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The God Who Weeps

The God Who Weeps

How Mormonism Makes Sense of Life
by Terryl L. Givens 2012 160 pages
4.33
3k+ ratings
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Key Takeaways

1. God's Nature: A Personal Entity with Profound Empathy

"The God of Heaven looked upon the residue of the people, and He wept; and Enoch bore record of it, saying: How is it that the heavens weep, and shed forth their tears as the rain upon the mountains?"

God feels our pain. The authors present a vision of God as a deeply empathetic being who genuinely experiences sorrow and joy alongside His creations. This perspective challenges traditional notions of an impassive deity, instead portraying a God who is personally invested in the human experience.

Vulnerability as strength. The concept of a weeping God demonstrates divine vulnerability, which paradoxically becomes a source of strength and connection. This vulnerability allows for a more intimate relationship between God and humanity, fostering a sense of kinship and shared experience.

Implications for human behavior. Understanding God's empathetic nature encourages humans to develop similar qualities of compassion and emotional engagement. It suggests that our capacity for empathy and vulnerability is not a weakness, but a reflection of the divine nature within us.

2. Premortal Existence: Our Eternal Identity and Purpose

"Man was also in the beginning with God. Intelligence, or the light of truth, was not created or made, neither indeed can be."

Eternal identity. The concept of premortal existence posits that human souls have an eternal past, existing before birth in a spiritual realm. This idea provides a framework for understanding human purpose and potential beyond the confines of mortal life.

Divine lineage. By asserting our premortal existence, the authors suggest a direct kinship with God, positioning humans as spiritual offspring with inherent divine qualities and potential.

Implications for mortal life:

  • Sense of purpose and direction
  • Explanation for innate moral compass and spiritual yearnings
  • Foundation for understanding human agency and accountability

3. Mortality as Ascent: The Fall as Fortunate and Necessary

"Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy."

Reframing the Fall. The authors present a radical reinterpretation of the traditional Christian view of the Fall, positioning it as a necessary and positive step in human progression rather than a cosmic tragedy.

Growth through experience. This perspective views mortality as an ascent rather than a descent, emphasizing the importance of embodied experience in developing godly attributes and understanding.

Key aspects of this view:

  • Mortality as a school for spiritual development
  • Challenges and opposition as essential for growth
  • The body as a tool for learning and progression, not a prison for the soul
  • Sin as a necessary part of the learning process, not an irredeemable stain

4. Universal Salvation: God's Plan for Exaltation of All

"This is the father's will . . . that of all which He hath given me I should lose nothing."

God's expansive love. The authors argue for a view of salvation that extends to all of God's children, challenging traditional notions of limited salvation or predestination.

Ongoing opportunities for growth. This perspective suggests that the work of salvation continues beyond death, providing opportunities for learning and progression in the afterlife.

Implications of universal salvation:

  • Emphasis on God's mercy and love over justice and punishment
  • Reframing of missionary work and temple ordinances for the dead
  • A more optimistic view of human potential and divine purpose

5. Relationships: The Core of Heavenly Existence

"There shall be mine abode, and it shall be Zion, which shall come forth out of all the creations which I have made; and for the space of a thousand years the earth shall rest."

Relational nature of divinity. The authors posit that relationships are fundamental to God's nature and, by extension, to the nature of heaven and eternal life.

Continuity of earthly bonds. This view suggests that the relationships we form and nurture in mortality have eternal significance, forming the basis of our heavenly experience.

Key aspects of heavenly relationships:

  • Family ties extending beyond mortality
  • Friendships and communities as eternal structures
  • Love as the fundamental force of creation and exaltation

6. Agency and Accountability: The Path to Spiritual Growth

"Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection."

Freedom to choose. The authors emphasize the centrality of moral agency in God's plan, positioning it as essential for genuine spiritual growth and character development.

Consequences as teachers. This perspective views the consequences of our choices as integral to the learning process, rather than purely as rewards or punishments.

Key elements of agency and accountability:

  • Premortal choice to participate in mortality
  • Ongoing choices shaping our eternal identity
  • Repentance as a process of realignment and growth
  • The Atonement as enabling meaningful choice and change

7. Zion: Building Heaven on Earth Through Loving Relationships

"The Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them."

Heaven as a collaborative project. The authors present the concept of Zion as a divine-human partnership in creating heaven on earth, emphasizing the active role of humans in this process.

Practical spirituality. This view encourages a focus on building loving relationships and just communities as the essence of spiritual practice, rather than solely on individual salvation.

