The Lost Language of Symbolism: An Essential Guide for Recognizing and Interpreting Symbols of the Gospel

by Alonzo L. Gaskill

Symbolism is a marvelously instructive and expressive language. . . . It partakes of the language of the heart and the language of the Spirit. . . . As Alonzo Gaskill deftly points out in this work, the language of symbolism embraces everything from the dust of the earth to the glories of the heavens. To miss what is being expressed or taught with symbols is like living in a world without sunsets or autumn leaves. — Joseph Fielding McConkie

"All things have their likeness," the Lord has said, "and all things are created and made to bear record of me, both things which are temporal, and things which are spiritual; things which are in the heavens above, and things which are on the earth" (Moses 6:63).

"Symbolism is the very language of scripture," writes author Alonzo Gaskill. As we more fully understand the symbolism in the scriptures and the temple, we are led to deeper, more profound insights and truths that previously eluded us. The result is that we can then more readily liken the scriptures unto ourselves for "our profit and learning" (1 Nephi 19:23).

This engaging and well-researched guide explores the symbolism of body parts, clothing, colors, numbers, directions, names, and animals in holy writ and in the temple. It also provides a series of charts comparing the lives of scriptural individuals and showing how they actually are types and symbols of Christ.

Filled with countless examples to help explain and support the author's discussion of symbols and their meanings, the text makes extensive references not only to recognized Latter-day Saint sources but also to lesser-known sources written by a variet1 of religious scholars both modern and ancient.

Symbolism is a language hidden in the margins, tucked between the lines, and suspended below the surface of the words. With study and effort, we can coax the symbolic meaning into the open and become fluent in reading the eternal truths it reveals. This book is an invaluable aid in that process.

Genres: Religion, Lds, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Church, Christian, Reference

476 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2003

Reviews

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a deep study into religious symbolism. Thankfully, I read it along with three of my very smart and well-informed friends who made this study even more informative and enjoyable because we read and discussed it together over the past year! I have to say, Gaskill is a finely educated scholar who presents detailed descriptions and history of every possible biblical symbol. (The notes section of the book was a hefty 150 pages!) He expertly guides your thoughts towards the temple experience and what awaits you there as you ponder and decipher temple symbols through your own personal revelation and experience. This book is intended to be read slowly, studied carefully and prayerfully pondered. Symbols are replete throughout the scriptures! I learned so much and will need to study it again. I don't think once is enough!

[Jeffrey Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first book I ever read on symbolism. My wife by chance bought it for me because it was written by a Church member and boy am I glad she did! I can honestly say its what got me interested in the deeper things (meat) of the gospel. And honestly that’s the WHOLE point of symbolism. Whether it’s in scriptures, the temple, or any other ordinance, its purpose is to help us realize deeper things that human words can’t express. I never before realized the scriptures and other ordinances of the Church have so much symbolism to it. This book covers numbers, animals, people, places, clothing, colors, etc and although it has an LDS emphasis to it, anyone of any faith can read it. If you have no background with symbolism, this is a great start. It will change the way you read scriptures.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

My go-to. Gaskill will say that after this first foray into symbolism, he would revamp a thing or two. Still, a rock-solid resource for getting your feet wet, for finding out what the Hebrew Scriptures are trying to say. Hint: whatever you think you understand, it is, literally, the tip, the top layer of last night's dusting of snow, compared to what's underneath.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some interesting insights and explanations here about the purpose of symbols in general and some specifics on interpreting some of them. Body parts, clothing, colors, numbers, directions, people, animals, and other things can all be symbols. There are also many types and symbols of Christ. Here are some of my favorite quotes:

"Symbolism is a marvelously instructive and expressive language (p. ix)."

"The idea of counselors or a presidency also reminds us that no man is left to stand alone (p. x)."

"We obtain membership in the Church through the waters of baptism (p. xi)."

"Symbolically those garments, made from the skins of animals, undoubedly lambs, represented the protection that would be theirs from all the effects of the Fall (p. xiii)."

"Symbolism in its various forms is intentionally present in scripture (p. 1)."

"'Symbols are the language in which all gospel covenants and all ordinances of salvation have been revealed' (p. 2)."

"Let us not forget that the primary purpose of scripture is to bring people unto Christ and hot simply to preserve a historical message (p. 2)."

"Ordination to the priesthood was symbolic of Christ (p. 3)."

"'All things are created and made to bear record of me, both things which are temporal, and things which are spiritual, things which are in the heavens above, and things which are on the earth' (p. 4)."

"To understand symbols requires persistent effort. Their use in the standard works and ordinances of the Church encourages participants to ponder the truths of the restored gospel and to seek the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Ghost (p. 6)."

