The basic divisions of the Old Testament are generally known as "The Law," "The Prophets," and "The Writings." Of these, "The Law" (Torah) refers to the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament, attributed by ancient tradition to the great Lawgiver, Moses.
Of almost equal significance was the teaching and literary work performed through the centuries by the great prophets of Israel; while the final division, being miscellaneous in character, date, and content, has been called simply "The Writings," or, more technically, Hagiographa (sacred writings).
"The Writings" are grouped as follows in the Hebrew Bible: Poetical Books (Psalms, Proverbs, Job); The Five Scrolls (The Song of Solomon, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, Esther); Prophecy (Daniel); and History (Ezra, Nehemiah, Chronicles).
