Introduction to the Pentateuch — Wednesday in the Word

The first five books of the Old Testament — Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy — are collectively been known as the Pentateuch. The Jews usually call the Pentateuch the law or the Torah.

The name comes from two Greek words Penta “five” and teuchos meaning “box,” “jar,” or “scroll.” Originally the word was used as an adjective meaning “a five-scrolled (book).”

It was originally one continuous book divided into five sections. The English titles of the five separate books are taken from the early Greek translation known as the Septuagint.

Although the author is not named, a long tradition recognizes Moses as the author.

Pentateuch at a glance

Three different charts that summarize the Pentateuch.

Genesis	Prologue
Exodus	Leaving Egypt; Building the Tabernacle
Leviticus	The Tabernacle service
Numbers	Dedicating the tabernacle; preparing to enter the land
Deuteronomy	Epilogue

Above summary from Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord by L. Michael Morales, page 25.

Book	Key Theme	Nation	People	God’s Character	God’s Role	God’s Command
Genesis	Beginnings Ruin	Chosen	Prepared	Powerful Sovereign	Creator	Let There Be
Exodus	Redemption	Delivered	Redeemed	Merciful	Deliverer	Let My People Go
Leviticus	Worship	Set Apart	Taught	Holy	Sanctifier	Be Holy
Numbers	Wandering	Directed	Tested	Just	Sustainer	Go In
Deuteronomy	Covenant	Made Ready	Retaught	Loving	Rewarded	Obey

Source: Talk Thru the Bible

	Genesis	Exodus	Leviticus	Numbers	Deuteronomy
Nation of Israel	ORIGINS	DELIVERANCE	LIFE	TESTING	REMINDERS
Theocracy	Born	Established	Established	Tested	Prepared
Legal		Covenant Amplified	Laws Prescribed