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Nov 2006 Issue
by Emily Freeman
Weaving a unique and original story with the scriptural account from Matthew, The Ten Virgins (Deseret Book, hardcover, $18.95), enlightens and inspires readers to fill their lamps with oil and faith. Author Emily Freeman, provides a revealing presentation of an oft misunderstood parable as she assigns personal stories to each of the ten virgins. Featuring new art by Simon Dewey, The Ten Virgins allows readers to align themselves with the particular character traits of each virgin, each being given an identity and assigned a positive quality or virtue.
Freeman identifies ten qualities a wise person must have including: a respect for sacred things, scripture study, service, loyalty, personal conversion and holiness. Perhaps most importantly, The Ten Virgins reinforces why unfaltering faith and steady diligence are vital preparations for the future.
The Ten Virgins begins with a perceptive shopkeeper who designs clay lamps for each new villager. The shopkeeper identifies the tendencies and talents of intended recipients and designs the lamps according to their needs. Each woman uses her lamp in her own particular way. Leora uses her lamp to provide light and service to guide others. Ashira is often caught up in the household and daily tasks of the day, forgetting to take time for herself. Jessa’s lamp broke and she eventually realized there is only one who can fix it. Those who visit the shopkeeper often have their lamps filled with oil, drop by drop, according to their need.
Most people will closely relate to the characters in this book as readers rediscover the parable of the Ten Virgins and how it personally applies to their lives today. Ten Virgins is available at Deseret Book, deseretbook.com or wherever LDS Books are sold.
