What is the JEDP Theory?

In brief, the JEDP theory states that the first five books of the Bible, Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, were not written entirely by Moses, who died in 1451 B.C., but also by different authors / compliers after Moses. The theory is based on the fact that different names are used for God in different portions of the Pentateuch, and there are detectable differences in linguistic style. The letters of the JEDP theory stand for the four supposed authors; the author who uses Jehovah for God's name, the author who uses Elohim for God's name, the author of Deuteronomy, and the likely Priestly author of Leviticus. The JEDP theory goes on to state that the different portions of the Pentateuch were likely compiled in the 4th Century B.C., possibly by Ezra. [Old Testament Studies] [Answers & Evidence] [Bible History]