This book evaluates the theory that the Persian Empire authorized and influenced the formation of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Jewish and Christian Bibles. Seven chapters detail the theory, and consider its merits in terms of ancient politics, religion, and law, the literary formation of the Torah, the social acceptance of the first Bible, and the Judean experience in the Persian period. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)