Temple history and study recommendations

Haven’t read any Terryl Givens books yet, but I really enjoyed his Mormon Stories interview.

Books about the temple:

“The Mysteries of Godliness: A History of Mormon Temple Worship” by David Buerger is one of THE best books on the subject. It is very neutral in tone and fascinating.

If you are more interested in the universal nature of symbols, I could recommend two books that I think make good general primers. They talk about the theory behind symbols, which delves into the topic of “sacred geometry.”

“Sacred Geometry: Philosophy & Practice” by Robert Lawlor

and

“A Beginner’s Guide to Constructing the Universe: Mathematical Archetypes of Nature, Art, and Science” by Michael Schneider

I think having that base to draw from, it is easier to feel like you understand why people are drawn to certain symbols and their meanings. Ultimately, the symbols in and around our temples are like 80% from freemasonry and maybe 20% from the European mystery schools (which themselves intertwine a lot). If you are a little interested in Book of Abraham-ish egyptian symbolism, of which we really only have a little, but it is the basis for some of the European mystery school teachings (Issis/Osiris worship, etc.), then the works of R.A. Schwaller De Lubicz might be helpful. But those are generally pretty heady works.

Development of LDS Temple Worship by Devery Anderson is very interesting. It’s a different book in that it’s not going to tell you about the temple, it is a list of letters, memos, diary entries, etc concerning the temple. You’ll see memos that change old procedures, enlighten you on new things. It’s a great source book. See http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/1560852119?tag=mormhere-20&linkCode=sb1&camp=212353&creative=380553

I read “Early Mormonism and the Magic World View” and also about half of “Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power” before I misplaced my copy somewhere (cry! a $35 book…).

I thought they were both good. Magic World View forever changed my perspective in a positive and forgiving way regarding all the treasure digging and folk magic controversy stuff. On the other hand, it also completely eliminated me believing that Joseph Smith was a country bumpkin and simpleton. True, he was not formally educated. But he was VERY well read in the areas he found interesting. A lot of the Quinn’s book documents important books available in his area, and parallels where we find those ideas in early Mormon history/development.

“Early Mormonism and the Magic World View” is a great book – truly insightful, with the power to be paradigm-shifting for many who are looking to understand the time period better. That’s the one I recommend, if you’re looking for one book of his.