Documentary Hypothesis

The Documentary Hypothesis is a scholarly theory that suggests the first five books of the Bible, known as the Pentateuch, were not written by a single author, traditionally Moses, but are a compilation of texts from multiple authors over centuries. These texts, identified as the Yahwist, Elohist, Deuteronomist, and Priestly sources, reflect different traditions, perspectives, and historical contexts. This hypothesis helps explain variations in language, style, and theology within the biblical narrative, suggesting an evolution of beliefs and practices in ancient Israel.