Abigail Naidu

Thesis title:

The Temple Scrolls: A Literary and Material Analysis

My research is focused on material and textual analysis of the Temple Scroll manuscripts.

Research Area

Theology, Divinity and Religion

Conferences

SBL Annual Conference Nov 2024:

The Impenetrable Temple: An Exploration of the Nature of Impurity in the Temple Scroll

Arousing Emotions of Joy and Hope: The Temple Scroll's Rewriting of the First Fruits Festivals and Sukkot

EABS Annual Conference July 2024:

Resisting Empire: Reading the Temple Scroll as Counter-Hegemony Discourse

"For the Sons of Joseph": Exploring the Temple Scroll's Twelve Tribe Vision

M4C Research Fest 2022: "More Than Words: Considering the Material Features of the Temple Scroll Manuscripts"

Memberships

Society of Biblical Literature (SBL)

Scholarships and Awards

Midlands4Cities AHRC Doctoral Training Partnership (2021-present)

Ulrich Simon Prize, Department of Theology and Religious Studies, King's College London (highest average mark in the department) (2020)

Academic scholarship, Worcester College, Oxford (2002-2004)

Background and Education

I completed a BA in Theology at Oxford University and later completed an MA in Religion (Biblical Studies) at King's College London, graduating with a Distinction. I began doctoral studies at the University of Birmingham in October 2021.

Invited Lectures and Seminars

Birmingham Biblical Studies Seminar - "An Impenetrable Temple: Impurity and Sacred Space in the Temple Scroll" (May 2023)

Oak Hill College Graduate Seminar - "Discovering the Dead Sea Scrolls" (April 2022)

Teaching

University of Birmingham, Postgraduate Teaching Assistant

Political Theologies 2023-24

The Bible and Global Challenges 2022-23

Introduction to the Study of Religion 2022-23

I have also been awarded the status of Associate Fellow of the HEA (AFHEA)