Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot is a deeply moving account of faith, courage, and sacrifice. The book chronicles the tragic yet inspiring story of five American missionaries—Jim Elliot, Pete Fleming, Ed McCully, Nate Saint, and Roger Youderian—who were determined to reach the Huaorani tribe in Ecuador in the 1950s.
Written from a deeply personal perspective, Elisabeth, the wife of Jim Elliot, recounts the events leading to the men’s deaths with compassion and insight. The narrative is enriched by personal letters and journals from the missionaries, offering an intimate glimpse into their thoughts and motivations. This adds depth to the story, highlighting the emotional weight of their journey and their unwavering faith despite the dangers they faced.
The book’s title, derived from the hymn “We Rest on Thee,” resonates with the missionaries’ trust in their mission, even in the face of death. The book’s portrayal of the missionaries’ wives, who responded to the tragedy with remarkable grace, adds another layer of poignancy. Their acceptance of God’s will is thought-provoking and challenges readers to reflect on their own faith.
Published in 1957, Through Gates of Splendor has since become a cornerstone in missionary literature, inspiring countless readers with its themes of sacrifice, faith, and courage. It remains a timeless classic, continuing to inspire generations of readers. 5 stars for the story and 4 stars for the writing, as it occasionally suffers from excessive detail that could have benefited from tighter editing.