The Bible was written by approximately 40 different human authors over a span of about 1,500 years. These authors came from diverse backgrounds and occupations, including prophets (like Isaiah and Jeremiah), priests (Ezra), kings (Solomon), fishermen (John, Peter), tax collectors (Matthew), tentmakers (Paul), shepherds (Moses), and physicians (Luke). Despite this diversity, the Bible is viewed as a cohesive work inspired by God, who guided the human authors so that their writings conveyed His intended message

. Traditionally, some key figures are credited with writing major sections of the Bible. For example, Moses is traditionally believed to have written the first five books (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy), known as the Torah. However, modern scholarship often sees these texts as the product of multiple authors and redactors over time. Similarly, prophetic books like Isaiah and Jeremiah are attributed to those prophets but often show evidence of multiple contributors or later additions

. In the New Testament, the four Gospels are traditionally attributed to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, with Mark being associated with Peter’s companion. Letters were written by apostles such as Paul. Yet, the exact authorship of some books remains uncertain or debated among scholars

. Ultimately, the Bible is understood by believers as divinely inspired scripture, with God as the ultimate author working through many human writers across centuries

. In summary:

• About 40 human authors wrote the Bible’s 66 books over 1,500 years.
• Authors included prophets, kings, apostles, and ordinary people.
• Traditional attributions exist but modern scholarship often finds multiple authors or redactions.
• The Bible is considered divinely inspired, with God guiding human authors.

This complex authorship reflects the Bible’s rich historical, cultural, and religious development