The Last Days of Judah and the Roots of the Pentateuch What Does History Tell Us? (original) (raw)

The research explores the historical context surrounding the composition of the Pentateuch, positing that its final compilation occurred during the late Persian period, after analyzing various textual and archeological evidence. It argues against the existence of a definitive 'Book of the Law' prior to 400 BCE, highlighting how certain communities, such as those in Elephantine, practiced Judaism without knowledge of the Pentateuch, and cites figures like Ben Sira and Hecataeus as early references to it. The study calls for a reevaluation of the timeline regarding the development and acceptance of the Pentateuch as an authoritative religious document among Jews.