Ash Melika, Ph.D.
Residential Adjunct Faculty I INDS & History
Education
- Ph.D., Museum Studies/Egyptology, University of Leicester
- Ph.D. Religious Studies/Theology (in progress), Evangelische Theologische Faculteit, Leuven
- M.A., Cultural Anthropology/Archaeology, Columbia University
- M.A., Egyptology/Ancient Near East, New York University
- Master of Divinity, Princeton Theological Seminary
- Th.M. in Old Testament, Gateway Seminary
Biography
Dr. Melika is a cultural historian specializing in interdisciplinary research encompassing material culture, Egyptology, wisdom literature, and renewal theology. His work investigates the connections between material artifacts and historical cultural patterns across various periods. Dr. Melika examines how material culture and texts provide insight into the lived experiences of ancient peoples and influence identity and collective memory within contemporary societies.
In the fields of wisdom literature and spiritual formation, Dr. Melika investigates how ancient wisdom traditions, scriptural interpretations, and spiritual renewal movements contribute to personal faith development and communal transformation. His research examines how these traditions address suffering, moral dilemmas, and the quest for meaning while integrating visions of the divine and supernatural experiences.
Research Interests
- Cultural History (Ancient World)
- Archaeology of Ancient Egypt
- Wisdom Traditions: Biblical, Ancient Near Eastern, and Contemporary Thought
- Renewal Theology and Religious Revitalization Movements
- Semiotics and Symbolism in Cultural and Religious Traditions