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Understanding Your Endowment
Most books on the LDS temple are either too general to be very helpful or too scholarly and esoteric to appeal to most Church members. This volume is different. Based primarily upon the scriptures, Understanding Your Endowment explores the meaning of the temple endowment in our daily lives.
142 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2015
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July 29, 2015Disclaimer: This review is from the author. It is simply meant to clarify the purpose of this book and the intended audience.
Coming to understand our own endowment is a personal, sacred journey, one largely between us individually and the Lord. No one, other than the Lord, is really qualified to unfold everything, and much of that will come quietly through the Spirit.
Part of the beauty of the temple’s ordinances and teaching lies in the fact that the Lord can personalize them to whatever stage we are at in our individual growth. The path to understanding requires time, effort, and experience. Sometimes it may seem a bit overwhelming. We may need some help, or at least a foundation from which to begin.
The intent of this book is to help lay that foundation and enrich your temple experience. It is written for believing Latter-day Saints who would like to better understand their own temple endowment.
Coming to understand our own endowment is a personal, sacred journey, one largely between us individually and the Lord. No one, other than the Lord, is really qualified to unfold everything, and much of that will come quietly through the Spirit.
Part of the beauty of the temple’s ordinances and teaching lies in the fact that the Lord can personalize them to whatever stage we are at in our individual growth. The path to understanding requires time, effort, and experience. Sometimes it may seem a bit overwhelming. We may need some help, or at least a foundation from which to begin.
The intent of this book is to help lay that foundation and enrich your temple experience. It is written for believing Latter-day Saints who would like to better understand their own temple endowment.
August 16, 2015
4.5 Stars
Understanding Your Endowment is a great resource for those who are preparing to attend the temple and those who have been attending for any period of time. Currently teaching a class for those preparing, I found that there were several things that I connected with and that gave me ideas in helping those in my class to come to a better understanding. I loved the way the author went about delving into each chapter with scripture references, quoting church leaders, and connecting ancient procedures to today's. The verbiage was simple, making it easy to read, as well as meaningful and inspired. It allowed me to envision things that I hadn't before and reach a deeper grasp of the temple, the meaning and understanding that can be found there, and the importance of God's relationship with each of us. This is one book that I highly recommend for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Source: I would like to thank Cedar Fort for my complimentary copy, which did not affect my review in any way.
Understanding Your Endowment is a great resource for those who are preparing to attend the temple and those who have been attending for any period of time. Currently teaching a class for those preparing, I found that there were several things that I connected with and that gave me ideas in helping those in my class to come to a better understanding. I loved the way the author went about delving into each chapter with scripture references, quoting church leaders, and connecting ancient procedures to today's. The verbiage was simple, making it easy to read, as well as meaningful and inspired. It allowed me to envision things that I hadn't before and reach a deeper grasp of the temple, the meaning and understanding that can be found there, and the importance of God's relationship with each of us. This is one book that I highly recommend for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Source: I would like to thank Cedar Fort for my complimentary copy, which did not affect my review in any way.
September 20, 2015
Understanding Your Endowment is a beautifully written book for those of the LDS faith who are preparing to go to the temple or who are currently endowed.
The author handles this most sacred of topics of our faith with loving humility and respect. I really enjoyed that every chapter was filled with not only the authors ideas and insights but quotes from the Prophets, Apostles, Ensigns, so many scripture references, etc. that you can continue to research certain topics more fully yourself. I also loved the little "homework assignments" at the conclusion of each chapter for that same reason. This book made me think about so much of the temple that I feel like I've been missing and that has never even occurred to me until reading this. I am truly grateful for it and so excited to attend the temple and apply these things in my own life with my own temple service and attendance. It is a book I can already tell that one can learn from and study again and again.
The author handles this most sacred of topics of our faith with loving humility and respect. I really enjoyed that every chapter was filled with not only the authors ideas and insights but quotes from the Prophets, Apostles, Ensigns, so many scripture references, etc. that you can continue to research certain topics more fully yourself. I also loved the little "homework assignments" at the conclusion of each chapter for that same reason. This book made me think about so much of the temple that I feel like I've been missing and that has never even occurred to me until reading this. I am truly grateful for it and so excited to attend the temple and apply these things in my own life with my own temple service and attendance. It is a book I can already tell that one can learn from and study again and again.