"Symbols are designed to protect that which is sacred by revealing truth and insight to those who are prepared and by concealing the same from the unworthy (p. 7)."

"Many symbols are timeless (p. 7)."

"Symbols have a tremendous ability to influence the mind and create lasting impressions (p. 7)."

"A symbol is something that represents another thing (p. 11)."

"We must experience the image as literally and in as fully a sensory way as possible (p. 11)."

"A type is a symbol that looks forward to... future fulfillment (p. 11)."

"Metaphors and similes are two of the most simple literary devices, yet they function much as symbols do (p. 13)."

"A parable is like an extended simile (p. 14)."

"The key to understanding the Book of Mormon's typologiacl unity is the recurring central motif of Lehi's dream of the tree of life (p. 15)."

"Archetype is an image or pattern that recurs throughout literature and... life (p. 15)."

"Rightly determine which elements... are meant to be interpreted as symbol... Look beyond the symbol... Consider what the scriptures or modern prophets teach regarding the symbol... Let the nature of the symbol help clarify its meaning... Watch for a consistentcy in use of particular symbols... Study the meaning and origin of the idioms employed... Balance the interpretation of symbols with an overall knowldge of gospel teachings... Use the... study aids provided in the standard works... Be attentive to linguistic issues... Don't get too caught up in determining authorial awareness (p. 19)."

"Avoid reading into a scriptural symbol or passage something that the Lord or his prophet did not intend... Avoid extremes... Be cautious not to limit a symbol... Keep in mind that symbols do not reveal new doctrines (p. 22)."

"The arm invoked ideas of power or strength... The outstretched arm is always a symbol of God's power being exercised... When a person's arms are folded during prayer, the primary symoblic implication is that of submission... humility and reverence (p. 28)."

"A number of standard ideas are associated with blood, includingl ife, humanity, and mortality (p. 29)."

"The bosom, or breast, was a standard symbol for an intimate, nonsexual relationship (p. 31)."

"Bowels are most often associated with one's feelings or emotions (p. 32)."

"Ears are symbolic of receptivity and obedience (p. 33)."

"Eyes were the symbol for the receipt of light, knowledge, insight, and revelation (p. 36)."

"The most common use of feet is as a symbol of how we live and what path we choose to follow (p. 37)."

"The forehead represents what a person's thoughts dwell on and threfore what he loves or desires (p. 39)."

"Hair could signal either a person's health or lack thereof (p. 41)."

"The hand is traditionally a symbolic representation of our actions, or that which we choose to do or pursue (p. 43)."

"Today we associate thought and memory with the brain, anciently these functions were... believed to take place in the heart--the seat of knowledge; the recipient of revelation, inspiriation, and omniscience; and the location of the true inner man or woman (p. 47)."

"Knees are most often used to signify the state of one person before another, either in submission or fear (p. 50)."

"One of the primary symbolic meanings of the loins is offspring or reproduction and... in an eternal sense, omnipresence (p. 51)."

"The throat represented power, and more specifically priesthood power... and one's ability to command or speak (p. 55)."

"'Wings are a represetnation of popwer, to move, to act' (p. 57)."

"'Clothes... has always given them considerable emblematic power' (p. 61)."

"'Priestly clothing was intended to reprsent the garb of God and of the agnels' (p. 61)."

"Armor is a scriptural motif for 'protection against evil' (p. 65)."

"The shield is the symbol of faith (p. 68)."

"Swords are stand symbols for the words of God (p. 68)."

"The veil of the temple represents the flesh of Jesus Christ (p. 71)."

"Robes are standard symbols for 'the powers of heaven' (p. 72)."

"Being barefoot could also symbolize entrance into a holy place (p. 75)."

"In may cutlures, veils symbolize chastity personified (p. 78)."

"Black is the traditional color of grief (p. 85)."

"Blue is associated with the 'idea of revelation and its source' (p. 90)."

"Gold has very strong connotations... with the sun and thus the celestial kingdom and eternal glory (p. 92)."

"Green is the standard symbol of life (p. 93)."

"The color purple provoked images of wealth, power, royalty, majesty (p. 96)."

"Red and scarlet reprsent sin or the blood of Christ that was shed because of sin (p. 99)."

"As a symbol for God... the number one is 'indivisible... independent... and is the source of all others' (p. 113)."

"Two... is the image of reproduction, life force, or creative power (p. 115)."

"'The number four always has reference to all that is created' (p. 119)."

"Seven is the most common of all symbolic numbers... Seven symbolizes fullness, completion, entirety or totality, and spiritual perfection (p. 123)."

"Eight is associated with the concepts of resurrection, new beginnings, rebirth, and baptism (p. 129)."

"Some commentators interpret [forty] as simply meaning 'a lengthy period of time' (p. 137)."

"East... was the direction that represented God (p. 150)."

