The Return of Sacred Architecture: The Golden Ratio and the End of Modernism : Book Review

In "The Return of Sacred Architecture" by Herbert Bangs, the author delves into the historical significance and profound spiritual essence of sacred architecture across different cultures and time periods. Bangs argues that these architectural wonders go beyond their functional purpose and instead serve as conduits for individuals to connect with the divine.

The book takes readers on a captivating journey, exploring a diverse range of sacred spaces from ancient temples to modern-day cathedrals. Through detailed analysis and compelling storytelling, Bangs unravels the universal principles and symbolism embedded within these architectural masterpieces.

One of the book's strengths lies in Bangs' ability to make complex architectural concepts accessible to readers of all backgrounds. His writing is engaging and informative, enabling readers to grasp the significance of various architectural elements and their connection to spiritual beliefs. Moreover, Bangs provides a wealth of historical context, enriching the book's exploration of sacred architecture.

"The Return of Sacred Architecture" also challenges readers to reconsider their perception of modern architecture and its potential to fulfill spiritual purposes. Despite the prevalence of non-religious and utilitarian buildings today, Bangs argues that there is still immense value in designing and experiencing spaces that uplift the human spirit. Through thought-provoking insights and carefully chosen examples, the author inspires readers to contemplate the role of sacred architecture in contemporary society.

Overall, "The Return of Sacred Architecture" is an engrossing exploration of the transformative power and profound spirituality inherent in architecture. It offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the symbolic and transcendent qualities found in sacred spaces throughout history. With his insightful analysis and engaging writing style, Herbert Bangs compels readers interested in the intersection of spirituality and architecture to delve into this captivating book.

What are readers saying?

"The Return of Sacred Architecture" by Herbert Bangs has garnered a mixed reception amongst its readers. Some found the book to be a riveting exploration of the spiritual dimensions of architecture, commending Bangs' profound knowledge and his in-depth examination of the symbolism and sacred geometry entrenched within ancient structures. These individuals appreciated the thought-provoking and informative nature of the book, valuing the unique perspective it offered on the nexus of architecture and spirituality.

Nevertheless, there were some readers who had a less favorable experience with the book. They found Bangs' writing style to be dry and dense, rendering it arduous to fully engage with the material. Additionally, a few remarked that the book seemed repetitive, with the author continually revisiting similar themes and ideas in various chapters. Moreover, a handful of readers expressed a desire for more concrete examples and practical applications, believing that the book lacked substantive content in this regard.

Despite these criticisms, numerous reviewers agreed that "The Return of Sacred Architecture" was an invaluable resource for those intrigued by the intersection of architecture and spirituality. They appreciated the book's expansive coverage, which spanned from cathedrals and temples to ancient cultures and modern examples. Some readers derived inspiration from Bangs' discussions on the transformative power of sacred spaces and their potential to augment our connection to the divine.

In summary, "The Return of Sacred Architecture" presents a distinctive perspective on the spiritual significance of architectural design. While it boasts merits such as its exploration of symbolism and sacred geometry, it is not without drawbacks, including a dense writing style and a dearth of practical examples. Nonetheless, for those captivated by the subject matter, the book provides a thought-provoking analysis of the role of architecture in spirituality.