What is the first book of the Old Testament?

The story behind the answer

Genesis is the first book of the Old Testament (and the Torah), aptly named from the Greek for “origin” or “beginning.” It opens with the creation of the world, then traces early humanity, the Flood, and the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph—establishing the covenant themes and family lines that shape the rest of the Bible.

By contrast, Exodus recounts Israel’s departure from Egypt, Leviticus focuses on priestly laws, and Numbers covers censuses and wilderness journeys. A handy mnemonic for the first five books (Pentateuch) is “Great Explorers Love New Discoveries”: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. Remember: Genesis is where the story—and the genealogies—begin.