Who wrote the first book of the Bible and how was it written?

Answer 1

The first book in the Bible, although not the oldest, is the Book of Genesis. It is traditionally attributed to Moses, writing during the forty years wandering in the wilderness.

Scholars say that Genesis actually has several anonymous authors, principally the sources now known as the Yahwist, the Elohist and the Priestly Source. The book was finally edited and redacted into much the form we know today by the Redactor.

The Yahwist wrote down previously oral legends belonging to the southern Hebrew kingdom of Judah, probably during the ninth century BCE. Working separately, the Elohist wrote down previously oral legends belonging to the northern Hebrew kingdom of Israel, probably during the eighth century BCE. These works were later combined into a single document now known as 'JE', probably after the fall of Israel. The Priestly Source made further changes and additions during the Babylonian Exile, before it was redacted by the Redactor.

Because of the book's long history and the number of independent authors whose contributions seem to have largely been kept intact, the Book of Genesis contains many 'doublets' or partial repetitions, and inconsistencies.

Answer 2

The first book of The Bible is Genesis, traditionally attributed to Moses. It was likely written as a compilation of oral traditions and written sources, with multiple authors over centuries contributing to its content.