The House of the Lord: A Study of Holy Sanctuaries Ancient and Modern

"The House of the Lord: A Study of Holy Sanctuaries Ancient and Modern" by James E. Talmage is an investigation into temples, mainly focusing on those in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that compares current temple customs to those of ancient holy places from the perspective of the early 20th century. It sheds light on the doctrines and procedures around modern temples while making connections to ancient sanctuaries, and begins by declaring Latter-day Saints as important temple builders, echoing ancient Israel. It explains his study, suggesting a strong interest in why temples are built and the meaning behind the rites performed there, and attempts to give real information about modern temples and a history of old sanctuaries for comparisons. The beginning prepares readers for a detailed look at the beliefs and rituals linked to both ancient and modern religious practices.