The Guide to the Scriptures defines selected doctrines, principles, people, and places found in the Holy Bible, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. It also provides key scriptural references for you to study for each topic. This Guide can help you in your individual and family study of the scriptures. It can help you answer questions about the gospel, study topics in the scriptures, prepare talks and lessons, and increase your knowledge and testimony of the gospel.

The following diagram explains a sample entry in the Guide to the Scriptures:

Earth

The planet on which we live, created by God through Jesus Christ to be used by man during his mortal probation. Its final destiny is to become glorified and exalted (D&C 77:1–2; 130:8–9). The earth will become an eternal inheritance of those who have lived worthy of a celestial glory (D&C 88:14–26). They will enjoy the presence of the Father and the Son (D&C 76:62).

Created for man

Easter

End of the World

Topics are in bold letters.

Topics include a brief definition.

Some topics have subentries. These are in italic type.

Related scriptural references are given in parentheses.

Sometimes the information about a subject is not included under the topic you have looked up. The italic word See directs you to the topic where the information is found.

Sometimes other topics in the guide contain information that relates to the topic you are studying. The italic words See also direct you to these related topics.

Scriptural references that help you understand the definition are in parentheses.

Each scriptural reference is preceded by a short quotation from the scripture or summary of the scripture.

The italic word See (or See also) followed by this dash tells you that the information is found in a subentry (“End of the world”) of a main topic (“World”).

In the Old Testament, a son of Amram and Jochebed, of the tribe of Levi (Ex. 6:16–20); the elder brother of Moses (Ex. 7:7).

In the Book of Mormon, a son of King Mosiah. Aaron served as a missionary whose diligent efforts helped to convert many souls to Christ.

The lesser priesthood (Heb. 7:11–12; D&C 107:13–14). Its offices are bishop, priest, teacher, and deacon (D&C 84:30; 107:10, 14–15, 87–88). Anciently, under the law of Moses, there were high priests, priests, and Levites. Because the ancient Israelites rebelled against God, Moses and the holy priesthood were taken from them and the lesser priesthood continued. They had refused to be sanctified and receive the Melchizedek Priesthood and its ordinances. (See D&C 84:23–26.) The Aaronic Priesthood deals with the temporal and outward ordinances of the law and the gospel (1 Chr. 23:27–32; D&C 84:26–27; 107:20). It holds the keys of the ministering of angels, of the gospel of repentance, and of baptism (D&C 13). The Aaronic Priesthood was restored to the earth in this dispensation on May 15, 1829. John the Baptist conferred it on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery near Harmony, Pennsylvania (D&C 13; JS—H 1:68–73).

In the Old Testament, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were three Israelite youths who, along with Daniel, were brought into the palace of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Abed-nego’s Hebrew name was Azariah. The four young men refused to defile themselves by partaking of the king’s meat and wine (Dan. 1). Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were thrown into a fiery furnace by the king but were miraculously preserved (Dan. 3).

In the Old Testament, a son of Adam and Eve.

A Nephite prophet in the Book of Mormon.

In the scriptures, something that causes disgust or hatred to the righteous and pure.

A son of Terah, born in Ur of the Chaldees (Gen. 11:26, 31; 17:5). A prophet of the Lord with whom the Lord made eternal covenants, through which all the nations of the earth are blessed. Abraham was originally named Abram.

The book of Abraham

Ancient records written by Abraham that came into the possession of the Church in 1835. The records and some mummies were discovered in Egyptian catacombs by Antonio Lebolo, who willed them to Michael Chandler. Chandler exhibited them in the United States in 1835. Some friends of Joseph Smith bought them from Chandler and gave them to the Prophet, who translated them. Some of these records are now found in the Pearl of Great Price.

Chapter 1 records Abraham’s experiences in Ur of the Chaldees, where wicked priests tried to sacrifice him. Chapter 2 tells of his journey to Canaan. The Lord appeared to him and made covenants with him. Chapter 3 records that Abraham saw the universe and perceived the relationships between heavenly bodies. Chapters 4–5 are another account of the Creation.

The seed of Abraham

People who, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ, receive the promises and covenants made by God to Abraham. Men and women may receive these blessings if they are literally of Abraham’s lineage or if they are adopted into his family by embracing the gospel and being baptized (Gal. 3:26–29; 4:1–7; D&C 84:33–34; 103:17; 132:30–32; Abr. 2:9–11). Literal descendants of Abraham may lose their blessings by disobedience (Rom. 4:13; 9:6–8).

Abraham received the gospel and was ordained to the higher priesthood (D&C 84:14; Abr. 2:11), and he entered into celestial marriage, which is the covenant of exaltation (D&C 131:1–4; 132:19, 29). Abraham received a promise that all of the blessings of these covenants would be offered to his mortal posterity (D&C 132:29–31; Abr. 2:6–11). Together, these covenants and promises are called the Abrahamic covenant. The restoration of this covenant was the Restoration of the gospel in the last days, for through it all the nations of the earth are blessed (Gal. 3:8–9, 29; D&C 110:12; 124:58; Abr. 2:10–11).

The Lord has said that all people are responsible for their own motives, attitudes, desires, and actions.

The age of accountability is the age at which children are considered to be responsible for their actions and capable of committing sin and repenting.

This book is the second of a two-part work written by Luke to Theophilus. The first part is known as the Gospel According to Luke. Chapters 1–12 record some of the major missionary activities of the Twelve Apostles under the direction of Peter immediately following the Savior’s death and resurrection. Chapters 13–28 outline some of the Apostle Paul’s travels and missionary work.

The first man created on earth.

Adam is the father and patriarch of the human race on the earth. His transgression in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3; D&C 29:40–42; Moses 4) caused him to “fall” and become mortal, a step necessary in order for mankind to progress on this earth (2 Ne. 2:14–29; Alma 12:21–26). Adam and Eve should therefore be honored for their role in making our eternal growth possible. Adam is the Ancient of Days and is also known as Michael (Dan. 7; D&C 27:11; 107:53–54; 116; 138:38). He is the archangel (D&C 107:54) and will come again to the earth as the patriarch of the human family (D&C 116).

The place where Adam blessed his righteous posterity three years before he died (D&C 107:53–56) and where he will come before the time of the Second Coming (D&C 116).

A blessing given to the sick by men who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, involving the use of consecrated oil.

The scriptures speak of two types of adoption.

(1) A person who is of non-Israelite lineage becomes a member of the family of Abraham and the house of Israel by having faith in Jesus Christ, repenting, being baptized by immersion, and receiving the Holy Ghost (2 Ne. 31:17–18; D&C 84:73–74; Abr. 2:6, 10–11).

(2) All who have received the saving ordinances of the gospel become sons and daughters of Jesus Christ by continued obedience to His commandments (Rom. 8:15–17; Gal. 3:24–29; 4:5–7; Mosiah 5:7–8).

The unlawful sexual association of men and women. Although adultery generally refers to sexual intercourse between a married person and someone other than his or her spouse, in the scriptures it may also refer to the unmarried.

Sometimes adultery is used as a symbol for the apostasy of a nation or a whole people from the ways of the Lord (Num. 25:1–3; Jer. 3:6–10; Ezek. 16:15–59; Hosea 4).

Through adversity—trials, troubles, and distress—man can have many experiences that lead to spiritual growth and eternal progress by turning to the Lord.

Jesus Christ is our Advocate with the Father (Moro. 7:28) and pleads our cause with Him.

The ability and privilege God gives people to choose and to act for themselves.

In the New Testament, the son of Herod Agrippa Ⅰ and brother of Bernice and Drusilla. He was king of Chalcis, located in the Lebanons. He listened to the Apostle Paul and was almost persuaded to be a Christian (Acts 25–26; JS—H 1:24).

In the Old Testament, one of the most wicked and powerful kings of northern Israel. He married Jezebel, a Sidonian princess, through whose influence the worship of Baal and Ashtoreth was established in Israel (1 Kgs. 16:29–33; 2 Kgs. 3:2) and an attempt was made to do away with the prophets and the worship of Jehovah (1 Kgs. 18:13).

In the Book of Mormon, the first chief judge and prophet in the Nephite nation. In his early years he sought to destroy the Church (Mosiah 27:8–10). However, an angel appeared to him and he was converted to the gospel (Mosiah 27:8–24; Alma 36:6–27). Later he gave up his position as chief judge in order to teach the people (Alma 4:11–20).

The book of Alma

A separate book in the Book of Mormon, comprising an abridgment of the records of the prophets Alma, the son of Alma, and his son Helaman. The events depicted in the book take place from approximately 91 to 52 B.C. The book contains 63 chapters. Chapters 1–4 describe the rebellion of the followers of Nehor and Amlici against the Nephites. The resulting wars were among the most destructive to that point in Nephite history. Chapters 5–16 contain the account of Alma’s early missionary journeys, including his sermon on the Good Shepherd (Alma 5) and his preaching with Amulek in the city Ammonihah. Chapters 17–27 contain the record of the sons of Mosiah and their ministry among the Lamanites. Chapters 28–44 contain some of Alma’s most important sermons. In chapter 32 Alma compared the word to a seed; in chapter 36 he recounted his conversion story to his son Helaman. Chapters 39–42 record Alma’s counsel to his son Corianton, who had become involved in moral transgression; this important sermon explains justice, mercy, Resurrection, and the Atonement. Chapters 45–63 describe Nephite wars of that time period and migrations under Hagoth. Such great leaders as Captain Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi helped to preserve the Nephites through their courageous and timely actions.

A Nephite prophet in the Book of Mormon who organized the Church in the days of wicked King Noah.

Offerings to help the poor.

Alpha is the first letter in the Greek alphabet; Omega is the last. They are also names given to Jesus Christ and are used as symbols to show that Christ is both the beginning and the end (Rev. 1:8; D&C 19:1).

A structure used for sacrifices, offerings, and worship.

A group of Nephite apostates who led the Lamanites to battle against the Nephites (Alma 21–24; 43).

An Arab tribe that lived in the desert of Paran between the Arabah and the Mediterranean. They were constantly at war with the Hebrews from the time of Moses (Ex. 17:8) to Saul and David (1 Sam. 15; 27:8; 30; 2 Sam. 8:11–12).

In the Book of Mormon, a Nephite traitor who gained power among the Lamanites and led them against the Nephites (Alma 46–51).

Means “may it be so” or “so it is.” Amen is said to show hearty or solemn acceptance and agreement (Deut. 27:14–26) or truthfulness (1 Kgs. 1:36). Today at the end of prayers, testimonies, and talks, those who heard the prayer or message say an audible amen to indicate agreement and acceptance.

In Old Testament times, a person was to say amen when making an oath (1 Chr. 16:7, 35–36; Neh. 5:12–13; 8:2–6). Christ is called “the Amen, the faithful and true witness” (Rev. 3:14). Amen also served as the token of a covenant in the School of the Prophets (D&C 88:133–135).

A man in the Book of Mormon who led a group of Nephites who desired a king during the reign of the judges. These Nephites, called Amlicites, openly rebelled against God, for which they were cursed (Alma 2–3).

In the Book of Mormon, a strong and mighty man who led an expedition from Zarahemla to the land of Lehi-Nephi (Mosiah 7:1–16). He was shown ancient records and explained what a seer is (Mosiah 8:5–18). He later helped to free King Limhi and his people from the Lamanites and bring them back to Zarahemla (Mosiah 22).

In the Book of Mormon, a son of King Mosiah. Ammon served as a missionary whose diligent efforts helped to convert many souls to Christ.

A prophet of the Old Testament who prophesied from approximately 792 to 740 B.C. in the days of Uzziah, king of Judah, and Jeroboam, king of Israel.

The book of Amos

A book in the Old Testament. Many of Amos’s prophecies warn Israel and her neighboring nations to return to righteousness.

Chapters 1–5 call Israel and her neighboring nations to repentance. Chapter 3 explains that the Lord reveals His secrets to the prophets and that because of transgression, Israel will be destroyed by an adversary. Chapters 6–8 prophesy the downfall of Israel many years before the Assyrian invasion. Chapter 9 prophesies that Israel will be restored to her own land.

In the Book of Mormon, a missionary companion of Alma, son of Alma.

A Christian disciple at Damascus who baptized Paul (Acts 9:10–18; 22:12).

In the New Testament, he and his wife, Sapphira, lied to the Lord by holding back a portion of money that they had consecrated to the Lord. When Peter confronted them, they both fell to the ground and died (Acts 5:1–11).

In the New Testament, brother of Simon Peter and one of the Twelve Apostles called by Jesus during His mortal ministry (Matt. 4:18–19; Mark 1:16–18, 29).

There are two kinds of beings in heaven who are called angels: those who are spirits and those who have bodies of flesh and bone. Angels who are spirits have not yet obtained a body of flesh and bone, or they are spirits who have once had a mortal body and are awaiting resurrection. Angels who have bodies of flesh and bone have either been resurrected from the dead or translated.

There are many references in scripture to the work of angels. Sometimes angels speak with a voice of thunder as they deliver God’s messages (Mosiah 27:11–16). Righteous mortal men may also be called angels (JST, Gen. 19:15 [Appendix]). Some angels serve around the throne of God in heaven (Alma 36:22).

The scriptures also speak of the devil’s angels. These are those spirits who followed Lucifer and were thrust out of God’s presence in the premortal life and cast down to the earth (Rev. 12:1–9; 2 Ne. 9:9, 16; D&C 29:36–37).

Anger is the display of temper. The Lord cautioned His Saints to control their anger (Matt. 5:22). Neither parent nor child should abuse others in the family. In the scriptures, anger often has the figurative image of fire (2 Ne. 15:25; D&C 1:13).

In the New Testament, a prophetess of the tribe of Asher. At the time of Jesus’ birth, she was an aged widow. She saw the infant Jesus at His presentation in the temple and recognized Him as the Redeemer (Luke 2:36–38).

In the New Testament, a man of great influence in the Sanhedrin. Jesus, when arrested, was first brought to him (John 18:13); he also took a leading part in the trial of the Apostles (Acts 4:3–6).

In ancient times, the Lord’s prophets anointed with oil those who would perform special duties, such as Aaron or the priests or the kings who would rule over Israel. In the Church today, to anoint is to place a small amount of consecrated oil on a person’s head as part of a special blessing. This can be done only under the authority and power of the Melchizedek Priesthood. After the anointing, a person acting by authority of that same priesthood may seal the anointing and give a special blessing to the one anointed.

Jesus is called the Christ (a Greek word) or the Messiah (an Aramaic word). Both words mean “the anointed.” He is the one anointed of the Father to be the Father’s personal representative in all things pertaining to the salvation of mankind.

Anyone or anything that counterfeits the true gospel plan of salvation and that openly or secretly opposes Christ. John the Revelator described the antichrist as a deceiver (1 Jn. 2:18–22; 4:3–6; 2 Jn. 1:7). The great antichrist is Lucifer, but he has many assistants, both spirit beings and mortals.

In the Book of Mormon, a name given to the Lamanites who were converted by the sons of Mosiah. After their conversion, these people, who were also called the people of Ammon, were faithful throughout their lives (Alma 23:4–7, 16–17; 27:20–27).

The book of Revelation, the last book in the New Testament; can also mean any remarkable revelation; from a Greek word meaning “revealed” or “uncovered.”

Sacred books of the Jewish people that were not included in the Hebrew Bible but are retained in the Bibles of some Christian churches. These books are often valuable in linking the Old and New Testaments and are regarded in the Church as useful reading.

A turning away from the truth by individuals, the Church, or entire nations.

General apostasy

Apostasy of the early Christian church

In Greek, Apostle means “one sent forth.” It was the title Jesus gave to the Twelve whom He chose and ordained to be His closest disciples and helpers during His ministry on earth (Luke 6:13; John 15:16). He sent them forth to represent Him and to minister for Him after His Ascension into heaven. Both anciently and in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the restored Church today, an Apostle is a special witness of Jesus Christ in all the world to testify of His divinity and of His resurrection from the dead (Acts 1:22; D&C 107:23).

Selection of Apostles

Apostles are chosen by the Lord (John 6:70; 15:16).

Michael, or Adam, is the archangel or chief angel.

In the Old Testament, the boat built by Noah to preserve life during the great Flood.

Also known as the Ark of Jehovah and the Ark of the Testimony, the Ark of the Covenant was an oblong chest or box made of wood overlaid with gold. It was the oldest and most sacred of the religious symbols of the Israelites. The Mercy Seat which formed its covering was regarded as the earthly dwelling place of Jehovah (Ex. 25:22). Upon the completion of the temple, the ark was placed in the Holy of Holies, the most holy place in the structure (1 Kgs. 8:1–8).

The name Armageddon is derived from the Hebrew Har Megiddon, meaning the “mountain of Megiddo.” The valley of Megiddo is in the western portion of the plain of Esdraelon, fifty miles (eighty kilometers) north of Jerusalem, and is the site of several crucial battles in Old Testament times. A great and final conflict that will take place near the time of the Second Coming of the Lord is called the battle of Armageddon because it will begin in the same locale. (See Ezek. 39:11; Zech. 12–14, especially 12:11; Rev. 16:14–21.)

A covering worn to protect the body from blows or thrusts of weapons. The word is also used to mean spiritual attributes that protect a person from temptation or evil.

Thirteen basic points of belief to which members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ascribe.

Joseph Smith first wrote them in a letter to John Wentworth, editor of the Chicago Democrat, in answer to his request to know what members of the Church believed. The letter became known as the Wentworth Letter and was first published in the Times and Seasons in March 1842. On October 10, 1880, the Articles of Faith were formally accepted as scripture by the vote of the members of the Church and were included as part of the Pearl of Great Price.

In the Old Testament, the third king of Judah. The scriptures record that his “heart was perfect with the Lord all his days” (1 Kgs. 15:14). During his reign he raised the army to a state of efficiency, threw off the Ethiopian yoke, removed the false idols, and invited the people to make a covenant to seek Jehovah (1 Kgs. 15–16; 2 Chr. 14–16). However, when he became diseased in his feet, he did not seek the Lord’s help and died (1 Kgs. 15:23–24; 2 Chr. 16:12–13).

The formal departure of the Savior from the earth, forty days after His Resurrection. The Ascension took place from a point on the Mount of Olives in the presence of the disciples (Mark 16:19; Luke 24:51). At that time two angels from heaven testified that in the future the Lord would return “in like manner” (Acts 1:9–12).

In the Old Testament, a son of Jacob and Zilpah, Leah’s handmaiden (Gen. 30:12–13).

The tribe of Asher

Jacob blessed Asher (Gen. 49:20), and Moses blessed the descendants of Asher (Deut. 33:1, 24–29). These descendants were called “mighty men of valour” (1 Chr. 7:40).

To inquire, question, or petition God for a special favor.

An ancient empire that, with its rival Babylon, ruled much of the old states of Syria and Palestine throughout most of Old Testament times. Even though the Assyrians were a major power from the mid-12th century B.C. until the close of the 7th century B.C., they were never able to build a stable political structure. They ruled by terror, crushing their enemies by fire and sword or weakening them by deporting large portions of a population to other parts of their empire. The people who were placed under Assyrian rule constantly fought against the empire. (See 2 Kgs. 18–19; 2 Chr. 32; Isa. 7:17–20; 10; 19; 37.)

To reconcile man to God.

As used in the scriptures, to atone is to suffer the penalty for an act of sin, thereby removing the effects of sin from the repentant sinner and allowing him to be reconciled to God. Jesus Christ was the only one capable of making a perfect atonement for all mankind. He was able to do so because of His selection and foreordination in the Grand Council before the world was formed (Ether 3:14; Moses 4:1–2; Abr. 3:27), His divine Sonship, and His sinless life. His Atonement included His suffering for the sins of mankind, the shedding of His blood, and His death and subsequent resurrection from the grave (Isa. 53:3–12; Luke 22:44; Mosiah 3:5–11; Alma 7:10–13; D&C 19:16–19). Because of the Atonement, all people will rise from the dead with immortal bodies (1 Cor. 15:22). The Atonement also provides the way for us to be forgiven of our sins and live forever with God. But a person who has reached the age of accountability and received the law can receive these blessings only if he has faith in Jesus Christ, repents of his sins, receives the ordinances of salvation, and obeys the commandments of God. Those who do not reach the age of accountability and those without the law are redeemed through the Atonement (Mosiah 15:24–25; Moro. 8:22). The scriptures clearly teach that if Christ had not atoned for our sins, no law, ordinance, or sacrifice would satisfy the demands of justice, and man could never regain God’s presence (2 Ne. 2; 9).

The permission granted to men on earth called or ordained to act for and in behalf of God the Father or Jesus Christ in doing God’s work.

A male sun-god worshiped principally in Phoenicia (1 Kgs. 16:31) but also worshiped in different ways in various places: by the Moabites as Baal-peor (Num. 25:1–3), at Shechem as Baal-berith (Judg. 8:33; 9:4), at Ekron as Baal-zebub (2 Kgs. 1:2). Baal may be the same as Bel of Babylon and Zeus of Greece. The word Baal expresses the relationship between a lord and his slave. The usual symbol for Baal was a bull. Ashtoreth was the goddess generally worshiped along with Baal.

Baal was sometimes combined with another name or word to indicate a connection with Baal, such as a place where he was worshiped or a person with attributes like those of Baal. Later, because Baal came to have very evil meanings, the word Bosheth replaced it in those combined names. Bosheth means “shame.”

The capital of Babylonia.

Babel was founded by Nimrod and was one of the oldest cities in the land of Mesopotamia, or Shinar (Gen. 10:8–10). The Lord confounded the language at the time the people were building the Tower of Babel (Gen. 11:1–9; Ether 1:3–5, 33–35). Babylon later became Nebuchadnezzar’s capital. He built an enormous city of which the ruins still remain. Babylon became a very wicked city and has since come to symbolize the wickedness of the world.

A prophet in the Old Testament who wanted to curse Israel for money. He was commanded by the Lord not to curse Israel (Num. 22–24).

An aromatic gum or spice used for healing wounds (Gen. 43:11; Jer. 8:22; 46:11; 51:8). A bush producing the resin from which the balm was made grew so plentifully in Gilead in Old Testament times that the balm came to be known as the “balm of Gilead” (Gen. 37:25; Ezek. 27:17).

The word used in the original Greek text means to “dip” or “immerse.” Baptism by immersion in water by one having authority is the introductory ordinance of the gospel and is necessary to become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is preceded by faith in Jesus Christ and by repentance. It must be followed by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost in order to be complete (2 Ne. 31:13–14). Baptism by water and the Spirit is necessary before a person can enter the celestial kingdom. Adam was the first to be baptized (Moses 6:64–65). Jesus also was baptized to fulfill all righteousness and to show the way for all mankind (Matt. 3:13–17; 2 Ne. 31:5–12).

Because all on the earth do not have the opportunity to accept the gospel during mortality, the Lord has authorized baptisms performed by proxy for the dead. Therefore, those who accept the gospel in the spirit world may qualify for entrance into God’s kingdom.

Essential

Baptism by immersion

Baptism for remission of sins

Proper authority

Qualifications for baptism

Covenant made through baptism

Baptism for the dead

Baptism not for infants

Name of the man released instead of Jesus at the time of the Crucifixion. Barabbas was an insurrectionist, a murderer, and a robber (Matt. 27:16–26; Mark 15:6–15; Luke 23:18–25; John 18:40).

Name given to Joseph (also called Joses), a Levite of Cyprus, who sold his land and gave the proceeds to the Apostles (Acts 4:36–37). Though not one of the original Twelve Apostles, he did become an Apostle (Acts 14:4, 14) and served on several missionary journeys (Acts 11:22–30; 12:25; 13–15; 1 Cor. 9:6; Gal. 2:1, 9; Col. 4:10).

In the New Testament, one of the original Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ (Matt. 10:2–4).

Wife of Uriah; later, wife of David and mother of Solomon. King David committed adultery with her. He also arranged for her husband’s death in battle (2 Sam. 11), which sin had eternal consequences for David (D&C 132:39).

A series of teachings that Jesus gave in the Sermon on the Mount that describe a refined and spiritual character (Matt. 5:3–12; Luke 6:20–23). The Beatitudes are arranged in such a way that each statement builds upon the one that precedes it. A more comprehensive and accurate record of the Beatitudes is found in 3 Ne. 12.

Generally refers to the time before this mortal life—that is, the premortal life. Sometimes Jesus Christ is referred to as the Beginning.

To be born. To beget is to give birth, to procreate, or to call into being. In the scriptures, these words are often used to mean being born of God. Although Jesus Christ is the only child begotten of the Father in mortality, all people may be spiritually begotten of Christ by accepting Him, obeying His commandments, and becoming new persons through the power of the Holy Ghost.

To have faith in someone or to accept something as true. A person must repent and believe in Jesus Christ in order to be saved in the kingdom of God (D&C 20:29).

In the Old Testament, the last king of Babylon, reigning before Cyrus conquered Babylon; the son and successor of Nebuchadnezzar (Dan. 5:1–2).

A Book of Mormon prophet and king (Mosiah 1–6).

In the Old Testament, the second son of Jacob and Rachel (Gen. 35:16–20).

The tribe of Benjamin

Jacob blessed Benjamin (Gen. 49:27). The descendants of Benjamin were a warlike race. Two important Benjamites were Saul, the first Israelite king (1 Sam. 9:1–2), and Paul, the New Testament Apostle (Rom. 11:1).

The village in which Jesus Christ stayed during the last week of His mortal life (Matt. 21:17; Mark 11:11). Located on the southeast slope of Mount Olivet, Bethany was the home of Lazarus, Mary, and Martha (John 11:1–46; 12:1).

In Hebrew, means “house of God” and is one of the most sacred spots in Israel. It is located about ten miles (sixteen kilometers) north of Jerusalem. Here Abraham built his altar at the time of his first arrival in Canaan (Gen. 12:8; 13:3). Here Jacob saw in vision a ladder reaching up into heaven (Gen. 28:10–19). It was also a holy place in the days of Samuel (1 Sam. 7:16; 10:3).

A small city located five miles (eight kilometers) south of Jerusalem. In Hebrew, Bethlehem means “house of bread”; it is also called Ephrath, meaning “fruitful.” Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2; Matt. 2:1–8). It is the burial place of Rachel (Gen. 35:19; 48:7).

A collection of Hebrew and Christian writings that contains divine revelations. The word bible means “the books.” The Bible is the work of many prophets and inspired writers acting under the influence of the Holy Spirit (2 Pet. 1:21).

The Christian Bible has two divisions, commonly known as the Old and New Testaments. The Old Testament consists of the books of scripture used among the Jews of Palestine during the Lord’s mortal ministry. The New Testament contains writings belonging to the Apostolic age and regarded as having the same sanctity and authority as the Jewish scriptures. The books of the Old Testament are drawn from a national literature extending over many centuries and were written almost entirely in Hebrew, while the books of the New Testament are the work of a single generation and were written mainly in Greek.

In the Old Testament the word testament represents a Hebrew word meaning “covenant.” The Old Covenant is the law that was given to Moses when Israel rejected the fulness of the gospel had by God’s people from the beginning of mortality. The New Covenant is the gospel as taught by Jesus Christ.

In the Hebrew Bible (the Old Testament) the books were divided into three groups: the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings. The Bible used by the Christian world classifies the books according to subject matter, such as historical, poetical, and prophetical.

The books of the New Testament are generally in this order: the four Gospels and Acts; the epistles of Paul; the general epistles of James, Peter, John, and Jude; and the Revelation of John.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reveres and respects the Bible and affirms also that the Lord continues to give additional revelation through His prophets in the last days that supports and verifies the biblical account of God’s dealings with mankind.

Controlling the number of children born to a couple by limiting or preventing conception.

A right of inheritance belonging to the firstborn son. In a broad sense, the birthright includes any or all rights or inheritance transmitted to a person when he is born into a family and culture.

Means “overseer,” an office or position of responsibility. Bishop is an ordained office in the Aaronic Priesthood (D&C 20:67; 107:87–88), and a bishop is a common judge in Israel (D&C 107:72, 74).

Speaking disrespectfully or irreverently of God or sacred things.

Jesus was charged several times by the Jews with speaking blasphemy because He claimed the right to forgive sins (Matt. 9:2–3; Luke 5:20–21), because He called Himself the Son of God (John 10:22–36; 19:7), and because He said they would see Him sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven (Matt. 26:64–65). These charges would have been true if He had not actually been all that He said He was. The charge brought against Him by the false witnesses at the trial before the Sanhedrin (Matt. 26:59–61) was of blasphemy against God’s temple. Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, which is willfully denying Christ after having received a perfect knowledge of Him, is the unforgivable sin (Matt. 12:31–32; Mark 3:28–29; D&C 132:27).

To confer divine favor upon someone. Anything contributing to true happiness, well-being, or prosperity is a blessing.

All blessings are based on eternal laws (D&C 130:20–21). Because God wants His children to find joy in life (2 Ne. 2:25), He grants blessings to them as a result of their obedience to His commandments (D&C 82:10), in answer to a prayer or priesthood ordinance (D&C 19:38; 107:65–67), or through His grace (2 Ne. 25:23).

A well-known list of statements about blessedness is the Beatitudes (Matt. 5:1–12; 3 Ne. 12:1–12).

General

Blessing of children

Regarded by the ancient Israelites and many cultures today as the seat of life or vital energy of all flesh. In Old Testament times the Lord forbade Israel to eat blood as food (Lev. 3:17; 7:26–27; 17:10–14).

The atoning power of a sacrifice was in the blood because the blood was regarded as essential to life. Animal sacrifice in the Old Testament was a symbol of the great sacrifice later performed by Jesus Christ (Lev. 17:11; Moses 5:5–7). Jesus Christ’s atoning blood cleanses the repentant from sin (1 Jn. 1:7).

Husband of Ruth (Ruth 4:9–10); great-grandfather of David, the king of Israel (Ruth 4:13–17); and progenitor of Christ, the King of Kings (Luke 3:32).

The mortal, physical structure of flesh and bones created in God’s image that is combined with a spirit to make up a living person. The physical bodies of all men and women will be reunited eternally with their spirits in the Resurrection. The scriptures sometimes refer to a body and spirit joined together as a soul (Gen. 2:7; D&C 88:15; Moses 3:7, 9, 19; Abr. 5:7).

In 1833, a number of the revelations received by the Prophet Joseph Smith were prepared for publication under the title A Book of Commandments for the Government of the Church of Christ. The Lord continued to communicate with His servants, and an enlarged compilation of revelations was published two years later as the Doctrine and Covenants.

In one sense the Book of Life is the total of a person’s thoughts and actions—the record of his life. However, the scriptures also indicate that a heavenly record is kept of the faithful, including their names and accounts of their righteous deeds.

One of the four volumes of scripture accepted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is an abridgment by an ancient prophet named Mormon of the records of ancient inhabitants of the Americas. It was written to testify that Jesus is the Christ. Concerning this record, the Prophet Joseph Smith, who translated it by the gift and power of God, said, “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book” (see the introduction at the front of the Book of Mormon).

