The first of the 5 Books that make up Torah, commonly ascribed to Moses, universally accepted by all Jews. (Josephus, a first century Jewish historian, attributes it to Moses. See his: Preface to Antiquities..., Sect. 4 and Book I, Chapter 1, Sect.2.)

Writings & schools existed in Abram's day. Abram himself was well schooled in astronomy & science. Many pre-Biblical writings are documented (Hammurubi code, etc.). See the many archeological finds in Mesopotamia and others which are debunking critical attacks on its historicity.

Therefore, if Moses is accepted as the author, documents could have existed for Moses' compilation while in Midian or during the Exodus. Or he could have received direct dictation from God Himself on Sinai during his 40 day communions as Spurgeon suggests (Sermon #1,487).

For a written record from oral tradition as it had been previously handed down from generation to generation.

The original heading found in the Hebrew translation was taken from the book's first Hebrew word: B'reshith.

Our English title Genesis is taken from the Greek word chosen for its heading by the Septuagint translators.

Given Moses as author, it cannot be said for certain God did not directly reveal to him this historicity of beginnings since on other occasions other holy men were inspired to write dictation received directly from God or His messenger. (See Ex.17:14; 34:27; Nu.5:23; 17:2; De.6:9; 17:18; 27:3,8; 31:19 where God directly commands Moses to write, or have written a record. Also see other examples: Isa.8:1; 30:8; Jer.30:2; 36:2,17-18,28; Ez.24:2; 37:16; 43:11; Hab.2:2; Jn.1:45; 20:31; I Co.14:37; II Co.13:2-3,10; II Ti.3:16; II Pe.1:20-21; 3:1-2; I Jn.2:7-8; II Jn.12; Rev.1:11,19; 2:1,8,12,18; 3:1,7,12,14; 10:4; 14:13; 19:9; 21:5.)

Regardless whether one holds the view it was written by direct dictation, or using extant sources for compilation and further elaboration, we do know that it is inspired in either case, as attested to by more than one New Testament figure and writer. (Examples: Jn.1:45; Rom.4:3; Gal.3:7-8; 4:30; Js.2:23; II Pe.1:20-21; II Tim.3:16.)

All men are sinful because of Adam and stand in need of a sacrifice for rebirth to return to God.

God reveals Himself to man and makes a covenant with him for future blessing and restoration. God did not reveal His full name (Jehovah) & nature from Adam to Moses, though He spoke with early man (Ex.6:3). Imagine that man lived 1000's of years without knowing who God was, and mainly that not many sought to know Him. How heartbreaking this must have been (Gen.6:6). Is it any wonder He showed great displeasure at all mankind, but, great pleasure when He found just one who did seek Him? (Gen.5:24) How rare! And what a tragedy echoed in Christ's day, Jn.1:10-13. Study this truth in context with Christ revealing Himself to Nathanael (Jn.1:45-51), but withholding Himself from those of Jn.2:23-25.

Discoveries and studies have led both Hebrew & Christian scholars to believe there were originally 11 tablets, with more than one possible earlier unknown author, later compiled by Moses into one book with further elaboration.

Due primarily to ancient writing styles, debate still exists as to the beginning and endings of these 11 divisions. The following is offered merely as a representative:

The Book closes with Joseph & family returning to Egypt after burying their father Jacob in Machpeleh.