Dr. Adam Bean is an Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies for Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan. He teaches classes for all of the seminary’s degree programs (DMin, MDiv, MTS, MACM) in the areas of Old Testament and biblical languages. His research focuses broadly on the comparative study of religion in ancient Israel and the Near East, including the technical study of primary sources in various ancient languages.

Dr. Bean’s notable achievements include extensive research on issues related to divine names and identity, as well as the motif of observing nature as a source of wisdom in the Bible. He had the unique opportunity to collaborate on the initial publication of a newly discovered ancient Moabite inscription from Khirbat Ataruz, a site mentioned in both biblical texts and the Mesha Inscription. His work included studying the inscription in Jordan, documenting it with advanced RTI photography, and contributing significantly to its decipherment.

In addition, Dr. Bean has published an article with SBL Press clarifying the interpretation of an ancient Aramaic inscription and has written reference articles on aspects of ancient cultural practices for the Dictionary of Daily Life in Biblical and Post-Biblical Antiquity.

At Milligan, Dr. Bean finds great fulfillment in teaching highly motivated students who desire depth and substance in their study of the Bible as they prepare to serve in a variety of vocations. He values the opportunity to help students engage with the richness of biblical texts and the ancient world while integrating academic rigor with faith.

Education:
PhD, Near Eastern Studies (Hebrew Bible and Northwest Semitics), The Johns Hopkins University
MA, Near Eastern Studies (Hebrew Bible and Northwest Semitics), The Johns Hopkins University