The Book of Mormon is a religious record of three groups of people who migrated from the Old World to the American continents. These groups were led by prophets who recorded their religious and secular histories on metal plates. The Book of Mormon records the visit of Jesus Christ to people in the Americas following His Resurrection. A two-hundred-year era of peace followed that visit of Christ.

Moroni, the last of the Nephite prophet-historians, sealed up the abridged records of these people and hid them in about A.D. 421. In 1823, the resurrected Moroni visited Joseph Smith and later delivered to him these ancient and sacred records to be translated and brought forth to the world as another testament of Jesus Christ.

A book begun by Adam in which were recorded the works of his descendants; also any similar records kept by prophets and faithful members since that time. Adam and his children kept a book of remembrance, in which they wrote by the spirit of inspiration, and a book of the generations, which contained a genealogy (Moses 6:5, 8). Such records may well have a part in determining our final judgment.

To have the Spirit of the Lord cause a mighty change in a person’s heart so that he has no more desire to do evil, but rather desires to seek the things of God.

A record of the Jews from the beginning to 600 B.C., containing many writings of the prophets (1 Ne. 5:10–16). This record was kept by Laban, one of the Jewish elders in Jerusalem. While Lehi and his family were in the wilderness, Lehi sent his sons back to Jerusalem to obtain this record (1 Ne. 3–4). (For further information, see “A Brief Explanation about the Book of Mormon,” which is in the Book of Mormon.)

Jesus Christ is the Bread of Life. The bread of the sacrament symbolically represents Christ’s body.

The scriptures mention two types of breastplates: (1) The front part of a soldier’s protective clothing or armor. In a symbolic sense, Saints should wear a breastplate of righteousness to protect themselves against evil (Isa. 59:17; Eph. 6:14). (2) An article of clothing worn by the high priest in the law of Moses (Ex. 28:13–30; 39:8–21). It was made of linen and bore twelve precious stones. It is sometimes referred to in connection with the Urim and Thummim (D&C 17:1; JS—H 1:35, 42, 52).

As children of our Heavenly Father, all men and women are spiritually brothers and sisters. In the Church, male members and friends of the Church are often addressed as brothers.

Jesus Christ is symbolized in the scriptures as the Bridegroom. The Church is His symbolic bride.

To have a broken heart is to be humble, contrite, repentant, and meek—that is, receptive to the will of God.

In the New Testament, the title by which some Roman emperors were known. It is used in the scriptures as a symbol of worldly government or power.

In the New Testament, a high priest and son-in-law of Annas. Caiaphas took an active part in opposing Jesus and His disciples (Matt. 26:3–4; John 11:47–51; 18:13–14).

A son of Adam and Eve who slew his younger brother Abel (Gen. 4:1–16).

One of those sent by Moses to search the land of Canaan in the second year after the Exodus. He and Joshua alone brought back a true report of the land (Num. 13:6, 30; 14:6–38). They alone of all who had left Egypt survived the forty years in the wilderness (Num. 26:65; 32:12; Deut. 1:36) and entered Canaan (Josh. 14:6–14; 15:13–19).

To be called of God is to receive an appointment or invitation from Him or His duly authorized Church leaders to serve Him in a particular way.

Righteous followers of Christ can become numbered among the elect who gain the assurance of exaltation. This calling and election begins with repentance and baptism. It becomes complete when they “press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end” (2 Ne. 31:19–20). The scriptures call this process making our calling and election sure (2 Pet. 1:4–11; D&C 131:5–6).

In Old Testament times, the fourth son of Ham (Gen. 9:22; 10:1, 6) and grandson of Noah. Canaanite refers to someone from the land where Canaan originally lived and also to his descendants. Canaanite was also a name for the people who inhabited the lowland along the Mediterranean coast of Palestine. This name was sometimes used to describe all the non-Israelite inhabitants of the country west of Jordan, whom the Greeks called Phoenicians.

A recognized, authoritative collection of sacred books. In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the canonical books are called the standard works and include the Old and New Testaments, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price.

Punishment by death for a crime committed, especially associated with punishment for murder.

To be in physical or spiritual bondage.

Something that is not spiritual; specifically the word may be used to mean either mortal and temporal (D&C 67:10) or worldly, fleshly, and sensual (Mosiah 16:10–12).

Joseph and Hyrum Smith were murdered by a mob on June 27, 1844, at the jail in Carthage, Illinois, United States of America (D&C 135).

The highest of the three degrees of glory that a person can attain after this life. Here the righteous will dwell in the presence of God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ.

An officer in the Roman army in command of a company of fifty to one hundred men. Such a company formed one-sixtieth part of a Roman legion. (See Matt. 8:5; Luke 23:47; Acts 10:1–8.)

The pure love of Christ (Moro. 7:47); the love that Christ has for the children of men and that the children of men should have for one another (2 Ne. 26:30; 33:7–9; Ether 12:33–34); the highest, noblest, strongest kind of love, not merely affection.

Correction or discipline given to individuals or groups in order to help them improve or become stronger.

Sexual purity of men and women.

Figures representing heavenly creatures, the exact form being unknown. Cherubim have been called to guard sacred places.

A young person, one who has not yet reached puberty. Fathers and mothers are to train their children to obey God’s will. Children are without sin until they reach the age of accountability (Moro. 8:22; D&C 68:27).

Those who have accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ.

When the Lord selects, or chooses, an individual or group, He usually also calls them to serve.

Those selected by God for special responsibilities.

A name given to believers in Jesus Christ. Although this term is commonly used throughout the world, the Lord has designated true followers of Christ as Saints (Acts 9:13, 32, 41; 1 Cor. 1:2; D&C 115:4).

Two books in the Old Testament. They give a short history of events from the Creation to the proclamation of Cyrus allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem.

First Chronicles

Chapters 1–9 list genealogies from Adam to Saul. Chapter 10 chronicles the death of Saul. Chapters 11–22 trace the events associated with the reign of David. Chapters 23–27 explain that Solomon was made king and the Levites were set in order. Chapter 28 explains that David commanded Solomon to build a temple. Chapter 29 records David’s death.

Second Chronicles

Chapters 1–9 trace the events associated with the reign of Solomon. Chapters 10–12 tell of the reign of Solomon’s son Rehoboam, during which the united kingdom of Israel was divided into the northern and southern kingdoms. Chapters 13–36 describe the reigns of various kings until the capture of the kingdom of Judah by Nebuchadnezzar. The book ends with Cyrus’s decree that the captive children of Judah could return to Jerusalem.

See Chronology in the appendix.

In the Book of Mormon, when Jesus Christ visited the righteous Nephites shortly after His Resurrection, He said that His Church should bear His name (3 Ne. 27:3–8). In modern times the Lord revealed the name of the Church to be “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” (D&C 115:4).

Doctrines and works of a church that show it is approved by God and is the means the Lord has established for His children to gain the fulness of His blessings. Some of the signs of the true Church are as follows:

Correct understanding of the Godhead

First principles and ordinances

Revelation

Prophets

Authority

Additional scriptures to come forth

Church organization

Missionary work

Spiritual gifts

Temples

An organized body of believers who have taken upon themselves the name of Jesus Christ by baptism and confirmation. To be the true Church it must be the Lord’s Church; must have His authority, teachings, laws, ordinances, and name; and must be governed by Him through representatives whom He has appointed.

The name given to the Church of Christ in the latter days to distinguish it from the Church in other dispensations (D&C 115:3–4).

The token of the Abrahamic covenant for male Israelites during Old Testament dispensations (Gen. 17:10–11, 23–27; JST, Gen. 17:11 [Appendix]). Circumcision was performed by cutting off the “flesh of the foreskin” of male infants and adults alike. Those who received it enjoyed the privileges and accepted the responsibilities of the covenant. Circumcision as a token of the covenant was done away with by Christ’s mission (Moro. 8:8; D&C 74:3–7).

In the Old Testament, the Lord revealed to Moses and the ancient Israelites that only certain foods were considered clean or, in other words, fit to be eaten. The distinction that the Israelites drew between clean and unclean foods had a great effect upon their religious and social life. Certain animals, birds, and fish were regarded as clean and acceptable to eat, while others were unclean and were forbidden (Lev. 11; Deut. 14:3–20). Some diseased persons were also considered unclean.

In a spiritual sense, to be clean is to be free from sin and sinful desires. In this sense the word is used to describe a person who is virtuous and has a pure heart (Ps. 24:4). God’s covenant people have always had special instructions to be clean (3 Ne. 20:41; D&C 38:42; 133:5).

A book in the New Testament. It was originally a letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossians after he was visited by Epaphras, the evangelist of the Church in Colosse (Col. 1:7–8). Epaphras told Paul that the Colossians were falling into serious error—they thought they were better than other people because they carefully observed certain external ordinances (Col. 2:16), denied themselves certain physical wants, and worshiped angels (Col. 2:18). These practices made the Colossians feel they were being sanctified. They also felt they understood the mysteries of the universe better than other Church members. In his letter, Paul corrected them by teaching that redemption comes only through Christ and that we are to be wise and serve Him.

Chapter 1 is Paul’s greeting to the Colossians. Chapters 2–3 are doctrinal and contain statements on Christ as the Redeemer, the danger of false worship, and the importance of the Resurrection. Chapter 4 teaches that Saints are to be wise in all things.

In the scriptures, often means to draw near to someone by following or obeying, such as in the phrase “come unto Christ, and be perfected in him” (Moro. 10:32).

The scriptures speak of two Comforters. The first is the Holy Ghost (John 14:26–27; Moro. 8:26; D&C 21:9; 42:17; 90:11). The Second Comforter is the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:18, 21, 23). When someone obtains the Second Comforter, Jesus Christ will appear to him from time to time, will reveal the Father, and will teach him face to face (D&C 130:3).

Ten laws given by God through the prophet Moses to govern moral behavior.

The Hebrew name for these is the “Ten Words.” They are also called the Covenant (Deut. 9:9) or the Testimony (Ex. 25:21; 32:15). God’s giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses, and through him to Israel, is described in Ex. 19:9–20:23; 32:15–19; 34:1. The commandments were engraved on two tables of stone, which were placed in the Ark; hence the Ark was called the Ark of the Covenant (Num. 10:33). The Lord, quoting from Deut. 6:4–5 and Lev. 19:18, has summarized the Ten Commandments in “two great commandments” (Matt. 22:37–39).

The Ten Commandments have been repeated in latter-day revelation (JST, Ex. 34:1–2, 14 [Appendix]; Mosiah 12:32–37; 13:12–24; D&C 42:18–28; 59:5–13).

The laws and requirements that God gives to mankind, either individually or collectively. Keeping the commandments will bring blessings of the Lord to the obedient (D&C 130:21).

The principle whereby Church members sustain those called to serve in the Church, as well as other Church decisions requiring their support, usually shown by raising the right hand.

Jesus Christ stands at the head of His Church. Through the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, He directs Church leaders in important actions and decisions. However, all Church members have the right and privilege of sustaining or not sustaining the actions and decisions of their leaders.

In the scriptures, compassion means literally “to suffer with.” It also means to show sympathy, pity, and mercy for another.

To judge or be judged guilty by God.

The scriptures use confession in at least two ways. In one sense, to confess is to state one’s faith in something, such as to confess that Jesus is the Christ (Matt. 10:32; Rom. 10:9; 1 Jn. 4:1–3; D&C 88:104).

In another sense, to confess is to admit one’s guilt, such as in a confession of sins. It is a duty of all persons to confess all their sins to the Lord and obtain His forgiveness (D&C 58:42–43). When necessary, sins should be confessed to the person or persons sinned against. Serious sins should be confessed to a Church official (in most cases the bishop).

Having an assurance, belief, trust, or faith in something, especially God and Jesus Christ.

The inner sense of right and wrong, coming from the Light of Christ in all men (Moro. 7:16). We are born with a natural capacity to distinguish between right and wrong because of the Light of Christ that is given to every person (D&C 84:46). This faculty is called conscience. The possession of it makes us responsible beings. Like other faculties, our consciences may be deadened through sin or misuse.

To dedicate, to make holy, or to become righteous. The law of consecration is a divine principle whereby men and women voluntarily dedicate their time, talents, and material wealth to the establishment and building up of God’s kingdom.

In the Doctrine and Covenants, “the Constitution” refers to the Constitution of the United States of America, which was divinely inspired in order to prepare the way for the Restoration of the gospel.

To be urged strongly to do or not to do something, especially by the influence and power of the Holy Ghost.

Strife, arguing, and disputations. Contention, especially between members of the Lord’s Church or between family members, is not pleasing to the Lord.

Changing one’s beliefs, heart, and life to accept and conform to the will of God (Acts 3:19).

Conversion includes a conscious decision to give up one’s former ways and change to become a disciple of Christ. Repentance, baptism for the remission of sins, the reception of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, and continued faith in the Lord Jesus Christ make conversion complete. A natural man will be changed into a new person who is sanctified and pure, born again in Christ Jesus (2 Cor. 5:17; Mosiah 3:19).

In the Book of Mormon, a son of Alma, the son of Alma.

In the Book of Mormon, a king of the Jaredites and the last survivor of the Jaredite nation.

Two books in the New Testament. They were originally letters that Paul wrote to the Saints in Corinth to correct disorder among them. The Corinthians lived in a society that was morally wicked.

First Corinthians

Chapter 1 contains Paul’s greetings and his admonishment for the Saints to be united. Chapters 2–6 are Paul’s corrections of faults of the Corinthian Saints. Chapters 7–12 contain Paul’s replies to certain inquiries. Chapters 13–15 are concerned with charity, spiritual gifts, and the Resurrection. Chapter 16 contains Paul’s counsel to stand strong in the faith.

Second Corinthians

Chapter 1 contains Paul’s greetings and a message of comfort. Chapter 2 contains personal advice for Titus. Chapters 3–7 deal with the power of the gospel in the lives of the Saints and their leaders. Chapters 8–9 counsel the Saints to be cheerful givers to the poor. Chapters 10–12 are an assertion of Paul’s own position as an Apostle. Chapter 13 is an admonition to be perfect.

A centurion at Caesarea, baptized by Peter (Acts 10). He was probably the first Gentile to join the Church without first having been converted to Judaism. The baptism of Cornelius and his family marked the opening of the way for the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles. Peter, the chief Apostle, who held the keys of the kingdom of God on the earth at that time, directed this preaching.

The main stone forming the corner of the foundation of a building. Jesus Christ is called the chief cornerstone (Eph. 2:20).

The occasion in premortal life when the Father presented His plan to His spirit children who would come to this earth.

Admonitions, warnings, advice, and instruction from the Lord and His ordained leaders.

As used in the scriptures, counsel means to advise or instruct.

The general appearance of a person’s face, which often reflects spiritual attitude and state of mind.

To not be afraid, especially of doing what is right.

An agreement between God and man, but they do not act as equals in the agreement. God gives the conditions for the covenant, and men agree to do what He asks them to do. God then promises men certain blessings for their obedience.

Principles and ordinances are received by covenant. Members of the Church who make such covenants promise to honor them. For example, members covenant with the Lord at baptism and renew that covenant by partaking of the sacrament. They make further covenants in the temple. The Lord’s people are a covenant people and are greatly blessed as they keep their covenants with the Lord.

As used in the scriptures, to covet is to envy someone or to have an excessive desire for something.

The second elder of the restored Church and one of the Three Witnesses to the divine origin and truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. He acted as scribe while Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from the gold plates (JS—H 1:66–68).

To organize. God, working through His Son, Jesus Christ, organized the elements in nature to form the heavens and the earth. Heavenly Father and Jesus created man in Their image (Moses 2:26–27).

The wooden structure upon which Jesus Christ was crucified (Mark 15:20–26). Many in the world now think of it as a symbol of Christ’s Crucifixion and atoning sacrifice; however, the Lord has established His own symbols for His Crucifixion and sacrifice—the bread and the water of the sacrament (Matt. 26:26–28; D&C 20:40, 75–79). In the scriptures, those who take up their cross are those who love Jesus Christ so much that they deny themselves ungodliness and every worldly lust and keep His commandments (JST, Matt. 16:25–26 [Appendix]).

A circular ornament worn on the head by rulers. It can be a symbol of celestial power, dominion, and godhood. Those who endure to the end by keeping all of God’s commandments will receive a crown of eternal life. (See D&C 20:14; Moses 7:56; JS—M 1:1.)

A Roman form of execution, common during New Testament times, in which the person was put to death by tying or nailing his hands and feet to a cross. It was usually done only to slaves and the lowest criminals. Crucifixion was often preceded by scourging or whipping (Mark 15:15). The person being crucified was usually made to carry his own cross to the place of execution (John 19:16–17). His clothing was usually taken by the soldiers who carried out the sentence (Matt. 27:35). The cross was driven into the ground so that the feet of the person were only a foot or two above the ground. The cross was watched by soldiers until the person on the cross died, which sometimes took up to three days (John 19:31–37).

Jesus Christ was crucified because a group of unbelievers falsely charged Him with sedition against Caesar and blasphemy because He said He was the Son of God. A purple robe (John 19:2), a crown of thorns, and other insults were given to Jesus (Matt. 26:67; Mark 14:65).

The ordinary unit of length among the Hebrews—originally the distance from the elbow to the tip of the fingers.

A small hill located in western New York, United States of America. Here an ancient prophet named Moroni hid the gold plates containing some of the records of the Nephite and Jaredite nations. Joseph Smith was directed to this hill in 1827 by the resurrected Moroni to get these plates and translate a portion of them. This translation is the Book of Mormon.

In the scriptures, a curse is the application of divine law that allows or brings judgments and their consequences upon a thing, person, or people primarily because of unrighteousness. Curses are a manifestation of God’s divine love and justice. They may be invoked directly by God or pronounced by His authorized servants. Sometimes, the full reasons for curses are known only to God. In addition, a cursed state is experienced by those who willfully disobey God and thereby withdraw themselves from the Spirit of the Lord.

The Lord may remove curses because of the individual’s or people’s faith in Jesus Christ and obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel (Alma 23:16–18; 3 Ne. 2:14–16; A of F 1:3).

Profanity

To curse is also to use language that is profane, blasphemous, or contemptuous.

In the Old Testament, the king of Persia who fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy (2 Chr. 36:22–23; Isa. 44:28; 45:1) by allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple, thus partially ending the Babylonian captivity. Isaiah’s prophecy was made about 180 years before the king’s action.

An ancient city of Syria.

Damascus stands on a rich plain on the edge of the desert and is well watered by the river Barada. It is mentioned frequently in the scriptures (beginning with Gen. 14:15). Paul was on his way to Damascus when the resurrected Lord appeared to him (Acts 9:1–27; 22:5–16; 26:12–20).

The state of being stopped in one’s progress and denied access to the presence of God and His glory. Damnation exists in varying degrees. All who do not obtain the fulness of celestial exaltation will to some degree be limited in their progress and privileges, and they will be damned to that extent.

In the Old Testament, a son of Jacob and Bilhah, Rachel’s maid (Gen. 30:5–6).

The tribe of Dan

For Jacob’s blessing on Dan, see Genesis 49:16–18. For Moses’ blessing on the tribe of Dan, see Deuteronomy 33:22. After they settled in Canaan, the tribe of Dan received a small but extremely fertile piece of land (Josh. 19:40–48). They had a good deal of difficulty protecting it against the Amorites (Judg. 1:34) and against the Philistines (Judg. 13:2, 25; 18:1). As a result, the Danites moved north of Palestine (Judg. 18), around Laish, and renamed that city Dan. This town is well known as the northern limit of Palestine, which extended “from Dan even to Beer-sheba.”

The main character of the book of Daniel in the Old Testament; a prophet of God and a man of great faith.

Nothing is known about his parents, although he appears to have been of royal descent (Dan. 1:3). He was taken captive to Babylon, where he received the name Belteshazzar (Dan. 1:6–7). Daniel and three other captives refused the king’s food for religious reasons (Dan. 1:8–16).

Daniel won the favor of Nebuchadnezzar and Darius by his power to interpret dreams (Dan. 2; 4; 6). He also read and interpreted the handwriting on the wall (Dan. 5). His enemies plotted against him, and he was thrown into a den of lions, but the Lord preserved his life (Dan. 6).

The book of Daniel

The book has two divisions: chapters 1–6 are stories about Daniel and his three companions; chapters 7–12 are prophetic visions that Daniel saw. The book teaches the importance of being true to God and illustrates that the Lord blesses the faithful.

A major contribution of the book is the interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. In the dream, the kingdom of God in the last days is depicted as a stone that is cut out of a mountain. The stone will roll forth until it fills the whole earth (Dan. 2; see also D&C 65:2).

In the Old Testament, king of the Medes who reigned in Babylon after the death of Belshazzar (Dan. 5:31; 6:9, 25–28; 9:1; 11:1).

Wickedness or ignorance of spiritual things.

A king of ancient Israel in the Old Testament.

David was a son of Jesse of the tribe of Judah. He was a courageous youth who slew a lion, a bear, and the Philistine giant Goliath (1 Sam. 17). David was chosen and anointed to be king of Israel. Like Saul, in his adult life he was guilty of grave crimes, but, unlike Saul, he was capable of true contrition. He was therefore able to find forgiveness, except in the murder of Uriah (D&C 132:39). His life can be divided into four parts: (1) at Bethlehem, where he was a shepherd (1 Sam. 16–17); (2) in the court of King Saul (1 Sam. 18:1–19:18); (3) as a fugitive (1 Sam. 19:18–31:13; 2 Sam. 1); (4) as king over Judah at Hebron (2 Sam. 2–4), and later as king over all Israel (2 Sam. 5–24; 1 Kgs. 1:1–2:11).

David’s sin of adultery with Bathsheba was followed by a series of misfortunes that marred the last twenty years of his life. The nation as a whole was prosperous during his reign, but David himself suffered from the consequences of his sins. There were constant family feuds, which, in the case of Absalom and Adonijah, ended in open rebellion. These incidents are a fulfillment of the pronouncement of Nathan the prophet upon David because of his sin (2 Sam. 12:7–13).

In spite of these disasters, David’s reign was the most brilliant of Israelite history, for (1) he united the tribes into one nation, (2) he secured undisputed possession of the country, (3) he based the government on the true religion so that the will of God was the law of Israel. For these reasons, David’s reign was later regarded as the nation’s golden age and the type of the more glorious age when the Messiah would come (Isa. 16:5; Jer. 23:5; Ezek. 37:24–28).

David’s life illustrates the need for all persons to endure in righteousness to the end. As a youth, he was said to be a man after the Lord’s “own heart” (1 Sam. 13:14); as a man, he spoke by the Spirit and had many revelations. But he paid a heavy price for his disobedience to the commandments of God (D&C 132:39).

A calling in Church service at the time of the Apostle Paul (Philip. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8–13) and an office in the Aaronic Priesthood (D&C 20:38, 57–59; 84:30, 111; 107:85).

The salt sea at the southern end of the Jordan Valley. It was also known as the Salt Sea. Its surface is approximately 1300 feet (395 meters) below the Mediterranean Sea. The cities of Sodom, Gomorrah, and Zoar or Bela were near its shores (Gen. 14:2–3).

In fulfillment of prophecy and as one of the signs of the Second Coming of the Savior, the waters of the Dead Sea will be healed, and life will flourish there (Ezek. 47:8–9).

The separation of the body and the spirit. The Fall brought mortality and death to the earth (2 Ne. 2:22; Moses 6:48). The Atonement of Jesus Christ conquered death so that everyone will be resurrected (1 Cor. 15:21–23). Resurrection is a free gift to all people regardless of whether they have done good or evil in this life (Alma 11:42–44). Each person suffers only one physical death since once we are resurrected, our bodies can die no more (Alma 11:45).

Separation from God and His influences; to die as to things pertaining to righteousness. Lucifer and a third part of the hosts of heaven suffered a spiritual death when they were cast out of heaven (D&C 29:36–37).

Spiritual death was introduced into the world by the Fall of Adam (Moses 6:48). Mortals with evil thoughts, words, and works are spiritually dead while still alive on earth (1 Tim. 5:6). Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and by obedience to the principles and ordinances of the gospel, men and women can become clean from sin and overcome spiritual death.

Spiritual death also occurs following the death of the mortal body. Both resurrected beings and the devil and his angels will be judged. Those who have willfully rebelled against the light and truth of the gospel will suffer spiritual death. This death is often called the second death (Alma 12:16; Hel. 14:16–19; D&C 76:36–38).

In the Old Testament, a prophetess who judged Israel and encouraged Barak against the Canaanites (Judg. 4). The song of Deborah and Barak celebrated Israel’s deliverance from bondage (Judg. 5).

As used in the scriptures, money or property owed to another causes the borrower to be in a form of bondage. In another sense, Jesus taught that we should ask the Father to forgive us our debts, or release us from paying the price for our sins—through the Atonement of Jesus Christ—after we have forgiven others for their offences against us (Matt. 6:12; 3 Ne. 13:11).

In the scriptures, to deceive is to cause someone to believe something that is not true.

Differing kingdoms in heaven. At the Final Judgment, each person will inherit an eternal dwelling place in a specific kingdom of glory, except those who are sons of Perdition.

A Philistine woman in the Old Testament who deceived and betrayed Samson (Judg. 16).

Jesus Christ is the Deliverer of mankind because He rescues all from the bondage of death and the repentant from the penalties of sin.

In the Book of Mormon, a Jaredite word meaning “honey bee” (Ether 2:3).

Satan is the destroyer.

The fifth book of the Old Testament.

Deuteronomy contains the three last discourses of Moses, which he delivered in the plains of Moab just before he was translated. The first discourse (chapters 1–4) is introductory. The second discourse (chapters 5–26) consists of two parts: (1) chapters 5–11—the Ten Commandments and a practical explanation of them; and (2) chapters 12–26—a code of laws, which forms the nucleus of the whole book. The third discourse (chapters 27–30) contains a solemn renewal of the covenant between Israel and God and an announcement of the blessings that follow obedience and the curses that follow disobedience. Chapters 31–34 describe the delivery of the law to the Levites, Moses’ song and last blessing, and the departure of Moses.

Satan. The devil is the enemy of righteousness and of those who seek to do the will of God. He is literally a spirit son of God and was at one time an angel in authority in the presence of God (Isa. 14:12; 2 Ne. 2:17). However, he rebelled in the premortal life and persuaded a third part of the spirit children of the Father to rebel with him (D&C 29:36; Moses 4:1–4; Abr. 3:27–28). They were cast out of heaven, were denied the opportunity of obtaining mortal bodies and experiencing mortal life, and will be eternally damned. Since the time the devil was cast out of heaven, he has sought constantly to deceive all men and women and lead them away from the work of God in order to make all mankind as miserable as he is (Rev. 12:9; 2 Ne. 2:27; 9:8–9).

The church of the devil

Every evil and worldly organization on earth that perverts the pure and perfect gospel and fights against the Lamb of God.

Consistent, valiant effort, especially in serving the Lord and obeying His word.

To understand or know something through the power of the Spirit. The gift of discernment is one of the gifts of the Spirit. It includes perceiving the true character of people and the source and meaning of spiritual manifestations.

A follower of Jesus Christ who lives according to Christ’s teachings (D&C 41:5). Disciple is used to describe the Twelve Apostles whom Christ called during His mortal ministry (Matt. 10:1–4). Disciple is also used to describe the twelve men whom Jesus chose to lead His Church among the Nephites and Lamanites (3 Ne. 19:4).

A gospel dispensation is a period of time in which the Lord has at least one authorized servant on the earth who bears the keys of the holy priesthood.

Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus Christ, Joseph Smith, and others have each started a new gospel dispensation. When the Lord organizes a dispensation, the gospel is revealed anew so that the people of that dispensation do not have to depend on past dispensations for knowledge of the plan of salvation. The dispensation begun by Joseph Smith is known as the “dispensation of the fulness of times.”

The termination of a marriage through the power of civil or ecclesiastical law. According to the New Testament, God permitted divorce under some conditions because of the hardness of the people’s hearts; however, as Jesus explained, “from the beginning it was not so” (Matt. 19:3–12). The scriptures counsel against divorce generally and advise husbands and wives to love each other in righteousness (1 Cor. 7:10–12; D&C 42:22).

A collection of latter-day divine revelations and inspired declarations. The Lord gave these to Joseph Smith and several of his successors for the establishment and regulation of the kingdom of God on the earth in the last days. The Doctrine and Covenants is one of the standard works of scripture in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, along with the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and the Pearl of Great Price. The Doctrine and Covenants is unique, however, because it is not a translation of ancient documents; the Lord gave these revelations to His chosen prophets in this modern day in order to restore His kingdom. In the revelations one hears the tender but firm voice of the Lord Jesus Christ (D&C 18:35–36).

Joseph Smith’s history says that the Doctrine and Covenants is the foundation of the Church in the last days and a benefit to the world (D&C 70 heading). The revelations in it initiate the work of preparing the way for the Lord’s Second Coming, in fulfillment of all the words spoken by the prophets since the world began.

The principles and teachings of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

A prearranged sign by which John the Baptist would recognize the Messiah (John 1:32–34). Joseph Smith taught that the sign of the dove was instituted before the creation of the world as a witness for the Holy Ghost; therefore, the devil cannot come in the sign of a dove.

One way that God reveals His will to men and women on earth. Not all dreams are revelations, however. Inspired dreams are the fruit of faith.

In the scriptures, a task, assignment, or responsibility, often given by the Lord or His servants.

In the scriptures, the ear is often used as a symbol of a person’s ability to hear and understand the things of God.

The planet on which we live, created by God through Jesus Christ to be used by man during his mortal probation. Its final destiny is to become glorified and exalted (D&C 77:1–2; 130:8–9). The earth will become an eternal inheritance of those who have lived worthy of a celestial glory (D&C 88:14–26). They will enjoy the presence of the Father and the Son (D&C 76:62).

Created for man

A living entity

Division of the earth

Cleansing of the earth

Final state of the earth

A book in the Old Testament containing reflections on some of the deepest problems of life.

The book’s author, the Preacher, writes much of the book from the point of view of those who are without gospel understanding. He writes according to the feelings of the people of the world—that is, those “under the sun” (Eccl. 1:9). Much of the book seems negative and pessimistic (Eccl. 9:5, 10). This is not how the Lord would have us perceive life but rather how the Preacher has observed that things appear to unenlightened men on earth. The most spiritual part of the book is in chapters 11 and 12, where the writer concludes that the only thing of lasting value is obedience to God’s commandments.

The home of our first parents, Adam and Eve (Gen. 2:8–3:24; 4:16; 2 Ne. 2:19–25; Moses 3–4; Abr. 5), designated as a garden, eastward in Eden. Adam and Eve were sent out of Eden after eating of the forbidden fruit and becoming mortal (Moses 4:29). Latter-day revelation confirms the biblical account of the Garden of Eden. It adds the important information that the garden was located on what is now the North American continent.

A country in the northeastern corner of Africa. Much of Egypt is barren and desolate. Most of the inhabitants live in the Nile Valley, which stretches some 550 miles (890 kilometers).