"East was also associated with God's glory, influence, and wrath (p. 153)."

"Types for Christ... Abel... Abraham... Adam... David... Enoch... Isaac... Jacob... Joseph of Egypt... Joseph Smith... Joshua... Melchizedek... Moses... Noah... Seth (p. 172)."

"The giving of a name was once a sacred, significant, and meaningful experience (p. 219)."

"Daniel. This Hebrew name means 'God is my judge' (p. 225)."

"Immanuel... means 'God with us' (p. 229)."

"Noah... means 'rest' or 'comfort' (p. 234)."

"Christ not only proclaims himself the 'Bread of Life,' but also acknowledges that the manna sent by himself as Jehovah to preserve the lives of ancient Israel (during their wilderness trek) was a type or symbol of his life-sustaining flesh (p. 295)."

"Trees have several standard symbolic meanings. Green trees often represent the rightous, whereas dry trees can symbolize the wicked... 'The tree of life is connected with the cross... Both relate to the resurrection, eternal life, the Lord, and the love of God' (Susan Easton Black, p. 298)."

"The placement of these sentienls in front of the tree of life indicates our need for the ordinances and covenants of the temple in order to regain the presence of the Father and the Son--Jesus himself being the tree of life! (p. 300)."

"Lamb: Representative of Christ and his followers; also gentleness, innocence, meekness, purity, humility, and the surrender of personal will (p. 310)."

"Ram: A representation of Christ, resurrection, protection, and sacrifice (p. 311)."

"Neck: An outward symbol of the state of our heart. When bowed, the neck is a symbol of humility, submission, or mourning. When stiff or erect, the neck is a symbol of pride, obstinacy, or disobedience (p. 314)."

"3: A symbol of the Godhead and divine involvement, backing, and influence (p. 319)."

"12: Representative of priesthood, including its power and right to govern (p. 320)."

"144,000... Symbolizes fulness of the priesthood or making one's calling and election sure (p. 321)."

"Incense: A symbol meaning that the prayers of the Saints ascend to God (p. 322)."

"Mountain: An image of the temple or house of the Lord, also representative of revelation, inspiration, separation from the world (p. 322)."

"Water... can symbolize two very different concepts: (1) cleansing, sanctification, revelation, and the Holy Spirit, and (2) chaos, death, and the grave (p. 323)."

[Jodi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the kind of book you keep on the bookshelves and refer to when studying the scriptures. It’s difficult to read cover-to-cover since there’s such a vast amount of information about the meaning of symbols found in scripture and in the temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Don’t be alarmed by the size of the book—half of it is references. It’s impressive to think about how much time went into creating this book that tries to help us understand scripture and doctrine.
I didn’t actually finish this one. For me, the mysteries of scripture are unfolded differently every time I earnestly seek for personal revelation in my studies. A basic understanding of some of the symbols helps, but the beauty of symbols are that they can mean different things to different people, at different times of their lives. So I struggle a little with someone telling me that every time I read the word “——“ in the scriptures it’s referring to “——“. Sometimes those preconceived notions throw off my ability to understand what the Lord is personally trying to teach me.
Again, this is more like a reference book than anything.

[Sandra Strange · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is an almost encyclopedic examination of symbolism in scripture, including ancient Old Testament symbolism, the New Testament symbolism of the Israeli, Greek and Roman world of Christ's day, as well as symbolism in the scripture of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints. Dr. Gaskell discusses the symbols in their cultural and historical backgrounds, helping the reader understand where each symbol has come from and how readers contemporary to the texts would interpret the symbols.

[Melissa Lefler · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not what I was expecting. It’s basically just an outline of symbols used in scripture and broken down to possible meanings. Because symbolism can be so rich with so many interpretations, it glazed over most of them, understandably. But it also seemed like the author was drawing too many conclusions in the scripture when I think it’s best left to reader interpretation. Definitely some interesting thoughts though.

[Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tbh I just skimmed this book and read the parts that I wanted to read, but it is a very good collection of symbols in the scriptures and the gospel. This reads less like a book and more like an encyclopedia of all kinds of symbols, so I think it would be better to read as a supplement for scripture study or like activities. A few parts seem a little dated but most of this is very well thought-out and helped me understand certain things in the scriptures and the temple better!!

[Lisa Adorno · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, I feel this book is a great foundation if you are not well versed in the meaning behind biblical symbols and it was simple enough to understand. But it also felt very surface level and I would have liked to have seen the author dive deeper into the application of each symbol. Great base knowledge throughout but I would encourage those who do read this book to look into the references if you would like a greater understanding of the meaning behind each symbol.

