….We Seek After These Things!

Note- this is a copy of a review I have done on Tigersue’s Bookshelf. I thought it was appropriate to also post it here, and fitting for the guidelines of the blog.

Sheep’s Clothing is a chilling tale by Josi S. Kilpack. For a novel published by Deseret Book in LDS bookstores it is one that someone of any religion, and belief could pick up read and completely be engulfed in the weaving of the mystery and knowledge of what is about to unfold in its pages. I am not sure what I expected when I started the book, but I did not expect to be so completely involved that I finished in a few hours. I started it late yesterday, and finished it this morning before breakfast. (more…)

I have just finished reading

I Am a Mother

by Jane Clayson Johnson. I heard Sister Johnson speak last year on TV, they where playing her speech that she gave at Women’s conference last year and this book carries on the them of her talk. I was wonderful to hear this woman that had quit an amazing career to be a mother. I think many women can relate to her feelings of turmoil and confusion as she heard mother’s say, “I am just a mom.” Why do we minimize this most valued and important calling we can have in our life. She gives many examples of women that she admired for their examples of motherhood. She gives quotes of prophets, women leaders in the church, and other important and significant writers as to the importance of mothers. Every woman should have a copy of this book in their homes, whether they are a mother of children or have been denied that blessing in this life. After reading this book I shall always look at my life as a mother as something more than what I have ever envisioned before.

This is a guest post by Mary A. She has graciously written a review of the book “The Lost Language of Sybolism. Thank you so much. Tanya

Understanding Symbolism
The Lost Language of Symbolism
By Alonzo L. Gaskill

I have been interested in symbolism for a couple of years, beginning when I realized that I was probably not getting the full meaning of scripture because I had no idea about symbols—what they mean and how they are used. I purchased Dr. Gaskill’s book in the hope that I could learn at least a little about symbols in the scriptures. I read it through and found it fascinating. I noted that its format would make it easy to use as a reference book to look up a specific word or phrase as it was encountered. Then, sadly, I set it aside, meaning to get back to it, but never doing so. However, when I read Tanya’s mention of it on her blog, “…We Seek After These Things!”, my interest was reawakened and I got my book out. When she asked me if I wanted to write something about the book to post, I was delighted to do so.

First, a little about the book itself. It has a brief forward by Joseph Fielding McConkie. The first two chapters are titled “Why Symbols?” and “The Art of Interpreting Symbols” so that it starts right out with explanations that help you in studying symbols. The rest of the chapters are each about a specific type of symbol, such as colors, numbers, or types and symbols of Christ. The last chapter is a summary—a chart on which you can look up a brief meaning of each symbol. This is followed by endnotes, a satisfying long bibliography, a scripture index, and a subject index. The reason I wanted to describe the book just a little was so that you would get an idea of its usefulness.

Dr. Gaskill says that he intends his book to not be overly academic, nor does he intend it to be an exhaustive explanation. It is meant for the average person who wants to begin to understand symbolism and get more meaning from scripture. Also, it would be good to remember that you can study a little at a time—you don’t have to overwhelm yourself by trying to learn it all in one fell swoop.

Symbols can have more than one meaning so the context is important in deciding what items are probably used symbolically and which of their possible meanings would be appropriate. I won’t go into more detail, but Dr. Gaskill does and his explanations can open up a whole new world to a person.

Understanding symbolism in scripture can also lead to understanding of symbolism in the temple, as well as various ordinances like baptism. If we learn the symbolism behind a term or an action, then we can be reminded of spiritual ideas often and that can help our thoughts turn to God. It can help us to understand teachings and doctrines more deeply so that we see the purpose in living the gospel and obeying the commandments. I find that understanding symbolism can touch my mind, my heart, and my spirit in new ways and that it gives me new thoughts to ponder as I seek the treasure in the scriptures and write them in my heart.

By Mary A

The last book I want to mention is one that I hope to have further thoughts on as I read it.
I picked it up several years ago but was unable to read it for many reasons. Now I have picked it up again, and it is fascinating to read. I would suggest anyone that has the book to read along, and comment here on things you like until I get the next post up.

Until then, get The Lost Langauge of Symbolism by Alonzo L. Saskill and enjoy the new insights you may get from learning how so many things are symbolic in nature.

As stated on the flap insert, once you understand the symbolism the scriptures and the ordinances of the temple can open up to you. Again it is a great reference book and one that would go hand in hand with the other books I have mentioned.

My third installment of understand religious symbology will discuss the book A Guide to Scriptural Symbols, by Joseph Fielding McConkie and Donald W. Parry.
I have to give a shameless plug to Brother Parry; after all he used to be my gospel doctrine teacher and put up with me debating and asking questions. He once told me he didnt mind because it kept him on his toes, I appreciated his patience because he helped me to understand and not just take things because someone said so.
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