Bio: David M. Whitchurch, PhD, is an associate professor of ancient scripture. Professor Whitchurch served for three years as the associate director of the BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies (2013–16). In addition to his administrative role, Whitchurch has taught at the Jerusalem Center multiple times (1995–96, 2000, and 2007). His current research efforts include a book-length project on Orson Hyde (Apostle from 1835 to 1878) and his thirty-two-month travels to and from Jerusalem. See Whitchurch, Speeches, “Orson Hyde, the Holy Land, and Brigham Young University,” 4 October 2016; https://speeches.byu.edu/speakers/david-m-whitchurch/. Other research interests include Old and New Testament Studies, the coming forth of the English Bible, examination of grave goods from a Graeco-Roman Cemetery (Fayum, Egypt), historic Salt Lake City (1847 to present), and a book-length transcription project of nearly three hundred letters between Joseph F. Smith and his sister Martha Ann Smith Harris (1854–1916).

Whitchurch reports that the most exciting aspect of his job at BYU is the opportunity to be a part and witness fulfillment of the scriptural mandate, “And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (Doctrine and Covenants 88:118).

He is the proud husband of Tina R. Whitchurch, father of three daughters, three sons-in-law, and twelve grandchildren.

Courses Taught: Book of Mormon (Rel A, 121 and 122); New Testament (Rel A, 211, 212, 111); Old Testament (Rel A, 301, 302, 101); Christ and the Everlasting Gospel (Rel A, 250), Old and New Testament Field Trip Course, Jerusalem (NES 395R).