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always known there is much symbolism in scripture, but hadn't really spent much effort digging into it, until now. I learned so much from this excellent book, and I feel like I understand the scriptures on a whole other level. It's also cool that it's structured as a reference with a logical organization of chapters (colors, clothing, names, body parts, numbers, etc.) so it's easy to go back and look up something. I've bought several copies to give out as gifts.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not a very symbolic person, so this book was perfect for me. I learned so much about the symbols found in scripture and how to understand them better. I especially loved the chapter on number symbols. It certainly adds depth and meaning when we look below the surface. It kind of reads like a dictionary or encyclopedia, but I've never been so fascinated reading one of them in the past!

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting book. I haven’t really studied symbols before but know that in the scriptures there are many symbols. This opens up my understanding of things in the scriptures. The book is written in easy to understand language (for those with more simple thinking). And has a large summary of the symbols at the back, which is nice to keep for further study.

[Eat Fruit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read this volume multiple times and it is my ultimate favourite thing to read. Volume 2 is great as well. This is insightful and the examples used are beautiful to read. There is so much to learn about basic phonetic sounds. These books have given me such passion for learning language and how it came to be. Fantastic book!

[Karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is basically an all-inclusive book about symbolism in the scriptures. It has tons of info, and talks about all different types of symbolism. Great book for understanding scripture and temple symbolism better, good reference book.

[Ben · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teaching the basics of Symbolism in the LDS world is severely lacking. Scriptural education using more symbolism and less literalism in Sunday School, CES, and mission education would have been a great blessing in my life.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Helped me to understand not only some details of specific symbols found in the scriptures, but also with my general knowledge that there ARE so many symbols and to keep an eye out for them.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5. Great reference book to enhance the reading of scriptures or any other religious practice. Super informative.

[Nat Harward · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resource. Totally worth having and totally worth reading all the way through at least once, even though it's written like a dictionary/glossary.

[Tracy Beard Leavitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

FANTASTIC 👍♥️

[Trace G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good starter book for learning symbols

[Steve Congdon · Rating 5 out of 5]

detailed look at the symbolism of a wide range of subjects: animals, names, places objects, actions, etc.

[Emily Frame · Rating 4 out of 5]

A comprehensive encyclopedia of symbolism in the scriptures and ancient practices. Super cool to have on hand!

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't recommend enough.

[Ryan Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good primer and introduction into the topic. provides a great starting point for starting to recognize different aspects of symbolism.

[Cole Gillespie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lowkey a banger getting slept on

[Jeff Crosby]

Useful resource.

[Teri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love allegory, so I really enjoyed this book, which is written by an LDS author. I read it cover-to-cover and my copy is now heavily marked and highlighted. It will continue to be a valuable scripture-study reference for me in the future. It covers the types and symbols found throughout the scriptures and temple, and raises awareness of the many layers of meaning the gospel employs. Here are the categories:

Body Parts as Symbols
Clothing as Symbols
Colors as Symbols
Numbers as Symbols
Directions as Symbols
People as Types
Names as Symbols
Animals as Symbols
Types & Symbols of Christ

The chapter on numbers was particularly interesting and discusses both numerology and gematria (reckoning by numbers), a topic not often discussed in Sunday school classes.

A recommended gospel study aid!

Related book: Gospel Symbolism by Joseph Fielding McConkie

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't expecting the reference style format, but it served its purpose. This book proved to be quite insightful. I was not previously familiar with Gaskill's work and am not well versed in the topic. So, I am, admittedly, blindly trusting his research. That aside, he explores some really fascinating symbolism that truly adds depth to gospel study. The book really puts into perspective how shallow our understanding of scripture can be. Or for a more optimistic way of putting it: how our understanding of the gospel can deepen and grow with continued study. Of course, read with a grain of salt, as it is in no way doctrine. Overall, I enjoyed it.

[Cami · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been studying scriptural and temple symbols and noticed that every book I read referenced this one, so I decided I needed to find a copy. This is a fantastic reference book and teaching tool!! Some parts were obvious to me and therefore a little boring, but I learned a lot of new things and particularly loved the chapter on clothing as symbols (it explains a lot about the temple without saying a word about it!) as well as being introduced to the ideas of directions as symbols ("eastward in Eden" has a whole new meaning now) and the concept of gematria (numbers as word symbols). This is one to keep on the bookshelf and refer to often as I study and teach from the scriptures.

[Dr. · Rating 4 out of 5]

It pains me to admit how well done this book is. Largely because of my bias against non-apostolic writers and commentators. This book succeeds largely because of its heavy use of scripture, translation from other texts, and the appropiate tone in which Dr. Gaskill approaches the subject matter. Even for those who are largely aware of the traditional symbolism in scripture, this book offers examples that one may not have previously noticed. This book is particularly helpful for those who would like to better understand the book of Revelation.