Erik Waaler

Erik Waaler is a Professor of Theology, Religion and Philosophy at NLA University College in Sandviken, Bergen, Norway. He holds a prominent position in biblical studies with a particular focus on the New Testament, intertextuality, and the intersection of biblical scholarship with archaeology and historical context.

His educational background includes:

• 1984: Cand. Theol. from Det teologiske Menighetsfakultet (MF)
• 1997: Master in Missiology from Fuller Theological Seminary - School of World Mission
• 2005: Dr. Theol. in New Testament from Det teologiske Menighetsfakultet (MF)

Professor Waaler's primary research interests center on New Testament studies, particularly intertextuality and re-contextualization in First Corinthians and the Gospel of Matthew. His work bridges biblical scholarship with archaeological evidence, especially regarding Hebrew inscriptions from sites like Ketef Hinnom and Khirbet Qeiyafa. He has made significant contributions to understanding Pauline theology, particularly how Paul reinterprets Old Testament texts in his writings. His secondary expertise lies in applied Jewish studies, history, archaeology, and paleography related to the Levant. This interdisciplinary approach allows him to examine biblical texts within their historical and cultural contexts, providing fresh insights into early Christian interpretation of Jewish scripture.

Waaler's scholarly output demonstrates a consistent focus on how New Testament authors, particularly Paul, engage with and reinterpret earlier biblical texts. His work spans from detailed analysis of specific passages like the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4 as reinterpreted in 1 Corinthians, to broader studies of intertextual methods. More recently, he has collaborated on technical archaeological projects using spectral imaging to analyze ancient inscriptions, showing his willingness to engage with cutting-edge methodologies to illuminate ancient texts. His research bridges the gap between traditional biblical scholarship and archaeological evidence, creating a more robust historical understanding of early Christian interpretation.

Professor Waaler has been actively involved in projects examining Matthew's use of the Old Testament, Jewish use of the Old Testament with focus on Qumran and Josephus, inscriptions from Khirbet Qeiyafa, and Pauline Theology. His work demonstrates a sustained commitment to understanding the historical and textual foundations of early Christianity through meticulous analysis of both textual and archaeological evidence.