now)