Ancient Egypt was rich and prosperous. Great public works were built, including canals for irrigation; strong cities for defense; and royal monuments, especially pyramid tombs and temples, which are still among the wonders of the world. For a time, the Egyptian government was an imitation of the patriarchal order of the priesthood (Abr. 1:21–27).

The name of both the wife and a daughter of Ham, the son of Noah. In Chaldean, the name signifies “Egypt,” or “that which is forbidden” (Abr. 1:23–25).

The term elder is used in various ways in the Bible. In the Old Testament it often refers to the older men in a tribe, who were usually entrusted with governmental affairs (Gen. 50:7; Josh. 20:4; Ruth 4:2; Matt. 15:2). Their age and experience made their counsel valuable. Their position was not necessarily a priesthood calling.

There were also ordained elders in the Melchizedek Priesthood in Old Testament times (Ex. 24:9–11). In the New Testament, elders are mentioned as a priesthood office in the Church (James 5:14–15). Among the Nephites there were also ordained elders in the priesthood (Alma 4:7, 16; Moro. 3:1). In this dispensation, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were the first elders to be ordained (D&C 20:2–3).

Elder is now the title given to all holders of the Melchizedek Priesthood. For example, male missionaries are addressed as elders. Also, an Apostle is an elder, and it is proper to speak of members of the Quorum of the Twelve or Quorums of the Seventy by this title (D&C 20:38; 1 Pet. 5:1). The duties of ordained elders in the Church today have been given in latter-day revelation (D&C 20:38–45; 42:44; 46:2; 107:12).

The elect are those who love God with all their hearts and live lives that are pleasing to Him. Those who live such lives of discipleship will one day be selected by the Lord to be among His chosen children.

Based on premortal worthiness, God chose those who would be the seed of Abraham and the house of Israel and become the covenant people (Deut. 32:7–9; Abr. 2:9–11). These people are given special blessings and duties so that they can bless all the nations of the world (Rom. 11:5–7; 1 Pet. 1:2; Alma 13:1–5; D&C 84:99). However, even these chosen ones must be called and elected in this life in order to gain salvation.

A high priest and judge in the Old Testament when the Lord called Samuel to be a prophet (1 Sam. 3). The Lord rebuked him for tolerating the wickedness of his sons (1 Sam. 2:22–36; 3:13).

There are several uses of the name or title Elias in the scriptures:

Elijah

Elias is the New Testament (Greek) form of Elijah (Hebrew), as in Matt. 17:3–4, Luke 4:25–26, and James 5:17. In these instances, Elias was the ancient prophet Elijah whose ministry is recorded in 1 and 2 Kings.

Forerunner

Elias is also a title for one who is a forerunner. For example, John the Baptist was an Elias because he was sent to prepare the way for Jesus (Matt. 17:12–13).

Restorer

The title Elias has also been applied to others who had specific missions to fulfill, such as John the Revelator (D&C 77:14) and Gabriel (Luke 1:11–20; D&C 27:6–7; 110:12).

A man in Abraham’s dispensation

A prophet called Esaias or Elias who apparently lived in the days of Abraham (D&C 84:11–13; 110:12).

An Old Testament prophet who returned in the latter days to confer the keys of the sealing power on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. In his day, Elijah ministered in the Northern Kingdom of Israel (1 Kgs. 17–22; 2 Kgs. 1–2). He had great faith in the Lord and is noted for many miracles. At his request, God prevented rain for 3½ years. He raised a boy from the dead and called down fire from heaven (1 Kgs. 17–18). The Jewish people still wait for Elijah to return, as Malachi prophesied he would (Mal. 4:5). He remains an invited guest at Jewish Passover Feasts, where an open door and a vacant seat always await him.

The Prophet Joseph Smith said that Elijah held the sealing power of the Melchizedek Priesthood and was the last prophet to do so before the time of Jesus Christ. He appeared on the Mount of Transfiguration with Moses and conferred the keys of the priesthood on Peter, James, and John (Matt. 17:3). He appeared again, with Moses and others, on April 3, 1836, in the Kirtland Ohio Temple and conferred the same keys upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery (D&C 110:13–16). All of this was in preparation for the Second Coming of the Lord, as spoken of in Malachi 4:5–6.

The power of Elijah is the sealing power of the priesthood by which things that are bound or loosed on earth are bound or loosed in heaven (D&C 128:8–18). Chosen servants of the Lord on earth today have this sealing power and perform the saving ordinances of the gospel for the living and the dead (D&C 128:8).

In the New Testament, the wife of Zacharias, the mother of John the Baptist, and a kinswoman of Mary (Luke 1:5–60).

An Old Testament prophet of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and a trusted adviser of several of that country’s kings.

Elisha had a gentle and affectionate disposition, without that fiery zeal by which his master, Elijah, was distinguished. His notable miracles (2 Kgs. 2–5; 8) testify that he truly received Elijah’s power when he succeeded Elijah as prophet (2 Kgs. 2:9–12). For example, he healed the waters of a bitter spring, divided the waters of the Jordan River, multiplied a widow’s oil, raised a boy from the dead, cured a man of leprosy, caused an iron ax to float, and struck the Syrians with blindness (2 Kgs. 2–6). His ministry lasted more than fifty years during the reigns of Jehoram, Jehu, Jehoahaz, and Joash.

One of the names of God, indicating His eternal nature (D&C 19:10–12; Moses 1:3; 7:35).

In a general sense, a gift of power from God. Worthy members of the Church can receive a gift of power through ordinances in the temple that gives them the instruction and covenants of the Holy Priesthood that they need in order to attain exaltation. The endowment includes instruction about the plan of salvation.

To remain firm in a commitment to be true to the commandments of God despite temptation, opposition, and adversity.

In the scriptures, antagonism, hostility, and hate.

A prophet who led the people of the city of Zion. His ministry is discussed in both the Old Testament and the Pearl of Great Price. He was the seventh patriarch after Adam. He was the son of Jared and the father of Methuselah (Gen. 5:18–24; Luke 3:37).

Enoch was a great person and had a more significant ministry than the Bible’s brief account of him indicates. The Bible notes that he was translated (Heb. 11:5) but gives no details of his ministry. Jude 1:14 contains a quotation of a prophecy he made. Latter-day revelation explains much more of Enoch, specifically of his preaching, his city called Zion, his visions, and his prophecies (D&C 107:48–57; Moses 6–7). Zion was taken to heaven because of the righteousness of those who lived in it (Moses 7:69).

A Nephite prophet and record keeper in the Book of Mormon who prayed for and received a remission of his sins through his faith in Christ (Enos 1:1–8). The Lord covenanted with Enos to bring forth the Book of Mormon to the Lamanites (Enos 1:15–17).

The book of Enos

A book in the Book of Mormon that tells of Enos’s prayer to the Lord for personal forgiveness, for his people, and for others. The Lord promised him that the Book of Mormon would be preserved and made available to the Lamanites in a future day. Though the book contains but one chapter, it records the powerful story of a man who sought his God in prayer, lived obedient to God’s commands, and before his death rejoiced in his knowledge of the Redeemer.

In the scriptures, a flag or standard around which people gather in a unity of purpose or identity. In ancient times an ensign served as a rallying point for soldiers in battle. The Book of Mormon and the Church of Jesus Christ are symbolic ensigns to all nations of the earth.

According to the scriptures, to desire something that belongs to another is wrong.

In the New Testament, an epistle written by the Apostle Paul to the Saints in Ephesus. The epistle is of great importance, for it contains Paul’s teachings about the Church of Christ.

Chapter 1 contains the usual salutation. Chapters 2–3 explain the change that occurs in people when they become members of the Church—they become fellow citizens with the Saints, with Gentiles and Jews united in one Church. Chapters 4–6 explain the roles of Apostles and prophets, the need for unity, and the need to put on the whole armor of God.

In the Old Testament, the second son of Joseph and Asenath (Gen. 41:50–52; 46:20). Contrary to the traditional manner, Ephraim received the birthright blessing instead of Manasseh, who was the elder son (Gen. 48:17–20). Ephraim became the father of the tribe of Ephraim.

The tribe of Ephraim

Ephraim was given the birthright in Israel (1 Chr. 5:1–2; Jer. 31:9). In the last days their privilege and responsibility is to bear the priesthood, take the message of the restored gospel to the world, and raise an ensign to gather scattered Israel (Isa. 11:12–13; 2 Ne. 21:12–13). The children of Ephraim will crown with glory those from the north countries who return in the last days (D&C 133:26–34).

The stick of Ephraim or Joseph

A record of one group from the tribe of Ephraim that was led from Jerusalem to America about 600 B.C. This group’s record is called the stick of Ephraim or Joseph, or the Book of Mormon. It and the stick of Judah (the Bible) form a unified testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ, His Resurrection, and His divine work among these two segments of the house of Israel.

The New Testament (Greek) form of the name Isaiah (Luke 4:17). Esaias was also a prophet who lived in the days of Abraham (D&C 76:100; 84:13).

In the Old Testament, Isaac and Rebekah’s elder son and Jacob’s twin brother. The two brothers were rivals from their birth (Gen. 25:19–26). Esau’s descendants, the Edomites, and Jacob’s descendants, the Israelites, became rival nations (Gen. 25:23).

To regard someone or something as having worth and value, especially in a gospel setting.

A woman of great faith and the main character in the book of Esther.

The book of Esther

A book in the Old Testament that contains the story of Queen Esther’s great courage in saving her people from destruction.

Chapters 1–2 tell how Esther, a Jewish woman and the adopted daughter of a Jewish man named Mordecai, was chosen as queen of Persia because of her beauty. Chapter 3 explains that Haman, chief man at the king’s court, hated Mordecai and obtained a decree to put all Jewish people to death. Chapters 4–10 tell how Esther, at great personal risk, revealed her own nationality to the king and obtained a reversal of the decree.

To live forever as families in God’s presence (D&C 132:19–20, 24, 55). Eternal life is God’s greatest gift to man.

The last Jaredite prophet in the Book of Mormon (Ether 12:1–2).

The book of Ether

A book in the Book of Mormon that contains portions of the record of the Jaredites. The Jaredites were a group of people who lived in the western hemisphere many centuries before the people of Lehi. The book of Ether was taken from twenty-four plates found by the people of Limhi (Mosiah 8:8–9).

Chapters 1–2 tell how the Jaredites left their home at the time of the Tower of Babel and began their journey to what is now known as the American continent. Chapters 3–6 explain that the brother of Jared saw the premortal Savior and that the Jaredites traveled in eight barges. Chapters 7–11 continue the history of wickedness that dominated much of Jaredite history. Moroni, who edited Ether’s record, wrote in chapters 12–13 of wonders done by faith and of Christ and a New Jerusalem to come. Chapters 14–15 tell how the Jaredites became a mighty nation but were destroyed by civil war due to wickedness.

One who bears or proclaims the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Joseph Smith taught that an evangelist was a patriarch. Patriarchs are called and ordained under the direction of the Twelve Apostles to give special blessings called patriarchal blessings.

The first woman to live on this earth (Gen. 2:21–25; 3:20). She was Adam’s wife. In Hebrew the name means “life.” She was so named because she was the “mother of all living” (Moses 4:26). She and Adam, the first man, will share eternal glory for their role in making possible the eternal progress of all mankind.

Saying things that are wrong, hurtful, and wicked. Often in scripture such speaking is directed at a person with the specific intent to cause pain.

The highest state of happiness and glory in the celestial kingdom.

Excommunication is the most severe Church disciplinary action. A person who is excommunicated is no longer a member of the Church. Church authorities excommunicate a person from the Church only when he has chosen to live in opposition to the Lord’s commandments and thus has disqualified himself for further membership in the Church.

A book written by Moses in the Old Testament that describes the departure of the Israelites out of Egypt. The early history of Israel as recorded in Exodus can be divided into three parts: (1) the people’s slavery to Egypt, (2) their departure from Egypt under Moses’ leadership, and (3) their dedication to God’s service in their religious life and their political life.

The first portion, Exodus 1:1–15:21, explains the oppression of Israel in Egypt; the early history and call of Moses; the Exodus and the institution of the Passover; and the march to the Red Sea, the destruction of Pharaoh’s army, and Moses’ song of victory.

The second portion, Exodus 15:22–18:27, tells of Israel’s redemption and the events on the journey from the Red Sea to Sinai; the bitter waters of Marah, the giving of quails and manna, the observance of the Sabbath, the miraculous gift of water at Rephidim, and the battle there with the Amalekites; the arrival of Jethro in the camp and his advice about the civil government of the people.

The third portion, chapters 19–40, deals with Israel’s consecration to God’s service during the solemn events at Sinai. The Lord set the people apart as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation; He gave the Ten Commandments; and He gave instructions about the tabernacle, its furniture, and worship therein. Then follows the account of the people’s sin in worshiping a golden calf, and finally the account of the construction of the tabernacle and provision for its services.

In the scriptures, the eye is often used as a symbol of a person’s ability to receive the light of God. Symbolically, a person’s eye also shows spiritual condition and an understanding of the things of God.

A prophet who wrote the book of Ezekiel in the Old Testament. He was a priest of the family of Zadok and one of the Jewish captives carried away by Nebuchadnezzar. He settled with the Jewish exiles in Babylon and prophesied during a period of twenty-two years, from 592 to 570 B.C.

The book of Ezekiel

The book of Ezekiel can be separated into four divisions. Chapters 1–3 tell about a vision of God and Ezekiel’s call to serve; chapters 4–24 speak of judgments on Jerusalem and why they were given; chapters 25–32 proclaim judgments on the nations; and chapters 33–48 record visions of latter-day Israel.

An Old Testament priest and scribe who brought some of the Jews back to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity (Ezra 7–10; Neh. 8; 12). In 458 B.C. he obtained permission from Artaxerxes, king of Persia, to take to Jerusalem any Jewish exiles who cared to go (Ezra 7:12–26).

Before Ezra’s time, the priests had almost total control over reading the collection of written scriptures called the “law.” Ezra helped make the scriptures available to every Jew. The open reading of “the book of the law” eventually became the center of Jewish national life. Perhaps Ezra’s greatest teaching came from his own example of preparing his heart to seek the Lord’s law, to obey it, and to teach it to others (Ezra 7:10).

The book of Ezra

Chapters 1–6 describe events that happened from sixty to eighty years before Ezra arrived in Jerusalem—the decree of Cyrus in 537 B.C. and the return of the Jews under Zerubbabel. Chapters 7–10 show how Ezra went to Jerusalem. He, with his company, fasted and prayed for protection. At Jerusalem they found many Jewish people who had gone to Jerusalem earlier under Zerubbabel and had married women out of the covenant and thus defiled themselves. Ezra prayed for them and placed them under covenant to divorce those wives. The later history of Ezra is found in the book of Nehemiah.

Confidence in something or someone. As most often used in the scriptures, faith is confidence and trust in Jesus Christ that lead a person to obey Him. Faith must be centered in Jesus Christ in order for it to lead a person to salvation. Latter-day Saints also have faith in God the Father, the Holy Ghost, priesthood power, and other important aspects of the restored gospel.

Faith includes a hope for things which are not seen, but which are true (Heb. 11:1; Alma 32:21; Ether 12:6). Faith is kindled by hearing the gospel taught by authorized administrators sent by God (Rom. 10:14–17). Miracles do not produce faith, but strong faith is developed by obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ. In other words, faith comes by righteousness (Alma 32:40–43; Ether 12:4, 6, 12; D&C 63:9–12).

True faith brings miracles, visions, dreams, healings, and all the gifts of God that He gives to His Saints. By faith one obtains a remission of sins and eventually is able to dwell in God’s presence. A lack of faith leads one to despair, which comes because of iniquity (Moro. 10:22).

The process by which mankind became mortal on this earth. When Adam and Eve ate of the forbidden fruit, they became mortal, that is, subject to sin and death. Adam became the “first flesh” upon the earth (Moses 3:7). Latter-day revelation makes clear that the Fall is a blessing and that Adam and Eve should be honored as the first parents of all mankind.

The Fall was a necessary step in man’s progress. Because God knew that the Fall would occur, He had planned in the premortal life for a Savior. Jesus Christ came in the meridian of time to atone for the Fall of Adam and also for man’s individual sins on condition of man’s repentance.

As used in the scriptures, a family consists of a husband and wife, children, and sometimes other relatives living in the same house or under one family head. A family can also be a single parent with children, a husband and wife without children, or even a single person living alone.

General

Parents’ responsibilities

Child’s responsibilities

Eternal family

The Doctrine and Covenants sets forth the eternal nature of the marriage relationship and the family. Celestial marriage and a continuation of the family unit enable husbands and wives to become gods (D&C 132:15–20).

To voluntarily refrain from eating or drinking for the purpose of drawing closer to the Lord and requesting His blessings. When individuals and groups fast, they should also pray to understand God’s will and to develop greater spiritual strength. Fasting has always been practiced by true believers.

In the Church today, one Sabbath day each month is set aside for the purpose of fasting. During this time, Church members go without food and water for a period of time. They then contribute to the Church the money that they would have spent on food for those meals. This money is called a fast offering. The Church uses the fast offerings to assist the poor and needy.

A sacred title referring to a man who has begotten or legally adopted a child.

The Father of the spirits of all mankind (Ps. 82:6; Matt. 5:48; John 10:34; Rom. 8:16–17; Gal. 4:7; 1 Jn. 3:2). Jesus is His Only Begotten Son in the flesh. Man has been commanded to obey and give reverence to the Father and to pray to Him in Jesus’ name.

The site of the farm owned by Peter Whitmer Sr. where many revelations were given to the Prophet Joseph Smith Jr. Here the Church was organized on April 6, 1830, and the voice of the Lord was heard (D&C 128:20).

Fear can have two meanings: (1) to fear God is to feel reverence and awe for Him and to obey His commandments; (2) to fear man, mortal dangers, pain, and evil is to be afraid of such things and to dread them.

Fear of God

Fear of man

To sense the promptings of the Spirit.

For Latter-day Saints, fellowship includes offering friendly companionship, serving, uplifting, and strengthening others.

In scripture, an open area of land used for cultivation or pasture. It often symbolizes the world and its peoples.

Spiritual uncleanness because of willful disobedience to God.

A symbol for cleansing, purifying, or sanctifying. Fire can also serve as a symbol of God’s presence.

In the time of the ancient patriarchs, the firstborn son received the birthright (Gen. 43:33) and thus inherited the leadership of the family upon the death of the father. The firstborn had to be worthy to assume this responsibility (1 Chr. 5:1–2) and could lose his birthright by unrighteousness.

Under the law of Moses, the firstborn son was regarded as belonging to God. The firstborn received a double portion of his father’s possessions (Deut. 21:17). After his father’s death, he was responsible for the care of his mother and sisters.

The male firstborn of animals also belonged to God. Clean animals were used for sacrifices, while unclean animals might be redeemed or sold or put to death (Ex. 13:2, 11–13; 34:19–20; Lev. 27:11–13, 26–27).

The firstborn symbolized Jesus Christ and His earthly ministry, reminding the people that the great Messiah would come (Moses 5:4–8; 6:63).

Jesus was the firstborn of the spirit children of our Heavenly Father, the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh, and the first to rise from the dead in the Resurrection (Col. 1:13–18). Faithful Saints become members of the Church of the Firstborn in eternity (D&C 93:21–22).

The first crops gathered in a season. In Old Testament times, they were offered to the Lord (Lev. 23:9–20). Jesus Christ was the firstfruits unto God in that He was the first to be resurrected (1 Cor. 15:20, 23; 2 Ne. 2:9). Those who accept the gospel and endure to the end in faithfulness are in a symbolic way the firstfruits, for they belong to God.

The President of the Church and his Counselors. They are a quorum of three high priests and preside over the whole Church. The First Presidency holds all the keys of the priesthood.

The appearance of God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ to the Prophet Joseph Smith in a grove of trees.

In the spring of 1820, Joseph Smith Jr. was in his fifteenth year. He lived with his family in the township of Palmyra, New York. A short distance west of the family home was a grove of large trees. Joseph went to this spot to pray to God to learn which church was right. He had been impressed while reading the Bible that he must seek that answer from God (James 1:5–6). In answer to his prayer, the Father and the Son appeared to him and told him to join none of the churches then on the earth, for they were all wrong (JS—H 1:15–20). This sacred experience began a series of events that would bring about the Restoration of the gospel and Christ’s true Church.

Flesh has several meanings: (1) the soft tissue that makes up the bodies of mankind, animals, fowls, or fish; (2) mortality; or (3) the physical or carnal nature of man.

Body tissue

Mortality

Carnal nature of man

During Noah’s time the earth was completely covered with water. This was the baptism of the earth and symbolized a cleansing (1 Pet. 3:20–21).

God’s premortal ordination of His valiant spirit children to fulfill certain missions during their mortal lives.

As used in the scriptures, to forgive generally means one of two things: (1) When God forgives men, He cancels or sets aside a required punishment for sin. Through the Atonement of Christ, forgiveness of sins is available to all who repent, except those guilty of murder or the unpardonable sin against the Holy Ghost. (2) As people forgive each other, they treat one another with Christlike love and have no bad feelings toward those who have offended them (Matt. 5:43–45; 6:12–15; Luke 17:3–4; 1 Ne. 7:19–21).

Unlawful sexual intercourse between two people not married to each other. In the scriptures it is also occasionally used as a symbol for apostasy.

The power or ability to make personal choices without compulsion. In a spiritual sense, a person who repents and obeys God’s will is free from the bondage of sin through the Atonement of Jesus Christ (Mosiah 5:8).

An angel sent to Daniel (Dan. 8:16; 9:21), Zacharias (Luke 1:11–19; D&C 27:7), Mary (Luke 1:26–38), and others (D&C 128:21). The Prophet Joseph Smith indicated that Gabriel is the Old Testament prophet Noah.

In the Old Testament, a son of Jacob and Zilpah (Gen. 30:10–11). His descendants became a tribe of Israel.

The tribe of Gad

For Jacob’s blessing on his son Gad, see Genesis 49:19. For Moses’ blessing on the tribe of Gad, see Deuteronomy 33:20–21. According to these blessings, Gad’s descendants were to be a warlike race. The lands allotted to them in the land of Canaan were east of the Jordan River and contained good pasture land with abundant water.

In the Book of Mormon, a band of robbers founded by a wicked Nephite named Gadianton. Their organization was based on secrecy and satanic oaths.

A prophet and faithful friend and adviser of David in the Old Testament (1 Sam. 22:5; 2 Sam. 24:11–19). He wrote a book of the acts of David, which has become lost scripture (1 Chr. 29:29).

A book in the New Testament. It was originally a letter that the Apostle Paul wrote to the Saints living throughout Galatia. The theme of this letter is that true freedom can be found only in living the gospel of Jesus Christ. If the Saints adopted the teachings of Jewish Christians who insisted on observing the Mosaic law, they would limit or destroy the freedom they had found in Christ. In the epistle Paul established his own position as an Apostle, explained the doctrine of righteousness by faith, and affirmed the value of a spiritual religion.

In chapters 1 and 2, Paul expressed regret at the news he had received of apostasy among the Galatians and clarified his position among the Apostles. Chapters 3 and 4 discuss the doctrines of faith and works. Chapters 5 and 6 contain a sermon on the practical results of the doctrine of faith.

In ancient and modern times, the most northerly district of Israel west of the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee. Galilee is about sixty miles (ninety-seven kilometers) long by thirty miles (forty-eight kilometers) wide. Anciently, it contained some of the best land and the busiest towns of Israel. Important highways leading to Damascus, Egypt, and eastern Israel passed through Galilee. Its excellent climate and fertile soil produced large crops of olives, wheat, barley, and grapes. Fisheries by the Sea of Galilee provided a large export trade and were a great source of wealth. The Savior spent much of His time in Galilee.

The Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee is located in northern Israel. It was also called the Sea of Chinnereth in the Old Testament and the Lake of Gennesaret or Tiberias in the New Testament. Jesus taught several sermons there (Matt. 13:2). The sea is pear-shaped, 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) long and 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) wide at its greatest width. It lies 680 feet (207 meters) below sea level, which often causes the surrounding air to be quite hot. Cold air rushing down from the hills and meeting the hot air above the water often produces sudden storms (Luke 8:22–24).

A well-known Pharisee in the New Testament who knew and taught the Jewish law. The Apostle Paul was one of his students (Acts 22:3). He was very influential in the Sanhedrin (Acts 5:34–40).

A record tracing the line of descent in a family. Where priesthood offices or certain blessings were restricted to a particular family, genealogies in the scriptures were very important (Gen. 5; 10; 25; 46; 1 Chr. 1–9; Ezra 2:61–62; Neh. 7:63–64; Matt. 1:1–17; Luke 3:23–38; 1 Ne. 3:1–4; 5:14–19; Jarom 1:1–2). In the restored Church today, members of the Church continue to trace their family lines of descent, in part to properly identify deceased ancestors so they can perform saving ordinances in their ancestors’ behalf. These ordinances are valid for those deceased persons who accept the gospel of Jesus Christ in the spirit world (D&C 127–128).

The book of Genesis is the first book of the Old Testament and was written by the prophet Moses. It gives an account of many beginnings, such as the creation of the earth, the placing of animals and man on the earth, the Fall of Adam and Eve, the revelation of the gospel to Adam, the beginning of tribes and races, the origin of various languages at Babel, and the beginning of the Abrahamic family leading to the establishment of the house of Israel. Joseph’s role as a preserver of Israel is emphasized in Genesis.

Latter-day revelation verifies and clarifies the record of Genesis (1 Ne. 5; Ether 1; Moses 1–8; Abr. 1–5).

In the book of Genesis, chapters 1–4 relate the creation of the world and the development of the family of Adam. Chapters 5–10 record the history of Noah. Chapters 11–20 tell of Abraham and his family up to the time of Isaac. Chapters 21–35 follow Isaac’s family. Chapter 36 tells of Esau and his family. Chapters 37–50 tell of Jacob’s family and give the account of Joseph being sold into Egypt and his role in saving the house of Israel.

As used in the scriptures, Gentiles has several meanings. Sometimes it designates people of non-Israelite lineage, sometimes people of non-Jewish lineage, and sometimes nations that are without the gospel, even though there may be some Israelite blood among the people. This latter usage is especially characteristic of the word as used in the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants.

A garden spoken of in the New Testament as being near the Mount of Olives. In Aramaic, the word gethsemane means “olive press.” Jesus went to the garden on the night that Judas betrayed Him. There He prayed and suffered in Gethsemane for the sins of mankind (Matt. 26:36, 39; Mark 14:32; John 18:1; Alma 21:9; D&C 19:15–19).

A faithful Nephite leader.

A leader who delivered Israel from the Midianites (Judg. 6:11–40; 7–8).

God gives man many blessings and gifts.

It is the right of every worthy baptized member of the Church to have the constant influence of the Holy Ghost. Following a person’s baptism into the true Church of Jesus Christ, he receives the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands from one who has the proper authority (Acts 8:12–25; Moro. 2; D&C 39:23). Receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost is often spoken of as a baptism by fire (Matt. 3:11; D&C 19:31).

Special spiritual blessings given by the Lord to worthy individuals for their own benefit and for them to use in blessing others. For a description of the gifts of the Spirit, study Doctrine and Covenants 46:11–33; 1 Corinthians 12:1–12; Moroni 10:8–18.

In the scriptures, glory often refers to God’s light and truth. It may also refer to praise or honor and to a certain condition of eternal life or to the glory of God.

There are three separate persons in the Godhead: God, the Eternal Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Ghost. We believe in each of Them (A of F 1:1). From latter-day revelation we learn that the Father and the Son have tangible bodies of flesh and bone and that the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit, without flesh and bone (D&C 130:22–23). These three persons are one in perfect unity and harmony of purpose and doctrine (John 17:21–23; 2 Ne. 31:21; 3 Ne. 11:27, 36).

God the Father

It is generally the Father, or Elohim, who is referred to by the title God. He is called the Father because He is the father of our spirits (Num. 16:22; 27:16; Mal. 2:10; Matt. 6:9; Eph. 4:6; Heb. 12:9). God the Father is the supreme ruler of the universe. He is all powerful (Gen. 18:14; Alma 26:35; D&C 19:1–3), all knowing (Matt. 6:8; 2 Ne. 2:24), and everywhere present through His Spirit (Ps. 139:7–12; D&C 88:7–13, 41). Mankind has a special relationship to God that sets man apart from all other created things: men and women are God’s spirit children (Ps. 82:6; 1 Jn. 3:1–3; D&C 20:17–18).

There are few recorded instances of God the Father appearing to or speaking to man. The scriptures say that He spoke to Adam and Eve (Moses 4:14–31) and introduced Jesus Christ on several occasions (Matt. 3:17; 17:5; John 12:28–29; 3 Ne. 11:3–7). He appeared to Stephen (Acts 7:55–56) and Joseph Smith (JS—H 1:17). Later He appeared to both Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon (D&C 76:20, 23). To those who love God and purify themselves before Him, God sometimes grants the privilege of seeing and knowing for themselves that He is God (Matt. 5:8; 3 Ne. 12:8; D&C 76:116–118; 93:1).

God the Son

The God known as Jehovah is the Son, Jesus Christ (Isa. 12:2; 43:11; 49:26; 1 Cor. 10:1–4; 1 Tim. 1:1; Rev. 1:8; 2 Ne. 22:2). Jesus works under the direction of the Father and is in complete harmony with Him. All mankind are His brothers and sisters, for He is the eldest of the spirit children of Elohim. Some scripture references refer to Him by the word God. For example, the scripture says that “God created the heaven and the earth” (Gen. 1:1), but it was actually Jesus who was the Creator under the direction of God the Father (John 1:1–3, 10, 14; Heb. 1:1–2).

God the Holy Ghost

The Holy Ghost is also a God and is called the Holy Spirit, the Spirit, and the Spirit of God, among other similar names and titles. With the aid of the Holy Ghost, man can know the will of God the Father and know that Jesus is the Christ (1 Cor. 12:3).

A king of Magog. Ezekiel prophesied that Gog would invade Israel at the time of the Lord’s Second Coming (Ezek. 38–39). Another battle, called the battle of Gog and Magog, will occur at the end of the Millennium (Rev. 20:7–9; D&C 88:111–116).

A record written on plates of gold. It tells the story of two great civilizations on the American continents. Joseph Smith translated and published a portion of these plates. This translation is called the Book of Mormon. (For more information, see “Introduction” and “The Testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith” in the Book of Mormon.)

Golgotha means “a skull” in the Aramaic language. It is the name of the place where Christ was crucified (Matt. 27:33; Mark 15:22; John 19:17). The Latin name for this place is Calvary (Luke 23:33).

In the Old Testament, a Philistine giant who challenged the Israelite armies. David accepted his challenge and killed him with the Lord’s help (1 Sam. 17).

In the Old Testament, a wicked city that was destroyed by the Lord (Gen. 19:12–29).

Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd. Symbolically, His followers are like sheep whom Jesus watches over.

God’s plan of salvation, made possible through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The gospel includes the eternal truths or laws, covenants, and ordinances needed for mankind to enter back into the presence of God. God restored the fulness of the gospel to the earth in the 19th century through the Prophet Joseph Smith.

