PhD Candidate Samaria Divine is a Hebrew Bible doctoral student who is originally from Liberia, West Africa. Divine holds an MDiv from Candler School of Theology at Emory University and a BBA in Managerial Sciences from Georgia State University. Her research focuses on how African Traditional Religion informs Ancient Israelite Religion and the biblical world. Additionally, she hopes her research dispels negative stereotypes surrounding African religious practices. Her dissertation explores how colonization/colonial policy in Nigeria betrays the gravity of policies implemented by Kings Solomon and Josiah in 1 and 2 Kings. Advisors Dr. Halpern & Dr. Friedman Education Education: Doctor of Philosophy in Religion Aug 2019-Present University of Georgia, Athens, GA Major Concentration: Hebrew Bible Minor Concentration: African Traditional Religion Master of Divinity Aug 2014-May 2017 Emory University, Candler School of Theology, Atlanta, GA Concentration: Scripture and Interpretation Thesis Title: “The Prophetic Criticism of Ahijah and Micaiah in the Ancient Near Eastern Context and its Implications for the Church Today” Thesis Advisor: Dr. Brent Strawn Second Reader: Dr. Terry Fretheim Bachelor of Business Administration Aug 2007-May 2011 Georgia State University, Robinson College of Business Major: Managerial Sciences Courses Taught Courses Regularly Taught: RELI 1003 Awards, Honors and Recognitions Of note: Forum for Theological Exploration Fellowship recipient, 2022-2023 Society of Biblical Literature Member Spotlight (2/23/21): https://www.sbl-site.org/membership/MemberSpotlight.aspx
