J. Albert Harrill

J. Albert Harrill is a Professor of History at The Ohio State University, where he has been affiliated with the Department of History since at least 2010. Holding a Ph.D. in New Testament and Early Christian Literature from the University of Chicago, Harrill specializes in the intersection of New Testament, early Christianity, and Roman social history, particularly focusing on ancient slaves and marginalized communities.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., New Testament and Early Christian Literature, University of Chicago

His research explores social and cultural dynamics in early Christian texts, with significant contributions to slavery studies through works like Slaves in the New Testament (2006) and The Manumission of Slaves in Early Christianity (1995). He also investigates ethnic fluidity in Ephesians, exegetical methodologies, and classical literary topoi in patristic writings.

Recent Publications examine:

• Ephesians as a circular letter
• 1 Corinthians 7:21 and evolving scholarship on Pauline slavery
• Atheist catalogues in classical and Christian contexts
• Architectural ekphrasis in Roman culture
• Origen's exegetical techniques

Scientific Awards:

• 2021 Sphinx and Mortar Board Outstanding Faculty
• 2019 Honors Faculty Service Award in Arts and Sciences
• 2017 Clio Award for Distinguished Teaching in History
• 2012 Distinguished Teaching Award in Religious Studies (Indiana University)

With nearly 35 years of teaching experience, Harrill has received consistent recognition for courses on Paul's apostleship, historical Jesus, Greek/Roman slavery, and ancient Roman religion. He maintains active academic engagement through the Graduate Interdisciplinary Specialization in Religions of the Ancient Mediterranean World.