The four records or testimonies of Jesus’ mortal life and the events pertaining to His ministry contained in the first four books of the New Testament. Written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, they are recorded witnesses of Christ’s life. The book of 3 Nephi in the Book of Mormon is similar in many ways to these four New Testament Gospels.

The books of the New Testament were originally written in Greek. The Greek word for gospel means “good news.” The good news is that Jesus Christ has made an atonement that will redeem all mankind from death and reward each individual according to his works (John 3:16; Rom. 5:10–11; 2 Ne. 9:26; Alma 34:9; D&C 76:69).

See also the Harmony of the Gospels in the appendix.

To share personal facts or information about another person without that person’s approval.

When Jesus Christ returns, He will establish a government of righteousness.

The enabling power from God that allows men and women to obtain blessings in this life and to gain eternal life and exaltation after they have exercised faith, repented, and given their best effort to keep the commandments. Such divine help or strength is given through the mercy and love of God. Every mortal person needs divine grace because of Adam’s Fall and also because of man’s weaknesses.

The burial place of the mortal body. Because of the Atonement, everyone will be resurrected from the grave.

In the scriptures, guile is deceitful cunning.

The condition of having done wrong, or the feelings of regret and sorrow that should accompany sin.

An Old Testament prophet in Judah who spoke of the sinfulness of the people possibly during the reign of Jehoiachin (about 600 B.C.).

The book of Habakkuk

Chapter 1 is a discussion between the Lord and His prophet, similar to those in Jeremiah 12 and Doctrine and Covenants 121. Habakkuk was troubled that the wicked seem to prosper. In chapter 2 the Lord counseled Habakkuk to be patient—the just must learn to live by faith. Chapter 3 records Habakkuk’s prayer in which he acknowledged God’s justice.

In the Old Testament, the Egyptian handmaid of Sarah. She became a wife of Abraham and the mother of Ishmael (Gen. 16; 25:12; D&C 132:34, 65). The Lord promised Hagar that a great nation would descend from her son (Gen. 21:9–21).

An Old Testament prophet who prophesied in approximately 520 B.C. in Jerusalem, soon after the Jewish people returned from their exile in Babylonia (Ezra 5:1; 6:14). He spoke of rebuilding the Lord’s temple in Jerusalem and reproved the people because it had not been finished. He also wrote of the millennial temple and reign of the Savior.

The book of Haggai

In chapter 1, the Lord rebuked the people for living in their finished houses while the temple remained unbuilt. Chapter 2 records Haggai’s prophecy that the Lord will give peace in His temple.

A Nephite ship builder in the Book of Mormon (Alma 63:5–7).

In the Old Testament, the third son of Noah (Gen. 5:32; 6:10; Moses 8:12, 27).

The act of placing one’s hands on a person’s head as part of a priesthood ordinance. Many priesthood ordinances are performed by the laying on of hands, such as ordinations, blessings, administering to the sick, confirming Church membership, and conferring the Holy Ghost.

The mother of Samuel, an Old Testament prophet. The Lord gave Samuel to Hannah in answer to her prayers (1 Sam. 1:11, 20–28). Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord. Her song of thanksgiving may be compared with that of Mary, the mother of Jesus (1 Sam. 2:1–10; Luke 1:46–55).

One of the Three Witnesses to the divine origin and truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. He financially helped Joseph Smith and the Church. The Lord asked Martin Harris to sell his property and give his funds to pay for the publication of the Book of Mormon (D&C 19:26–27, 34–35), to be an example unto the Church (D&C 58:35), and to help pay the costs of the ministry (D&C 104:26).

Martin Harris was excommunicated from the Church but later returned to full membership. To the end of his life he bore witness that he saw the angel Moroni and the gold plates from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon.

The scriptures sometimes use the word harvest figuratively to refer to bringing people into the Church, which is the kingdom of God on the earth, or to a time of judgment, such as the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Hate is a strong dislike for someone or for something.

To make well or healthy again, both physically and spiritually. The scriptures contain many examples of miraculous healings by the Lord and His servants.

To hear and obey the voice or teachings of the Lord.

A symbol of the mind and will of man and the figurative source of all emotions and feelings.

The term heaven has two basic meanings in the scriptures. (1) It is the place where God lives and the future home of the Saints (Gen. 28:12; Ps. 11:4; Matt. 6:9). (2) It is the expanse around the earth (Gen. 1:1, 17; Ex. 24:10). Heaven is clearly not paradise, which is the temporary place for the faithful spirits of those who have lived and died on this earth. Jesus visited paradise after His death on the cross, but on the third day, He informed Mary that He had not yet been to the Father (Luke 23:39–44; John 20:17; D&C 138:11–37).

A Semitic language spoken by the children of Israel.

Hebrew was spoken by the Israelites until their return from Babylonian captivity, at which time Aramaic became the language of everyday conversation. During the time of Jesus, Hebrew was the language of the learned, of the law, and of religious literature.

A book in the New Testament. Paul wrote this letter to Jewish members of the Church to persuade them that significant aspects of the law of Moses had been fulfilled in Christ and that the higher gospel law of Christ had replaced it. When Paul returned to Jerusalem at the end of his third mission (about A.D. 60), he found that many Jewish members of the Church were still committed to the law of Moses (Acts 21:20). This was at least ten years after a conference of the Church at Jerusalem had determined that certain ordinances of the law of Moses were not necessary for the salvation of gentile Christians. Apparently, soon thereafter Paul wrote to the Hebrews to show them by their own scripture and by sound reason why they should no longer practice the law of Moses.

Chapters 1 and 2 explain that Jesus is greater than the angels. Chapters 3–7 compare Jesus to Moses and to the law of Moses and testify that He is greater than both. They also teach that the Melchizedek Priesthood is greater than the Aaronic. Chapters 8–9 describe how the Mosaic ordinances prepared people for Christ’s ministry and how Christ is the mediator of the new covenant (Alma 37:38–45; D&C 84:21–24). Chapter 10 is an exhortation to diligence and faithfulness. Chapter 11 is a discourse on faith. Chapter 12 gives admonitions and greetings. Chapter 13 relates the honorable nature of marriage and the importance of obedience.

An ancient city of Judah, twenty miles (thirty-two kilometers) south of Jerusalem. It was the burying place of Abraham and his family (Gen. 49:29–32). It was David’s capital during the early part of his reign (2 Sam. 5:3–5).

A person entitled to inherit physical or spiritual gifts. In the scriptures, the righteous are promised that they will become heirs to all that God has.

In the Book of Mormon, the oldest son of Alma, son of Alma (Alma 31:7). Helaman was a prophet and a military leader.

A prophet and record keeper in the Book of Mormon who taught the Nephite people. He was the grandson of Alma the Younger and father of the Nephi who was given power over all the elements. With his son Nephi, Helaman wrote the book of Helaman.

The book of Helaman

Chapters 1–2 describe a time of great political trouble. Chapters 3–4 record that Helaman and Moronihah, chief captain of the Nephite armies, were able finally to achieve peace for a time. However, in spite of the leadership of these good men, the people grew increasingly wicked. In Helaman 5:1–6:14 Nephi gave up the judgment seat, as his grandfather Alma had done, to teach the people. For a time the people repented. In Helaman 6:15–12:26, however, the Nephite nation became wicked. The final chapters, 13–16, contain the extraordinary account of a prophet called Samuel the Lamanite who foretold the birth and Crucifixion of the Savior and the signs that would mark those events.

In the Book of Mormon, one of three sons of King Benjamin (Mosiah 1:2–8).

In the Book of Mormon, sons of converted Lamanites known as Ammonites who became warriors under Helaman’s charge (Alma 53:16–22).

Latter-day revelation speaks of hell in at least two senses. First, it is the temporary abode in the spirit world for those who were disobedient in mortality. In this sense, hell has an end. The spirits there will be taught the gospel, and sometime following their repentance they will be resurrected to a degree of glory of which they are worthy. Those who will not repent, but are nevertheless not sons of perdition, will remain in hell throughout the Millennium. After these thousand years of torment, they will be resurrected to a telestial glory (D&C 76:81–86; 88:100–101).

Second, it is the permanent location of those who are not redeemed by the Atonement of Jesus Christ. In this sense, hell is permanent. It is for those who are found “filthy still” (D&C 88:35, 102). This is the place where Satan, his angels, and the sons of perdition—those who have denied the Son after the Father has revealed Him—will dwell eternally (D&C 76:43–46).

The scriptures sometimes refer to hell as outer darkness.

A family of rulers in Judea near the time of Jesus Christ. They were important figures in many New Testament events. The family was founded by Herod the Great, who was fearful of the birth of the Savior (Matt. 2:3) and gave the order for the massacre of the infants at Bethlehem. His sons included Aristobulus; Herod Philip (Matt. 14:3; Mark 6:17); Herod Antipas, the tetrarch (Matt. 14:1; Luke 9:7; also known as King Herod, Mark 6:14); Archelaus (Matt. 2:22); and Philip, tetrarch of Iturea (Luke 3:1). Herod Agrippa Ⅰ (Acts 12:1–23) and his sister Herodias (Matt. 14:3; Mark 6:17) were the children of Aristobulus. Herod Agrippa Ⅰ had several children also mentioned in the New Testament, including Herod Agrippa Ⅱ (Acts 25:13), Bernice (Acts 25:13), and Drusilla, wife of Felix (Acts 24:24).

Sister of Herod Agrippa in the New Testament. She was married to her uncle, Herod Philip, by whom she had a daughter, Salome. She and Salome conspired to have John the Baptist beheaded (Matt. 14:3–11).

A righteous king of the nation of Judah in the Old Testament. He reigned for twenty-nine years, during the time that Isaiah was the prophet in Judah (2 Kgs. 18–20; 2 Chr. 29–32; Isa. 36–39). Isaiah assisted him in reforming both church and state. He suppressed idolatry and reinstated the temple services. Hezekiah’s life was extended fifteen years through prayer and faith (2 Kgs. 20:1–7). The early part of his reign was prosperous, but his rebellion against the king of Assyria (2 Kgs. 18:7) resulted in two Assyrian invasions: the first is described in Isaiah 10:24–32, the second in 2 Kings 18:13–19:7. In the second invasion, Jerusalem was saved by an angel of the Lord (2 Kgs. 19:35).

A council of twelve high priests.

In the early days of the restored Church, the term high council referred to two different governing bodies: (1) the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church (D&C 107:33, 38) and (2) the high council serving within each of the stakes (D&C 102; 107:36).

An office in the priesthood. The scriptures speak of “high priest” in two senses: (1) an office in the Melchizedek Priesthood; and (2) under the law of Moses, the presiding officer of the Aaronic Priesthood.

The first sense applies to Jesus Christ as the great High Priest. Adam and all the patriarchs were also high priests. Today, three presiding high priests form the Presidency of the Church and preside over all other priesthood holders and Church members. Additional worthy men are ordained high priests as appropriate throughout the Church today. High priests may be called, set apart, and ordained as bishops (D&C 68:19; 107:69–71).

In the second sense, under the law of Moses, the presiding officer of the Aaronic Priesthood was called the high priest. The office was hereditary and came through the firstborn among the family of Aaron, Aaron himself being the first high priest of the Aaronic order (Ex. 28–29; Lev. 8; D&C 84:18).

In the Book of Mormon, a son of King Mosiah. Himni went with his brothers to preach to the Lamanites (Mosiah 27:8–11, 34–37; 28:1–9).

Spiritual and moral perfection. Holiness indicates purity of a person’s heart and intent.

Sacred, having a godly character, or spiritually and morally pure. The opposite of holy is common or profane.

The third member of the Godhead (1 Jn. 5:7; D&C 20:28). He is a personage of Spirit, not having a body of flesh and bones (D&C 130:22). The Holy Ghost is often referred to as the Spirit, or the Spirit of God.

The Holy Ghost performs several vital roles in the plan of salvation. (1) He bears witness of the Father and the Son (1 Cor. 12:3; 3 Ne. 28:11; Ether 12:41). (2) He reveals the truth of all things (John 14:26; 16:13; Moro. 10:5; D&C 39:6). (3) He sanctifies those who have repented and become baptized (John 3:5; 3 Ne. 27:20; Moses 6:64–68). (4) He is the Holy Spirit of Promise (D&C 76:50–53; 132:7, 18–19, 26).

The power of the Holy Ghost can come upon a person before baptism and witness that the gospel is true. But the right to have the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost, whenever one is worthy, is a gift that can be received only by the laying on of hands by a Melchizedek Priesthood holder after authorized baptism into the true Church of Jesus Christ.

Jesus taught that all sins could be forgiven except blasphemy against the Holy Ghost (Matt. 12:31–32; Mark 3:28–29; Luke 12:10; Heb. 6:4–8; D&C 76:34–35).

The most sacred room in the tabernacle of Moses and later in the temple. The Holy of Holies is also called the “most holy place” (Ex. 26:33–34).

The Holy Ghost is the Holy Spirit of Promise (Acts 2:33). He confirms as acceptable to God the righteous acts, ordinances, and covenants of men. The Holy Spirit of Promise witnesses to the Father that the saving ordinances have been performed properly and that the covenants associated with them have been kept.

The home should be the center of gospel and family activities.

Sexual association of individuals of the same gender. God forbids sexual activity of this kind.

To be sincere, truthful, and without deceit.

As usually used in the scriptures, to show respect and reverence to someone or something.

The confident expectation of and longing for the promised blessings of righteousness. The scriptures often speak of hope as anticipation of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

A word from Hebrew that means “please save us” and is used in praise and supplication.

At the Feast of Tabernacles, which celebrated the Lord’s deliverance of Israel into the promised land, people chanted the words of Psalm 118 and waved palm branches. At the Lord’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the multitudes cried “Hosanna” and spread palm branches for Jesus to ride upon, thus demonstrating their understanding that Jesus was the same Lord who had delivered Israel anciently (Ps. 118:25–26; Matt. 21:9, 15; Mark 11:9–10; John 12:13). These people recognized Christ as the long-awaited Messiah. The word Hosanna has become a celebration of the Messiah in all ages (1 Ne. 11:6; 3 Ne. 11:14–17). The hosanna shout was included in the dedication of the Kirtland Temple (D&C 109:79) and is now a part of the dedication of modern temples.

An Old Testament prophet who prophesied in the northern kingdom of Israel during the latter part of the reign of Jeroboam Ⅱ. He lived during a time of national decline and ruin, the result of the sin of Israel.

The book of Hosea

The book’s basic theme is the love of God for His people. All His chastisements were inflicted in love, and Israel’s restoration shall be due to His love (Hosea 2:19; 14:4). In contrast, Hosea shows Israel’s treachery and infidelity. Yet God is able to look forward to Israel’s final redemption (Hosea 11:12–14:9).

To make meek and teachable, or the condition of being meek and teachable. Humility includes recognizing our dependence upon God and desiring to submit to His will.

A member of the first Quorum of the Twelve Apostles called in this dispensation (D&C 68:1–3; 75:13; 102:3; 124:128–129). He performed many missions for the Church, including dedicating the Holy Land in 1841 for the return of the Jewish people.

A song of praise to God.

One of the names of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Inactive and uninvolved in righteous works.

The worship of idols or an excessive attachment or devotion to anything.

One of the names for Jesus Christ. It comes from words in Hebrew that mean “God with us.”

Immanuel is a name-title given as a sign of God’s deliverance (Isa. 7:14). Isaiah’s reference to Immanuel is specifically identified by Matthew as a prophecy of Jesus’ birth into mortality (Matt. 1:18–25). The name also appears in latter-day scripture (2 Ne. 17:14; 18:8; D&C 128:22).

The condition of living forever in a resurrected state, not subject to physical death.

The unnecessary practice of baptizing babies and children who are under the age of accountability, which is eight years old. The Lord condemns infant baptism (Moro. 8:10–21). Children are born innocent and without sin. Satan has no power to tempt children until they begin to become accountable (D&C 29:46–47) so they have no need to repent or be baptized. Children should be baptized at the age of eight (D&C 68:25–27).

Blameless or sinless.

Divine guidance given to man by God. Inspiration often comes by the Spirit in a variety of ways to the mind or heart of a person.

Righteousness, honesty, and sincerity.

Intelligence has several meanings, three of which are: (1) It is the light of truth that gives life and light to all things in the universe. It has always existed. (2) The word intelligences may also refer to spirit children of God. (3) The scriptures also may speak of intelligence as referring to the spirit element that existed before we were begotten as spirit children.

An Old Testament patriarch. His birth to Abraham and Sarah in their old age was a miracle (Gen. 15:4–6; 17:15–21; 21:1–8). Abraham’s willingness to offer Isaac was a similitude of God and His Only Begotten Son (Jacob 4:5). Isaac was heir to the promises of the Abrahamic covenant (Gen. 21:9–12; 1 Ne. 17:40; D&C 27:10).

A prophet of the Old Testament who prophesied from 740–701 B.C. As King Hezekiah’s chief adviser, Isaiah had great religious and political influence.

Jesus quoted Isaiah more frequently than He quoted any other prophet. Isaiah is also quoted frequently by Peter, John, and Paul in the New Testament. The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants contain more quotes from Isaiah than from any other prophet and provide much help in interpreting Isaiah. Nephi taught his people from the writings of Isaiah (2 Ne. 12–24; Isa. 2–14). The Lord told the Nephites that “great are the words of Isaiah” and that all things Isaiah prophesied would be fulfilled (3 Ne. 23:1–3).

The book of Isaiah

A book in the Old Testament. Many of Isaiah’s prophecies deal with the coming of the Redeemer, both in His earthly ministry (Isa. 9:6) and as the Great King at the last day (Isa. 63). He also prophesied much about Israel’s future.

Chapter 1 is a prologue to the rest of the book. Isaiah 7:14; 9:6–7; 11:1–5; 53; and 61:1–3 foreshadow the mission of the Savior. Chapters 2, 11, 12, and 35 deal with events in the latter days, when the gospel will be restored, Israel will be gathered, and the thirsty land will blossom as the rose. Chapter 29 contains a prophecy of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon (2 Ne. 27). Chapters 40–46 proclaim the superiority of Jehovah as the true God over the idol gods of the pagan worshipers. The remaining chapters, 47–66, deal with events in the final restoration of Israel and the establishment of Zion, with the Lord dwelling among His people.

A man in the Book of Mormon who, with his family, joined Lehi’s family in their journey to the promised land.

In the Old Testament, a son of Abraham and Hagar, Sarah’s Egyptian handmaid (Gen. 16:11–16). The Lord promised both Abraham and Hagar that Ishmael would become the father of a great nation (Gen. 21:8–21).

The Lord gave the name Israel to Jacob, the son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham in the Old Testament (Gen. 32:28; 35:10). The name Israel can refer to Jacob himself, his descendants, or to the kingdom those descendants once possessed in Old Testament times (2 Sam. 1:24; 23:3). After Moses led the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage (Ex. 3–14), they were ruled over by judges for over three hundred years. Beginning with King Saul, kings ruled over united Israel until the death of Solomon, when ten tribes revolted from Rehoboam to form a separate nation. After the kingdom of Israel was divided, the northern tribes, as the larger part, kept the name Israel, while the southern kingdom was called Judah. The land of Canaan is also called Israel today. In another sense, Israel means a true believer in Christ (Rom. 10:1; 11:7; Gal. 6:16; Eph. 2:12).

The twelve tribes of Israel

Abraham’s grandson Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel, had twelve sons. Their descendants have become known as the twelve tribes of Israel or the children of Israel. These are the twelve tribes: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun (the sons of Jacob and Leah); Dan and Naphtali (the sons of Jacob and Bilhah); Gad and Asher (the sons of Jacob and Zilpah); Joseph and Benjamin (the sons of Jacob and Rachel) (Gen. 29:32–30:24; 35:16–18).

Jacob gave each tribal leader a blessing before his death (Gen. 49:1–28). For further information, see the name of each son of Jacob.

Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob’s first wife, Leah, lost his birthright blessing and double portion of inheritance because of immorality (Gen. 49:3–4). The birthright then went to Joseph, who was the firstborn son of Jacob’s second wife, Rachel (1 Chr. 5:1–2). Levi, whose tribe the Lord had chosen to serve as His priesthood ministers, did not receive an inheritance because of their special calling to minister among all the tribes. This allowed Joseph’s double portion to be shared by Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh (1 Chr. 5:1; Jer. 31:9), who were counted as separate tribes of Israel (JST, Gen. 48:5–6 [Appendix]).

Members of the tribe of Judah were to be the rulers until the Messiah came (Gen. 49:10; JST, Gen. 50:24 [Appendix]). In the last days the tribe of Ephraim has the privilege of carrying the message of the Restoration of the gospel to the world and gathering scattered Israel (Deut. 33:13–17). The time will come when through the gospel of Jesus Christ, Ephraim will have a leadership role in uniting all the tribes of Israel (Isa. 11:12–13; D&C 133:26–34).

The scattering of Israel

The Lord scattered and afflicted the twelve tribes of Israel because of their unrighteousness and rebellion. However, the Lord also used this scattering of His chosen people among the nations of the world to bless those nations.

The gathering of Israel

The house of Israel shall be gathered together in the last days before the coming of Christ (A of F 1:10). The Lord gathers His people Israel when they accept Him and keep His commandments.

The ten lost tribes of Israel

The ten tribes of Israel made up the northern kingdom of Israel and were carried away captive into Assyria in 721 B.C. At that time they went to the “north countries” and became lost to the knowledge of others. In the last days they will return.

A son of Jacob and Leah in the Old Testament (Gen. 30:17–18; 35:23; 46:13). His descendants became one of the twelve tribes of Israel.

The tribe of Issachar

Jacob’s blessing to Issachar is found in Genesis 49:14–15. After settling in Canaan, the tribe received some of the richest land of Palestine, including the plain of Esdraelon. Within Issachar’s borders were several important places in Jewish history, for example, Carmel, Megiddo, Dothan, Gilboa, Jezreel, Tabor, and Nazareth (Josh. 19:17–23).

The gathering place of the Saints in the last days; that is, the center place where they will establish the New Jerusalem (D&C 57–58; 82; 101:69–71; 105:28).

An Old Testament patriarch and prophet; the younger of the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah (Gen. 25:19–26). Jacob obtained the birthright over his brother Esau. This was due to Jacob’s worthiness and marrying in the covenant, while Esau despised his birthright and married outside the covenant (Gen. 25:30–34; 26:34–35; 27; 28:6–9; Heb. 12:16).

A prophet in the Book of Mormon and author of several sermons in the books of 2 Nephi and Jacob (2 Ne. 6–11; Jacob 1–7).

The book of Jacob

The third book in the Book of Mormon. Chapter 1 tells that Nephi transferred the records to Jacob and then consecrated Jacob and his brother Joseph to be priests and teachers to the people. Chapters 2–4 are sermons admonishing the people to be morally clean. Jacob also taught of the coming of a redeeming Messiah, and he gave reasons why some in Israel would not accept Him at His coming. Chapters 5–6 contain Jacob’s testimony and a prophetic allegory on the history and mission of the people of Israel. Chapter 7 contains an account of a learned rebel named Sherem, who was overpowered by the divine testimony of Jacob.

In the New Testament, a brother of the Lord (Gal. 1:19) and of Joses, Simon, Judas, and some sisters (Matt. 13:55–56; Mark 6:3; Jude 1:1). He was also known as James the Just and occupied an important position in the Church in Jerusalem (Acts 12:17; 15:13; 1 Cor. 15:7; Gal. 2:9–12). He probably wrote the epistle of James.

The epistle of James

A book in the New Testament. Originally it was a letter addressed to the twelve tribes of Israel scattered abroad and was probably written from Jerusalem. The epistle contains some clearly stated items about practical religion, including the important advice in chapter 1 that if a person lacks wisdom, he should ask God for help (James 1:5–6; JS—H 1:9–20). Chapter 2 deals with faith and works. Chapters 3–4 speak of the need to control the tongue and admonish the Saints not to speak evil of one another. Chapter 5 encourages the Saints to have patience and to call for the elders for a blessing when sick; it also teaches of the blessings of helping to convert others.

One of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus during His mortal ministry (Matt. 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13).

One of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus during His mortal ministry. He was the brother of John. He was one of three Apostles chosen to be with Jesus on certain special occasions: at the raising of the daughter of Jairus (Mark 5:37), at the Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1; Mark 9:2; Luke 9:28), and at Gethsemane (Matt. 26:37; Mark 14:33). With Peter and John, he restored the Melchizedek Priesthood to the earth by ordaining Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery (D&C 27:12; 128:20; JS—H 1:72).

The eldest son of Noah, an Old Testament prophet (Moses 8:12).

A Book of Mormon leader who, with his brother, led a colony of people from the Tower of Babel to a promised land in the western hemisphere (Ether 1:33–2:1).

A Book of Mormon prophet. He and his brother founded the Jaredite nation when they led a colony of people from the Tower of Babel to a promised land in the western hemisphere (Ether 1–6). He was a man of such great faith that he spoke with the Lord face to face (D&C 17:1). His story is recorded in the book of Ether.

People in the Book of Mormon who were descendants of Jared, his brother, and their friends (Ether 1:33–41). They were led by God from the Tower of Babel to the Americas, a promised land (Ether 1:42–43; 2–3; 6:1–18). Although their nation had at one time millions of people, they were all destroyed by civil war brought on by wickedness (Ether 14–15).

In the Book of Mormon, a son of Enos and a great-grandson of Lehi. He kept the Nephites’ records for sixty years, 420–361 B.C. (Enos 1:25; Jarom 1:13). He was a faithful man who chose to not write very much in the historical record (Jarom 1:2).

The book of Jarom

There are only fifteen verses in this book in the Book of Mormon. Jarom recorded that the Nephites continued to live the law of Moses and look forward to the coming of Christ. They were led by kings who were mighty men of faith. They prospered as they heeded their prophets, priests, and teachers.

As used in the scriptures, the word jealous has two meanings: (1) to be fervent and to have sensitive and deep feelings about someone or something, and (2) to be envious of someone or suspicious that another will gain some advantage.

To have fervent feelings

To be envious or suspicious

In the Old Testament, a faithful king of Judah (1 Kgs. 15:24; 22).

The covenant or proper name of the God of Israel. It denotes “the eternal I Am” (Ex. 3:14; John 8:58). Jehovah is the premortal Jesus Christ and came to earth as a son of Mary (Mosiah 3:8; 15:1; 3 Ne. 15:1–5). Usually, when the word Lord appears in the Old Testament, it means “Jehovah.”

Jehovah is Christ

Jehovah was known to the ancient prophets (Ex. 6:3; Abr. 1:16). The Apostle Paul taught that Christ was the Jehovah of the Old Testament (Ex. 17:6; 1 Cor. 10:1–4). The brother of Jared in the Book of Mormon saw the premortal Christ and worshiped Him (Ether 3:13–15). Moroni also called Christ “Jehovah” (Moro. 10:34). At the Kirtland Temple, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery saw the resurrected Jehovah (D&C 110:3–4).

An Old Testament prophet who was born to a priestly family and prophesied in Judah from 626 to 586 B.C. He lived near the time of other great prophets: Lehi, Ezekiel, Hosea, and Daniel.

Jeremiah was ordained to be a prophet in the premortal life (Jer. 1:4–5). During his approximately forty years as prophet he taught against idolatry and immorality among the Jewish people (Jer. 3:1–5; 7:8–10). He had to face continuous opposition and insult (Jer. 20:2; 36:18–19; 38:4). After the fall of Jerusalem, the Jews who escaped into Egypt took Jeremiah with them (Jer. 43:5–6), where, according to tradition, they stoned him to death.

The book of Jeremiah

Chapters 1–6 contain prophecies given during the reign of Josiah. Chapters 7–20 are prophecies during the time of Jehoiakim. Chapters 21–38 deal with the reign of Zedekiah. Chapters 39–44 contain prophecies and describe historical events after the fall of Jerusalem. Chapter 45 contains a promise to Baruch, his scribe, that Baruch’s life would be preserved. Finally, chapters 46–51 are prophecies against foreign nations. Chapter 52 is a historical conclusion. Some of Jeremiah’s prophecies were contained in the brass plates of Laban secured by Nephi (1 Ne. 5:10–13). Jeremiah is also mentioned two other times in the Book of Mormon (1 Ne. 7:14; Hel. 8:20).

The book of Jeremiah also includes an acknowledgment of man’s premortal existence and Jeremiah’s foreordination (Jer. 1:4–5); a prophecy of the return of Israel from their scattered condition, gathering one of a city and two of a family to Zion, a pleasant land where Israel and Judah could dwell in safety and peace (Jer. 3:12–19); and a prophecy of the Lord gathering Israel from the north countries by sending many “fishers” and “hunters” to find them (Jer. 16:14–21). This event of the latter days will be larger in proportion than even Moses’ bringing of Israel out of Egypt (Jer. 16:13–15; 23:8).

A walled city in the Jordan valley, 800 feet (245 meters) below sea level. Jericho is near the place where the Israelites crossed the river when they first entered the promised land (Josh. 2:1–3; 3:16; 6).

In the Old Testament, Jeroboam was the first king of the northern part of divided Israel. He was a member of the tribe of Ephraim. The wicked Jeroboam led a revolt against the house of Judah and the family of David.

A name given to Gideon in the Old Testament after he destroyed the altar of Baal (Judg. 6:32; 7:1; 9; 1 Sam. 12:11).

A city located in modern Israel. It is the most significant city in biblical history. Some of the most sacred spots for Christians, Jews, and Muslims are in this city and are visited regularly by many faithful believers. It is often referred to as the holy city.

Once known as Salem (Gen. 14:18; Ps. 76:2), Jerusalem was a Jebusite city until it was captured by David (Josh. 10:1; 15:8; 2 Sam. 5:6–7), who made it his capital. Until then it had served mostly as a mountain fortress, about 2600 feet (800 meters) above sea level. It is surrounded by deep valleys on all sides except the north.

During King David’s reign in Jerusalem, he occupied a wooden palace. However, during the reign of Solomon, the people did many things to beautify the city, including building the king’s palace and the temple.

After the kingdoms of Israel and Judah divided, Jerusalem remained the capital of Judah. It was often attacked by invading armies (1 Kgs. 14:25; 2 Kgs. 14:13; 16:5; 18–19; 24:10; 25). Under Hezekiah, Jerusalem became the center of religious worship but was partly destroyed in 320 B.C., 168 B.C., and 65 B.C. Herod rebuilt the walls and the temple, but in A.D. 70 the Romans entirely destroyed it.

In the Old Testament, the father of David and ancestor of Christ and all the kings of Judah.

