Abstract
In this volume, B. explains source criticism of the Pentateuch and its history in six chapters while identifying issues and raising questions. Chapter 1 introduces early theories and models of sources, fragments, versions, and supplements in relation to Mosaic authorship. Chapter 2 discusses defining and the relationship between the Pentateuchal sources by scholars in support of the documentary hypothesis. D’s independence, P and E’s distance from J, redactors’s principles, and chronological development of these sources are discussed. Chapter 3 deals with source criticism’s classical period represented by Julius Wellhausen. B. critically reviews Wellhausen’s assumptions, preferences, and arguments, while also highlighting Wellhausen’s position as a Protestant Christian. Chapter 4 discusses complications in source criticism caused by a new development on forms and (oral) traditions behind as well as by suggestions of more detailed text types. Chapter 5 explains a shift from the previous model, pioneered by Rolf Rendtorff and Erhard Blum, as well as problems observed in this new direction. Chapter 6 introduces a movement of returning to the JEPD model with fresh understanding, called the neo-documentary hypothesis, now led by B. himself. He suggests returning to the canonical/received Pentateuch while admitting difficulties in dealing with it. B.’s introduction to a series of models, discussions of both their contributions and problems, and guiding questions at the end of each chapters are useful for readers. This short volume will be appreciated not only by students but also by anyone who would like to gain a quick overview of source criticism of the Pentateuch and its development.