how were the 66 books of the bible chosen: what if they had been selected based on author's age?

The selection of the 66 books that make up the Bible has been a topic of scholarly debate for centuries. This process, known as canonization, was not an immediate or straightforward one. Instead, it evolved over time through various stages of church councils and theological discussions. However, if the books of the Bible had been selected based on the author’s age, a completely different picture would emerge. This hypothetical scenario could lead to a reevaluation of many cherished texts within the Christian tradition.

How were the 66 books of the Bible chosen? A chronological perspective

The traditional view is that the 66 books of the Bible were chosen based on their theological content, historical significance, and literary quality. This method, while effective in establishing the canonical status of the books, does not account for the personal lives and circumstances of those who wrote them. If the books had been chosen based on the authors’ ages, a different set of scriptures might have emerged, reflecting the life experiences and intellectual climate of the times.

Chronological Canonization

Chronological canonization would involve selecting books based on the order in which they were written. This approach aligns with the belief that the Old Testament precedes the New Testament, with the former being more focused on the creation of the world, the history of Israel, and the law, while the latter focuses on Jesus Christ’s teachings and the establishment of the Christian church.

If the books were selected based on the authors’ ages, however, we might find that some of the books that are now considered foundational, such as the Psalms, Proverbs, and Job, would have been excluded due to their authors being younger. The wisdom literature of the Old Testament, which includes the books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job, would be particularly affected. These books are rich in philosophical and ethical insights, but they were likely written by authors closer to the age of the prophets, making them less suitable for a chronological canonization based on age.

Historical Contextualization

A chronological canonization also means that books from different periods would be grouped together. For instance, the New Testament books would be grouped together, with all the gospels following immediately after the Acts of the Apostles. This would blur the lines between the two testaments and potentially obscure the distinct historical contexts in which these books were written.

Personal Experiences and Circumstances

Authors of the Old Testament lived during a time when the Israelites were wandering in the wilderness, facing numerous challenges and hardships. Their writings reflect this tumultuous period, and their works often carry a sense of urgency and struggle. Books like Joshua, Judges, and 1 and 2 Samuel are filled with narratives of conquest, rebellion, and divine judgment. These books would be included in a chronological canonization, as they provide a comprehensive account of the early history of the Israelites and the rise of the monarchy.

On the other hand, the New Testament authors lived in a very different context. They were writing during a time of great political and social upheaval, with the Roman Empire exerting its influence over the region. The books of the New Testament reflect this era, with Paul’s letters addressing issues such as moral behavior, salvation, and the role of the church. If the books were selected based on the authors’ ages, we might see a different set of texts that better capture the concerns and experiences of the early Christian community.

Literary Quality and Theological Significance

Another criterion for canonization is the literary quality and theological significance of the books. If the books were selected based on the authors’ ages, we might find that some of the more poetic and prophetic works, such as the Psalms and the Book of Isaiah, would be excluded. These books are highly regarded for their beauty and depth, but they may not have been considered as important for the chronological canonization based on age.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if the books of the Bible had been selected based on the authors’ ages, we might find a different set of scriptures that better reflects the diverse experiences and intellectual climate of the ancient world. This hypothetical scenario would challenge our understanding of the Bible and force us to reconsider the criteria used for canonization. Ultimately, the choice of books as the canon of the Bible is a complex and multifaceted process that has evolved over time, influenced by theological, historical, and cultural factors.