"TEMPLES: Sacred Symbolism, Eternal Blessings," by David J. Ridges, Cedar Fort, $14.99, 112 pages (nf)
There are perhaps no symbols of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints more visible than its temples.
In "Temples: Sacred Symbolism, Eternal Blessings," author David J. Ridges examines several facets of the temple. Six chapters focus on topics ranging from how God teaches with symbols, to covenants members of the church make with God, to eternal blessings they can obtain.
Ridges helps make symbolism accessible by expounding on its nature. Symbols run deep, layer atop layer atop layer virtually to infinity. It is this characteristic that allows them to be consumed by church members in their various circumstances. Whether found in the world, in the scriptures, or in the temple, symbols are unique and powerful teaching tools.
The covenants made inside holy temples are designed to endow those who worship with eternal blessings.
One of the most beneficial aspects of Ridges is the fluid manner in which he weaves scripture into his examination of temples.
He provides commentary along the way, bridging gaps between the standard works and the temple.
And like a symbol itself, the book has the benefit of appealing to a wide range of individuals. The spiritual novice and mature alike can benefit from Ridges approach. In the end, it isn’t the commentary he provides, the topics he addresses or the links between them that most affect readers.
Ultimately, the author’s greatest achievement is stimulating a hunger to feast upon all the temple offers.
Ridges is a prolific writer of gospel topics with a 35-year background as a teacher in the Church Educational System. He presently serves as the executive secretary for the Sunday School general presidency and resides with his wife, Janette, in Springville, Utah.
Kurt Manwaring, MPA, is a Utah consultant with a love for the gospel. He maintains a personal blog at kurtsperspective.blogspot.com.