I am thrilled to announce a significant professional achievement in my academic journey: I have officially become a Full Member of the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL)! This is a major personal and professional milestone that acknowledges my sustained commitment to rigorous academic work in the fields of theology and biblical studies. 

With two of my papers currently undergoing the peer-review process, the recognition from such a respected body is an incredible affirmation of my work.

🏛️ What is the Society of Biblical Literature?
The Society of Biblical Literature, often referred to as the 'SBL', is the oldest and largest learned society in the field of biblical studies.

Its History and Mission
Founded in 1880 in New York City as the Society of Biblical Literature and Exegesis.
It is an American-based learned society dedicated to the academic study of the Bible and related ancient literature.

The SBL's current stated mission is simply to "foster biblical scholarship."

It has been a constituent society of the American Council of Learned Societies since 1929. The SBL is perhaps best known for publishing the flagship academic journal, the Journal of Biblical Literature (JBL), since 1881.

Criteria for Full Membership.

Unlike some other membership types, Full Membership in the SBL is primarily for the professional scholar who is actively engaged in the field. While general or public membership is open to anyone interested in the Bible, Full Membership signals a deep, professional commitment.

Key standards and benefits of a Full Member include:
Professional Standing: The member is typically a professional scholar or academic interested in fully participating in the society.

Active Participation: Full Members can propose and present papers at the SBL’s Annual and International Meetings. This is crucial for engaging in scholarly dialogue.

Governance: Full and Student members are eligible to participate in the governance of the Society through appointment or election.

Resources: Full members receive access to the SBL’s online member directory, the full archive of the Journal of Biblical Literature online, and discounts on SBL publications and meetings.

Attaining this status is a commitment to the highest standards of critical academic inquiry within the discipline.

🧭 My Dual Role: Theologian and Biblical Scholar
My work, which includes the two papers currently in peer review, draws deeply on both my roles as a Theologian and a Biblical Scholar. While the two fields are deeply interconnected and mutually supportive, they represent distinct academic approaches.

Role Focus/Approach Primary Goal

Theologian Systematic study of God, faith, and religious truth by synthesizing biblical teachings with tradition, philosophy, and contemporary thought. To develop a coherent and comprehensive understanding of faith and its implications for life and practice today.

Critical examination of the biblical texts using historical, literary, and linguistic methodologies (e.g., source criticism, form criticism). To determine the original meaning of the text within its historical, cultural, and literary context.

In short, the Biblical Scholar asks: "What did the text mean?" The Theologian asks: "What does this meaning mean for us?"

As a scholar operating in both capacities, my research is dedicated to the rigor of biblical studies while also striving for the broader, integrated understanding that defines theology. 

This SBL membership affirms the scholarly component of this dual mission.

Thank you for celebrating this exciting news with me!