Wrestling the Angel

Wrestling the Angel examines Mormon theology and traces its development through the teachings and writings of Joseph Smith and subsequent LDS leaders. The work focuses on key doctrinal elements including the nature of God, human potential, and the purpose of creation. The book places Mormon theological concepts in conversation with broader Christian traditions and philosophical frameworks. It chronicles how Mormon doctrine evolved from its 19th century origins through various phases of institutional and theological development. Author Terryl Givens draws on extensive primary sources and historical documents to analyze Mormon theological distinctives. The text moves systematically through major doctrinal topics while maintaining clear connections to their historical context. This academic work contributes to religious studies by presenting Mormon theology as a coherent system with both traditional Christian elements and radical departures. The exploration reveals tensions between revelation and systematic theology, and between institutional and folk beliefs.

Readers note the book's thorough research and academic approach to Mormon theology. They highlight how it connects Mormon beliefs to broader Christian and philosophical traditions, rather than treating them in isolation. Likes: - Detailed documentation and extensive footnotes - Places Mormon concepts in historical context - Accessible writing despite academic content - Addresses complex theological questions head-on Dislikes: - Dense academic tone can be challenging for casual readers - Some sections focus more on general Christian history than Mormon specifics - Price point is high for many readers ($45+) Ratings: Goodreads: 4.28/5 (145 ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (66 ratings) One reader called it "the most comprehensive treatment of Mormon theology to date." Another noted it "fills a major gap in Mormon studies." Critics mentioned it "reads like a textbook" and "gets bogged down in technical theological debates." The majority of negative reviews focus on readability rather than content accuracy.

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The Mormon Jesus by John G. Turner This study analyzes the distinctive Mormon understanding of Christ through doctrinal development across two centuries.

By the Hand of Mormon by Terryl L. Givens The text examines the Book of Mormon's role in Mormon thought and its place in American religious and literary history.

Joseph Smith: The Making of a Prophet by Dan Vogel This biographical study explores Smith's early religious experiences and the cultural environment that shaped Mormon theological foundations.

🔹 Wrestling the Angel is part one of a two-volume study of Mormon theology, with the second volume titled Feeding the Flock, examining the practical aspects of Mormon religious life. 🔹 Author Terryl Givens grew up as a Catholic before converting to Mormonism while studying at Brigham Young University, giving him a unique perspective on Mormon theology from both insider and outsider viewpoints. 🔹 The book traces the development of Mormon thought back to unexpected sources, including Cambridge Platonists, German Romantics, and medieval Jewish mystics. 🔹 The title "Wrestling the Angel" references Jacob's biblical struggle with an angel in Genesis 32, symbolizing humanity's complex relationship with the divine and the physical nature of spiritual experiences in Mormon theology. 🔹 Despite being published by Oxford University Press and written for a broader academic audience, the book has become influential within Mormon circles as one of the most comprehensive examinations of LDS theological development.