Ancient Temple Imagery in the Sermons of Jacob

by David E. Bokovoy

Overview

Abstract: This essay makes a compelling argument for Jacob, the brother of Nephi, having deep knowledge of ancient Israelite temple ritual, concepts, and imagery, based on two of Jacob's sermons in 2 Nephi 9 and Jacob 1-3. For instance, he discusses the duty of the priest to expiate sin and make atonement before the Lord and of entering God's presence. Jacob quotes temple-related verses from the Old Testament, like Psalm 95. The allusions to the temple are not forced, but very subtle. Of course, Jacob's central topic, the atonement, is a temple topic itself, and its opposite, impurity, is also expressed by Jacob in terms familiar and central to an ancient temple priest. The temple is also shown as a gate to heaven.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940162343684
Publisher:	Interpreter Foundation
Publication date:	06/28/2021
Series:	Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship , #46
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Sales rank:	914,425
File size:	113 KB

About the Author

David Bokovoy holds a Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible and the Ancient Near East from Brandeis University. A former LDS chaplain at Harvard University, Dr. Bokovoy has taught for many years in the Church’s Seminaries and Institute program. He is the father of four children and is married to the former Carolyn Bird.