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Introduction to Religion
An Introduction to Mormonism
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is one of the fastest growing religious movements in the world. It is highly visible, with a massive missionary program, yet it remains a mystery in terms of its core beliefs and theological structure. This 2003 book provides an introduction to the basic history, doctrines and practices of The LDS - the 'Mormon' Church. Written by a non-Mormon it neither seeks to prove or disprove the truthfulness of the religious claims of that faith but rather to describe them in ways that non-Mormons can understand. Particular emphasis is given to sacred texts and prophecies as well as to the crucial Temple rituals of endowments, marriage and baptism for the dead, through which human beings may achieve their divine potential. This rich comparative study offers an understanding of Mormon theology and ideas of humanity.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2003
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
August 18, 2021
Excellent review of the customs, beliefs, and scriptures of the LDS church written by a non-member. Entire book is written in a matter of fact, yet conversational style. It was refreshing to read about something (anything) that isn't stabbing fun at or attempting to convert. If all books and information sources were written like this, the world would be a better place.
February 7, 2012
What makes this a good introduction is that it is written by a non-Mormon. Oftentimes the Mormons are derided for the way that they rationalize their 'crazy' faith, so it's good to be introduced to the Mormon faith by a non-Mormon trying to be as objective as possible. Davies does a good job at being objective: he covers the main points of Mormonism with very little comment of his own. At times Davies does add, "mainline Christians will find difficulty in this..." or "contemporary Mormons aren't all sold on this..." Such comments help the reader get a more clear picture of what Mormonism is and what Mormonism is in the minds of the Mormon faithful, and are also able to see possible prejudices toward Mormonism from other Christians that are unfair.
Any reasonable person wanting to learn about Mormonism should note that it is a faith with clear ties to American civil religion. Davies could do more in highlighting the similarities, but he does give plenty of background information for the reader to make the connections and other conclusions on their own.
Mormonism is, indeed, a fascinating religion that, despite its growing international flavor, should be of particular interest to Americans. What happens when the American myth becomes a religion? To a great extent Mormonism is the answer. Of course, Davies simply presents an introduction to the subject, and the reader is left asking for more. The religion is too interesting and complex for a simple overview to suffice. As far as introductions go, this is a good one, perhaps the best on the Mormon faith; but it is far too simple to thoroughly inform the interested reader.
Any reasonable person wanting to learn about Mormonism should note that it is a faith with clear ties to American civil religion. Davies could do more in highlighting the similarities, but he does give plenty of background information for the reader to make the connections and other conclusions on their own.
Mormonism is, indeed, a fascinating religion that, despite its growing international flavor, should be of particular interest to Americans. What happens when the American myth becomes a religion? To a great extent Mormonism is the answer. Of course, Davies simply presents an introduction to the subject, and the reader is left asking for more. The religion is too interesting and complex for a simple overview to suffice. As far as introductions go, this is a good one, perhaps the best on the Mormon faith; but it is far too simple to thoroughly inform the interested reader.
October 1, 2015
A very decent book on the Mormons by a non-Mormon. Some of its facts are a bit outdated as new changes have been made since the book was published. Not all facts are correct especially on the temple rites. Also the Church handbook as mentioned has been renewed in 2010 after this book was published and is available to the public.
It is interesting to read a lot about the Church history, the perception of the Church and even it's opposition.
What I do miss is the explanation on the Church main purposes namely missionary work, family history, humanitarian aid and service within the church among the members.
The main source Davies should have used is also the Church history books which also reveal a lot of lesser times in Church history.
I disagree with some of Davies conclusions on ethics, agency and the Atonement, but overall a very nice book!
It is interesting to read a lot about the Church history, the perception of the Church and even it's opposition.
What I do miss is the explanation on the Church main purposes namely missionary work, family history, humanitarian aid and service within the church among the members.
The main source Davies should have used is also the Church history books which also reveal a lot of lesser times in Church history.
I disagree with some of Davies conclusions on ethics, agency and the Atonement, but overall a very nice book!
November 18, 2010
Davies is not a Mormon, so it's good to see his perspective. He "gets" Mormonism pretty well--some things better than others, but always in a respectful and scholarly way.
January 5, 2011
Okay book written by a professor from England, non-Mormon.
July 1, 2011
Easy to read, balanced, and informative.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews