Nathanael Andrade | Source | Chair; Professor, History at Binghamton University, State University of New York
Nathanael Andrade
Nathanael Andrade is a Professor in the Department of History at Binghamton University, SUNY. He has authored many publications on the Roman Near East and the Roman Empire’s connections with the societies of Asia. These include Syrian Identity in the Greco-Roman World (Cambridge: University Press, 2013), The Journey of Christianity to India in Late Antiquity: Networks and the Movement of Culture (Cambridge University Press, 2018), Zenobia: Shooting Star of Palmyra (Oxford University Press, 2018), and now Killing the Messiah: the Trial and Crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth (Oxford University Press, 2025).
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Binghamton University, State University of New York
Chair; Professor, History
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A Roman governor ordered Jesus’ crucifixion – so why did many Christians blame Jews for centuries?
Throughout history, Christians have often believed Pontius Pilate was reluctant to condemn Jesus. History suggests otherwise, a scholar explains.
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The history of Christmas: Why Christians celebrate the winter holiday
Learn the fascinating backstory of Christmas, and why the holiday takes place on December 25.
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Third-century queen, target of Syrian government, may have converted to Judaism
(JNS) — The third-century Palmyra queen Zenobia, who ruled in present-day Syria from about 267 or 268 to 272, stands on a dais among her soldiers in Giovanni Battista Tiepolo’s c. 1725-1730 painting in the collection of Washington’s National Gallery of Art. Regally clad, she leans back on her right elbow, bearing a golden scepter....
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Netflix's "Mary" Sparks Debate Among Religious Scholars
Nathanael notes "Mary" aligns with New Testament Gospels on key events but takes creative liberties, raising historical accuracy concerns. The film's portrayal of Jewish society risks perpetuating anti-Semitic views, echoing criticisms faced by "The Passion of the Christ." While engaging with historical figures, "Mary" primarily serves a devotional narrative, appealing to evangelical audiences.
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What pulled me to become an ancient historian was that I had many relatives who were devout Catholics. One in particular became a Carmelite and, as a result, I was interested in early monasticism and the Roman Empire. From there, graduate school moved me into different places. . . . But I think that’s what led me to Roman history.