Christ (a Greek word) and Messiah (a Hebrew word) mean “the anointed.” Jesus Christ is the Firstborn of the Father in the spirit (Heb. 1:6; D&C 93:21). He is the Only Begotten of the Father in the flesh (John 1:14; 3:16). He is Jehovah (D&C 110:3–4) and was foreordained to His great calling before the creation of the world. Under the direction of the Father, Jesus created the earth and everything on it (John 1:3, 14; Moses 1:31–33). He was born to Mary at Bethlehem, lived a sinless life, and made a perfect atonement for the sins of all mankind by the shedding of His blood and giving His life on the cross (Matt. 2:1; 1 Ne. 11:13–33; 3 Ne. 27:13–16; D&C 76:40–42). He rose from the dead, thus assuring the eventual resurrection of all mankind. Through Jesus’ Atonement and Resurrection, those who repent of their sins and obey God’s commandments can live eternally with Jesus and the Father (2 Ne. 9:10–12; 21–22; D&C 76:50–53, 62).

Jesus Christ is the greatest being to be born on this earth. His life is the perfect example of how all mankind should live. All prayers, blessings, and priesthood ordinances should be done in His name. He is the Lord of lords, King of kings, the Creator, the Savior, and the God of the whole earth.

Jesus Christ will come again in power and glory to reign on the earth during the Millennium. At the last day, He will judge all mankind (Alma 11:40–41; JS—M 1).

Summary of His life (in sequence of events)

Authority

Example of Jesus Christ

Glory of Jesus Christ

Head of the Church

Judge

Millennial reign of Christ

Postmortal appearances of Christ

Premortal existence of Christ

Prophecies about the birth and death of Jesus Christ

Taking the name of Jesus Christ upon us

Testimony borne of Jesus Christ

Types or symbols of Christ

An Old Testament prince and priest of Midian who gave Moses a home after Moses fled from Egypt. He is also called Reuel (Ex. 2:18). Moses later married Jethro’s daughter Zipporah (Ex. 3:1; 4:18; 18:1–12). Jethro taught Moses to delegate (Ex. 18:13–27). Moses received the Melchizedek Priesthood from Jethro (D&C 84:6–7).

Jews can be (1) descendants of Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, (2) people of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah, or (3) people who practice the religion, lifestyles, and traditions of Judaism but may or may not be Jewish by birth. It has become customary to use the word Jew to refer to all the descendants of Jacob, but this is a mistake. It should be limited to those of the kingdom of Judah or, more especially today, those of the tribe of Judah and his associates.

A wicked woman in the Old Testament from the land of Phoenicia. She was the wife of Ahab (1 Kgs. 16:30–31), a king of Israel who reigned while Elijah was prophet.

Jezebel’s marriage to Ahab, more than any other single event, caused the downfall of the northern kingdom of Israel; Jezebel introduced into Israel the worst forms of idol worship from her land in place of the worship of Jehovah (1 Kgs. 18:13, 19).

In the Old Testament, a righteous man who suffered tremendous affliction yet remained faithful to his belief in God. His story is told in the book of Job.

The book of Job

Although the book is about Job’s suffering, it does not entirely answer the question of why Job (or any other person) might suffer pain and the loss of his family and goods. The book clarifies that having afflictions does not necessarily mean that a person has sinned. The Lord may use affliction for experience, discipline, and instruction as well as for punishment (D&C 122).

The book can be divided into four parts. Chapters 1–2 are a prologue to the story. Chapters 3–31 relate a series of discussions between Job and three friends. Chapters 32–37 contain the speeches of Elihu, a fourth friend, who condemns Job for reasons other than the reasons of the first three friends. Chapters 38–42 conclude the book with a reassurance to Job that his course in life was a good one from the beginning.

The book of Job teaches that if a person has a correct knowledge of God and is living a life that is acceptable to God, he will be better able to endure the trials that come upon him. Job’s unfailing faith is characterized by such exclamations as “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him” (Job 13:15). Job is also mentioned in Ezekiel 14:14; James 5:11; Doctrine and Covenants 121:10.

A prophet in the land of Judah in the Old Testament. The date of his life is uncertain—he may have lived sometime between the reign of Joash, before 850 B.C., and the return of the tribe of Judah from captivity in Babylon.

The book of Joel

The book centers on a prophecy that Joel made after the land of Judah was smitten with a severe drought and with locusts (Joel 1:4–20). Joel assured the people that through repentance they would again receive the blessings of God (Joel 2:12–14).

Chapter 1 is a call for a solemn assembly in the house of the Lord. Chapter 2 tells of war and desolation to precede the Millennium. Chapter 3 speaks of the latter days and affirms that all nations shall be at war but that eventually the Lord will dwell in Zion.

Peter quoted Joel’s prophecy of the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost (Joel 2:28–32; Acts 2:16–21). The angel Moroni also quoted this same passage to Joseph Smith (JS—H 1:41).

One of the Twelve Apostles in the New Testament, a son of Zebedee, and a brother of James. In his early life he was a fisherman (Mark 1:17–20). He is probably the unnamed disciple of John the Baptist mentioned in John 1:40. Later he received a call to be a disciple of Jesus Christ (Matt. 4:21–22; Luke 5:1–11). He wrote the Gospel of John, three epistles, and the book of Revelation. He was one of three who were with the Lord at the raising of Jairus’s daughter (Mark 5:35–42), at the Mount of Transfiguration (Matt. 17:1–9), and in Gethsemane (Matt. 26:36–46). In his own writings he refers to himself as the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 13:23; 21:20) and as the “other disciple” (John 20:2–8). Jesus also called him and his brother Boanerges, “sons of thunder” (Mark 3:17). There are frequent references to him in the accounts of the Crucifixion and Resurrection (Luke 22:8; John 18:15; 19:26–27; 20:2–8; 21:1–2). John was later banished to Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation (Rev. 1:9).

John is mentioned frequently in latter-day revelation (1 Ne. 14:18–27; 3 Ne. 28:6; Ether 4:16; D&C 7; 27:12; 61:14; 77; 88:141). These passages confirm the biblical record of John and also provide insight into his greatness and the importance of the work the Lord has given him to do on the earth in New Testament times and in the last days. The latter-day scriptures clarify that John did not die but was allowed to remain on the earth as a ministering servant until the time of the Lord’s Second Coming (John 21:20–23; 3 Ne. 28:6–7; D&C 7).

The epistles of John

Although the writer of these three epistles does not mention himself by name, the language so strongly resembles that of John the Apostle that he is assumed to have written all three.

1 John 1 admonishes the Saints to gain fellowship with God. Chapter 2 emphasizes that the Saints know God by obedience and instructs them to love not the world. Chapter 3 calls all to become the children of God and to love one another. Chapter 4 explains that God is love and dwells in those who love Him. Chapter 5 explains that Saints are born of God through belief in Christ.

2 John is similar to 1 John. In it John rejoices because of the faithfulness of the children of “the elect lady.”

3 John commends a person called Gaius for his faithfulness and help to those who love the truth.

The Gospel of John

In this New Testament book, John the Apostle testified that (1) Jesus is the Christ or Messiah and (2) Jesus is the Son of God (John 20:31). The scenes from Jesus’ life that he describes are carefully selected and arranged with this object in view. The book begins with a statement of Christ’s status in the premortal existence: He was with God, He was God, and He was the creator of all things. He was born in the flesh as the Only Begotten Son of the Father. John traces the course of Jesus’ ministry, greatly emphasizing His divinity and His resurrection from the dead. He clearly affirms that Jesus is the Son of God, attested to by miracles, by witnesses, by the prophets, and by Christ’s own voice. John teaches by contrasting light and darkness, truth and error, good and evil, God and the devil. Perhaps in no other record is the holiness of Jesus and the faithlessness of the Jewish rulers so plainly declared.

John wrote mainly of Christ’s ministry in Judea, especially the last week of His mortal ministry, whereas Matthew, Mark, and Luke wrote mainly of His ministry in Galilee. Several items from this Gospel have been clarified by latter-day revelation (D&C 7 and D&C 88:138–141).

For a list of events in the Savior’s life described in the Gospel of John, see Harmony of the Gospels in the appendix.

The book of Revelation

The son of Zacharias and Elisabeth in the New Testament. John was sent to prepare the people to receive the Messiah (John 1:19–27). He held the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood and baptized Jesus Christ.

An Old Testament prophet who was called by the Lord to preach repentance to the city of Nineveh (Jonah 1:1–2).

The book of Jonah

A book in the Old Testament that tells of an experience in Jonah’s life. Jonah probably did not write the book himself. The major idea of the book of Jonah is that Jehovah reigns everywhere and does not confine His love to a single nation or people.

In chapter 1, the Lord called Jonah to preach to Nineveh. Instead of doing as the Lord had commanded, Jonah fled by boat and was swallowed by a large fish. In chapter 2, Jonah prayed to the Lord, and the fish vomited Jonah out onto dry ground. Chapter 3 records that Jonah went to Nineveh and prophesied of its downfall. However, the people repented. In chapter 4, the Lord rebuked Jonah for being angry that the Lord saved the people.

Jesus taught that Jonah’s being swallowed by the fish served as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ own death and resurrection (Matt. 12:39–40; 16:4; Luke 11:29–30).

In the Old Testament, a son of Saul, king of Israel. Jonathan was a close friend of David (1 Sam. 13–23; 31).

The Jordan River runs from the sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. The river is 100 miles (160 kilometers) long and is formed by the union of several springs flowing from Mount Hermon. It is the most important river in Israel.

Two important events connected with this river are the Lord’s parting of the river for the crossing of Israel (Josh. 3:14–17) and the baptism of Jesus Christ (Matt. 3:13–17; 1 Ne. 10:9).

Husband of Mary, mother of Jesus. Joseph was a descendant of David (Matt. 1:1–16; Luke 3:23–38) and lived in Nazareth. He was espoused to Mary. Just before their marriage, Mary received a visit from the angel Gabriel, who announced that Mary had been chosen to be the mother of the Savior (Luke 1:26–35). Joseph also received revelation of this divine birth (Matt. 1:20–25).

Mary was Jesus’ only earthly parent because God the Father was Jesus’ father. But the Jews thought of Joseph as Jesus’ father, and Jesus treated him as such (Luke 2:48, 51). Warned by heavenly dreams, Joseph preserved the infant Jesus’ life by fleeing to Egypt (Matt. 2:13–14). After Herod died, an angel instructed Joseph to take the Christ child back to Israel (Matt. 2:19–23).

In the Old Testament, the firstborn son of Jacob and Rachel (Gen. 30:22–24; 37:3).

Joseph obtained the birthright in Israel because Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob’s first wife, lost the privilege by transgression (1 Chr. 5:1–2). Because he was worthy, Joseph, as the firstborn son of Jacob’s second wife, was next in line for the blessing. Joseph also received a blessing from his father shortly before Jacob died (Gen. 49:22–26).

Joseph was a man of great character, an individual “discreet and wise” (Gen. 41:39). His rejection of Potiphar’s wife is an example of faith, chastity, and personal integrity (Gen. 39:7–12). In Egypt, when Joseph revealed his true identity to his brothers, he thanked instead of blamed them for how they had treated him. He believed their actions had helped to accomplish God’s divine will (Gen. 45:4–15).

Latter-day revelation reveals the larger mission of the family of Joseph in the last days (JST, Gen. 50:24–38 [Appendix]; 2 Ne. 3:3–24; 3 Ne. 20:25–27).

Joseph of Arimathea was a member of the Sanhedrin, a disciple of Christ, and a rich and faithful Israelite who took no part in the condemnation of our Lord. After the Crucifixion, Joseph had the Savior’s body wrapped in a clean linen cloth and laid Him in Joseph’s own cavelike tomb (Matt. 27:57–60; Mark 15:43–46; Luke 23:50–53; John 19:38–42).

A revision or translation of the King James Version of the Bible in English, which the Prophet Joseph Smith began in June 1830. He was commanded by God to make the translation and regarded it as part of his calling as a prophet.

Although Joseph completed most of the translation by July 1833, he continued until his death in 1844 to make modifications while preparing a manuscript for publication. Though he published some parts of the translation during his lifetime, it is possible that he would have made additional changes had he lived to publish the entire work. The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints published the first edition of Joseph Smith’s inspired translation in 1867. They have published several editions since that time.

The Prophet learned many things during the translation process. Several sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were received because of his translation work (such as D&C 76; 77; 91; and 132). Also, the Lord gave Joseph specific instructions for the translation, which were recorded in the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C 37:1; 45:60–61; 76:15–18; 90:13; 91; 94:10; 104:58; 124:89). The book of Moses and Joseph Smith—Matthew, now included in the Pearl of Great Price, were taken directly from the Joseph Smith Translation.

The Joseph Smith Translation has restored some of the plain and precious things that have been lost from the Bible (1 Ne. 13). Although it is not the official Bible of the Church, this translation does offer many interesting insights and is very valuable in understanding the Bible. It is also a witness for the divine calling and ministry of the Prophet Joseph Smith.

An Old Testament prophet and leader, and the successor of Moses. He was born in Egypt before the children of Israel escaped (Num. 14:26–31). He and Caleb were among the twelve spies sent to Canaan. They alone gave a good report of the land (Num. 13:8, 16–33; 14:1–10). He died at the age of 110 (Josh. 24:29). Joshua was a great example of a devout prophet-warrior.

The book of Joshua

This book is named after Joshua because he was the principal figure in it and not because he was the author. Chapters 1–12 describe the conquest of Canaan; chapters 13–24 tell of the tribes of Israel dividing up the land and of Joshua’s final counsels.

Two notable verses in the book of Joshua are the Lord’s command to him to meditate on the scriptures (Josh. 1:8) and Joshua’s call to the people to be faithful to the Lord (Josh. 24:15).

A righteous king of Judah from 641–610 B.C. (2 Kgs. 22–24; 2 Chr. 34–35). During his reign, the book of the law was found in the house of the Lord (2 Kgs. 22:8–13).

A condition of great happiness coming from righteous living. The purpose of mortal life is for all people to have joy (2 Ne. 2:22–25). A full joy will come only through Jesus Christ (John 15:11; D&C 93:33–34; 101:36).

In the Old Testament, the fourth son of Jacob and Leah (Gen. 29:35; 37:26–27; 43:3, 8; 44:16; 49:8). Jacob blessed Judah that he would be a natural leader among the sons of Jacob and that Shiloh (Jesus Christ) would be his descendant (Gen. 49:10).

The tribe of Judah

The tribe of Judah took the lead after the settlement in Canaan. Its chief rival was the tribe of Ephraim. Moses blessed the tribe of Judah (Deut. 33:7). After the reign of Solomon, the tribe of Judah became the kingdom of Judah.

The kingdom of Judah

In the reign of Rehoboam the dominions of Solomon were broken up into two separate kingdoms, mainly because of the jealousy between the tribes of Ephraim and Judah. The southern kingdom, or kingdom of Judah, included the tribe of Judah and the greater part of Benjamin. Jerusalem was its capital. On the whole it remained more faithful to the worship of Jehovah than did the northern kingdom. Judah was less exposed to attack from the north and east, and the supreme power remained in the hands of the family of David until the Babylonian captivity. The kingdom of Judah managed to exist for 135 years after the downfall of the more populous and more powerful kingdom of Israel.

The stick of Judah

This refers to the Bible as a record of the house of Judah (Ezek. 37:15–19). In the last days, when the various branches of the house of Israel are gathered, their sacred records will also be gathered together. These scriptural records complement one another and form a unified testimony that Jesus is the Christ, the God of Israel and the God of the whole earth (JST, Gen. 50:24–36 [Appendix]; 2 Ne. 3; 29).

In the New Testament, one of the original Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ (Luke 6:13–16). He was probably also known as Lebbaeus Thaddaeus (Matt. 10:2–4).

One of Jesus’ Twelve Apostles in the New Testament (Matt. 10:4; Mark 14:10; John 6:71; 12:4). His surname meant “man of Kerioth.” He was from the tribe of Judah and was the only Apostle who was not a Galilean. Judas betrayed the Lord.

In the New Testament, one of Jesus’ brothers and probable author of the epistle of Jude (Matt. 13:55; Jude 1:1).

The epistle of Jude

This book consists of a letter from Jude to certain Saints who were weakening in the faith. They were being weakened by those among them who professed to be Christians but who were practicing immoral pagan worship and claiming to be exempt from obeying the moral law. Jude wished to awaken the Saints to a sense of their spiritual danger and to encourage them to remain faithful.

Some notable passages in Jude are verse 6, which recounts the war in heaven and the casting out of Lucifer and his angels from that premortal state (Abr. 3:26–28), and verses 14–15, which cite a prophecy made by Enoch.

To evaluate behavior in relation to the principles of the gospel; to decide; to discern good from evil.

A book in the Old Testament. The book of Judges deals with the Israelites from the death of Joshua to the birth of Samuel.

Chapters 1–3 are a preface to the entire book of Judges. They explain that because the Israelites did not drive out their enemies (Judg. 1:16–35), the Israelites must suffer the consequences: loss of faith, marriages with nonbelievers, and idolatry. Chapters 4–5 relate the experiences of Deborah and Barak, who delivered Israel from the Canaanites. Chapters 6–8 are the faith-promoting experiences of Gideon, whom the Lord blessed to deliver Israel from the Midianites. In chapters 9–12, several different men serve as judges in Israel during the time most of the Israelites were in apostasy and governed by foreign rulers. Chapters 13–16 tell of the rise and fall of the last judge, Samson. The final chapters, 17–21, can be described as an appendix that reveals the depths of Israel’s sins.

The Final Judgment that will occur after the Resurrection. God, through Jesus Christ, will judge each person to determine the eternal glory he will receive. This judgment will be based on each person’s obedience to God’s commands, including his acceptance of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

The unfailing consequence of blessings for righteous thoughts and acts, and punishment for unrepented sin. Justice is an eternal law that requires a penalty each time a law of God is broken (Alma 42:13–24). The sinner must pay the penalty if he does not repent (Mosiah 2:38–39; D&C 19:17). If he does repent, the Savior pays the penalty through the Atonement, invoking mercy (Alma 34:16).

To be pardoned from punishment for sin and declared guiltless. A person is justified by the Savior’s grace through faith in Him. This faith is shown by repentance and obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel. Jesus Christ’s Atonement enables mankind to repent and be justified or pardoned from punishment they otherwise would receive.

Keys are the rights of presidency, or the power given to man by God to direct, control, and govern God’s priesthood on earth. Priesthood holders called to positions of presidency receive keys from those in authority over them. Priesthood holders use the priesthood only within the limits outlined by those who hold the keys. The President of the Church is the only person on earth who holds and is authorized to exercise all priesthood keys (D&C 107:65–67, 91–92; 132:7).

The twelfth President of the Church since it was founded in 1830. Spencer W. Kimball served as President from December 1973 to November 1985. He was born in 1895 and died in 1985 at the age of ninety.

The kingdom of God on earth is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (D&C 65). The purpose of the Church is to prepare its members to live forever in the celestial kingdom or kingdom of heaven. However, the scriptures sometimes call the Church the kingdom of heaven, meaning that the Church is the kingdom of heaven on earth.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the kingdom of God on the earth, but it is at present limited to an ecclesiastical kingdom. During the Millennium, the kingdom of God will be both political and ecclesiastical.

In the Book of Mormon, a group who wanted to overthrow the government of the Nephites (Alma 51:1–8).

Two books in the Old Testament. These books narrate the history of Israel from the rebellion of Adonijah, the fourth son of King David (about 1015 B.C.), to the final captivity of Judah (about 586 B.C.). They include the whole history of the northern kingdom (the ten tribes of Israel) from the separation until the Assyrians took them captive into the north countries. See also Chronology in the appendix.

First Kings

Chapter 1 describes the final days of King David’s life. Chapters 2–11 record Solomon’s life. Chapters 12–16 tell of Solomon’s immediate successors, Rehoboam and Jeroboam. Jeroboam caused the division of the kingdom of Israel. Other kings are also mentioned. Chapters 17–21 record parts of the ministry of Elijah as he admonished Ahab, king of Israel. Chapter 22 records a war against Syria in which Ahab and Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, join forces. The prophet Micaiah prophesies against the kings.

Second Kings

Chapters 1:1–2:11 continue the life of Elijah, including Elijah’s rise to heaven in a chariot of fire. Chapters 2–9 relate Elisha’s ministry of faith and great power. Chapter 10 tells of Jehu, the king, and how he destroyed the house of Ahab and the priests of Baal. Chapters 11–13 record the righteous reign of Jehoash and the death of Elisha. Chapters 14–17 tell of various kings who reigned in Israel and Judah, often in wickedness. Chapter 15 records the Assyrian capture of the ten tribes of Israel. Chapters 18–20 record the righteous life of Hezekiah, the king of Judah, and the prophet Isaiah. Chapters 21–23 tell of the kings Manasseh and Josiah. According to tradition, Manasseh was responsible for the martyrdom of Isaiah. Josiah was a righteous king who reestablished the law among the Jews. Chapters 24–25 record the Babylonian captivity.

The first temple built by the Church in modern times. The Saints built it in Kirtland, according to the Lord’s command (D&C 94:3–9). One purpose was to provide a place where worthy Church members could receive spiritual power, authority, and enlightenment (D&C 109–110). It was dedicated on March 27, 1836; the dedicatory prayer was given to the Prophet Joseph Smith by revelation (D&C 109). The Lord gave several important revelations and restored needed priesthood keys in this temple (D&C 110; 137). It was not used for the full temple ordinances given in temples today.

In the Book of Mormon, a leader of a group of wicked men later known as the Gadianton robbers (Hel. 1:9–12; 2).

Understanding and comprehension, especially of truth as taught or confirmed by the Spirit.

The star nearest the throne of God (Abr. 3:2–3, 9).

An antichrist in the Book of Mormon who demanded a sign as proof of God’s power; the Lord caused Korihor to become dumb (Alma 30:6–60).

In the Old Testament, a brother of Rebekah and the father of Leah and Rachel, Jacob’s wives (Gen. 24:29–60; 27:43–44; 28:1–5; 29:4–29; 30:25–42; 31).

In the Book of Mormon, the man who kept the brass plates in Jerusalem at the time of Lehi’s family. Laban robbed and tried to kill Nephi and his brothers (1 Ne. 3:1–27). The Spirit led Nephi to slay Laban in order to get the plates (1 Ne. 4:1–26).

In the Book of Mormon, the oldest son of Lehi and Sariah and the oldest brother of Nephi (1 Ne. 2:5). Laman generally chose to do evil instead of good.

A group of people in the Book of Mormon, many of whom were descendants of Laman, the eldest son of Lehi. They felt they had been wronged by Nephi and his descendants (Mosiah 10:11–17). As a result, they rebelled against the Nephites and often rejected the teachings of the gospel. However, shortly before the birth of Jesus Christ, the Lamanites accepted the gospel and were more righteous than the Nephites (Hel. 6:34–36). Two hundred years after Christ visited the Americas, both the Lamanites and the Nephites became wicked and began to wage war against each other. Around A.D. 400, the Lamanites completely destroyed the Nephite nation.

A name for the Savior that refers to Jesus as the sacrificial offering given in our behalf.

A book in the Old Testament, written by Jeremiah. It is a collection of poems or songs of grief because of the fall of Jerusalem and the Israelite nation. The book was written after the fall of the city about 586 B.C.

In the Book of Mormon, a Lamanite king who was converted by the Spirit of the Lord and the inspired labors and teachings of Ammon (Alma 17–19).

Words, written or spoken, put together in specific patterns in order to communicate information, thoughts, and ideas. How we use language shows how we feel toward God and other people. At the Second Coming of Jesus Christ the Lord will give to all mankind a pure language (Zeph. 3:8–9).

The time in which we now live. The days (or dispensation of time) just before the Second Coming of the Lord.

According to the New Testament, the last meal that Jesus ate before His arrest and crucifixion (Luke 22:14–18). He and His Twelve Apostles ate this meal during the Passover (Matt. 26:17–30; Mark 14:12–18; Luke 22:7–13).

The commandments or rules of God upon which all blessings and punishments are based both in heaven and on earth. Those who obey the laws of God receive the promised blessings. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that people should also obey, honor, and sustain the laws of the land (A of F 1:12).

The law of Moses was a preparatory law to bring men and women to Christ. It was a law of restrictions, prescriptions, and ordinances. Today the law of Christ, which fulfilled the law of Moses, is the fulness of the gospel or “the perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25).

God gave laws through Moses to the house of Israel to replace the higher law that they had failed to obey (Ex. 34; JST, Ex. 34:1–2; JST, Deut. 10:2 [Appendix]). The law of Moses consisted of many principles, rules, ceremonies, rituals, and symbols to remind the people of their duties and responsibilities. It included a law of moral, ethical, religious, and physical commandments and performances—including sacrifices (Lev. 1–7)—that were intended to remind them of God and their duty towards Him (Mosiah 13:30). Faith, repentance, baptism in water, and remission of sins were part of the law, as were the Ten Commandments and many other commandments of high ethical and moral value. Much of the ceremonial law was fulfilled at the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, which ended sacrifice by the shedding of blood (Alma 34:13–14). The law was administered under the Aaronic Priesthood and was a preparatory gospel to bring its adherents to Christ.

In the New Testament, the brother of Martha and Mary. Jesus raised him from the dead (John 11:1–44; 12:1–2, 9–11). This is not the same Lazarus as the beggar in a parable that Jesus taught (Luke 16:19–31).

In the Old Testament, the eldest daughter of Laban and one of Jacob’s wives (Gen. 29). Leah became the mother of six sons and one daughter (Gen. 29:31–35; 30:17–21).

In the Book of Mormon, a Hebrew prophet who led his family and followers from Jerusalem to a promised land in the western hemisphere about 600 B.C. Lehi was the first prophet among his people in the Book of Mormon.

Lehi fled Jerusalem with his family at the command of the Lord (1 Ne. 2:1–4). He was a descendant of Joseph, who was sold into Egypt (1 Ne. 5:14). The Lord gave him a vision of the tree of life (1 Ne. 8:2–35). Lehi and his sons built a boat and sailed to the western hemisphere (1 Ne. 17–18). He and his descendants became established in a new land (1 Ne. 18:23–25). Before he died, Lehi blessed his sons and taught them of Christ and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon in the latter days (2 Ne. 1:1–4:12).

The book of Lehi

Joseph Smith began with the book of Lehi when he was translating the Book of Mormon. It was a record that Mormon had abridged from the plates of Lehi. After he had 116 pages of manuscript that he had translated from this book, Joseph gave the manuscript to Martin Harris, who had briefly served as Joseph’s scribe in the translation of the Book of Mormon. The pages were then lost. Joseph did not retranslate the book of Lehi to replace the lost manuscript but instead translated other related accounts from the gold plates (see the introductions to D&C 3; 10). These other accounts now are the first six books of the Book of Mormon.

In the Book of Mormon, a Nephite military commander (Alma 43:35–53; 49:16–17; 52:27–36; 53:2; 61:15–21).

In the Book of Mormon, a son of Helaman, who was the son of Helaman. Lehi was a great missionary (Hel. 3:21; 4:14).

In the Book of Mormon, the second son of Lehi and one of Nephi’s older brothers. He joined with Laman to oppose Nephi.

A terrible form of skin disease spoken of in the Old and New Testaments. Many notable people in the Bible were at some time afflicted with it, including Moses (Ex. 4:6–7), his sister Miriam (Num. 12:10), Naaman (2 Kgs. 5), and King Uzziah (2 Chr. 26:19–21).

In the Old Testament, the third son of Jacob and Leah (Gen. 29:34; 35:23). Levi became the father of one of the tribes of Israel.

The tribe of Levi

Jacob blessed Levi and his descendants (Gen. 49:5–7, 28). Descendants of Levi ministered in the sanctuaries of Israel (Num. 1:47–54). Aaron was a Levite, and his descendants were priests (Ex. 6:16–20; 28:1–4; 29). The Levites assisted the priests, the sons of Aaron (Num. 3:5–10; 1 Kgs. 8:4). They sometimes acted as musicians (1 Chr. 15:16; Neh. 11:22); slaughtered sacrifices (2 Chr. 29:34; Ezra 6:20); and generally assisted in the temple (Neh. 11:16). The Levites were dedicated to the service of the Lord to execute the ordinances for the children of Israel. The Levites were themselves offered on behalf of the children of Israel (Num. 8:11–22); they thus became God’s peculiar property, given to Him in place of the firstborn (Num. 8:16). They were not consecrated but were cleansed for their office (Num. 8:7–16). They had no land inheritance in Canaan (Num. 18:23–24), but they received the tithe (Num. 18:21), forty-eight cities (Num. 35:6), and a right to receive the alms of the people at feast times (Deut. 12:18–19; 14:27–29).

A book in the Old Testament that tells of the priestly duties in Israel. It emphasizes the holiness of God and the code by which His people could live to become holy. Its object is to teach the moral precepts and religious truths of the law of Moses by means of ritual. Moses wrote the book of Leviticus.

Chapters 1–7 explain the sacrificial ordinances. Chapters 8–10 describe the ritual observed in the consecration of priests. Chapter 11 explains what may or may not be eaten and what is clean or unclean. Chapter 12 discusses women after childbirth. Chapters 13–15 are laws relating to ceremonial uncleanness. Chapter 16 contains the ritual to be observed on the Day of Atonement. Chapters 17–26 contain a code of laws dealing with religious and social observances. Chapter 27 explains that the Lord commanded Israel to consecrate their crops, flocks, and herds to the Lord.

In the Book of Mormon, a brass ball with two pointers that gave directions—as a compass—and also spiritual instruction to Lehi and his followers when they were righteous. The Lord provided the Liahona and gave instructions through it.

The state or condition of being able to act and think freely. Obedience to gospel principles frees a person from the spiritual bondage of sin (John 8:31–36).

A small jail in which the Prophet Joseph Smith and others were unjustly imprisoned from November 1838 to April 1839. While in these difficult conditions, Joseph received certain revelations, gave prophecies, and was inspired to write an important letter to the Saints, excerpts of which are contained in Doctrine and Covenants 121–123.

Temporal and spiritual existence made possible by the power of God.

Divine energy, power, or influence that proceeds from God through Christ and gives life and light to all things. It is the law by which all things are governed in heaven and on earth (D&C 88:6–13). It also helps people understand gospel truths and helps to put them on the gospel path that leads to salvation (John 3:19–21; 12:46; Alma 26:15; 32:35; D&C 93:28–29, 31–32, 40, 42).

The light of Christ should not be confused with the Holy Ghost. The light of Christ is not a person. It is an influence that comes from God and prepares a person to receive the Holy Ghost. It is an influence for good in the lives of all people (John 1:9; D&C 84:46–47).

One manifestation of the light of Christ is conscience, which helps a person choose between right and wrong (Moro. 7:16). As people learn more about the gospel, their consciences become more sensitive (Moro. 7:12–19). People who hearken to the light of Christ are led to the gospel of Jesus Christ (D&C 84:46–48).

To treat lightly sacred things (D&C 84:54).

In the Book of Mormon, a righteous king of the Nephites in the land of Nephi; he was a son of King Noah (Mosiah 7:7–9). King Limhi entered into a covenant to serve God (Mosiah 21:32). He led his people out of Lamanite bondage and returned to Zarahemla (Mosiah 22).

A symbol of the Lord Jesus Christ and His teachings. As water is essential to sustain physical life, the Savior and His teachings (living water) are essential for eternal life.

