This entry was published at least two years ago (originally posted on February 7, 2002). Since that time the information may have become outdated or my beliefs may have changed (in general, assume a more open and liberal current viewpoint). A fuller disclaimer is available.
Here’s some fascinating stuff courtesy of The Straight Dope — a five-part series covering the primary theories on who wrote and edited the Bible. I’ve only read the first part, but plan on going through the rest fairly soon, and may want to pick up a book they recommend in the article, Who Wrote the Bible? by Richard E. Friedman. This stuff fascinates me…here’s the links:
- Part 1: Who wrote/compiled/edited (and when) the first five books of the Bible, called the Torah or Pentateuch or Five Books of Moses?
- Part 2: Who wrote/compiled/edited (and when) the various histories in the Old Testament (such as Judges, Kings, etc)?
- Part 3: Who wrote/compiled/edited (and when) the various prophetic books (Isaiah, Jeremiah, etc.) and the wisdom literature (Psalms, Proverbs, etc.) in the Old Testament?
- Part 4: Who wrote/compiled/edited (and when) the various New Testament books?
- Part 5: Who decided which books should be included and which excluded from the Bible(s)? Why are there differences in the Bibles for Catholics, Protestants, and Jews?
Looks to be some really neat reading.
On a lighter note, they’ve also got articles on jokes in the Bible and the Church of the Subgenius. Maybe not as serious, but could be equally interesting.