August 18, 2015
The author handles this topic with reverence and humility. I am SO GRATEFUL he has shared his knowledge with us. Using personal stories, other examples, and scriptures this book really opens up a greater understanding of so many things!
When next I attend the temple I will have some added insights that will make the experience more meaningful...and I will be more prepared to have the Spirit be with me.
Believe me, I know, in today's busy world sometimes going to the temple requires great sacrifice and is often hard to fit in. But I also know there are great blessing awaiting us there.
If you will read this book I believe that with this added knowledge you will seek the time to attend the temple so that you might more fully have UNDERSTANDING [of] YOUR ENDOWMENT.
It really is POWERFUL!
When next I attend the temple I will have some added insights that will make the experience more meaningful...and I will be more prepared to have the Spirit be with me.
Believe me, I know, in today's busy world sometimes going to the temple requires great sacrifice and is often hard to fit in. But I also know there are great blessing awaiting us there.
If you will read this book I believe that with this added knowledge you will seek the time to attend the temple so that you might more fully have UNDERSTANDING [of] YOUR ENDOWMENT.
It really is POWERFUL!
September 7, 2015
I went through the temple for the first time in March, six months ago and it has been such a blessing to my life. I prepared hard before I went and I studied tons, but at the same time, I didn't know exactly where to start in my studies. If I had had this book then, I know I would have been able to comprehend things a little bit deeper. I'm grateful I have been able to read this book now to understand the ordinances in a broader light.
There is so much symbolism to be found in the temple, and many of the ordinances found in the temple today are also found in the scriptures. I love how these scripture references are explained in this book and you will find so many of them. These scriptures are so well described by the author and it has increased my understanding to a whole new level.
I also very much respect that every single thing in this book is described in a way that it doesn't take away from the sacredness of the temple and everything in the book is appropriate to talk about. My understanding has increased tons, and I love reading a little part then going to the temple to see it, learn it, and really feel it in my heart, and then I come back and read a little more.
This book is perfect for all ages and it doesn't matter how much or how little experience with the temple you have, I think everyone will find something valuable to them in this book.
There is so much symbolism to be found in the temple, and many of the ordinances found in the temple today are also found in the scriptures. I love how these scripture references are explained in this book and you will find so many of them. These scriptures are so well described by the author and it has increased my understanding to a whole new level.
I also very much respect that every single thing in this book is described in a way that it doesn't take away from the sacredness of the temple and everything in the book is appropriate to talk about. My understanding has increased tons, and I love reading a little part then going to the temple to see it, learn it, and really feel it in my heart, and then I come back and read a little more.
This book is perfect for all ages and it doesn't matter how much or how little experience with the temple you have, I think everyone will find something valuable to them in this book.
August 14, 2015
This is a book for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to use to understand the covenants they make in the temple better.
I thought I understood things better than I actually do. This is a great resource to read again and again. There are many scriptural references and stories to back the author's ideas up, as well as personal experiences that really bring things into focus and make it easier to apply to myself. I especially enjoyed the chapters that pertain more to what's going on in my life right at this moment because I was able to gain more insight as to the direction I need to go.
Each chapter is formatted in a way that digs deeper into why we do what we do and what it all really means. I loved that at the end of each chapter, there is a homework assignment given and it's not simple. There are usually several things a person needs to do to fully commit to and begin to understand what is being taught. I'm looking forward to reading this again and taking the time to really integrate these ideas into my life.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
I thought I understood things better than I actually do. This is a great resource to read again and again. There are many scriptural references and stories to back the author's ideas up, as well as personal experiences that really bring things into focus and make it easier to apply to myself. I especially enjoyed the chapters that pertain more to what's going on in my life right at this moment because I was able to gain more insight as to the direction I need to go.
Each chapter is formatted in a way that digs deeper into why we do what we do and what it all really means. I loved that at the end of each chapter, there is a homework assignment given and it's not simple. There are usually several things a person needs to do to fully commit to and begin to understand what is being taught. I'm looking forward to reading this again and taking the time to really integrate these ideas into my life.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
August 10, 2015
4 STARS
This is book intended for LDS audience about Temples. With a lot of sources about the Temples from scriptures, ensigns , conference talks and other books.
He treats the Temple ordinances with respect and sacredness. Gives a lot of information that I have not known or thought about with the history of covenants and Temples.
Also teaches you that the real teacher is God to listen to him and learn about him. That he will answer are prayers and teaches us. That he will always keep his covenants and promises if we do.