A title of deep respect and honor for God the Father and the Savior Jesus Christ. The title refers to Their positions as supreme, loving masters over Their creations.

Another name for Jesus Christ. He reigns over the hosts of heaven and earth and leads the righteous against evil (D&C 29:9; 121:23).

A prayer offered by the Savior for His disciples that serves as a pattern for all prayer (Matt. 6:9–13; 3 Ne. 13:9–13).

In the Old Testament, the son of Haran and nephew of Abraham (Gen. 11:27, 31; Abr. 2:4). Haran died because of the famine in Ur (Abr. 2:1). Lot left Ur with Abraham and Sarah and traveled with them to Canaan (Gen. 12:4–5). Lot chose to live in Sodom. The Lord sent messengers to warn Lot to flee from Sodom before the Lord destroyed it because of the wickedness of the people (Gen. 13:8–13; 19:1, 13, 15); however, Lot’s wife looked backward at the destruction and became a pillar of salt (Gen. 19:26). The New Testament contains references to Lot (Luke 17:29; 2 Pet. 2:6–7). His life after his separation from Abraham is described in Genesis 13, 14, and 19.

A way of selecting or eliminating several options of a choice, often done by choosing one slip of paper or piece of wood from among several. This is called casting lots.

Deep devotion and affection. Love for God includes devotion, adoration, reverence, tenderness, mercy, forgiveness, compassion, grace, service, gratitude, kindness. The greatest example of God’s love for His children is found in the infinite Atonement of Jesus Christ.

The name means the “Shining One” or “Lightbearer.” He is also known as the Son of the Morning. Lucifer was a spirit son of Heavenly Father and led the rebellion in the premortal life. The name Lucifer appears only once in the Bible (Isa. 14:12). Latter-day revelation gives more detail on Lucifer’s fall (D&C 76:25–29).

The author of the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts in the New Testament and a missionary companion of Paul. He was born to Greek parents and practiced medicine (Col. 4:14). Luke was well educated. He identified himself as a companion to the Apostle Paul when he joined Paul at Troas (Acts 16:10–11). Luke was also with Paul at Philippi on Paul’s last journey to Jerusalem (Acts 20:6), and the two were together until their arrival in Rome. Luke was also with Paul during his second Roman imprisonment (2 Tim. 4:11). Tradition says he died a martyr.

The Gospel of Luke

An account that Luke wrote of Jesus Christ and His mortal ministry. The book of Acts of the Apostles is a continuation of the Gospel of Luke. Luke left a well-written account of Jesus’ ministry, presenting Jesus as the Savior of both Jews and Gentiles. He wrote much about Jesus’ teachings and His doings. In Luke we get the only accounts of the visits of Gabriel to Zacharias and Mary (Luke 1); the visit of the shepherds to the baby Jesus (Luke 2:8–18); Jesus at the temple at age twelve (Luke 2:41–52); the seventy charged and sent (Luke 10:1–24); Jesus sweating blood (Luke 22:44); Jesus’ discussion with the thief on the cross (Luke 23:39–43); and Jesus eating fish and honey after His Resurrection (Luke 24:42–43).

For a list of events in the Savior’s life described in the Gospel of Luke, see Harmony of the Gospels in the appendix.

To have an inappropriately strong desire for something.

Any communication of falsehood or untruth for the purpose of deception.

In the Bible, a land and people near the Black Sea. Their king, Gog, shall lead the armies of Magog in a last great battle before the Second Coming of Christ (Ezek. 38:2; 39:6). The scriptures speak of another great battle of Gog and Magog at the end of the Millennium between the forces of God and the forces of evil (Rev. 20:7–9; D&C 88:111–116).

An Old Testament prophet who wrote and prophesied at approximately 430 B.C.

The book of Malachi

The book or prophecy of Malachi is the last book in the Old Testament. It seems to follow four major themes: (1) the sins of Israel—Malachi 1:6–2:17; 3:8–9; (2) the judgments to come upon Israel because of their disobedience—Malachi 1:14; 2:2–3, 12; 3:5; (3) the promises for obedience—Malachi 3:10–12, 16–18; 4:2–3; and (4) prophecies pertaining to Israel—Malachi 3:1–5; 4:1, 5–6 (D&C 2; 128:17; JS—H 1:37–39).

In his prophecy, Malachi wrote of John the Baptist (Mal. 3:1; Matt. 11:10), the law of tithing (Mal. 3:7–12), the Second Coming of the Lord (Mal. 4:5), and the return of Elijah (Mal. 4:5–6; D&C 2; 128:17; JS—H 1:37–39). The Savior quoted all of Malachi chapters 3 and 4 to the Nephites (3 Ne. 24–25).

An Aramaic word meaning “riches” (Matt. 6:24; Luke 16:9; D&C 82:22).

Refers to all mankind, both male and female. All men and women are the literal spirit offspring of a Heavenly Father. When they are born into mortality, they receive physical, mortal bodies. These bodies were created in God’s image (Gen. 1:26–27). Men and women who are faithful in receiving the necessary ordinances, keeping their covenants, and obeying God’s commands will enter into their exaltation and become as God.

Man, a spirit child of Heavenly Father

Man, potential to become like Heavenly Father

In the Old Testament, the oldest son of Asenath and Joseph who was sold into Egypt (Gen. 41:50–51). He and his brother Ephraim were grandsons of Jacob (Israel) but were adopted and blessed by him as if they were his own sons (Gen. 48:1–20).

The tribe of Manasseh

Manasseh’s descendants were numbered among the tribes of Israel (Num. 1:34–35; Josh. 13:29–31). Moses’ blessing of the tribe of Joseph, which was given also to Ephraim and Manasseh, is recorded in Deuteronomy 33:13–17. Their assigned land was partly west of the Jordan and next to Ephraim’s. They also had colonies east of the Jordan in the rich pastureland of Bashan and Gilead. In the last days, the tribe of Manasseh will assist the tribe of Ephraim in gathering scattered Israel (Deut. 33:13–17). The Book of Mormon prophet Lehi was a descendant of Manasseh (Alma 10:3).

An official declaration by President Wilford Woodruff in 1890 clearly stating that the Church and its members submitted to the law of the land and no longer entered into plural marriage (OD 1). President Woodruff issued the Manifesto following a vision and revelation from God.

A small, round food substance with the taste of honey wafers (Ex. 16:14–31) or of fresh oil (Num. 11:7–8). The Lord provided it to feed the children of Israel during their forty years in the wilderness (Ex. 16:4–5, 14–30, 35; Josh. 5:12; 1 Ne. 17:28).

The children of Israel called it manna (or man-hu in Hebrew)—which meant “What is it?”—because they did not know what it was (Ex. 16:15). It was also called “angels’ food” and “bread from heaven” (Ps. 78:24–25; John 6:31). It was a symbol for Christ, who would be the Bread of Life (John 6:31–35).

Another name for God the Father (Moses 6:57).

In the New Testament, John Mark was the son of Mary, who lived in Jerusalem (Acts 12:12); he may also have been the cousin (or nephew) of Barnabas (Col. 4:10). He went with Paul and Barnabas from Jerusalem on their first missionary journey and left them at Perga (Acts 12:25; 13:5, 13). Later he accompanied Barnabas to Cyprus (Acts 15:37–39). He was with Paul at Rome (Col. 4:10; Philem. 1:24), and he was with Peter at Babylon (probably at Rome) (1 Pet. 5:13). Finally, he was with Timothy at Ephesus (2 Tim. 4:11).

The Gospel of Mark

The second book in the New Testament. Mark’s gospel was possibly written under Peter’s direction. His object is to describe the Lord as the Son of God living and acting among men. Mark describes, with energy and humility, the impression Jesus made upon bystanders. Tradition states that after Peter’s death, Mark visited Egypt, organized the Church in Alexandria, and died by martyrdom.

For a list of events in the Savior’s life described in the Gospel of Mark, see Harmony of the Gospels in the appendix.

A lawful covenant or contract between a man and a woman that makes them husband and wife. God ordained marriage (D&C 49:15).

New and everlasting covenant of marriage

Marriage performed under the law of the gospel and the holy priesthood is for mortal life and for eternity. Worthy men and women thus sealed in the temple in marriage may continue as husband and wife throughout eternity.

Interfaith marriage

Marriage between a man and a woman of different religious beliefs and practices.

Plural marriage

The marriage of a husband to two or more living wives. It is lawful for a man to have only one wife, unless the Lord commands otherwise by revelation (Jacob 2:27–30). By revelation, plural marriage was practiced in Old Testament times and in the early days of the restored Church by the direction of the prophet who held the priesthood keys (D&C 132:34–40, 45). It is no longer practiced in the Church (OD 1); today, having more than one wife is incompatible with membership in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The first President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles after the Restoration of the Church in 1830. He held the keys to the kingdom as pertained to the Twelve (D&C 112:16) and, in 1838, was commanded by revelation to publish the Lord’s word (D&C 118:2). Section 31 of the Doctrine and Covenants is directed to him. Marsh was excommunicated from the Church in 1839 but was rebaptized in July 1857.

The sister of Lazarus and Mary in the New Testament (Luke 10:38–42; John 11:1–46; 12:2).

A person who gives his life rather than forsake Christ, the gospel, or his righteous beliefs or principles.

In the New Testament, a virgin chosen by God the Father to be the mother of His Son in the flesh. After Jesus’ birth, Mary had other children (Mark 6:3).

In the New Testament, the mother of John Mark, who wrote the Gospel of Mark (Acts 12:12).

A woman in the New Testament who became a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. Magdalene refers to Magdala, the place from which this Mary came. It is located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee.

In the New Testament, the sister of Lazarus and Martha.

An Apostle of Jesus Christ and the author of the first book in the New Testament. Matthew, a Jew who was a tax collector for the Romans at Capernaum, was probably in the service of Herod Antipas. He was known before his conversion as Levi, son of Alphaeus (Mark 2:14). Soon after his call to become Jesus’ disciple, he gave a feast at which the Lord was present (Matt. 9:9–13; Mark 2:14–17; Luke 5:27–32). Matthew probably had a wide knowledge of the Old Testament scriptures and was able to see the detailed fulfillment of prophecy in the Lord’s life. Of the Apostle’s later life little is known. One tradition asserts that he died a martyr’s death.

The Gospel of Matthew

The first book in the New Testament. Matthew’s Gospel was probably written initially for the use of Jews in Palestine. It uses many quotations from the Old Testament. Matthew’s chief object was to show that Jesus was the Messiah of whom the Old Testament prophets spoke. He also emphasized that Jesus is the King and Judge of men.

For a list of events in the Savior’s life described in the Gospel of Matthew, see Harmony of the Gospels in the appendix.

The person chosen to replace Judas Iscariot as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (Acts 1:15–26). He was a disciple throughout the whole of Jesus’ mortal ministry (Acts 1:21–22).

An intercessor or intermediary. Jesus Christ is the mediator between God and man. His Atonement made possible a way for people to repent of their sins and become reconciled to God.

Godfearing, righteous, humble, teachable, and patient under suffering. The meek are willing to follow gospel teachings.

A great Old Testament high priest, prophet, and leader who lived after the Flood and during the time of Abraham. He was called the king of Salem (Jerusalem), king of peace, king of righteousness (which is the Hebrew meaning of Melchizedek), and priest of the most high God.

The Melchizedek Priesthood is the higher or greater priesthood; the Aaronic Priesthood is the lesser priesthood. The Melchizedek Priesthood includes the keys of the spiritual blessings of the Church. Through the ordinances of the higher priesthood the power of godliness is made manifest to men (D&C 84:18–25; 107:18–21).

God first revealed this higher priesthood to Adam. The patriarchs and prophets in every dispensation had this authority (D&C 84:6–17). It was first called the Holy Priesthood, after the Order of the Son of God. It later became known as the Melchizedek Priesthood (D&C 107:2–4).

When the children of Israel failed to live up to the privileges and covenants of the Melchizedek Priesthood, the Lord took away the higher law and gave them a lesser priesthood and a lesser law (D&C 84:23–26). These were called the Aaronic Priesthood and the law of Moses. When Jesus came to the earth, He restored the Melchizedek Priesthood to the Jews and began to build up the Church among them. However, the priesthood and the Church were lost again through apostasy. They were later restored through Joseph Smith Jr. (D&C 27:12–13; 128:20; JS—H 1:73).

Within the Melchizedek Priesthood are the offices of elder, high priest, patriarch, Seventy, and Apostle (D&C 107). The Melchizedek Priesthood will always be a part of the kingdom of God upon the earth.

The President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the president of the high or Melchizedek Priesthood, and he holds all the keys that pertain to the kingdom of God on the earth. The calling of President is held by only one man at a time, and he is the only person on the earth authorized to exercise all priesthood keys (D&C 107:64–67; 132:7).

The spirit of compassion, tenderness, and forgiveness. Mercy is one of the attributes of God. Jesus Christ offers mercy to us through His atoning sacrifice.

In the Old Testament, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were three Israelite youths who, along with Daniel, were brought into the palace of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Meshach’s Hebrew name was Mishael. The four young men refused to defile themselves by partaking of the king’s meat and wine (Dan. 1). Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were thrown into a fiery furnace by the king but were miraculously preserved (Dan. 3).

A form of an Aramaic and Hebrew word meaning “the anointed.” In the New Testament Jesus is called the Christ, which is the Greek equivalent of Messiah. It means the anointed Prophet, Priest, King, and Deliverer whose coming the Jews were eagerly expecting.

Many Jews were looking only for a deliverer from the Roman power and for a greater national prosperity; thus, when the Messiah came, the leaders and many others rejected Him. Only the humble and faithful were able to see in Jesus of Nazareth the true Christ (Isa. 53; Matt. 16:16; John 4:25–26).

A son of Enoch in the Old Testament. Methuselah lived 969 years (Gen. 5:21–27; Luke 3:37; Moses 8:7). He was a righteous prophet who was left on the earth when the city of Enoch was taken to heaven. He remained on earth to provide a posterity through which Noah would come (Moses 8:3–4).

An Old Testament prophet. He was a native of Moresheth Gath, in the plain country of Judah, and prophesied while Hezekiah was king (Micah 1:1–2).

The book of Micah

Micah is the only book in the Old Testament to name Bethlehem as the place where the Messiah would be born (Micah 5:2). In the book the Lord counseled with His people and recounted His past goodness to them; He required from them justice, mercy, and humility (Micah 6:8).

The name by which Adam was known in the premortal life. He is called the Archangel. In Hebrew the name means “Who is like God.”

The thousand-year period of peace that will begin when Christ returns to reign personally on the earth (A of F 1:10).

Mental faculties; conscious powers of thought.

To do the work of the Lord on the earth. God’s chosen servants must be called of God in order to minister in His work. When true ministers do the Lord’s will, they represent the Lord in their official duties and act as His agents (D&C 64:29), thus conducting the work necessary for the salvation of mankind. The Lord has given apostles, prophets, evangelists, high priests, seventies, elders, bishops, priests, teachers, deacons, helps, and governments for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the ministry (1 Cor. 12:12–28; Eph. 4:11–16; D&C 20; 107).

An extraordinary event caused by the power of God. Miracles are an important element in the work of Jesus Christ. They include healings, restoring the dead to life, and resurrection. Miracles are a part of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Faith is necessary in order for miracles to be manifested (Mark 6:5–6; Morm. 9:10–20; Ether 12:12).

In the Old Testament, the sister of Moses (Num. 26:59).

To share the gospel of Jesus Christ by word and by example.

A land in Old Testament times located east of the Dead Sea. The Moabites were descendants of Lot and were related to the Israelites. They spoke a language similar to Hebrew. There was constant warfare between the Moabites and the Israelites (Judg. 3:12–30; 11:17; 2 Sam. 8:2; 2 Kgs. 3:6–27; 2 Chr. 20:1–25; Isa. 15).

Behavior or appearance that is humble, moderate, and decent. A modest person avoids excesses and pretensions.

Coins, paper, certificates, or something people use as payment for goods or services. It is sometimes a symbol of materialism.

A Nephite prophet, military general, and record keeper in the Book of Mormon. Mormon lived about A.D. 311–385 (Morm. 1:2, 6; 6:5–6; 8:2–3). He was a military leader for most of his life, beginning at age fifteen (Morm. 2:1–2; 3:8–12; 5:1; 8:2–3). Ammaron instructed Mormon to prepare himself to take charge of the records and record keeping (Morm. 1:2–5; 2:17–18). After recording the history of his own lifetime, Mormon abridged the large plates of Nephi on the plates of Mormon. He later turned this sacred record over to his son Moroni. These plates were part of the record from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon.

The Words of Mormon

A small book in the Book of Mormon. Between the last words of Amaleki in the book of Omni and the first words in the book of Mosiah, Mormon, the editor of all the records, made this small insertion. (See “A Brief Explanation about the Book of Mormon” in the front of the Book of Mormon.)

The book of Mormon

A separate book within the volume of scripture known as the Book of Mormon. Chapters 1–2 tell of Ammaron, a prophet of the Nephites, instructing Mormon when and where to get the plates. Also, the great wars began, and the Three Nephites were taken away because of the people’s wickedness. Chapters 3–4 tell of Mormon crying repentance to the people, but they were past feeling, and greater wickedness prevailed than ever before in Israel. Chapters 5–6 record the final battles between the Nephites and the Lamanites. Mormon was slain along with most of the Nephite nation. In chapter 7, before his death, Mormon called on people—then and in the future—to repent. Chapters 8–9 record that finally only Mormon’s son, Moroni, was left. He recorded the final scenes of death and carnage, including the end of the Nephite people, and wrote a message to future generations and readers of this record.

The nickname Mormon was created by people who were not members of the Church to refer to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The name comes from the sacred book of scripture compiled by the ancient prophet Mormon and entitled the Book of Mormon. The name given by the Lord by which members of the Church are to be known is “Saints.” The correct name of the Church is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In the Book of Mormon, a righteous Nephite military commander who lived about 100 B.C.

The last Nephite prophet in the Book of Mormon (about A.D. 421). Just before Mormon’s death, he delivered a historical record called the plates of Mormon to his son Moroni (W of M 1:1). Moroni finished compiling the plates of Mormon. He added chapters 8 and 9 to the book of Mormon (Morm. 8:1). He abridged and included the book of Ether (Ether 1:1–2) and added his own book called the book of Moroni (Moro. 1). Moroni sealed up the plates and hid them in the hill Cumorah (Morm. 8:14; Moro. 10:2). In 1823 Moroni was sent as a resurrected being to reveal the Book of Mormon to Joseph Smith (D&C 27:5; JS—H 1:30–42, 45). He instructed the young prophet each year from 1823 to 1827 (JS—H 1:54) and finally delivered the plates to him in 1827 (JS—H 1:59). After completing the translation Joseph Smith returned the plates to Moroni.

The book of Moroni

The final book within the Book of Mormon. It was written by the last Nephite prophet, Moroni. Chapters 1–3 tell of the final destruction of the Nephites, giving instruction on the conferring of the Holy Ghost and the priesthood. Chapters 4–5 detail the exact mode of administering the sacrament. Chapter 6 summarizes the work of the Church. Chapters 7–8 are sermons on the first principles of the gospel, including teachings by Mormon on faith, hope, and charity and on the way to judge good and evil (Moro. 7), and Mormon’s explanation that little children are alive in Christ and need no baptism (Moro. 8). Chapter 9 describes the depravity of the Nephite nation. Chapter 10 is Moroni’s final message and includes the way to know the truth of the Book of Mormon (Moro. 10:3–5).

A righteous Nephite commander in the Book of Mormon (about 60 B.C.).

The time from birth until physical death. This is sometimes called the second estate.

An Old Testament prophet who led the Israelites out of Egyptian bondage and gave to them a set of religious, social, and dietary laws as revealed by God.

Moses’ ministry extended beyond the limits of his own mortal lifetime. Joseph Smith taught that, in company with Elijah, he came to the Mount of Transfiguration and bestowed priesthood keys upon Peter, James, and John (Matt. 17:3–4; Mark 9:4–9; Luke 9:30; D&C 63:21).

Moses appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery on April 3, 1836, in the temple in Kirtland, Ohio, and conferred on them the keys of the gathering of Israel (D&C 110:11).

Latter-day revelation speaks much concerning Moses. He is mentioned frequently in the Book of Mormon, and from the Doctrine and Covenants we learn about his ministry (D&C 84:20–26) and that he received the priesthood from his father-in-law Jethro (D&C 84:6).

Latter-day revelation also confirms the biblical account of his ministry among the children of Israel and reaffirms that he was the author of the five books that begin the Old Testament (1 Ne. 5:11; Moses 1:40–41).

The book of Moses

A book in the Pearl of Great Price that contains Joseph Smith’s inspired translation of the first seven chapters of Genesis.

Chapter 1 records a vision in which Moses saw God, who revealed to him the whole plan of salvation. Chapters 2–5 are an account of the Creation and the Fall of man. Chapters 6–7 contain a vision about Enoch and his ministry on earth. Chapter 8 contains a vision about Noah and the great Flood.

The five books of Moses

The first five books of the Old Testament are known as the books of Moses. The brass plates Nephi took from Laban contained the books of Moses (1 Ne. 5:11).

In the Book of Mormon, a Nephite prophet who was made king over the people in Zarahemla.

A righteous Nephite king and prophet in the Book of Mormon. Mosiah followed the righteous example of his father (Mosiah 6:4–7). He translated the twenty-four gold plates containing the record of the Jaredites (Mosiah 28:17).

The book of Mosiah

A book in the Book of Mormon. Chapters 1–6 contain King Benjamin’s forceful sermon to his people. The Spirit of the Lord touched their hearts and the people were converted and felt no more desire to do evil. Chapters 7–8 tell of a group of Nephites who had gone to live in the land of the Lamanites. A search party was sent out to find them. Ammon, leader of the search party, found them and learned the story of their trials under Lamanite oppression. Chapters 9–24 describe that oppression and how their leaders—Zeniff, Noah, and Limhi—lived under the Lamanites. The martyrdom of a prophet called Abinadi is also recorded. Alma was converted at Abinadi’s trial. Chapters 25–28 recount the stories of how Alma’s son and four sons of King Mosiah became converted. In chapter 29 King Mosiah recommended that a system of judges replace the kings. Alma the son of Alma was elected the first chief judge.

In the Book of Mormon, four sons of King Mosiah who were converted after an angel appeared to them and called them to repentance. Their names were Ammon, Aaron, Omner, and Himni (Mosiah 27:34). They spent fourteen years successfully preaching the gospel to the Lamanites. A record of their ministry among the Lamanites is given in the book of Alma, chapters 17 to 26.

A sacred title referring to a woman who bears or adopts children. Mothers assist in God’s plan by providing mortal bodies for God’s spirit children.

A son of the Old Testament king Zedekiah (about 589 B.C.). The Bible records that all the sons of Zedekiah were slain (2 Kgs. 25:7), but the Book of Mormon clarifies that Mulek survived (Hel. 8:21).

The deliberate and unjustified taking of human life. Murder is a sin condemned from earliest times (Gen. 4:1–12; Moses 5:18–41).

To grumble and complain against God’s purposes, plans, or servants.

Melodies and rhythms sung and played since early biblical times to express joy, praise, and worship (2 Sam. 6:5). It can be a form of prayer. The psalms were probably sung to simple melodies and accompanied by instruments.

The seeds of a mustard plant. Though a seed is very small, the height of the plant that grows from it is very great. Jesus compared the kingdom of heaven to a mustard seed (Matt. 13:31).

Mysteries of God are spiritual truths known only by revelation. God reveals His mysteries to those who are obedient to the gospel. Some of God’s mysteries are yet to be revealed.

In the Old Testament, the captain of a Syrian king’s army. He was also a leper. Through the faith of an Israelite maid he went to Israel to see the prophet Elisha. He was cured of leprosy by humbling himself and bathing seven times in the river Jordan as the prophet Elisha instructed (2 Kgs. 5:1–19; Luke 4:27).

An Old Testament prophet of Galilee who recorded his prophecies sometime between 642 and 606 B.C.

The book of Nahum

Chapter 1 speaks of the burning of the earth at the Second Coming and of the Lord’s mercy and power. Chapter 2 tells of Nineveh’s destruction, which is a foreshadowing of what will come in the latter days. Chapter 3 continues to foretell Nineveh’s miserable destruction.

In the Old Testament, a righteous woman and the wife of Elimelech (Ruth 1–4). Elimelech and Naomi took their family to Moab to escape a famine. After Elimelech and her two sons died, Naomi returned to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law Ruth.

The sixth of the twelve sons of Jacob and the second child of Bilhah, Rachel’s handmaiden (Gen. 30:7–8). Naphtali had four sons (1 Chr. 7:13).

The tribe of Naphtali

Jacob’s blessing on Naphtali is recorded in Genesis 49:21. Moses’ blessing on the tribe is recorded in Deuteronomy 33:23.

An Old Testament prophet at the time of King David. When David offered to build a temple for the Lord, the Lord instructed Nathan to tell David he was not to build it. Nathan also rebuked David for causing the death of Uriah, one of his warriors, and for taking Uriah’s wife, Bathsheba (2 Sam. 12:1–15; D&C 132:38–39). Zadok, with Nathan, anointed David’s son Solomon king (1 Kgs. 1:38–39, 45).

An Apostle of Christ and a friend of Philip in the New Testament (John 1:45–51). He came from Cana in Galilee (John 21:2). Christ said that Nathanael was an Israelite without guile (John 1:47). He and Bartholomew are generally thought to be the same person (Matt. 10:3; Mark 3:18; Luke 6:14; John 1:43–45).

A person who chooses to be influenced by the passions, desires, appetites, and senses of the flesh rather than by the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Such a person can comprehend physical things but not spiritual things. All people are carnal, or mortal, because of the Fall of Adam and Eve. Each person must be born again through the Atonement of Jesus Christ to cease being a natural man.

A city established by the Latter-day Saints in 1839 in the state of Illinois. It is located on the Mississippi River, nearly 200 miles (320 kilometers) up the river from St. Louis.

Due to persecutions in the state of Missouri, the Saints moved about 200 miles to the northeast, across the Mississippi River, and into Illinois, where they found more favorable conditions. Eventually, the Saints purchased land near the undeveloped city of Commerce. This land was virtually swamp wilderness with only a few simple buildings. The Saints drained the land and established homes. Joseph Smith moved his family into a small log home. The city name of Commerce was changed to Nauvoo, after the Hebrew word for “beautiful.”

Several sections of the Doctrine and Covenants were recorded in Nauvoo (D&C 124–129; 132; 135). The Saints were told to build a temple in Nauvoo (D&C 124:26–27). They built the temple and organized stakes of Zion before being driven from their homes in 1846. As a result of this persecution, the Saints left the area and made their way west.

A village among the hills west of the Sea of Galilee. Nazareth was the early home of Jesus (Matt. 2:23). Jesus taught in the synagogue at Nazareth and declared that He fulfilled the prophecy in Isaiah 61:1–2 (Matt. 13:54–58; Mark 6:1–6; Luke 4:16–30).

In the Old Testament, the king of Babylon (604–561 B.C.) who subdued Judah (2 Kgs. 24:1–4) and besieged Jerusalem (2 Kgs. 24:10–11). The prophet Lehi was commanded to flee Jerusalem in about 600 B.C. to avoid being taken captive to Babylon (1 Ne. 1:4–13) when Nebuchadnezzar carried away King Zedekiah and the people (2 Kgs. 25:1, 8–16, 20–22). Daniel interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams (Dan. 2; 4).

An Israelite nobleman in Babylon in the Old Testament (either a Levite or of the tribe of Judah) who held the office of cupbearer at the court of Artaxerxes, from whom he obtained a royal commission authorizing him to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

The book of Nehemiah

This book is a continuation of the book of Ezra. It contains an account of the progress and difficulties of the work at Jerusalem following the return of the Jews from Babylonian captivity. Chapters 1–7 tell of Nehemiah’s first visit to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the city walls in spite of great opposition. Chapters 8–10 describe the religious and social reforms that Nehemiah tried to implement. Chapters 11–13 give a list of names of those worthy and give an account of the dedication of the wall. Verses 4–31 of chapter 13 record a second visit by Nehemiah to Jerusalem after being away for twelve years.

An evil man in the Book of Mormon. Nehor was one of the first to practice priestcraft among the Nephites. After teaching false doctrine and killing Gideon, Nehor was executed for his crimes (Alma 1). Nehor’s followers continued his evil practices and teachings long after Nehor died.

In the Book of Mormon, a great Nephite prophet and missionary.

In the Book of Mormon, a righteous son of Lehi and Sariah (1 Ne. 1:1–4; 2:5). Nephi had strong faith in the word of God (1 Ne. 3:7) and became a great prophet, record keeper, and leader of his people.

The book of 1 Nephi

Chapters 1 to 18:8 deal mostly with the prophet Lehi and his family leaving Jerusalem. They traveled through barren deserts until they reached the sea. 1 Nephi 18:9–23 tells of their voyage to a promised land, as directed by the Lord, despite the rebellion of Laman and Lemuel. Chapters 19–22 tell Nephi’s purpose for keeping records (1 Ne. 6; 19:18)—to persuade all to remember the Lord their Redeemer. He quoted Isaiah (1 Ne. 20–21) and interpreted Isaiah’s messages, with the hope that all might come to know Jesus Christ as their Savior and Redeemer (1 Ne. 22:12).

The book of 2 Nephi

Chapters 1–4 contain some of Lehi’s final teachings and prophecies before his death, including blessings on his sons and their descendants. Chapter 5 explains why the Nephites separated themselves from the Lamanites. The Nephites built a temple, taught the law of Moses, and kept records. Chapters 6–10 contain the words of Jacob, Nephi’s younger brother. Jacob reviewed the history of Judah and prophesied of the Messiah, some of which was taken from the writings of the prophet Isaiah. In chapters 11–33 Nephi recorded his testimony of Christ, Jacob’s testimony, prophecies of the last days, and several chapters from the Old Testament book of Isaiah.

Plates of Nephi

One of the twelve Nephite disciples chosen by the resurrected Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon (3 Ne. 1:2–3; 19:4). This prophet prayed mightily to the Lord in behalf of his people. Nephi heard the voice of the Lord (3 Ne. 1:11–14). Nephi was also visited by angels, cast out devils, raised his brother from the dead, and bore a testimony that could not be disbelieved (3 Ne. 7:15–19; 19:4). Nephi kept the scriptural record (3 Ne. 1:2–3).

The book of 3 Nephi

A book written by Nephi, son of Nephi, in the Book of Mormon. Chapters 1–10 show the fulfillment of the prophecies about the coming of the Lord. The sign of Christ’s birth was given; the people repented; but then they returned to wickedness. Finally tempests, earthquakes, violent storms, and great destruction signaled the death of Christ. Chapters 11–28 record Christ’s coming to the Americas. This is the central part of the book of 3 Nephi. Many of Christ’s words are similar to His sermons recorded in the Bible (for example, Matt. 5–7 and 3 Ne. 12–14). Chapters 29–30 are Mormon’s words to the latter-day nations.

