In today's world an increasing number of Latter-day Saints are encountering anti-Mormon material. Since most members don't have all the answers at their fingertips, LDS-critical claims can be unsettling or can create doubt. Some arguments have caused a few members-- even active members with strong testimonies-- to lose their faith.
Backed by extensive research and decades of experience dealing with anti-Mormon allegations, Michael Ash explores how we can be both rational thinkers and devout believers.
This second edition of Ash’s widely popular book includes more than 50 additional pages of material that includes highlights from scholarly studies that support the Book of Mormon and Book of Abraham, more discussion on the emotional and mental distress that frequently accompanies faith-based challenges, and a brand new chapter on race issues and the Church. The new edition also includes more discussion on DNA science and archaeology and how they relate to Book of Mormon studies.
Divided into two sections, the first half of Shaken Faith Syndrome engages the turmoil members might experience when they discover claims that seem to challenge their core beliefs. This first section also presents basic and important principles that can be utilized by struggling members in their quest to understand such discoveries in light of modern scholarship, science, and their own religious convictions.
The second half of Shaken Faith Syndrome incorporates the principles outlined in the first half of the book and addresses seventeen specific categories of LDS-critical accusations and includes over eighty sub-topics within those categories. Topics such as Book of Mormon anachronisms, Joseph Smith’s First Vision, Plural Marriage, Lamanite Identity, the Temple and Masonry, and more are all covered within the second half of this book.
Reviews of the first edition:
"This will no doubt turn out to be one of the most important books for LDS members with questions.... In my view this is a watershed publication." (Dr. Brian Hauglid, associate professor of ancient scripture, BYU: co-editor, Traditions About the Early Life of Abraham.)
"Every person... worried about their faith-- or the faith of a love done-- should be told about this book. This book should stay in print permanently ,with new editions as need." (Larry C. Morris, MA American Literature, BYU; former assistant editor to the Ensign; co-editor, Oliver Cowdery: Scribe, Elder, Witness.)
"...every bishop in the Church should have a copy of this book to aid them in dealing with challenges to the faith." (Bill Beardall, owner and operator, The Gospel Doctrine Class Blog.)
"...frankly brilliant book... ranks among the most important books I've ever read... written in an intelligent and engaging tone... highly recommended and is, in my opinion, a must-own for every gospel library." (Jonathan Decker, Meridian Magazine.)