I know that I plan to go to temple and pay closer to so many things , with a prayer to understand more.
I could read this book many times to really learn more each time.
I was given this ebook to read by Cedar Fort Publishing and in return agreed to give a honest review of Understanding Your Endowment and be part of its blog tour.
This is book intended for LDS audience about Temples. With a lot of sources about the Temples from scriptures, ensigns , conference talks and other books.
He treats the Temple ordinances with respect and sacredness. Gives a lot of information that I have not known or thought about with the history of covenants and Temples.
Also teaches you that the real teacher is God to listen to him and learn about him. That he will answer are prayers and teaches us. That he will always keep his covenants and promises if we do.
I know that I plan to go to temple and pay closer to so many things , with a prayer to understand more.
I could read this book many times to really learn more each time.
I was given this ebook to read by Cedar Fort Publishing and in return agreed to give a honest review of Understanding Your Endowment and be part of its blog tour.
September 10, 2015
This was a great book for me at a time when I felt I had stalled out in my growth through temple attendance. The author presents a primer to stimulate your thinking, challenge your assumptions, and above all to ponder upon the temple. While a good launching point for someone going to the temple for the first time and something I wish I would have read 15 years ago, it's also a good jump-start or rut-buster for longtime temple goers.
March 30, 2020
This is a Mormon book, with Mormon theology in it, so I’m sorry if it isn’t of interest to my other readers. But, it was definitely of interest to me.
For those who don’t understand, the endowment is the “ritual” of ordinances and covenants we make the first time we go through an LDS temple. A lot of it is very confusing to those who go through for the first time. Mainly, because we aren’t really sure what to expect. What happens in an LDS temple is personal and sacred dealing with our personal relationship with Christ and understanding His saving Grace and His plan for us on a deeper, more intimate level. Because of this sacredness, we don’t really discuss much about it outside of the temple–it’s sacred, not secret.
I, personally, received my endowment four years ago, a week before I got married. I have been through the temple numerous times since then, repeating these ordinances and watching a sister-in-law, a brother, and a sister go through their own endowments. Every single time I go, I experience and learn something new–that is the point of the endowment. However, it also happens to be a point of questioning for many. Many think it is too Mason-based, some think it is ridiculous, some don’t understand the deeper levels, etc. That is why I was really interested in reading this book. Although I will be the first to admit that I don’t understand everything about the endowment or the reasons behind it, I do feel pretty comfortable with it. I wasn’t necessarily confused the first time I went through. But, that is because I am very good with symbolism and its intertwining with history. It’s always been an interest of mine. Yet, this past year, I’ve been trying to understand my faith and beliefs on a deeper level. And that’s what I liked about this book. Jensen tries to peel back layer after layer and made you realize that each part of the endowment meant, symbolized, promised, and required numerous different things. It was real interesting to think of the endowment in some different ways I never had before. I suggest all Mormons read this book! Honestly, it should be part of Temple Prep curriculum!
For those who don’t understand, the endowment is the “ritual” of ordinances and covenants we make the first time we go through an LDS temple. A lot of it is very confusing to those who go through for the first time. Mainly, because we aren’t really sure what to expect. What happens in an LDS temple is personal and sacred dealing with our personal relationship with Christ and understanding His saving Grace and His plan for us on a deeper, more intimate level. Because of this sacredness, we don’t really discuss much about it outside of the temple–it’s sacred, not secret.
I, personally, received my endowment four years ago, a week before I got married. I have been through the temple numerous times since then, repeating these ordinances and watching a sister-in-law, a brother, and a sister go through their own endowments. Every single time I go, I experience and learn something new–that is the point of the endowment. However, it also happens to be a point of questioning for many. Many think it is too Mason-based, some think it is ridiculous, some don’t understand the deeper levels, etc. That is why I was really interested in reading this book. Although I will be the first to admit that I don’t understand everything about the endowment or the reasons behind it, I do feel pretty comfortable with it. I wasn’t necessarily confused the first time I went through. But, that is because I am very good with symbolism and its intertwining with history. It’s always been an interest of mine. Yet, this past year, I’ve been trying to understand my faith and beliefs on a deeper level. And that’s what I liked about this book. Jensen tries to peel back layer after layer and made you realize that each part of the endowment meant, symbolized, promised, and required numerous different things. It was real interesting to think of the endowment in some different ways I never had before. I suggest all Mormons read this book! Honestly, it should be part of Temple Prep curriculum!
