Item Detail
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22106
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0
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4
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English
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The Seal of Melchizedek?
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Religious Educator
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2010
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11
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3
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Provo, UT
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Religious Studies Center, BYU
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95-121
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Gaskill discusses Mormon culture's increasing use of a symbol commonly known as the seal of Melchizedek, an eight-pointed star formed from two interlocking (or overlapping) squares (with or without a circle in the center). He discusses the development of Mormon lore about the symbol, including its use as an architectural design in the San Diego Temple; the origins of its label as the seal of Melchizedek; associations of the symbol with Melchizedek; five potential symbols that can be found in its design, and their associated meanings and connections with Christianity; and the evolution of the symbol throughout various cultures in history. He concludes that the design has no ancient association with Melchizedek or priesthood authority, and although frequently used in ancient times it was mainly aesthetic, with various meanings across cultures.