The book of 4 Nephi

This book has only forty-nine verses, all in one chapter, yet it covers nearly three hundred years of Nephite history (A.D. 34–321). Several generations of writers, including Nephi, contributed to the record. Verses 1–19 tell that after the resurrected Christ’s visit all the Nephites and Lamanites were converted to the gospel. Peace, love, and harmony reigned. The three Nephite disciples, whom Christ had allowed to remain on earth until His Second Coming (3 Ne. 28:4–9), ministered to the people. Nephi left the record to his son Amos. Verses 19–47 are the record of Amos’s ministry (84 years) and that of his son Amos (112 years). In A.D. 201, pride began to cause problems among the people, who divided themselves into classes and began false churches to get gain (4 Ne. 1:24–34).

The final verses of 4 Nephi show that the people had returned again to wickedness (4 Ne. 1:35–49). In A.D. 305, Amos the son of Amos died and his brother Ammaron hid all the sacred records for safekeeping. Ammaron later entrusted the records to Mormon, who recorded many events of his own lifetime and then abridged them (Morm. 1:2–4).

A group of people in the Book of Mormon, many of whom were descendants of the prophet Nephi, son of Lehi. They separated from the Lamanites and were generally more righteous than the Lamanites. However, they were eventually destroyed by the Lamanites because of wickedness.

The fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ (D&C 66:2). It is new every time it is revealed anew following a period of apostasy. It is everlasting in the sense that it is God’s covenant and has been enjoyed in every gospel dispensation where people have been willing to receive it. The new and everlasting covenant was revealed again to men on earth by Jesus Christ through the Prophet Joseph Smith. It contains sacred ordinances administered by priesthood authority—such as baptism and temple marriage—that provide for man’s salvation, immortality, and eternal life. When people accept the gospel and promise to keep God’s commandments, God covenants to give them the blessings of His new and everlasting covenant.

The place where the Saints will gather and Christ will personally reign with them during the Millennium. Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent, and the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory (A of F 1:10). It also refers to a holy city that will come down out of heaven at the beginning of the Millennium.

A collection of inspired writings (originally in Greek) about the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, the Apostles, and other followers of Jesus Christ. The New Testament is commonly divided into the Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, Paul’s epistles, the general epistles, and the book of Revelation.

The four Gospels—the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are accounts of the life of Christ. The book of Acts records the history of the Church and the Apostles, especially Paul’s missionary travels, after Christ’s death. Paul’s letters give instruction to Church leaders and members. The other letters were written by other Apostles and give additional counsel to the early Saints. The book of Revelation, which was written by the Apostle John, contains mostly prophecies pertaining to the last days.

In the New Testament, a righteous ruler of the Jews (probably of the Sanhedrin) and a Pharisee (John 3:1).

In the Old Testament, the capital of Assyria and for over two hundred years a great commercial center on the eastern bank of the Tigris river. It fell at the downfall of the Assyrian empire, 606 B.C.

In the Old Testament, the son of Lamech and the tenth patriarch from Adam (Gen. 5:29–32). He testified of Christ and preached repentance to a wicked generation. When the people rejected his message, God commanded him to build an ark to house his family and all the animals when the earth was flooded to destroy the wicked (Gen. 6:13–22; Moses 8:16–30). The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that Noah is the angel Gabriel and stands next to Adam in holding the keys of salvation.

A wicked king in the Book of Mormon. He ruled over a group of Nephites in the land of Nephi.

The fourth book in the Old Testament. Moses wrote the book of Numbers. The book of Numbers relates the story of Israel’s journey from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab on the border of Canaan. One of the important lessons it teaches is that God’s people must walk by faith, trusting His promises, if they are to continue successfully. It recounts God’s punishment of Israel for disobedience and provides information about Israelite laws. The name of the book is derived from the prominence of census figures (Num. 1–2; 26).

Chapters 1–10 tell of the Israelite preparation for departure from Sinai. Chapters 11–14 describe the march itself, the sending of spies into Canaan, and Israel’s refusal to enter the promised land. Chapters 15–19 note various laws and historical events. Chapters 20–36 are the history of the people’s last year in the wilderness.

As used in the scriptures, usually a sacred covenant or promise. However, wicked persons, including Satan and his angels, also make oaths to accomplish their evil purposes. In Old Testament times, oaths were acceptable; however, Jesus Christ taught that people should not swear in the name of God or His creations (Matt. 5:33–37).

An oath is a sworn affirmation to be true and faithful to one’s promises. A covenant is a solemn promise between two parties. The Aaronic Priesthood is received by covenant alone. Melchizedek Priesthood holders receive the priesthood by unspoken oath as well as by covenant. As priesthood holders are faithful and magnify their callings as God directs, He blesses them. Those who are faithful to the end and do all He asks of them will receive all that the Father has (D&C 84:33–39).

An Old Testament prophet who foretold the doom of Edom. He prophesied possibly during the reign of Jehoram (848–844 B.C.) or during the Babylonian invasion in 586 B.C.

The book of Obadiah

A book in the Old Testament. It has only one chapter. In it, Obadiah wrote of the downfall of Edom and prophesied that saviors shall stand upon Mount Zion.

In the Old Testament, the son of Boaz and Ruth and the father of Jesse, who became the father of King David (Ruth 4:13–17, 21–22).

In a spiritual sense, obedience is doing God’s will.

To break a divine law, to sin, or to cause discomfort or injury; also to displease or annoy.

A gift to the Lord. The Old Testament often used the word to refer to sacrifices or burnt offerings. The Church today uses fast offerings and other freewill offerings (including time, talents, and possessions) to help the poor and for other worthy causes.

Position of authority or responsibility in an organization, often used in the scriptures to mean a position of priesthood authority; may also mean the duties assigned to the position or the person who holds the position.

Printed in the closing pages of the Doctrine and Covenants, the first part of Official Declaration 1 is also known as the Manifesto. It was given by President Wilford Woodruff and presented to the members of the Church at a general conference on October 6, 1890. Beginning in 1862, various laws for the next twenty-five years made plural marriage illegal in the United States. The Lord showed Wilford Woodruff by vision and revelation what would take place if the Saints did not cease the practice of plural marriage. The Manifesto formally announced that plural marriages were no longer being performed.

A doctrinal statement regarding who may hold the priesthood of God, now printed in the final pages of the Doctrine and Covenants. In early June 1978, the Lord revealed to President Spencer W. Kimball that the priesthood should be given to all worthy male members of the Church. This made the priesthood available to all worthy men and temple blessings available to all worthy members, regardless of race or color. On September 30, 1978, this declaration was presented to the general conference of the Church and unanimously accepted.

Usually olive oil is meant when oil is mentioned in the scriptures. From Old Testament times, olive oil has been used for temple and tabernacle rites, for anointings, for burning in lamps, and for food. Olive oil is sometimes a symbol for purity and for the Holy Spirit and its influence (1 Sam. 10:1, 6; 16:13; Isa. 61:1–3).

Writings of ancient prophets who acted under the influence of the Holy Spirit and who over many centuries testified of Christ and His future ministry. It also contains a record of the history of Abraham and his descendants, beginning with Abraham, and the covenant, or testament, the Lord made with Abraham and his posterity.

The first five books of the Old Testament were written by Moses. They are Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Genesis refers to the origin of the earth, mankind, languages, races, and the beginning of the house of Israel.

The historical books tell of events of Israel. These books are Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 and 2 Samuel, 1 and 2 Kings, 1 and 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther.

The poetic books record some of the wisdom and literature of the prophets. They are Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, and Lamentations.

The prophets warned Israel of her sins and testified of the blessings that come from obedience. They prophesied of the coming of Christ, who would atone for the sins of those who repent, receive the ordinances, and live the gospel. The books of the prophets are Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi.

Most Old Testament books were written in Hebrew. A few writings contain Aramaic, a related language.

A hill east of the Kidron Valley, east of Jerusalem. On its western slopes, near the bottom, is the garden of Gethsemane. Bethphage and Bethany are located on the top and east slope. This mount was the place of many biblical events (Matt. 24:3) and will also be an important place in events of the latter days (Zech. 14:3–5; D&C 45:48–54; 133:20).

A tree common to Israel and an important agricultural resource in Bible lands. It is grown for its wood, fruit, and oil. The olive tree is used most frequently in the scriptures to symbolize the house of Israel.

In the Book of Mormon, a son of King Mosiah. Omner went with his brothers to preach to the Lamanites (Mosiah 27:8–11, 34–37; 28:1–9).

A Nephite record keeper in the Book of Mormon who wrote in about 361 B.C. (Jarom 1:15; Omni 1:1–3).

The book of Omni

A book translated from the small plates of Nephi in the Book of Mormon. The book has only a single chapter, which contains an account of the wars among the Nephites and Lamanites. Omni wrote only the first three verses of the book. The plates were then passed in turn to Amaron, Chemish, Abinadom, and finally Amaleki. Amaleki delivered the plates to King Benjamin, king of Zarahemla.

The divine trait of having all power (Gen. 18:14; Alma 26:35; D&C 19:1–3).

God’s ability to be present everywhere through His spirit (Ps. 139:7–12; D&C 88:7–13, 41).

The divine trait of having all knowledge (Matt. 6:8; 2 Ne. 2:24).

Another name for Jesus Christ. He is the Only Begotten Son of the Father (Luke 1:26–35; John 1:14; 3:16; 1 Ne. 11:18–20; 2 Ne. 25:12; Alma 7:10; 12:33; Moses 7:62).

To appoint or confer authority or office. To use authority in the Lord’s Church, a person must be called of God, by prophecy, and by the laying on of hands by those who are in authority (A of F 1:5). Although a person may receive authority by ordination, he uses it under the direction of those who hold the particular keys for that authority.

Sacred rites and ceremonies. Ordinances consist of acts that have spiritual meanings. Ordinances can also mean God’s laws and statutes.

Ordinances in the Church include administration to the sick (James 5:14–15), blessing the sacrament (D&C 20:77, 79), baptism by immersion (Matt. 3:16; D&C 20:72–74), blessing of children (D&C 20:70), conferring the Holy Ghost (D&C 20:68; 33:15), conferring the priesthood (D&C 84:6–16; 107:41–52), temple ordinances (D&C 124:39), and marriage in the new and everlasting covenant (D&C 132:19–20).

Vicarious ordinance

A religious ordinance performed by a living person in behalf of one who is dead. These ordinances take effect only when those for whom the ordinances were performed accept them, keep the covenants associated with them, and become sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise. Such ordinances are performed today within temples.

The third Nephite chief judge in the Book of Mormon (Alma 50:39–40; 51:1–7; 59–62).

A simple story used to illustrate and teach a spiritual truth or principle. A parable is based on comparing an ordinary object or event to a truth, and the underlying meaning or message of a parable is often hidden to listeners who are not spiritually prepared to receive it (Matt. 13:10–17).

Jesus often taught with parables. For a listing of His key parables, see Harmony of the Gospels in the appendix.

That part of the spirit world in which the righteous spirits who have departed from this life await the resurrection of the body. It is a condition of happiness and peace.

Paradise is also used in the scriptures to mean the world of spirits (Luke 23:43), the celestial kingdom (2 Cor. 12:4), and the glorified millennial condition of the earth (A of F 1:10).

Fathers and mothers. Worthy husbands and wives who have been properly sealed in marriage in a temple of God may fulfill their role as parents throughout eternity. “Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them to love and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live” (“The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign, Nov. 2010, 129).

An early member and leader of the Church after its restoration in modern times. Edward Partridge served as the first bishop of the Church (D&C 36; 41:9–11; 42:10; 51:1–18; 115; 124:19).

The Feast of the Passover was instituted to help the children of Israel remember when the destroying angel passed over their houses and delivered them from the Egyptians (Ex. 12:21–28; 13:14–15). The unblemished lambs, whose blood was used as a sign to save Israel anciently, are a symbol of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, whose sacrifice redeemed all mankind.

Calm endurance; the ability to endure affliction, insult, or injury without complaint or retaliation.

The scriptures speak of two kinds of patriarchs: (1) an ordained office in the Melchizedek Priesthood, sometimes called an evangelist; (2) fathers of families. Ordained patriarchs give special blessings to worthy members of the Church.

Ordained patriarchs

Fathers

Blessings given to worthy Church members by ordained patriarchs. A patriarchal blessing contains the Lord’s counsel for the person receiving the blessing and declares that person’s lineage in the house of Israel. Fathers may give special blessings as the patriarchs of their families, but such blessings are not recorded or retained by the Church.

A member of the first Quorum of Twelve Apostles chosen in the latter-day dispensation. David Patten was the first martyr of the restored Church, having been killed at the battle of Crooked River in Missouri in 1838.

A model that a person can follow to obtain certain results. In the scriptures, pattern usually means an example either for living a certain way or for building something.

An Apostle in the New Testament. Paul’s Hebrew name was Saul, and he went by this name until the beginning of his mission to the Gentiles. He had previously persecuted the Church but was converted to its truth after seeing a vision of Jesus Christ. Paul went on three major missionary journeys and wrote many letters to the Saints. Fourteen of these letters form a part of the New Testament today. He was finally taken as a prisoner to Rome and was killed, probably in the spring of A.D. 65.

Fourteen books in the New Testament that were originally letters written by the Apostle Paul to members of the Church. They may be divided into groups as follows:

1 and 2 Thessalonians (A.D. 50–51)

Paul wrote the epistles to the Thessalonians from Corinth during his second missionary journey. His work in Thessalonica is described in Acts 17. He wanted to return to Thessalonica, but he was unable to do so (1 Thes. 2:18). He therefore sent Timothy to cheer the converts and bring him word about how they were doing. The first epistle is the outcome of his thankfulness on Timothy’s return. The second epistle was written a short time later.

1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Romans (A.D. 55–57)

Paul wrote the epistles to the Corinthians during his third missionary journey to answer questions and correct disorder among the Saints in Corinth.

The epistle to the Galatians may have been written to many Church units throughout Galatia. Some members of the Church were abandoning the gospel in favor of the Jewish law. In this letter, Paul explained the purpose of the law of Moses and the value of a spiritual religion.

Paul wrote the epistle to the Romans from Corinth, in part to prepare the Roman Saints for a visit he hoped to make to them. This letter also reaffirms doctrines that were being disputed by some Jews who had converted to Christianity.

Philippians, Colossians, Ephesians, Philemon, Hebrews (A.D. 60–62)

Paul wrote these epistles while he was in prison the first time in Rome.

Paul wrote the epistle to the Philippians mainly to express his gratitude and affection for the Philippian Saints and to cheer them from the disappointment of his long imprisonment.

Paul wrote the epistle to the Colossians as a result of a report that the Colossian Saints were falling into serious error. They believed that perfection came by the careful observance of outward ordinances alone rather than the development of Christlike character.

The epistle to the Ephesians is of great importance, for it contains Paul’s teachings about the Church of Christ.

The epistle to Philemon is a private letter about Onesimus, a slave who had robbed his master, Philemon, and run away to Rome. Paul sent Onesimus back to his master with the letter asking that Onesimus be forgiven.

Paul wrote the epistle to the Hebrews to Jewish members of the Church to persuade them that the law of Moses had been fulfilled in Christ and that the gospel law of Christ had replaced it.

1 and 2 Timothy, Titus (A.D. 64–65)

Paul wrote these epistles after he was released from prison in Rome the first time.

Paul traveled to Ephesus, where he left Timothy to stop the growth of some forms of speculation, intending afterwards to return. He wrote his first epistle to Timothy, perhaps from Macedonia, to counsel and encourage him in the fulfillment of his duty.

Paul wrote the epistle to Titus during a time when he was free from prison. He may have visited Crete, where Titus was serving. The letter deals mainly with righteous living and discipline within the Church.

Paul wrote his second epistle to Timothy while in prison the second time, shortly before Paul’s martyrdom. This epistle contains Paul’s last words and shows the wonderful courage and trust with which he faced death.

In the scriptures, peace can mean either freedom from conflict and turmoil or the inner calm and comfort born of the Spirit that God gives to His faithful Saints.

Freedom from conflict and turmoil

Peace from God to the obedient

A person who brings about or promotes peace (Matt. 5:9; 3 Ne. 12:9). A peacemaker may also be someone who proclaims the gospel (Mosiah 15:11–18).

The kingdom of God on earth is likened to a “pearl of great price” (Matt. 13:45–46).

The Pearl of Great Price is also the name given to one of four volumes of scripture called the “standard works” of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The first edition of the Pearl of Great Price was published in 1851 and contained some material that is now in the Doctrine and Covenants. Editions published since 1902 contain (1) excerpts from Joseph Smith’s translation of Genesis, called the book of Moses, and of Matthew 24, called Joseph Smith—Matthew; (2) Joseph Smith’s translation of some Egyptian papyrus that he obtained in 1835, called the book of Abraham; (3) an excerpt from Joseph Smith’s history of the Church that he wrote in 1838, called Joseph Smith—History; and (4) the Articles of Faith, thirteen statements of belief and doctrine.

In the Old Testament, the son of Eber and great-great-grandson of Shem. In his day the earth was divided (Gen. 10:22–25).

A name given to the first five books of the Old Testament—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. The Jews refer to these books as the Torah or law of Israel. They were written by Moses (1 Ne. 5:10–11).

As part of the law of Moses, the Feast of Pentecost or Firstfruits was held fifty days after the Feast of the Passover (Lev. 23:16). Pentecost was to celebrate the harvest, and in the Old Testament it is called the Feast of Harvest or the Feast of Weeks. It is this feast that was being celebrated when the Apostles in Jerusalem were filled with the Holy Ghost and spoke in tongues (Acts 2; D&C 109:36–37).

Complete, whole, and fully developed; totally righteous. Perfect can also mean without sin or evil. Only Christ was totally perfect. True followers of Christ may become perfect through His grace and Atonement.

To cause anguish or pain to others because of their beliefs or social status; to harass or oppress.

In the New Testament, Peter was originally known as Simeon or Simon (2 Pet. 1:1), a fisherman of Bethsaida living at Capernaum with his wife. Jesus healed Peter’s wife’s mother (Mark 1:29–31). Peter was called with his brother Andrew to be a disciple of Jesus Christ (Matt. 4:18–22; Mark 1:16–18; Luke 5:1–11). His Aramaic name, Cephas, meaning “a seer” or “stone,” was given to him by the Lord (John 1:40–42; JST, John 1:42 [Appendix]). While the New Testament mentions some of Peter’s mortal weaknesses, it also illustrates that he overcame them and was made strong by his faith in Jesus Christ.

Peter confessed that Jesus was the Christ and the Son of God (John 6:68–69), and the Lord selected him to hold the keys of the kingdom on earth (Matt. 16:13–19). On the Mount of Transfiguration, Peter saw the transfigured Savior, as well as Moses and Elias (Elijah) (Matt. 17:1–9).

Peter was the chief Apostle of his day. After the death, Resurrection, and Ascension of the Savior, he called the Church together and directed the calling of an Apostle to replace Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:15–26). Peter and John healed a man who was lame from birth (Acts 3:1–16) and were miraculously released from prison (Acts 5:11–29; 12:1–19). It was through Peter’s ministry that the gospel was first opened to the Gentiles (Acts 10–11). In the latter days, Peter, with James and John, came from heaven and conferred the Melchizedek Priesthood and the keys thereof upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery (D&C 27:12–13; 128:20).

First epistle of Peter

The first epistle was written from “Babylon” (probably Rome) and was sent to the Saints in what is now called Asia Minor soon after Nero began persecuting the Christians.

Chapter 1 speaks of Christ’s foreordained role as the Redeemer. Chapters 2–3 explain that Christ is the chief cornerstone of the Church, that the Saints hold a royal priesthood, and that Christ preached to the spirits in prison. Chapters 4–5 explain why the gospel is preached to the dead and why the elders must feed the flock.

Second epistle of Peter

Chapter 1 exhorts the Saints to make their calling and election sure. Chapter 2 warns against false teachers. Chapter 3 speaks of the latter days and Christ’s Second Coming.

The eldest son of Egyptus, the daughter of Ham (Abr. 1:25). Also, the title given to the Egyptian kings (Abr. 1:27).

In the New Testament, a religious group among the Jews whose name suggests being separate or apart. The Pharisees prided themselves on strictly observing the law of Moses and avoiding anything associated with the Gentiles. They believed in life after death, the Resurrection, and the existence of angels and spirits. They believed that the oral law and tradition were equally as important as the written laws. Their teachings reduced religion to the observance of rules and encouraged spiritual pride. They caused many Jewish people to doubt Christ and His gospel. The Lord denounced the Pharisees and their works in Matthew 23; Mark 7:1–23; and Luke 11:37–44.

An early member and leader in the Church after it was restored in 1830. The Lord called William Phelps to be a printer for the Church (D&C 57:11; 58:40; 70:1).

A Christian man in the New Testament who owned the slave Onesimus, who ran away and joined Paul. Paul sent Onesimus back to Philemon with a letter asking that Philemon forgive the slave.

A book in the New Testament, taken from a letter written by Paul. Paul’s letter to Philemon is a private letter about Onesimus, a slave who had robbed his master, Philemon, and run away to Rome. Paul sent him back to his master at Colosse in company with Tychicus, the bearer of Paul’s letter to the Colossians. Paul asked that Onesimus be forgiven and received back as a fellow Christian. Paul wrote this letter while he was in prison in Rome the first time.

In the New Testament, Philip, of Bethsaida, was one of the original Twelve Apostles of the Savior (Matt. 10:2–4; John 1:43–45).

Another Philip was one of seven chosen to assist the Twelve Apostles (Acts 6:2–6). He preached in Samaria and to an Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8).

A letter that Paul wrote to the Saints in Philippi while he was in prison in Rome the first time. It is now the book of Philippians in the New Testament.

Chapter 1 contains Paul’s greetings and his instruction on unity, humility, and perseverance. Chapter 2 emphasizes that all shall bow to Christ and that each person must work out his own salvation. In chapter 3, Paul explained that he has sacrificed all things for Christ. In chapter 4, Paul thanked the Philippian Saints for their assistance.

In the Old Testament, a tribe that originally came from Caphtor (Amos 9:7) and occupied the rich lowland on the Mediterranean coast from Joppa to the Egyptian desert before the days of Abraham (Gen. 21:32). For many years there was a military struggle between the Philistines and the Israelites. Eventually Palestine, the name of the Philistine territory, became a familiar title for all of the Holy Land.

A Roman ruler in Judea, A.D. 26–36 (Luke 3:1). He hated the Jewish people and their religion and put at least some Galileans to death (Luke 13:1). Jesus was accused and condemned to be crucified before Pilate (Matt. 27:2, 11–26, 58–66; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 18:28–19:38).

The fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ, designed to bring about man’s immortality and eternal life. It includes the Creation, Fall, and Atonement, along with all God-given laws, ordinances, and doctrines. This plan makes it possible for all people to be exalted and live forever with God (2 Ne. 2; 9). The scriptures also refer to this plan as the plan of salvation, the plan of happiness, and the plan of mercy.

Anciently some cultures wrote their histories and records on metal plates, as was the case with the Book of Mormon. For further information, see “A Brief Explanation about the Book of Mormon” in the introductory pages of the Book of Mormon.

To meditate and think deeply, often upon the scriptures or other things of God. When combined with prayer, pondering the things of God may bring revelation and understanding.

In the scriptures, poor can refer to (1) people who are without needed material goods, such as food, clothing, and shelter, or (2) people who are humble and without pride.

Poor in material goods

Poor in spirit

The ability to do something. To have power over someone or something is to have the ability to control or command that person or thing. In the scriptures, power is often connected with the power of God or the power of heaven. It is often closely related to priesthood authority, which is the permission or right to act for God.

One of the first Twelve Apostles called after the Restoration of the Church in modern times (D&C 124:128–129). He had been a member of the Church only six weeks when the Lord gave a revelation to him through Joseph Smith (D&C 34). Orson Pratt was also a missionary for the Church (D&C 52:26; 75:14) and served as Church historian for several years.

Older brother of Orson Pratt and one of the first Twelve Apostles called after the Restoration of the Church in modern times (D&C 124:128–129). Parley Pratt was called on the first of several missionary efforts when the Lord gave a revelation to him through Joseph Smith in October 1830 (D&C 32; 50:37).

A reverent communication with God during which a person gives thanks and asks for blessings. Prayers are addressed to our Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ. Prayers can be either spoken aloud or silent. A person’s thoughts may also be a prayer if they are directed to God. A song of the righteous may be a prayer to God (D&C 25:12).

The object of prayer is not to change the will of God, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant, but that we must ask for in order to obtain.

We pray to the Father in Christ’s name (John 14:13–14; 16:23–24). We are truly able to pray in Christ’s name when our wishes are the wishes of Christ (John 15:7; D&C 46:30). We then ask for things that are right and thus possible for God to grant (3 Ne. 18:20). Some prayers remain unanswered because they in no way represent Christ’s desire but spring instead out of the selfishness of man (James 4:3; D&C 46:9). Indeed, if we ask God for unrighteous things, it will turn to our condemnation (D&C 88:65).

To give a message that provides a better understanding of a gospel principle or doctrine.

The life before earth life. All men and women lived with God as His spirit children before coming to the earth as mortal beings. This is sometimes called the first estate (Abr. 3:26).

A title for the presiding officer of an organization. The President of the Church is a prophet, seer, and revelator (D&C 21:1; 107:91–92), and members of the Church are to call the prophet of the Church by the title “President” (D&C 107:65). He is the only person on earth authorized to exercise all priesthood keys.

The heads of priesthood quorums and other Church organizations may also have the title of president.

A General Authority in the Church. He has general responsibility over the temporal welfare of the Church (D&C 107:68). The Presiding Bishop and his counselors, who are also General Authorities, preside over the Aaronic Priesthood of the Church (D&C 68:16–17; 107:76, 87–88).

A lack or absence of humility or teachableness. Pride sets people in opposition to each other and to God. A proud person sets himself above those around him and follows his own will rather than God’s will. Conceit, envy, hardheartedness, and haughtiness are also typical of a proud person.

An office of the Aaronic Priesthood. Anciently, the highest office in the Levitical Priesthood was held only by Aaron and his descendants. When Christ fulfilled the law of Moses, this restriction was removed.

A person who performs religious rites for others and directed to God. Frequently in the scriptures, priests are actually high priests after the order of Melchizedek (Alma 13:2). Those who receive a fulness of God’s glory after the Resurrection become priests and kings in the celestial world.

Men preaching and setting themselves up for a light to the world that they may get gain and praise of the world; they do not seek the welfare of Zion (2 Ne. 26:29).

The authority and power that God gives to man to act in all things for the salvation of man (D&C 50:26–27). Male members of the Church who hold the priesthood are organized into quorums and are authorized to perform ordinances and certain administrative functions in the Church.

A basic doctrine, truth, or law. The first principles of the gospel are faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and repentance (A of F 1:4).

Disrespect or contempt for sacred things; especially, irreverence for the name of God.

Lands that the Lord promises as an inheritance to His faithful followers, and often also to their descendants. There are many promised lands. Often in the Book of Mormon, the promised land spoken of is the Americas.

A prophecy consists of divinely inspired words or writings, which a person receives through revelation from the Holy Ghost. The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy (Rev. 19:10). A prophecy may pertain to the past, present, or future. When a person prophesies, he speaks or writes that which God wants him to know, for his own good or the good of others. Individuals may receive prophecy or revelation for their own lives.

A person who has been called by and speaks for God. As a messenger of God, a prophet receives commandments, prophecies, and revelations from God. His responsibility is to make known God’s will and true character to mankind and to show the meaning of His dealings with them. A prophet denounces sin and foretells its consequences. He is a preacher of righteousness. On occasion, prophets may be inspired to foretell the future for the benefit of mankind. His primary responsibility, however, is to bear witness of Christ. The President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is God’s prophet on earth today. Members of the First Presidency and the Twelve Apostles are sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators.

A woman who has received a testimony of Jesus and enjoys the spirit of revelation. A prophetess does not hold the priesthood or its keys. Though only a few women in the scriptures are called prophetesses, many prophesied, such as Rebekah, Hannah, Elisabeth, and Mary.

A brief moral saying or counsel.

The book of Proverbs

An Old Testament book that contains many parables, sayings, and poems, some of which were written by Solomon. The book of Proverbs is frequently quoted in the New Testament.

Chapters 1–9 contain an explanation of true wisdom. Chapters 10–24 contain a collection of sayings about the right and wrong ways of living. Chapters 25–29 contain the proverbs of Solomon that the men of Hezekiah, king of Judah, recorded. Chapters 30–31 include a description of a virtuous woman.

An inspired poem or hymn.

The book of Psalms

An Old Testament book that contains a collection of psalms, many of which are about Christ. The book of Psalms is quoted frequently in the New Testament.

David wrote many of the Psalms. The Psalms were written as praises to God. Many were set to music.

In ancient Rome, a collector of taxes for the government. Publicans were generally hated by the Jews. Some publicans readily accepted the gospel (Matt. 9:9–10; Luke 19:2–8).

Free from sin or guilt; blameless. A person becomes pure when his thoughts and actions are clean in every way. A person who has committed sin can become pure through faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, and receiving the ordinances of the gospel.

To make alive, to resurrect, or to change a person so that he can be in the presence of God.

The word quorum can be used in two ways: (1) A specified group of men who hold the same office of the priesthood. (2) A majority, or the minimum number of members in a priesthood group that must be in attendance at a meeting to conduct the business of the Church (D&C 107:28).

In the Old Testament, a wife of Jacob (Gen. 29–31; 35). She was also the mother of Joseph and Benjamin.

The sign or token of God’s covenant with Noah (Gen. 9:13–17). JST, Genesis 9:21–25 (Appendix) explains that the covenant includes the promises that the earth will never again be covered with a flood of water, that the Zion of Enoch will return, and that the Lord will come again to dwell on the earth.

In the Book of Mormon, a high stand on which the Zoramites, apostate Nephites, prayed (Alma 31:8–14, 21).

An angel of the Lord who participated in the restoration of all things (D&C 128:21).

The wife of Isaac, a patriarch in the Old Testament (Gen. 24–27). Rebekah was the mother of Esau and Jacob (Gen. 25:23–26).

Defying or opposing the Lord, including refusing to follow His chosen leaders and willfully disobeying His commandments.

To deliver, to purchase, or to ransom, such as to free a person from bondage by payment. Redemption refers to the Atonement of Jesus Christ and to deliverance from sin. Jesus’ Atonement redeems all mankind from physical death. Through His Atonement, those who have faith in Him and who repent are also redeemed from spiritual death.

Jesus Christ is the great Redeemer of mankind because He, through His Atonement, paid the price for the sins of mankind and made possible the resurrection of all people.

The body of water between Egypt and Arabia. Its two northern gulfs form the coastline of the Sinai Peninsula. The Lord miraculously parted the Red Sea so that the Israelites under Moses’ leadership could pass through on dry ground (Ex. 14:13–31; Heb. 11:29). The parting of the sea by Moses is confirmed in latter-day revelation (1 Ne. 4:2; Hel. 8:11; D&C 8:3; Moses 1:25).