Key aspects of building Zion:

  • Unity of heart and mind among believers
  • Economic and social justice as spiritual imperatives
  • Practical application of Christ-like love in daily life
  • The family as a microcosm of Zion

8. Atonement: Christ's Sacrifice as the Key to Reconciliation

"By his bruises we are healed."

Expansive view of Atonement. The authors present Christ's Atonement as a cosmic act of healing and reconciliation, extending beyond mere forgiveness of sins.

Enabling change. This perspective sees the Atonement as empowering individuals to make meaningful changes and progress eternally, rather than simply wiping away guilt.

Key aspects of the Atonement:

  • Christ's perfect empathy through shared suffering
  • Breaking the cycle of sin and enabling new choices
  • Reconciling justice and mercy in God's plan
  • Ongoing application throughout eternity

9. Eternal Progression: Continual Growth and Learning in Heaven

"Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection."

Dynamic afterlife. The authors propose a view of heaven as a place of ongoing growth, learning, and progression, rather than a static state of bliss.

Continuity with mortal life. This perspective suggests that the knowledge, relationships, and character developed in mortality form the foundation for eternal progression.

Key aspects of eternal progression:

  • Ongoing learning and development of divine attributes
  • Expansion of knowledge across all fields of study
  • Deepening and creation of relationships
  • Increasing capacity for joy and love
  • Potential for continued creative and generative activity

Last updated:

FAQ

What's "The God Who Weeps" about?

  • Exploration of Mormonism: The book delves into how Mormon theology provides a framework for understanding life's mysteries and challenges.
  • Divine Compassion: It emphasizes the concept of a God who is deeply compassionate and emotionally involved with humanity.
  • Human Experience: The authors explore themes of preexistence, the purpose of life, and the potential for joy and growth through a Mormon lens.
  • Universal Appeal: While rooted in Mormon beliefs, the book offers insights applicable to people of various faiths who ponder the nature of God and human existence.

Why should I read "The God Who Weeps"?

  • Unique Perspective: It provides a fresh perspective on Mormon teachings, focusing on a compassionate and emotionally engaged God.
  • Intellectual and Emotional Depth: The book combines theological reflection with personal insights, making it both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.
  • Broader Understanding: It offers a broader understanding of how Mormonism interprets life's purpose and challenges, which can be enlightening for both Mormons and non-Mormons.
  • Inspiration and Reflection: Readers are encouraged to reflect on their own beliefs and the nature of divine compassion, potentially leading to personal growth and inspiration.

What are the key takeaways of "The God Who Weeps"?

  • God's Compassion: The book emphasizes that God is deeply compassionate, feeling joy and sorrow alongside humanity.
  • Preexistence and Purpose: It discusses the belief in a pre-mortal existence and the purpose of life as a journey of growth and joy.
  • Human Freedom and Responsibility: The authors highlight the importance of human agency and the moral responsibility that comes with it.
  • Universal Salvation: The book suggests a hopeful view of salvation, where God's love and grace extend to all, with few exceptions.

How does "The God Who Weeps" explain the concept of a weeping God?

  • Emotional Engagement: The book portrays God as emotionally engaged with humanity, capable of feeling deep sorrow and joy.
  • Scriptural Basis: It draws on scriptural narratives, such as the story of Enoch, to illustrate God's capacity for empathy and compassion.
  • Vulnerability of Love: The authors argue that God's love makes Him vulnerable to the pain and suffering of His creations.
  • Divine Suffering: This concept challenges traditional views of an impassive deity, suggesting that God's suffering is a testament to His profound love.

What is the significance of preexistence in "The God Who Weeps"?

  • Eternal Identity: The book posits that humans have an eternal past, existing as spirits before birth, which shapes their identity and purpose.
  • Moral Freedom: Preexistence is linked to the idea of moral freedom, suggesting that humans are free agents responsible for their choices.
  • Divine Relationship: It emphasizes a pre-mortal relationship with God, who chose to guide and nurture human spirits.
  • Purposeful Life: The concept of preexistence provides a framework for understanding life's challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

How does "The God Who Weeps" address the problem of evil and suffering?

  • Educational Purpose: The book suggests that life's challenges and suffering are part of a divine educational process for spiritual growth.
  • Human Agency: It emphasizes the role of human agency in creating conditions of suffering, rather than attributing them solely to divine will.
  • Divine Compassion: God's compassion is highlighted as a response to human suffering, with His tears symbolizing shared pain.
  • Hopeful Resolution: The authors propose that suffering can lead to greater understanding and joy, aligning with God's ultimate plan for humanity.

