Norman Habel grew up on a small farm in Victoria, Australia. Breaking with family tradition, he pursued higher education and attended Concordia Seminary, where he immersed himself in the study of German, Latin, Hebrew, and Greek.

He was ordained as a "missionary-at-large" to America and served a parish in Brooklyn, New York. His international journey continued when he took on the role of principal at the Kodaikanal International School in South India, where he forged deep connections with the local community — including the Grihini women, who came to call him thatha (grandpa).

His scholarly contributions, particularly in ecological hermeneutics and Earth-centred biblical interpretation, have earned him international recognition. He is the author of numerous books, hymns, and the beloved children's series The Purple Puzzle Tree.

Norman Habel's scholarly journey reflects a lifelong commitment to reading the Bible through fresh eyes. Trained in ancient languages and biblical criticism, he developed what became known as ecological hermeneutics—an approach that uncovers the voice of Earth within Scripture. Rather than treating creation as a mere backdrop for human drama, his work invites readers to recognize the land, the trees, and the creatures as active participants in the biblical story. This perspective has resonated widely among those seeking a faith that honors the natural world and addresses the ecological crises of our time.

Beyond the academy, Norman Habel has been a storyteller and poet whose creative output spans children's literature, hymns, and dramatic scripts. His writing draws deeply on the landscapes of Australia—the outback, the forests, the seasonal rhythms of the land—while also engaging with the broader themes of social justice, reconciliation, and progressive spirituality. Whether crafting songs for congregational worship or weaving narratives that challenge conventional theology, his work invites audiences to encounter mystery, beauty, and the sacred in unexpected places.