In the Old Testament, the son of King Solomon. He succeeded his father and reigned for seventeen years in Jerusalem (1 Kgs. 11:43; 14:21, 31). During Rehoboam’s reign, the kingdom was divided into the kingdom of Israel in the north and the kingdom of Judah in the south (1 Kgs. 11:31–36; 12:19–20). Rehoboam ruled over the kingdom of Judah.

Forgiveness for wrongdoing upon condition of repentance. Remission of sins is made possible by the Atonement of Jesus Christ. A person obtains a remission of his sins if he has faith in Christ, repents of his sins, receives the ordinances of baptism and laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost, and obeys God’s commandments (A of F 1:3–4).

A change of mind and heart that brings a fresh attitude toward God, oneself, and life in general. Repentance implies that a person turns away from evil and turns his heart and will to God, submitting to God’s commandments and desires and forsaking sin. True repentance comes from a love for God and a sincere desire to obey His commandments. All accountable persons have sinned and must repent in order to progress toward salvation. Only through the Atonement of Jesus Christ can our repentance become effective and accepted by God.

The enjoyment of peace and freedom from worry and turmoil. The Lord has promised such rest to His faithful followers during this life. He has also prepared a place of rest for them in the next life.

The return of a thing or condition that has been taken away or lost.

God’s reestablishment of the truths and ordinances of His gospel among men on earth. The gospel of Jesus Christ was lost from the earth through the apostasy that took place following the earthly ministry of Christ’s Apostles. That apostasy made necessary the Restoration of the gospel. Through visions, the ministering of angels, and revelations to men on the earth, God restored the gospel. The Restoration started with the Prophet Joseph Smith (JS—H 1; D&C 128:20–21) and has continued to the present through the work of the Lord’s living prophets.

The reuniting of the spirit body with the physical body of flesh and bones after death. After resurrection, the spirit and body will never again be separated, and the person will become immortal. Every person born on earth will be resurrected because Jesus Christ overcame death (1 Cor. 15:20–22).

Jesus Christ was the first person to be resurrected on this earth (Acts 26:23; Col. 1:18; Rev. 1:5). The New Testament gives ample evidence that Jesus rose with His physical body: His tomb was empty, He ate fish and honey, He had a body of flesh and bones, people touched Him, and the angels said He had risen (Mark 16:1–6; Luke 24:1–12, 36–43; John 20:1–18). Latter-day revelation confirms the reality of the Resurrection of Christ and of all mankind (Alma 11:40–45; 40; 3 Ne. 11:1–17; D&C 76; Moses 7:62).

All people will not be resurrected to the same glory (1 Cor. 15:39–42; D&C 76:89–98), nor will all be resurrected at the same time (1 Cor. 15:22–23; Alma 40:8; D&C 76:64–65, 85; 88:96–102). Many Saints were resurrected after Christ’s Resurrection (Matt. 27:52). The righteous will be resurrected before the wicked and will come forth in the First Resurrection (1 Thes. 4:16); the unrepentant sinners will come forth in the last resurrection (Rev. 20:5–13; D&C 76:85).

In the Old Testament, the eldest son of Jacob and Leah (Gen. 29:32; 37:21–22, 29; 42:22, 37). Although Reuben was the firstborn, he lost his birthright because of sin (Gen. 35:22; 49:3–4).

The tribe of Reuben

Jacob’s blessing to Reuben is found in Genesis 49:3 and Deuteronomy 33:6. The tribe’s numbers gradually diminished, and though the tribe continued to exist, it became politically less important. Reuben’s birthright went to Joseph and his sons because Joseph was the firstborn son of Jacob’s second wife, Rachel (1 Chr. 5:1–2).

Communication from God to His children on earth. Revelation may come through the Light of Christ and the Holy Ghost by way of inspiration, visions, dreams, or visits by angels. Revelation provides guidance that can lead the faithful to eternal salvation in the celestial kingdom.

The Lord reveals His work to His prophets and confirms to believers that the revelations to the prophets are true (Amos 3:7). Through revelation, the Lord provides individual guidance for every person who seeks it and who has faith, repents, and is obedient to the gospel of Jesus Christ. “The Holy Ghost is a revelator,” said Joseph Smith, and “no man can receive the Holy Ghost without receiving revelations.”

In the Lord’s Church, the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles are prophets, seers, and revelators to the Church and to the world. The President of the Church is the only one whom the Lord has authorized to receive revelation for the Church (D&C 28:2–7). Every person may receive personal revelation for his own benefit.

The last book in the New Testament, consisting of a revelation given to John the Apostle. He was permitted to see the history of the world, especially the last days (Rev. 1:1–2; 1 Ne. 14:18–27; D&C 77). The Revelation of John is also known as the Apocalypse.

John received this revelation on the Lord’s day on the isle of Patmos (Rev. 1:9–10), off the coast of Asia, not far from Ephesus. The exact date of the revelation is not known.

Keys to understanding the book are included in 1 Nephi 14:18–27 and Doctrine and Covenants 77 (Ether 4:15–16).

Chapters 1–3 are an introduction to the book and letters to the seven churches in Asia. John wrote the letters to help the Saints resolve certain problems. Chapters 4–5 record visions that John received showing the majesty and righteous power of God and Christ. In chapters 6–9, 11, John recorded seeing a book sealed with seven seals, each seal representing one thousand years of the earth’s temporal history. These chapters deal primarily with events contained in the seventh seal (see Rev. 8–9; 11:1–15). Chapter 10 describes a book that John ate. The book represents a future mission that he would perform. Chapter 12 records a vision of the evil that began in heaven when Satan rebelled and was cast out. The war that began there continues to be fought on earth. In chapters 13, 17–19, John described the wicked earthly kingdoms controlled by Satan and recorded their fate, including the final destruction of evil. Chapters 14–16 describe the righteousness of the Saints in the midst of evil just before the Second Coming of Christ. Chapters 20–22 describe the Millennium, the beautiful city of New Jerusalem, and the final events of the earth’s history.

Deep respect for sacred things; wonder.

Wealth or abundance. The Lord counsels the Saints not to seek for worldly riches except to do good. The Saints must not put seeking worldly riches before seeking the kingdom of God, which holds the riches of eternity (Jacob 2:18–19).

Riches of eternity

An early convert and leader in the restored Church in the 1830s and early 1840s. Sidney Rigdon served for a time as First Counselor to Joseph Smith in the First Presidency of the Church (D&C 35; 58:50, 57; 63:55–56; 76:11–12, 19–23; 90:6; 93:44; 100:9–11; 124:126). He later fell away and was excommunicated in September 1844.

Being just, holy, virtuous, upright; acting in obedience to God’s commands; avoiding sin.

Figuratively, Jesus Christ and His gospel, which are a strong foundation and support (D&C 11:24; 33:12–13). Rock can also refer to revelation, by which God makes His gospel known to man (Matt. 16:15–18).

The empire of ancient Rome. In the apostolic age, the Roman Empire was the one great power of the world. It included everything between the Euphrates, the Danube, the Rhine, the Atlantic, and the Sahara desert. Palestine became a client state in 63 B.C., when Pompey took Jerusalem. Although the Romans granted the Jews many privileges, the Jews hated Roman rule and were constantly in rebellion.

Paul, a Roman citizen, used Greek, the most commonly used language of the empire, to spread the gospel throughout the empire.

In the New Testament, a letter that Paul wrote to the Saints in Rome. He was contemplating a visit to Jerusalem, which was certain to be dangerous. If he escaped with his life, he hoped afterwards to visit Rome. The letter was meant in part to prepare the Church there to receive him when he came. It may also be regarded as containing a statement of certain doctrines that had been in dispute and that Paul now regarded as finally established.

Chapter 1 contains Paul’s greeting to the Romans. Chapters 2–11 include several declarations on the doctrine of faith, works, and grace. Chapters 12–16 contain practical teachings on love, duty, and holiness.

In the New Testament, the capital city of the Roman Empire, located on the Tiber River in Italy (Acts 18:2; 19:21; 23:11). Paul taught the gospel in Rome when he was a prisoner of the Roman government (Acts 28:14–31; Rom. 1:7, 15–16).

Satan spreads rumors and contentions—sometimes based partially on truth—to turn people against God and all good (Hel. 16:22; JS—H 1:1). One of the signs of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ is that people will hear of wars and rumors of wars (Matt. 24:6; D&C 45:26; JS—M 1:23).

In the Old Testament, the Moabite daughter-in-law of Naomi and Elimelech, who were Israelites. After the death of her husband, Ruth married Naomi’s kinsman Boaz. Their son Obed was the ancestor of David and Christ. The story of Ruth beautifully illustrates the conversion of a non-Israelite into the fold of Israel. Ruth gave up her former god and former life to unite with the household of faith in serving the God of Israel (Ruth 1:16).

The book of Ruth

Chapter 1 describes the life of Elimelech and his family in Moab. After the deaths of their husbands, Naomi and Ruth went to Bethlehem. Chapter 2 explains that Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz. Chapter 3 tells how Naomi instructed Ruth to go to the threshing floor and lie at the feet of Boaz. Chapter 4 is the story of Ruth’s marriage to Boaz. They had a son, Obed, through whose lineage David and Christ came.

A holy day set apart each week for rest and worship. After God created all things, He rested on the seventh day and commanded that one day each week be a day of rest to help people remember Him (Ex. 20:8–11).

Before the Resurrection of Christ, the members of the Church observed the last day of the week as the Sabbath, as did the Jews. After the Resurrection, the members of the Church, whether Jews or Gentiles, observed the first day of the week (the Lord’s day) to remember the Lord’s Resurrection. The Church today continues to observe one day each week as a holy sabbath day on which to worship God and rest from the labors of the world.

The Sabbath reminds people of their need for spiritual nourishment and of their duty to obey God. When a nation grows careless in observing the Sabbath, all aspects of life are affected and its religious life becomes decayed (Neh. 13:15–18; Jer. 17:21–27).

For Latter-day Saints, sacrament refers to the ordinance of partaking of bread and water in remembrance of Christ’s atoning sacrifice. The broken bread represents His broken flesh; the water represents the blood that He shed to atone for our sins (1 Cor. 11:23–25; D&C 27:2). When worthy Church members take the sacrament, they promise to take upon them the name of Christ, to always remember Him, and to keep His commandments. Through this ordinance, Church members renew their baptismal covenants.

At the Last Supper, Jesus explained the ordinance of the sacrament as He ate with the Twelve Apostles (Matt. 26:17–28; Luke 22:1–20).

In ancient days, sacrifice meant to make something or someone holy. It has now come to mean to give up or suffer the loss of worldly things for the Lord and His kingdom. Members of the Lord’s Church should be willing to sacrifice all things for the Lord. Joseph Smith taught that “a religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has the power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation.” In the eternal perspective, the blessings obtained by sacrifice are greater than anything that is given up.

After Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden, the Lord gave them the law of sacrifice. This law included offering the firstborn of their flocks. This sacrifice symbolized the sacrifice that would be made by the Only Begotten Son of God (Moses 5:4–8). This practice continued until the death of Jesus Christ, which ended animal sacrifice as a gospel ordinance (Alma 34:13–14). In the Church today members partake of the sacrament of the bread and the water in remembrance of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Members of Christ’s Church today are also asked to offer the sacrifice of a broken heart and a contrite spirit (3 Ne. 9:19–22). This means that they are humble, repentant, and willing to obey God’s commandments.

A small but politically powerful group among the Jews. They were perhaps best known for their rigid belief in obeying the letter of the Mosaic law and for rejecting the reality of spirits and angels and also the doctrines of Resurrection and eternal life (Mark 12:18–27; Acts 4:1–3; 23:7–8).

A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ.

The city in the Old Testament where Melchizedek ruled. It may have been located at the site of present-day Jerusalem. The name Salem is very similar to a Hebrew word meaning “peace.”

Used as an important preservative of food in the ancient world; it was considered essential for life.

To be saved from both physical and spiritual death. All people will be saved from physical death by the grace of God, through the death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each individual can also be saved from spiritual death by the grace of God, through faith in Jesus Christ. This faith is manifested in a life of obedience to the laws and ordinances of the gospel and service to Christ.

Salvation of children

The opportunity for those who have died without receiving the saving ordinances of the gospel to have these ordinances performed for them in temples by worthy living members of the Church. The dead are taught the gospel in the spirit world and may accept the ordinances performed for them in mortality.

Faithful members of the Church research and prepare family histories to determine the names and birth dates of ancestors so that the saving ordinances may be performed for them.

In the Book of Mormon, the third son of Lehi (1 Ne. 2:5). He was a just and holy man who chose to follow the Lord (1 Ne. 2:17; 2 Ne. 5:5–6; Alma 3:6).

In the Old Testament, the capital city of the northern kingdom of Israel (1 Kgs. 16:23–24). Because of its strong military position on a hill, the Assyrians could not capture it until after a siege of three years (2 Kgs. 17:5–6). Herod rebuilt it and called it Sebaste. In New Testament times, Samaria was the name of the entire central district of Palestine west of the Jordan.

The biblical people who lived in Samaria after the northern kingdom of Israel was captured by the Assyrians. The Samaritans were partly Israelite and partly Gentile. Their religion was a mixture of Jewish and pagan beliefs and practices. The parable of the good Samaritan in Luke 10:25–37 shows the hatred that the Jews had developed for the Samaritans because the Samaritans had apostatized from the Israelite religion. The Lord directed the Apostles to teach the gospel to the Samaritans (Acts 1:6–8). Philip successfully preached the gospel of Christ to the people of Samaria and performed many miracles among them (Acts 8:5–39).

In the Old Testament, the twelfth of the “judges” of Israel. He was known for his great physical strength, but he was not wise in some moral choices and actions (Judg. 13:24–16:31).

Son of Elkanah and Hannah, Samuel was born in answer to his mother’s prayers (1 Sam. 1). As a child he was placed in the care of Eli, high priest at the tabernacle at Shiloh (1 Sam. 2:11; 3:1). The Lord called Samuel at a young age to become a prophet (1 Sam. 3). After Eli’s death, Samuel became the great prophet and judge of Israel and restored law, order, and regular religious worship in the land (1 Sam. 4:15–18; 7:3–17).

1 Samuel 28:5–20 contains an account of Samuel being brought back from the dead by the witch of Endor at King Saul’s request. This could not have been a vision from God, because a witch or other spiritual medium cannot influence a prophet to appear at his or her request.

The books of 1 and 2 Samuel

In some Bibles, the books of 1 and 2 Samuel are one book. In others they are two books. The books cover a period of about 130 years, from the birth of Samuel until just before the death of King David.

The book of 1 Samuel

Chapters 1–3 describe that the Lord cursed and punished Eli’s family and called Samuel as high priest and judge. Chapters 4–6 tell how the ark of the covenant fell into the hands of the Philistines. Chapters 7–8 record Samuel’s warnings about having false gods and a wicked king. Chapters 9–15 describe the crowning of Saul and his reign as king. Chapters 16–31 tell the history of David and his gaining of power—Samuel anointed David who had slain Goliath. Saul hated David, but David refused to kill Saul though he had opportunity to do so.

The book of 2 Samuel

The book contains the details of the reign of David as king of Judah and finally of all Israel. Chapters 1–4 show a long struggle between the followers of David, after he was crowned by Judah, and the followers of Saul. Chapters 5–10 show David becoming powerful throughout many lands. Chapters 11–21 show the decline of David’s spiritual strength because of his sins and the rebellion within his own family. Chapters 22–24 describe David’s attempts to make reconciliation with the Lord.

A Lamanite prophet in the Book of Mormon sent by the Lord to teach and warn the Nephites just before the Savior’s birth. Samuel prophesied of signs relating to the birth and death of Jesus Christ and of the destruction of the Nephites (Hel. 13–16).

The process of becoming free from sin, pure, clean, and holy through the Atonement of Jesus Christ (Moses 6:59–60).

The Jewish senate and the highest Jewish court in both civil and ecclesiastical matters. The Sanhedrin consisted of seventy-one members drawn from among the chief priests, scribes, and elders. In the scriptures, it is often called the council (Matt. 26:59; Mark 14:55; Acts 5:34).

In the Old Testament, the first wife of Abraham. In her old age she became the mother of Isaac (Gen. 18:9–15; 21:2).

In the Book of Mormon, the wife of Lehi (1 Ne. 5:1–8; 8:14–16; 18:19) and the mother of Laman, Lemuel, Sam, Nephi, Jacob, Joseph, and daughters (1 Ne. 2:5; 2 Ne. 5:6).

In the Old Testament, the first king of Israel before it was divided. Although he was righteous at the beginning of his reign, he eventually became filled with pride and was disobedient to God (1 Sam. 9–31).

One who saves. Jesus Christ, through His Atonement, offered redemption and salvation to all mankind. “Savior” is a name and title of Jesus Christ.

In Kirtland, Ohio (United States of America), during the winter of 1832–1833, the Lord commanded Joseph Smith to organize a school for the purpose of training the brethren in all things pertaining to the gospel and the kingdom of God. From this school came many of the early leaders of the Church. Another school of the prophets or the elders was conducted by Parley P. Pratt in Jackson County, Missouri (D&C 97:1–6). Similar schools were held shortly after the Saints migrated to the West; however, these were soon discontinued. Gospel teaching today is done in the home, priesthood quorums, and the various auxiliary organizations, and through Church schools and seminary and institute classes.

The Old and New Testaments use the term in slightly different ways: (1) In the Old Testament, the scribe’s primary responsibility was to copy the scriptures (Jer. 8:8). (2) Scribes are frequently mentioned in the New Testament and are sometimes called lawyers or doctors of the law. They developed the law in detail and applied it to the circumstances of their time (Matt. 13:52; Mark 2:16–17; 11:17–18; Luke 11:44–53; 20:46–47).

Words, both written and spoken, by holy men of God when moved upon by the Holy Ghost. The official canonized scriptures of the Church today consist of the Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. Jesus and the writers of the New Testament regarded the books of the Old Testament as scripture (Matt. 22:29; John 5:39; 2 Tim. 3:15; 2 Pet. 1:20–21). See also Chronology in the appendix.

Lost scriptures

There are many sacred writings mentioned in the scriptures that we do not have today, among which are these books and writers: the covenant (Ex. 24:7), the wars of the Lord (Num. 21:14), Jasher (Josh. 10:13; 2 Sam. 1:18), the acts of Solomon (1 Kgs. 11:41), Samuel the seer (1 Chr. 29:29), Nathan the prophet (2 Chr. 9:29), Shemaiah the prophet (2 Chr. 12:15), Iddo the prophet (2 Chr. 13:22), Jehu (2 Chr. 20:34), the sayings of the seers (2 Chr. 33:19), Enoch (Jude 1:14), and the words of Zenock, Neum, and Zenos (1 Ne. 19:10), Zenos (Jacob 5:1), Zenock and Ezias (Hel. 8:20), and a book of remembrance (Moses 6:5); and epistles to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 5:9), to the Ephesians (Eph. 3:3), from Laodicea (Col. 4:16), and from Jude (Jude 1:3).

Scriptures to be preserved

Value of the scriptures

Scriptures prophesied to come forth

To make valid in heaven the ordinances performed by priesthood authority on earth. Ordinances are sealed when they receive the approval of the Holy Spirit of Promise, which is the Holy Ghost.

At the beginning of the Millennial Era, Christ will return to the earth. This event will mark the end of the mortal probation of this earth. The wicked will be removed from the earth and the righteous will be caught up in a cloud while the earth is cleansed. While no man knows exactly when Christ will come for the second time, He has given us signs to watch for that indicate the time is drawing near (Matt. 24; JS—M 1).

An organization of people bound together by oaths to carry out the evil purposes of the group.

A person authorized of God to see with spiritual eyes things that God has hidden from the world (Moses 6:35–38). He is a revelator and a prophet (Mosiah 8:13–16). In the Book of Mormon, Ammon taught that only a seer could use special interpreters, or a Urim and Thummim (Mosiah 8:13; 28:16). A seer knows the past, present, and future. Anciently, a prophet was often called a seer (1 Sam. 9:9; 2 Sam. 24:11).

Joseph Smith is the great seer of the latter days (D&C 21:1; 135:3). In addition, the First Presidency and the Council of the Twelve are sustained as prophets, seers, and revelators.

A fondness or desire for unrighteous physical pleasure, especially sexual immorality.

A discourse by the Lord Jesus Christ to His disciples who were about to be sent forth on missions (Matt. 5–7; Luke 6:20–49). The Lord gave the sermon soon after the calling of the Twelve.

The sermon is clarified by the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible and by a similar sermon recorded in 3 Nephi 12–14 that show that important parts of the sermon have been lost from the account in Matthew.

A brass serpent made by Moses at God’s command to heal the Israelites who had been bitten by fiery serpents (poisonous snakes) in the wilderness (Num. 21:8–9). This brass serpent was attached to a pole and “raised up that whosoever would look upon it might live” (Alma 33:19–22). The Lord referred to the lifting up of the serpent in the wilderness as a symbol of Himself being lifted up on the cross (John 3:14–15). Latter-day revelation confirms the account of the fiery serpents and how the people were healed (1 Ne. 17:41; 2 Ne. 25:20; Hel. 8:14–15).

Care given or work done for the benefit of God and others. As we serve others, we also serve God.

In the Old Testament, a righteous son of Adam and Eve.

To be selected and consecrated for holy purposes. This appointment is to a specific service within the Church organization by the laying on of hands by someone who has the proper authority. Only those who preside over priesthood quorums receive keys when they are set apart. People set apart to positions other than presidents of priesthood quorums may receive a priesthood blessing, but no keys are given with that blessing.

An office to which men are ordained in the Melchizedek Priesthood. Today, the quorums of Seventy include General Authorities and Area Seventies. The Seventy serve in the name of the Lord under the direction of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (see D&C 107:34). They devote their full time to the ministry.

Willful participation in adultery, fornication, homosexual and lesbian behavior, incest, or any other unholy, unnatural, or impure sexual activity.

In the Old Testament, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were three Israelite youths who, along with Daniel, were brought into the palace of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Shadrach’s Hebrew name was Hananiah. The four young men refused to defile themselves by partaking of the king’s meat and wine (Dan. 1). Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego were thrown into a fiery furnace by the king but were miraculously preserved (Dan. 3).

In the Old Testament, a righteous son of Noah and, according to tradition, the forefather of the Shemite, or Semite, peoples, including the Arabs, Hebrews, Babylonians, Syrians, Phoenicians, and Assyrians (Gen. 5:29–32; 6:10; 7:13; 9:26; 10:21–32; Moses 8:12). In latter-day revelation Shem is referred to as “the great high priest” (D&C 138:41).

Symbolically, a person who cares for the Lord’s children.

A man in the Book of Mormon who denied Christ and demanded a sign (Jacob 7:1–20).

In the Book of Mormon, a son of Alma the Younger. Shiblon taught the gospel to the Zoramites and was persecuted for his righteousness. The Lord delivered him from his persecution because of his faithfulness and patience (Alma 38). Shiblon also took care of the Nephite records for a time (Alma 63:1–2, 11–13).

A Jaredite military leader in the Book of Mormon. He died at the end of a great battle that destroyed the entire Jaredite nation (Ether 14:17–15:31).

To have an illness or disease. In the scriptures, physical illness sometimes serves as a symbol for a lack of spiritual well-being (Isa. 1:4–7; 33:24).

An event or experience that people understand to be evidence or proof of something. A sign is usually a miraculous manifestation from God. Satan also has power to show signs under certain conditions. Saints should seek for the gifts of the Spirit but should not seek for signs to satisfy curiosity or sustain faith. Rather, the Lord will give signs as He sees fit to those who believe (D&C 58:64).

Events that accompanied the birth and death of Jesus Christ.

Birth

Death

Events or experiences that God gives to people to show that something important in His work has happened or will soon happen. In the latter days, many signs for the Second Coming of the Savior have been prophesied. These signals allow faithful people to recognize God’s plan, be warned, and prepare.

In the Old Testament, the second son of Jacob and his wife Leah (Gen. 29:33; 35:23; Ex. 1:2). He joined Levi in the massacre of the Shechemites (Gen. 34:25–31). Jacob’s prophecy concerning Simeon is found in Genesis 49:5–7.

The tribe of Simeon

The descendants of Simeon often dwelt with the tribe of Judah and within the borders of the kingdom of Judah (Josh. 19:1–9; 1 Chr. 4:24–33). The tribe of Simeon joined Judah in battle against the Canaanites (Judg. 1:3, 17). They also later joined David’s armies (1 Chr. 12:25).

In the New Testament, one of the original Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ (Matt. 10:2–4).

Willful disobedience to God’s commandments.

A mountain on the Sinai Peninsula near which Moses and the Israelites camped three months after their exodus from Egypt; it is also called Mount Horeb (Ex. 3:1). Here God gave His law to Moses for the house of Israel; here also the tabernacle was built (Ex. 19:2; 20:18; 24:12; 32:15).

To worship and praise God in song and musical verse.

As children of our Heavenly Father, all men and women are spiritually brothers and sisters. In the Church, female members and friends of the Church are often addressed as sisters.

A state of rest in which a person is inactive and unconscious. The Lord has counseled His Saints to not sleep longer than is needful (D&C 88:124). Sleep can also be a symbol for spiritual death (1 Cor. 11:30; 2 Ne. 1:13) or for physical death (Morm. 9:13).

Wife of the Prophet Joseph Smith. The Lord commanded Emma to make a selection of hymns for the Church. She also served as the first president of the Relief Society.

An older brother and faithful associate of Joseph Smith. Hyrum was born February 9, 1800. He served as an assistant to Joseph in the Church presidency, as well as being the second Patriarch to the Church. On June 27, 1844, he became a fellow martyr with Joseph in Carthage Jail.

The prophet chosen to restore the true Church of Jesus Christ to the earth. Joseph Smith was born in the state of Vermont in the United States of America and lived from 1805 to 1844.

In 1820, God the Father and Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph, and he learned that none of the churches on the earth was true (JS—H 1:1–20). He was later visited by the angel Moroni, who revealed the hiding place of gold plates that contained the record of ancient peoples on the American continent (JS—H 1:29–54).

Joseph translated the gold plates and in 1830 published them as the Book of Mormon (JS—H 1:66–67, 75). In 1829, he received priesthood authority from John the Baptist and from Peter, James, and John (D&C 13; 27:12; 128:20; JS—H 1:68–70).

As directed by God, on April 6, 1830, Joseph and several others organized the restored Church of Jesus Christ (D&C 20:1–4). Under Joseph’s leadership, the Church grew in Canada, England, and the eastern portion of the United States, especially in Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois. Serious persecution followed Joseph and the Saints wherever they settled. On June 27, 1844, Joseph and his brother Hyrum were martyred in Carthage, Illinois, in the United States of America.

Scripture brought forth by the Prophet Joseph Smith

Joseph translated portions of the gold plates that were given him by the angel Moroni, which translation was published in 1830 as the Book of Mormon. He also received many revelations from the Lord outlining the basic doctrines and organization of the Church. Many of these revelations were compiled in what is now known as the Doctrine and Covenants. He was also responsible for bringing forth the Pearl of Great Price, containing inspired translations of some of the writings of Moses, Abraham, and Matthew, excerpts from his personal history and testimony, and thirteen statements of doctrine and belief held by the Church.

Father of the Prophet Joseph Smith. He was born July 12, 1771. He married Lucy Mack, and they had nine children (JS—H 1:4). Joseph became a faithful believer in the latter-day Restoration and the first Patriarch to the Church. He died September 14, 1840.

The sixth President of the Church; the only son of Hyrum and Mary Fielding Smith. He was born November 13, 1838, and died November 19, 1918.

The mother of the Prophet Joseph Smith and wife of Joseph Smith Sr. (JS—H 1:4, 7, 20). She was born July 8, 1776, and died May 5, 1856.

A younger brother of the Prophet Joseph Smith (JS—H 1:4). Samuel was born in 1808 and died in 1844. He was one of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon and served as one of the first missionaries for the restored Church (D&C 23:4; 52:30; 61:33–35; 66:7–8; 75:13).

In the Old Testament, a wicked city that was destroyed by the Lord (Gen. 19:12–29).

In the Old Testament, a son of David and Bathsheba (2 Sam. 12:24). Solomon was for a time king of Israel.

A book in the Old Testament. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that the Song of Solomon is not an inspired writing.

A title that Jesus Christ used when speaking of Himself (Luke 9:22; 21:36). It meant the Son of the Man of Holiness. Man of Holiness is one of the names of God the Father. When Jesus called Himself the Son of Man, it was an open declaration of His divine relationship with the Father. This title is found frequently in the Gospels. Latter-day revelation confirms the special meaning and sacredness of this name of the Savior (D&C 45:39; 49:6, 22; 58:65; Moses 6:57).

The scriptures use these terms in two ways. In one sense, we are all literal spirit children of our Heavenly Father. In another sense, God’s sons and daughters are those who have been born again through the Atonement of Christ.

Spirit children of the Father

Children born again through the Atonement

The followers of Satan who will suffer with him in eternity. Sons of perdition include (1) those who followed Satan and were cast out of heaven for rebellion during premortality and (2) those who were permitted to be born to this world with physical bodies but then served Satan and turned utterly against God. Those in this second group will be resurrected from the dead but will not be redeemed from the second (spiritual) death and cannot dwell in a kingdom of glory (D&C 88:32, 35).

The scriptures speak of souls in three ways: (1) spirit beings, both premortal and postmortal (Alma 40:11–14; Abr. 3:23); (2) a spirit and a body united in mortality (D&C 88:15; Abr. 5:7); and (3) an immortal, resurrected person whose spirit and body have become inseparably connected (2 Ne. 9:13; D&C 88:15–16).

Worth of souls

All persons are spirit children of God. He cares about each of His children and considers each one important. Because they are His children, they have the potential to become like Him. Therefore, they are of great worth.

That part of a living being that exists before mortal birth, dwells in the physical body during mortality, and exists after death as a separate being until the Resurrection. All living things—mankind, animals, and plants—were spirits before any form of life existed upon the earth (Gen. 2:4–5; Moses 3:4–7). The spirit body looks like the physical body (1 Ne. 11:11; Ether 3:15–16; D&C 77:2; 129). Spirit is matter, but it is more fine or pure than mortal element or matter (D&C 131:7).

Every person is literally a son or a daughter of God, having been born as a spirit to Heavenly Parents before being born to mortal parents on the earth (Heb. 12:9). Each person on earth has an immortal spirit body in addition to a body of flesh and bone. As sometimes defined in scripture, the spirit and the physical body together constitute the soul (Gen. 2:7; D&C 88:15; Moses 3:7, 9, 19; Abr. 5:7). A spirit can live without a physical body, but the physical body cannot live without the spirit (James 2:26). Physical death is the separation of the spirit from the body. In the Resurrection, the spirit is reunited with the same physical body of flesh and bone it possessed as a mortal, with two major differences: they will never be separated again, and the physical body will be immortal and perfected (Alma 11:45; D&C 138:16–17).

Evil spirits

The Lord created all things spiritually before He created them physically (Moses 3:5).