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

by Matthew B. Brown

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.

Genres: Religion, Lds, Church, Nonfiction

342 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 1999

About the author

Matthew B. Brown (1964–2011) was an author and historian whose emphasis was on the history and doctrine of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young. He wrote several books published by Covenant Communications, and also published articles for the Neal A. Maxwell Institute of Religious Scholarship at BYU and FAIR (now FairMormon).

source: about the author in "Ancient Temple Worship"

Reviews

[Rob · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was really cool. It's deep and not necessarily a fun read, but very informational. It explains in detail the uses of the Jewish temple through old testament and new testament times. It explains symbolism, meaning, and goes into some speculation but keeps things fairly factual. The author then proceeds to address the LDS temple in modern day times and ends with some amazing personal accounts from early church members about temple work.

[Devin · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most insightful books I've ever read. The whole beginning talks about all this really amazing doctrine and then the end gives all these evidences that the only way Joseph Smith could have instituted the temple ordinances was through direct revelation. It totally strengthened my testimony.

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A deeply researched, respectful and engrossing account of ancient Hebrew and Christian rites associated with temples. Books like this don't come along very often."

[Ashley Phelan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow...did I really only start this in April? It feels like I've been reading it for years. It was a great read and gave me a lot to think about and new ways of viewing the symbolism of the temple. I loved learning more about the tabernacle and seeing how it mirrored modern-day temples. I'm just not very motivated to read this type of non-fiction and the information was pretty dense so it took me a long time to plod through the whole thing.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

The notes at the end of the chapter are just as good as the main body. I loved them. I am so sad that Matt Brown passed away. He was a bright light in a darkened world.

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been reading this book for a long time! It’s deep and dense and worth the time to digest.

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent

[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Came highly recommended and did not disappoint. Gained greater insight and understanding. Well written and documented with excellent quotes.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

So many insights and everything he said just made so much sense to me. The first temple the garden of Eden? Never thought of it that way but loved the idea. I thought he was brillant and can't wait to read more books by Matthew Brown.
Sometimes reading the notes at the end of the chapter was even more fascinating than the stuff inside the chapter.
Couple of thoughts on youth and the temple that gave me some pause for thought,
page 282
"The temple is a sacred place, and the ordinances in the temple are of a sacred character. Because of its sacredness we are sometimes reluctant to say anything about the temple to our children and granchildren.
As a consequence, many do not develop a real desire to go the the temple, or when they go there, they do so without much background to prepare them for the obligations and covenants they enter into.
I believe a proper understanding or background will immeasurably prepare our youth for the temple. ". Ezra Taft Benson
John Widtsoe on page 283
"We should give more attention to preparing out young people and some of the older people, for the work they are to do in the temple...It is not quite fair to let the young girl or young man enter the temple unprepared, unwarned, if you choose, with no explanation of the glorious possiblities of the first fine day in the temple."

We spend so much time talking about "covenants, two way promises" in our discussion with children but I think we need to talk more about blessings, because my experience is, I promise to do certain things and he blesses me so much more than I expected or that I have a right to deserve. Surely he is a generous God.
Thanks Tanya for a "goodread."

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some extraordinarily interesting insights in this book about the origin and pattern of temple worship throughout history. I read it through quickly, but would probably benefit from many more slower, in-depth readings accompanied by regular temple worship. The notes at the end of each chapter are sometimes more interesting than what is written in the chapter itself. It left me with a desire to continue my study of temples throughout history in an effort to enhance my understanding of the symbols there.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heavy tome of insights and knowledge about the temple. It covers things from the biblical temples, the temple in heaven, and the restoration temples to the symbolism and spirituality of the temple ordinances. A wonderful resource I'd like to have on my shelf, and don't forget to skim the notes at the end of each chapter--they are wonderful.

[Doris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I plan on buying this one. I think it is a much more accessible and productively consolidated collection of a lot of Nibley's valuable stuff. I really enjoyed reading it and would like to go back to it again and again, which is why I will buy it.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a scholarly and complete treatise on the Temple. While it is very interesting, it takes a lot of effort to go back and forth checking the footnotes. It is worth it, but plan on spending some serious study time.

[Joe Spencer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of good information, but if you've read Nibley, you won't be surprised by much.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting. Learned much. Symbols in Stone is excellent, as well.

[Marielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Archeological, prophetic, multi-cultural, sriptural, apochraphal and anecdotal insights about the temple from Adam to modern day. Scholarly, yet easy to follow. Highly recommended.

[Nedra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though at times a little tedious this book offers lds readers insight into the temple and can enlighten for good.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most insightful book I've ever read on temples. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who has a desire to learn more about the Lord's house.

[Michelle Smart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely imperative for every Latter-day Saint to read. This expanded my understanding of the temple and inspired me to more fully live my covenants. I cannot praise this book enough.