CHEROKEE VILLAGE, Ark. — A University of Memphis archaeologist specializing in biblical history will present a program on archaeological sites in Jordan at the Spring River Gem & Mineral Club meeting on Monday, Nov. 6. The event will take place at 10 a.m. at the North Golf Course Center, located at 75 Pro Shop Road.

Dr. Ryan Parish, an assistant professor of archaeology, will lead a discussion titled “Biblical Archaeology in Jordan.” The meeting is free and open to the public, according to club organizers.

Parish’s research focuses on archaeological locations in Jordan that are significant to biblical history, including sites spanning from the prehistoric period through the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras. His presentation will highlight findings from the Late Bronze Age (roughly 1500–1200 B.C.) in the ancient town of Nebo, situated in the Moab region of present-day Jordan. The area is tied to events described in biblical narratives, including stories of the Israelites entering the region.

According to Parish, biblical archaeology explores the people, places, and stories mentioned in the Bible. “It illuminates the communities and cultures that many of us grew up learning about,” he said, adding that popular television shows like *The Chosen* and *House of David* have recently drawn wider attention to the subject. Parish’s research often focuses on understanding the historical context of ancient ritual practices and how they intersect with broader cultural narratives.

Parish, who grew up in rural Pennsylvania, expressed a passion for archaeology from an early age. “From the age of five, I knew I wanted to be an archaeologist,” he stated. He now collaborates with experts in fields such as geology, anthropology, geochemistry, statistics, and other branches of archaeology to expand the scope of his work.

The club emphasized that the program is open to attendees of all backgrounds. Club members, many of whom are active retirees, regularly learn from experts in subjects ranging from geology and anthropology to planetary science and Ozark academic history. They also participate in field trips and auctions featuring mineral and fossil specimens.

For more information about Monday’s event, contact the Spring River Gem & Mineral Club at 870-847-3109.