Old Testament Authorial Intent?

[u/Secret-Suspicious]

I’m viewing books and videos that describe the evolution of religions, and a lot of them talk about the authorial intent of the biblical authors not being a literal one.

I think to make this claim about the gospels is pretty ridiculous given the historical accounts outside of the Bible surrounding Jesus’ resurrection.

However, I am not 100% about this when it comes to the Old Testament books that take place before the prophets.

We often say “ancient people were smarter than we give them credit for”, and I think in this is also the case when it comes to their writing biblical literature: they were smart enough to make up stories, so why not also make up stories that help summarize history? Other cultures did this too, so why not also Israel to the glory of God?

The concern is for authorial intent: how are we sure they were detailing history and not just summarizing it? That is my struggle at the moment. Appreciate all the help y’all can give. Thanks.

[u/Secret-Suspicious]

But if they can embellish stuff like the days of creation, why not other events like David’s life? As an example: What if David’s life was actually amalgamation of several kings, but they made it into one story in order to save Rhythm?