I have recently discovered that some of my writings on the Seal of Melchizedek (in which I have written five posts: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) have been utilized in a recently self-published work entitled Melchizedek's Seal & Scroll, by Alan Rex Mitchell. The author provides the following summarization of his book:
Multiple Melchizedek associations are brought together in this illuminating book; originating with the popular Seal of Melchizedek as a symbol for rebirth, resurrection, and righteousness, and culminating in the Dead Sea Scroll named Melchizedek. Using ancient sources from Coptic Christianity, 2nd Enoch, Joseph Smith, and the prophets Alma and Daniel, the narrative leads to the Scroll's prophecy of the King of Righteousness in the last days.The book is broader in scope then the necessarily limited nature of my posts that he cites, nevertheless, I appreciate that the author has taken notice of my writings and incorporated some of this material into his discussion of the Seal of Melchizedek. It appears that the majority of the book focuses on DSS 11Q13, frequently referred to as the Melchizedek Document of the Dead Sea Scrolls, and some other canonical and non-canonical writings. The link to Amazon above will allow any interested parties to preview the book's contents.
Good quote used by Mitchell relevant to the Eucharist and Catholic prayer (pg 13) - which seems to be an inference to the St. Apollinaire in Classe Ravenna mosaic:
ReplyDelete"Deign to regard with gracious and kindly attention and hold acceptable, as You deigned to accept the offerings of Abel, Your just servant, and the sacrifice of Abraham our Patriarch, and that which Your high priest Melchisedech offered to You, a holy Sacrifice and a spotless victim. Most humbly we implore You, Almighty God, bid these offerings to be brought by the hands of Your Holy Angel to Your sublime altar, before the face of Your Divine Majesty."
Chapter 4 includes good discussion regarding the icon's symbolism. Brother Gaskill did a good job identifying possible interpretations in his article published in Religious Educator, Brother Mitchell does a great job expounding on some of these same themes and identifying additional meanings. Mitchell's discussion on synchronicity seems especially relevant considering the emergence of this symbol in LDS iconography, and the abundance of discussion now taking place.
ReplyDeleteApparently the author, along with Ernest Lehenbauer have co-written/published a little booklet on the Seal here:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.amazon.com/Seal-Melchizedek-Modern-Rebirth-Ancient/dp/0984275487/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1432749629&sr=1-1&keywords=melchizedek%27s+seal