Last month, I finally got a chance to read Jon Krakauer’s ‘Under the Banner of Heaven’. Written around religion and faith which I have always been indifferent to, this book intrigued me.
Needless to say, I was left speechless by the end of it. It took me some time to digest what Krakauer was really trying to say, but when I did, I was glad that I had picked up this book.
Published in 2003, in “Under the Banner of Heaven,” Jon Krakauer, renowned for his investigative journalism, ventures into the heart of a chilling true crime that took place in the secluded world of the LDS Church.
This book, while examining a single heinous act, skillfully unravels the layers of history, theology, and human psychology that make up the intricate fabric of religious fundamentalism.
The Narrative of ‘Under the Banner of Heaven’
Krakauer’s narrative is skillfully woven, alternating between the broader history of the LDS Church and the gruesome story of the Lafferty brothers’ murders, committed in the name of religious revelation.
He manages to present a balanced account, avoiding sensationalism while exposing the darker aspects of religious fervor.
Historical Context
The author provides a comprehensive historical background of the LDS Church, shedding light on its founding, migration, and the establishment of its doctrines.
This context is crucial to understanding the emergence of extreme fundamentalist beliefs that eventually led to the tragic events at the heart of the book.
You get to understand the root of Mormonism, Joseph Smith (the founder of Mormonism), how it all started and the steps taken to establish the community as a whole.
Exploring Fundamentalism
Krakauer fearlessly explores the phenomenon of religious fundamentalism and its potential to manifest in violence. He talks about how the split between the LDS and the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS church) happened, and the dark side of the religion which stemmed from polygamy in earnest.
He presents an array of perspectives from current and former members of the LDS Church, allowing readers to grasp the complexities of faith, loyalty, and indoctrination.
Criticisms
Some readers may find the book challenging due to its confronting subject matter.
While Krakauer aims for objectivity, critics argue that a few passages might unintentionally reinforce stereotypes about the LDS Church as a whole, rather than just addressing the extremist fringes.
Final Thoughts
“Under the Banner of Heaven” is a thought-provoking and deeply researched book that demands reflection on the relationship between faith, radicalism, and the human psyche.
Krakauer’s unflinching examination of religious fundamentalism and its implications ensures that this work remains relevant and valuable in understanding the complexity of human belief systems.
Conclusion
This wasn’t my first of Krakauer’s books. His ‘Into the Wild’ and ‘Into Thin Air’ have simply steered me towards non-fiction.
In “Under the Banner of Heaven,” Jon Krakauer presents a well-crafted narrative that examines the darker aspects of religious fanaticism within the LDS Church. While not an easy read, it serves as an essential exploration of the dangers that can arise when faith and ideology become twisted and distorted.
This book is recommended for those interested in delving deep into the complexities of religious belief and its potential consequences. However, readers should approach it with an open mind and a willingness to confront challenging truths.
