"It is a strange fact that we have never known with certainty who produced the book that has played such a central role in our civilization," writes Friedman, a foremost Bible scholar. From this point he begins an investigation and analysis that reads as compellingly as a good detective story. Focusing on central books of the Old Testament-Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy-he draws upon biblical an archaeological evidence to make a convincing argument for the identities of their authors. In the process, he paints a vivid picture of the world of the Bible-its politics, history, and personalities. The result is a marvel of scholarship that sheds a new and enriching light on our understanding of the Bible as literature, history, and sacred text.

A contemporary classic that is a "thought-provoking [and] perceptive guide [to the Bible's authorship]."-New York Times Book Review

"Brilliantly presented: there is no other book like this one. It may well be unique."-Los Angeles Times

"Remarkable. Friedman has written that most rare of books: a legitimate intellectual contribution that is also a good read. The field of biblical studies will be enriched by this book."-Dallas Times Herald

"It is an event to have a book as readable and excitable as Who Wrote the Bible? It has about it the resounding smack of solid truth."-Harvard Magazine