December 3, 2018
I'm very glad I've come upon this book. It gives me a little nudge into how to seek for greater understanding of temple service. Two heads are better than one as the saying goes. The book, for me was like a sounding board, as it awakened some of the questions I've pondered over for many years and now because of this read, I feel that I know in what direction to go in finding answers to some of my long held questions. Perhaps one very loose analogy that could be used; we are like having once lived on Krpton. Jorel is our Father and one day we will be able to return to live there but we must Live by Faith, attain a Hope & develop the attributes of Charity towards one another, live out our lives striving to become like Jorel. The Temple is like our Finishing school that is preparing us to be further schooled in the higher realms of Krypton whence we someday will return. Oh, well, this sort of works for me. I do realize there are layers upon layer to what we can learn while serving in the Temples of the Last Days. As proxies we are contributing to a great work of helping those departed Spirits toward their progress to Salvation. Perhaps there is no greater work on Earth... Cheers!
February 14, 2020
I didn’t have the benefit of books like this when I received my endowment, admittedly the only preparation I had was my expertise in the Old Testament (which continues to serve me well) and the advice of my bishop to study the Book of Moses. I’ve possibly attended over 100 endowment sessions in the 3.5 years since I took out my endowment (most of those in the past year thanks to working less than a half hour away from the nearest temple), and you won’t always get something out of each session. But books like this help you to understand the covenants you’re making better and the symbols you’ll see in the temple. Not every experience in the temple will feel like the heavens opening or will give you the answers you urgently seek for (but some will!), but this book and proper spiritual preparation will prepare you to have a positive experience your first time in the temple and will help you develop a testimony of temple work and ordinances for the living and dead.
April 22, 2019
This is not a long book. I'm not sure why it took me so long to get through. It was a very enlightening read. Not everything was new to me, but there were some deep insights that changed how I view a few things. It also reinforced a lot of what I had just read in Following the Light of Christ into His Presence by John Pontius, and a lot of what I feel I have been being taught by the Spirit about--learning by the Spirit. I need to read this again, possibly more quickly to form a more cohesive picture of what he's saying. I would recommend this book to endowed members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Though it is targeted towards those who are already endowed, I think some of the material is wonderful preparation for those who are preparing to receive their endowment. The footnotes were quite interesting and provide a good spring board for further study.
February 25, 2023
Wow, I am so glad I read this book. I learned so much. It didn’t answer all of my specific questions about the temple ordinances, but it did help me prepare my mind and heart so that I won’t be so frustrated/confused next time I do temple work. It helped me understand some parts of the Old Testament which had never made sense to me before, it helped me notice and appreciate symbolism throughout the scriptures, it helped me feel even more thankful for my Savior and more inspired to become like Him.
I’m so impressed by how organized and well thought-out this book is. The author has done a great job of both simplifying gospel principles and expounding upon them. Reading this book was definitely a spiritual experience for me and I’m excited to keep going back to the temple throughout my life!
I’m so impressed by how organized and well thought-out this book is. The author has done a great job of both simplifying gospel principles and expounding upon them. Reading this book was definitely a spiritual experience for me and I’m excited to keep going back to the temple throughout my life!
August 1, 2018
I wish I had loved this book more. Parts of it really touched me, but others just didn't connect. I feel like a lot of that is my fault, the place my mind was in while I was reading (one night I was in a really bad mood), etc. I jotted down a couple of pages of notes, and intend to read over them before the next time I go to the temple.
I find that my notes are mostly from the first half of the book with its discussion of temple symbolism. Some of Jensen's examples seemed a bit stretched (I felt like I was back in English class discussing literature, when I often doubted authors intended the meanings we gave their metaphors), but many were very valuable for me.
Anyway, 4 stars for good content. Maybe it would have been a 5 if I could have been more in tune.
I find that my notes are mostly from the first half of the book with its discussion of temple symbolism. Some of Jensen's examples seemed a bit stretched (I felt like I was back in English class discussing literature, when I often doubted authors intended the meanings we gave their metaphors), but many were very valuable for me.
Anyway, 4 stars for good content. Maybe it would have been a 5 if I could have been more in tune.