What role does human agency play in "The God Who Weeps"?

  • Moral Responsibility: Human agency is central to the book's message, highlighting the responsibility individuals have for their choices.
  • Freedom to Choose: The authors argue that true freedom involves the ability to choose between good and evil, shaping one's destiny.
  • Consequences of Actions: The book stresses that actions have consequences, which are integral to the process of learning and growth.
  • Divine Support: While humans are free to choose, God's grace and support are available to help them navigate their moral journey.

How does "The God Who Weeps" view salvation?

  • Universal Reach: The book presents a hopeful view of salvation, suggesting that God's love and grace extend to all, with few exceptions.
  • Process of Growth: Salvation is seen as a process of growth and transformation, rather than a one-time event.
  • Role of Christ's Atonement: Christ's atonement is central to the possibility of salvation, offering a way to overcome sin and achieve spiritual progress.
  • Human Participation: Individuals are encouraged to actively participate in their salvation through repentance and righteous living.

What are the best quotes from "The God Who Weeps" and what do they mean?

  • "The God of heaven looked upon the residue of the people, and He wept." This quote illustrates the book's central theme of a compassionate, emotionally engaged God.
  • "We are, as reflective, thinking, pondering seekers, much like the proverbial ass of Buridan." This highlights the human struggle with choice and the importance of deliberate decision-making.
  • "Our natural affections . . . are the cement of all virtuous and heavenly society." This emphasizes the importance of love and relationships in achieving a heavenly state.
  • "Sin is behovely, but all shall be well." This suggests that sin and suffering are necessary for growth, but ultimately, God's plan will lead to joy and fulfillment.

How does "The God Who Weeps" interpret the story of Adam and Eve?

  • Choice and Growth: The book interprets the story as a choice between competing goods, leading to growth and greater understanding.
  • Courageous Decision: Eve's decision to eat the fruit is seen as a courageous step towards wisdom and experience, rather than a simple transgression.
  • Temporary Exile: The authors suggest that the exile from Eden is a temporary stage in a larger plan for human development.
  • Hopeful Outcome: The story is framed as a precursor to eventual joy and divine likeness, rather than a permanent fall from grace.

What is the role of relationships in "The God Who Weeps"?

  • Core of Existence: Relationships are portrayed as central to human existence and the divine nature, reflecting God's relational being.
  • Heavenly Society: The book envisions heaven as a continuation and perfection of earthly relationships, emphasizing love and unity.
  • Family and Community: It highlights the importance of family and community as models for divine relationships and eternal connections.
  • Path to Perfection: Relationships are seen as the environment in which virtues are developed and perfected, leading to spiritual growth.

How does "The God Who Weeps" address doubt and belief?

  • Faith and Doubt: The book acknowledges the coexistence of faith and doubt, suggesting that both are part of the human experience.
  • Meaningful Choice: It argues that doubt can lead to more meaningful choices and a deeper understanding of faith.
  • Divine Patience: God's patience and willingness to support individuals in their journey of belief are emphasized.
  • Hopeful Perspective: The authors encourage readers to embrace doubt as an opportunity for growth and to seek divine help in overcoming unbelief.

Review Summary

4.33 out of 5
Average of 3k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

The God Who Weeps explores Mormon theology, presenting a compassionate God who weeps for humanity. Reviewers praise its eloquent writing, academic approach, and ability to address complex faith issues. Many find it inspiring and paradigm-shifting, appreciating its incorporation of diverse sources beyond LDS leaders. Some criticize its philosophical style and occasional scientific inaccuracies. Overall, readers value its exploration of core Mormon beliefs, including pre-existence, universal salvation, and the nature of God, finding it a refreshing perspective on faith and reason.

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About the Author

Terryl L. Givens is a distinguished scholar in literature, religion, and Mormon studies. He completed his Ph.D. in Comparative Literature at UNC Chapel Hill and teaches at the University of Richmond. Givens has authored numerous books on Mormon history, culture, and theology, including works published by Oxford University Press. His research spans topics such as pre-mortal existence, Mormon scripture, and intellectual history. Givens is known for his interdisciplinary approach, drawing from various languages and literatures in his academic work. He continues to contribute to Mormon studies through ongoing projects, including biographies and sourcebooks.

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