The Oxford Handbook of Mormonism

The Oxford Handbook of Mormonism is a comprehensive academic reference work examining the history, theology, and culture of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The volume contains contributions from multiple scholars across various disciplines, providing analysis of Mormon beliefs, practices, and institutional development. The handbook covers topics ranging from Mormon scripture and revelation to gender roles, politics, and international expansion. It includes sections on Mormon arts, intellectual life, and the faith's relationship with other religious traditions and the broader American society. Through its collection of essays, the handbook presents both insider and outsider perspectives on Mormonism, offering context for understanding this distinctly American religious movement. The work serves as a resource for scholars, students, and readers interested in religious studies and American history. The volume represents an intersection between traditional Mormon scholarship and contemporary academic methodologies, highlighting the evolution of Mormon studies as a field of serious academic inquiry. Its analytical approach balances respect for faith claims with rigorous scholarly examination.

Readers describe this academic handbook as a comprehensive collection of Mormon studies scholarship from multiple perspectives. The reviews appear limited given the book's academic/reference nature. What readers liked: - Depth of research and academic rigor - Inclusion of both believing Mormon and non-Mormon scholars - Coverage of historical, theological, and cultural topics - Clear organization by theme What readers disliked: - High price point ($150+) limits accessibility - Some essays use dense academic language - A few readers noted uneven quality between chapters Ratings: Goodreads: 4.19/5 (16 ratings, 2 reviews) Amazon: 4.7/5 (11 ratings, 6 reviews) One reviewer on Amazon noted: "This collection represents the current state of Mormon studies from multiple disciplinary perspectives." Another called it "the most thorough academic treatment of Mormonism to date." Several reviewers recommended it specifically for academic libraries and serious scholars rather than general readers.

The Mormon People: The Making of an American Faith by Matthew Bowman A chronological examination of Mormon history, theology, and cultural development from its founding to modern times.

Mormon America: The Power and the Promise by Richard N. Ostling, Joan K. Ostling A comprehensive analysis of Mormon institutions, beliefs, and the church's influence in American society.

By the Hand of Mormon: The American Scripture that Launched a New World Religion by Terryl L. Givens An exploration of the Book of Mormon's role in religious history and its impact on Mormon theology.

Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling by Richard L. Bushman A biographical study of Mormonism's founder that places his life in historical and theological context.

The Mormon Experience: A History of the Latter-Day Saints by Leonard J. Arrington A scholarly examination of Mormon history that covers social, economic, and doctrinal developments.

🔹 The Oxford Handbook of Mormonism (2015) represents one of the most comprehensive academic treatments of the Mormon faith, covering topics from theology and history to politics and culture. 🔹 Co-editor Terryl Givens is known for bridging Mormon and secular scholarship, and has written several influential books about Mormon theology, including "Wrestling the Angel" and "By the Hand of Mormon." 🔹 The handbook features contributions from 45 different scholars, both Mormon and non-Mormon, providing diverse perspectives on the faith and its practices. 🔹 The book addresses controversial topics that are rarely discussed in traditional Mormon literature, including race relations, feminist interpretations, and the evolution of Mormon doctrine. 🔹 Co-editor Philip Barlow was the first professor to hold the Leonard J. Arrington Chair of Mormon History and Culture at Utah State University, named after the renowned Mormon historian.