The Hiding Place – Corrie ten Boom

1. Full Citation

ten Boom, C., & Sherrill, E. (1971) The Hiding Place. Grand Rapids, MI: Chosen Books.

2. Introduction

The Hiding Place is a memoir recounting Corrie ten Boom’s experiences hiding Jews during World War II and surviving Nazi concentration camps. It powerfully illustrates faith, forgiveness, and divine providence under persecution.

3. Author Background and Credentials

Corrie ten Boom (1892–1983) was a Dutch Christian watchmaker and Holocaust survivor renowned for her humanitarian efforts and ministry of reconciliation.

4. Summary of Contents

Key themes include:

  1. Faith under Persecution
    • Trusting God amid suffering.
  2. Forgiveness and Reconciliation
    • Extending grace even to enemies.
  3. Courage and Resistance
    • Defying injustice at great personal risk.
  4. Divine Providence
    • Experiencing God’s guidance and care.
  5. Hope and Redemption
    • Triumph of spirit over oppression.

5. Critical Evaluation

a. Coherence and Argumentation

Compelling narrative blending testimony and spiritual insight.

b. Originality and Intellectual Contribution

Unique firsthand Holocaust witness emphasizing Christian faith.

c. Evidence, Sources, and Method

Memoir based on personal experience and documentation.

d. Style and Accessibility

Engaging and accessible prose.

e. Limitations and Critiques

Some may critique selective emphasis or narrative style.

6. Comparative Context

Compared with:

  • Night by Elie Wiesel – Holocaust memoir
  • Surprised by Joy by C.S. Lewis – Spiritual autobiography
  • Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl – Holocaust and psychology

7. Thematic or Disciplinary Relevance

Relevant to:

  • Holocaust studies
  • Christian witness and faith
  • Ethics and forgiveness
  • Memoir and biography

8. Reflection or Practical Application

Inspires faith, forgiveness, and courage in adversity.

9. Conclusion

The Hiding Place remains a profound testimony to grace and resilience in darkest times.

Recommended for: Historians, theologians, educators, and general readers.

10. Other Works by the Same Author

  • Tramp for the Lord
  • Various talks and ministry writings

11. Similar Books by Other Authors

  • Elie Wiesel – Night
  • Viktor Frankl – Man’s Search for Meaning
  • C.S. Lewis – Surprised by Joy

12. References (only if external works are cited)

  • ten Boom, C., & Sherrill, E. (1971) The Hiding Place
  • Wiesel, E. (1956) Night
  • Frankl, V. (1946) Man’s Search for Meaning
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