October 18, 2025
The book is fairly short, but contains a lot of information. I loved the historical context about covenants that makes up the first half of the book - definitely five star material! I made a lot of highlights which I plan to reread. I also liked the action items at the end of the chapters. The last few chapters seemed more like a sermon on why it's important to keep the commandments - no new information for Latter Day Saints who attend the temple. While I didn't find the last half helpful, the information at the beginning makes the book worth buying in my opinion. I've recommended it to several friends.
October 21, 2017
The author says, "Part of the beauty of the temple’s ordinances and teaching lies in the fact that the Lord can personalize them to whatever stage we are at in our individual growth. The path to understanding requires time, effort, and experience. Sometimes it may seem a bit overwhelming. We may need some help, or at least a foundation from which to begin.
The intent of this book is to help lay that foundation and enrich your temple experience. It is written for believing Latter-day Saints who would like to better understand their own temple endowment."
The intent of this book is to help lay that foundation and enrich your temple experience. It is written for believing Latter-day Saints who would like to better understand their own temple endowment."
March 21, 2023
I loved this book so much! I loved the templeand loved how my mind was expanded in these pages! I love this quote at the end of the book "Religion isn't just a set of moral guidelines and rules, important as they may be. Nor is it merely congregational worship, meeting, and sets of ordinances, important as those may be. At the heart of it all is our own experience with God. It is coming to know Him, experiencing the mighty change of heart, and becoming like him! "
October 19, 2017
Great Book
This book is clearly for members of the LDS church have already received the temp on downman. By reading it and riches the meaning of the Temple increasing our learning each time we go I definitely recommend reading this book if you are Temple goer or if you want to get more out of the Temple and get closer to God
This book is clearly for members of the LDS church have already received the temp on downman. By reading it and riches the meaning of the Temple increasing our learning each time we go I definitely recommend reading this book if you are Temple goer or if you want to get more out of the Temple and get closer to God
April 28, 2020
A very solid preparation for or explanation of the temple experience.
A good book for those preparing to attend the temple for their first experience. Also excellent for the member who has attended the temple, but believes he or she "missed something". Plenty of scriptural and doctrinal insights.
A good book for those preparing to attend the temple for their first experience. Also excellent for the member who has attended the temple, but believes he or she "missed something". Plenty of scriptural and doctrinal insights.
May 6, 2017
Gives great ideas about the symbolism of the temple experience while appropriately keeping sacred things sacred. It has given me more to study and ponder before going to the temple again to help make the experience more enlightening and meaningful.
June 16, 2017
A wonderful guide that provides greater understanding and emphasizes the importance of more completely implementing your endowment in your daily life as you continue on your mortal journey and work towards exaltation.
July 5, 2018
If you are an endowed member of the LDS Church, do not hesitate to read this book! It will help you understand so many of the concepts used in the temple from a historical and practical standpoint, making your temple visits so much more meaningful! I highly recommend it!
July 29, 2019
Great Book
This book has helped my understanding grow so much along with my love for the temple and the Savior. I recommend this book for all. It helps me understand the Temple and covenants at a while other level.
This book has helped my understanding grow so much along with my love for the temple and the Savior. I recommend this book for all. It helps me understand the Temple and covenants at a while other level.
April 22, 2020
I love the temple and I learned A LOT from this book. The book pointed out some concepts and symbols I have pondered in the past and helped me realize how profound and deep our endowment is. I plan on going back and revisiting this book again in the future.
January 8, 2021
Very enlightening. It took me many many months to get through it, even without access to the temple given the pandemic. I look forward to (a) temples reopening (b) more time to go, given my young children and (c) owning a copy I can write in and insert notes.
September 4, 2024
A little outside the norm, but not too much out there.
Some really nice ideas, great food for thought.
I liked his idea of the tokens lining up with four gifts 1. The Light of Christ 2. Baptism of Fire and the Holy Ghost 3. Calling and Election Made Sure 4. Second Comforter
Some really nice ideas, great food for thought.
I liked his idea of the tokens lining up with four gifts 1. The Light of Christ 2. Baptism of Fire and the Holy Ghost 3. Calling and Election Made Sure 4. Second Comforter
May 15, 2025
A good book for helping to expand your knowledge of the temple. This is more aimed at active, endowed members of the church, but those who are preparing may also find really good knowledge and advice throughout the pages.
June 20, 2017
Fabulous in-depth book
November 4, 2017
A book on the temple intended for an LDS audience. I liked learning about the history of temples and covenants and found much food for thought.
December 30, 2017
Fantastic book. So many great insights! I already want to read it again!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews