Did Moses write Deuteronomy?

 The authorship of the biblical book of Deuteronomy has been a subject of scholarly debate and discussion for centuries. Traditional views attribute the authorship of Deuteronomy to Moses, who is considered a central figure in the Hebrew Bible. According to tradition, Moses is said to have written the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible), which includes Deuteronomy.

However, modern biblical scholarship often takes a different approach, drawing on historical and literary analysis. The predominant scholarly view, known as the Documentary Hypothesis, suggests that the Pentateuch, including Deuteronomy, is a composite work composed of multiple sources that were edited and compiled over time. This theory proposes the existence of four main source documents, labeled J (Yahwist), E (Elohist), D (Deuteronomist), and P (Priestly), each contributing distinctive themes, language, and perspectives.

Regarding Deuteronomy, scholars who support the Documentary Hypothesis propose that the core of the book, known as the Deuteronomic Code (chapters 12-26), is associated with the D source. This source is thought to have been composed during the late monarchic period in ancient Israel's history.

While the Deuteronomistic tradition may have originated during this period, the final form of the book, as we have it today, is likely the result of later editing and redaction. The Deuteronomic Code contains laws, speeches, and narratives, and its themes align with the religious and ethical concerns of the time.

In summary, while tradition attributes the authorship of Deuteronomy to Moses, modern scholarship tends to view the book as a product of complex literary and editorial processes, with contributions from various sources and editors over an extended period. The perspectives on authorship may vary among scholars, and different religious traditions may hold different views based on their theological and historical perspectives.