In this captivating two-hour documentary from Channel 4, the question of “Who wrote the Bible?” takes center stage, propelled by the timely news agenda and the profound religious faith it inspires. Dr. Robert Beckford, the director of the Centre for Black Theology at the University of Birmingham and the presenter of the program, embarks on a thought-provoking journey from Jerusalem to Rome and onwards to the United States, including a stopover in Walthamstow. With a quest for answers, he ventures beyond the confines of the library, engaging with a diverse array of individuals along the way.
Beckford’s exploration takes him from encounters with American pilgrims carrying crosses through the streets of Jerusalem to conversations with the head of the Pope’s Bible Institute and a former criminal turned boxing promoter in East London, among others. The documentary captivates with its blend of academic inquiry and on-the-ground investigations, shedding light on the multifaceted origins of the Bible.
As Beckford traverses the United States in an electric blue fin-tail car, he converses with a Baptist minister in Georgia who offers a direct answer to the question of authorship: “Gaaad said it; that settles it; I believe it!” The minister’s unwavering conviction provides a glimpse into the ways in which the Bible’s teachings shape beliefs and influence the political landscape. The documentary offers jolting moments, exposing how the more militaristic texts within the Bible may fuel conflicts, as seen through discussions with Dr. Richard Land, an adviser to President Bush.
Throughout the program, the viewer is reminded that the Bible is not a mere relic of the past but a living text with enduring power. The documentary highlights its ongoing relevance and impact, showcasing how ancient scriptures continue to shape beliefs and prompt both good and evil actions. One particularly memorable moment occurs when Beckford engages with a Jewish settler in the Palestinian town of Hebron, revealing the potent belief in divine land entitlement.