LSW 200: Surfing to the End of the World  

David Koresh and the Branch Davidians


The Watchman Expositer: David Koresh's Seven Seals Teaching, submitted by Hilary White.
James Trimm writes with the purpose of providing David Koresh's interpretations of the seven seals and their symbolism. Trimm does appear to have a background on this particular subject, but it is not entirely evident in his style of writing or his organization. The author assumes that the reader has read the Bible and is familiar with its contents. It is clear that the author makes this assumption because there is no passage included in this site that lists a description of the seven seals. The author doesn't make any real assumption, though it is obvious he writes in support of Koresh's interpretations. This study does not compare well with others of it's kind. It does not appear that the author has done a vast amount of research concerning the seals themselves. The author might want to include the passages from the Bible containing the sevel seals. This would then open the site to a larger audience. (Accessed ?)
Branch Davidians, Students of the Seven Seals, submitted by Hilary White
The purpose of this web site, written by B.A Robinson, is to provide a complete history of the sect Branch Davidians, including it's beliefs and practices. The intended audience for this web site is people who have an interest in this particular sect, although it is not necessary to have prior knowledge of the sect. The author's qualification on this subject matter is clearly evident through the manner in which the site is organized and researched. A chronological account of the sect's origin and development is provided. The author devotes a large portion of the site to the events which took place in Waco, Texas 1993. The author makes no assumptions about this event, nor does he reveal any biases. Since the author only outlines the history of the sect, no conclusions or claims are made. One problem with this site is that the author only touches on the surface of many issues involving the sect. One way to correct this is to provide several more facts on issues that are lacking strong support. (Access ?)
Seven Seals Revelation, submitted by Michelle Greiner
Copyrighted by Hidden Manna, this prophetic site uses Bible references and excerpts from the book Seven Seals to explain the beliefs of the Branch Davidians. It is useful for those interested in understanding the beliefs of various religious groups or for those wishing to change their beliefs. The author attempts to fulfill his own destiny as the chosen one to whom has been revealed the "awesome truth," but states that understanding of the word could not be revealed until David Koresh fulfilled his prophecies. The site includes dozens of links to different areas of the Bible as well as to a preface, editor's notes, and a glossary of Biblical terms. Information on downloading or ordering Seven Seals is provided. (accessed 12 Oct. 1997)
The Ashes of Waco: An Investigation.", submitted by Sarah Knopp.
This sight, by journalist Dick J. Reavis, covers a book he wrote about the Waco happenings, which includes information such as David Koresh, the Branch Davidians, the first shot, Koresh's statutory rape, illegal weapons, pictures, and the government and FBI involvement. Reavis used the court case, and evidence used in the court case to gather the information contained in the site. Most conclusions were justified with statements either from the FBI or from the court case. This site also leads to other informational sites about David Koresh and Waco. This site is informative, well organized, and well written, therefore I would recommend it to anyone interested in Waco or David Koresh.
The Waco Tragedy, submitted by Jessica Troilo
This article is entitled "The Waco Tragedy," and its author is James A. Haught. The main purpose of this article is to educate people about David Koresh and how his cult came into existence. His essay also explains why people equate Koresh to a god and worship him accordingly. While researching for this article, Haught has apparently came to a justifiable conclusion that it is unnerving to think that there are people in this world who are capable of having many people worship them, give money and possessions to them, and die for them.
Mount Carmel Center, submitted by Wyla (wyla@flash.net), the website-administrator
This website claims to be the only one on the internet that is owned by the Survivours of the incident known as WACO. Wyla offers the following description: "This site is dedicated to our friends and family who are still in prison unjustly. At our web-site those who wish to learn more about the truth of what really occoured at Mt. Carmel may contact those who were there and lived it... We also have available the Trial Transcripts. This is the one and ONLY official aka Branch Davidian Web-site.. Please do not be fooled by the imposters."

LSW 200
Spring '99
http://merlin.alleg.edu/employee/a/acarr/lsw/koresh.html
Last updated March 28, 1999