The Bible is the most influential book in human history, but many people wonder when it was written. The answer is not simple because the Bible is not one book—it is a collection of 66 books written by more than 40 authors over many centuries. It contains history, poetry, prophecy, and letters inspired by God.
Old Testament Timeline
The Old Testament was written over a long span of time, starting with Moses and ending with the prophets.
- Moses and the Torah (Pentateuch): Most scholars believe Moses wrote the first five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) around 1400–1200 BC.
Moses then wrote down everything the Lord had said. (Exodus 24:4)
- Historical Books: Joshua through Esther were written between 1400–400 BC, recording Israel’s history, kings, and exile.
- Wisdom Literature: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon were written roughly 1000–700 BC.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. (Proverbs 9:10)
- Prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, and the Minor Prophets wrote from 800–400 BC, warning Israel and pointing to the Messiah.
The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever. (Isaiah 40:8)
New Testament Timeline
The New Testament was written in a much shorter period, within the first century AD.
- Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John were written between 50–90 AD to tell the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. (John 20:31)
- Paul’s Letters: Romans through Philemon were written between 50–67 AD to early churches, teaching doctrine and encouragement.
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness. (2 Timothy 3:16)
- General Letters and Revelation: Hebrews through Jude were written from 60–90 AD. Revelation, the final book, was likely written around 95 AD by the Apostle John.
Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. (Revelation 1:19)
Timeline Overview
Here’s a simple table to see the timeline more clearly:
| Section | Approx. Date Written | Key Authors |
|---|---|---|
| Torah (Pentateuch) | 1400–1200 BC | Moses |
| Historical Books | 1400–400 BC | Joshua, Samuel, etc. |
| Wisdom Literature | 1000–700 BC | David, Solomon, Job |
| Prophets | 800–400 BC | Isaiah, Jeremiah, others |
| Gospels | 50–90 AD | Matthew, Mark, Luke, John |
| Paul’s Letters | 50–67 AD | Apostle Paul |
| Other Letters | 60–90 AD | Peter, James, John, Jude |
| Revelation | ~95 AD | Apostle John |
Why This Matters
Knowing when the Bible was written shows God’s hand in history. Over 1,500 years, across different cultures and times, the message remains unified: God loves His people and sent Jesus Christ to save the world.
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword. (Hebrews 4:12)
