The Gate of Heaven: Insights on the Doctrines and Symbols of the Temple [Hardcover]

Matthew B. Brown (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 1, 1999

From the premortal world, where the Plan of Salvation was laid out and the need for temples was established, to the Restoration, in which the fullness of the gospel was reintroduced to the world in the temple ceremony, author Matthew B. Brown explores the rich heritage of symbolism that has characterized temples and temple worship through the ages, reverently examining the sacred doctrines associated with the gate of heaven. Among many other topics he discusses; Rituals and symbols from the Tabernacle of Moses, the Temple of Solomon, and the holy places of the earliest Christians. The remarkable parallels between ancient temple worship and the doctrines and ordiances restored by Joseph Smith. Personages from the spirit world who returned to earth to requiest temple work, to assist with this work, or to witness their own work being done. The restored doctrine of making one's calling and election sure. Long-standing myths about LDS temple worship and the origin, symbols, and rituals of Freemasonry.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Matthew Brown has a degree in history from BYU. His first book, Symbols in stone: Symbolism on the Early Temples of the Restoration, with Paul Thomas Smith, has been praised for maintaining an impressive balance between manifesting discreet respect for sacred matters while at the same time providing genuine insight. A longtime student of Church history and temple symbolism, Matt has a passionate interest in shedding light on the events, the historical figures, and the doctrines of the Restoration.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 342 pages
• Publisher: Covenant Communications; 1st Edition edition (October 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1577345118
• ISBN-13: 978-1577345114
• Product Dimensions: 10.2 x 8 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #431,698 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

19 of 22 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A great resource for temple symbolism and history!, March 26, 2001

By 

Jennifer A. Johnson "jabbl" (St. George, UT USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Gate of Heaven: Insights on the Doctrines and Symbols of the Temple (Hardcover)

This book stands alone as an interesting account of temples and temple symbolism throughout all of history. For the Latter-day Saint, it provides a greater insight into the temple on a more spiritual level - the book becomes more meaningful once one is familiar with the modern ordinances of the temple. Highly recommended for those who want a profound, scholarly approach to their temple studies, and those who would enjoy a faith-building reading experience. This is an outstanding resource for anyone interested in understanding more about the temple.

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best for understanding the history of temple., February 14, 2005

By 

Candace E. Salima "Lioness SA5" (Utah, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Gate of Heaven: Insights on the Doctrines and Symbols of the Temple (Hardcover)

Matthew B. Brown is a brilliant theologian. I cannot recommend this book highly enough for those wish to have a deeper understanding of the history of temples and their rites. You absolutely must read the notes at the end of every chapter, you will not only learn more than you can ever imagine, you will be enriched and utterly fascinated. The scriptures become clearer as you delve further into this book. A must have for the serious religious library.

This was the first of Matthew Brown's books that I purchased and studied. Now I anxiously await as each new book arrives.

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Temple symbolism explained, July 8, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: The Gate of Heaven: Insights on the Doctrines and Symbols of the Temple (Hardcover)

This book is easy to read and well documented. It gives evidence of the historical underpinnings of the temple rites and symbols. I highly recommend it.