Reflections on the Old Testament: An Exposition and Critical Analysis

Abstract

This study examines the Old Testament through its terminology, canonical structure, composition, and selected theological themes. It combines descriptive analysis, close textual reading, and comparison with ancient Near Eastern traditions and Islamic theological principles. The findings distinguish the Torah from the wider collection and differences in book counting from differences in canonical content. Certain passages indicate retrospective narration without determining the date or authorship of an entire book. The study also corrects the argument that the absence of a law scroll inside the ark proves its disappearance, since the biblical account places it beside the ark. Cultural parallels and theological objections require distinct forms of evidence. The conclusion affirms the Islamic distinction between the revelation given to Moses and the transmitted texts, emphasizing contextual interpretation, accurate attribution, and restraint in generalization.