Understanding Scripture

Who Wrote the Book of Genesis?

Scripture and long-standing tradition attribute the book of Genesis, along with the rest of the Pentateuch, to Moses, who was uniquely positioned through his upbringing and calling to record Israel's origins and early history.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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BibleCreation

Biblical explanation

Later biblical writers repeatedly refer to “the book of Moses” or “the law of Moses” in ways that include material from Genesis (; ). Moses, raised in Pharaoh's household and educated in Egyptian learning, was well equipped to compile and record Israel's early history under divine inspiration, likely drawing on preserved family records, oral tradition, and direct revelation from God concerning creation and the flood. Genesis was written to establish essential truths: that God created the heavens and the earth, that sin entered through human choice, and that God began working out a plan of redemption through Abraham's descendants (). Its purpose is theological and historical, grounding Israel's identity and the entire biblical storyline in the character and purposes of God.

In brief

Later biblical writers repeatedly refer to “the book of Moses” or “the law of Moses” in ways that include material from Genesis (; ).

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.