Whether you are preparing to go through the temple for your very first time, are have been going for 50 years, I believe there is always something more to learn about the temple. After all, we are making celestial covenants in a telestial world. Don’t expect to understand everything your first, 100th, or 1000th time. God reveals His mysteries to us line upon line, and precept upon precept; when we prepare and are ready for it.
But we should continually be striving to learn more and prepare ourselves for the temple. Perhaps there is something below that may help you understand something a little bit more. Here is a list of reading to help you understand the temple.
Books to Help You Understand the Temple
I’ve read a lot of books about the temple, and this one is by far my favorite, so it deserves the first spot. Anthony Sweat does such a great job at explaining what we do in the temple, what the covenants we make actually mean, and he does it in a reverent and respectful way. It seems so simple in this book.
I think this book is technically a “prequel” to The Holy Covenants, although you don’t necessarily have to read them in order. While The Holy Covenants focuses mainly on the covenants we make and what they mean, this book offers answers about the endowment by providing a frame for you to understand the purposes and procedures of its ordinances.
Boyd K. Packer examines in appropriate detail the doctrines and practices surrounding the holy temples that dot the world. This timely and valuable book will help members at every stage of life as it focuses on a temple’s purpose, beauty, and the blessings it offers.
Eve and Adam: Discovering the Beautiful Balance
Since the plan of happiness is a central part to temple ordinances, this book is one of my recommendations for reading to prepare for the temple. Eve and Adam offers a fresh and insightful perspective into the perfect plan of happiness. With clarity and careful thought, it presents a solid case for the necessity of a firm understanding of the honor due to our glorious Mother Eve as well as Father Adam.
Temples: Sacred Symbolism, Eternal Blessings
One of my favorite authors, David Ridges, discusses temple truths within a historical framework in this book. His thorough research with roots in both the scriptures and modern revelation makes this is a compelling read that will add depth to your temple worship.
General Conference Talks
Prepare for Blessings of the Temple by Russell M. Nelson
“All of our efforts in proclaiming the gospel, perfecting the Saints, and redeeming the dead lead to the holy temple. Ordinances of the temple are absolutely crucial. We cannot return to God’s glory without them.”
Focus on the Temple by Russell M. Nelson
“I promise that increased time in the temple will bless your life in ways nothing else can.”
See Yourself in the Temple by Quentin L. Cook
“It is our great desire that members of the Church will live to be worthy of a temple recommend. Please don’t see the temple as some distant and perhaps unachievable goal.”
The Temple and Your Spiritual Foundation by Russell M. Nelson
“The temple lies at the center of strengthening our faith and spiritual fortitude because the Savior and His doctrine are the very heart of the temple. Everything taught in the temple, through instruction and through the Spirit, increases our understanding of Jesus Christ.”
Why These Temples? by Gordon B. Hinckley
“There are only a few places on earth where man’s questions about life receive the answers of eternity.”
Personal Preparation for Temple Blessings by Russell M. Nelson
“As temples are prepared for our members, our members need to prepare for the temple.”
Other Articles to Help You Understand the Temple
Getting Ready for Your Endowment?
9 Resources to Help You Prepare for the Temple
Everything You Need to Know to Prepare for the Temple
There you have it! Hopefully this is a great list to help you learn more about the temple and to prepare yourself. What else would you add to this list?
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