Degrees of glory
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Within Mormon theology, there are three degrees of glory (alternatively, kingdoms or kingdoms of glory) which are the ultimate, eternal dwelling place for nearly all who lived on earth. The three degrees of glory are described in Section 76 of the Doctrine and Covenants. In the preface to Section 76 in the LDS edition of the Doctrine and Covenants, the following explanatory text is given:
A vision given to Joseph Smith the Prophet and Sidney Rigdon, at Hiram, Ohio, February 16, 1832. HC 1: 245—252. Prefacing his record of this vision the Prophet wrote: "Upon my return from Amherst conference, I resumed the translation of the Scriptures. From sundry revelations which had been received, it was apparent that many important points touching the salvation of man had been taken from the Bible, or lost before it was compiled. It appeared self-evident from what truths were left, that if God rewarded every one according to the deeds done in the body, the term 'Heaven,' as intended for the Saints' eternal home, must include more kingdoms than one. Accordingly, while translating St. John's Gospel, myself and Elder Rigdon saw the following vision." It was after the Prophet had translated John 5:29 that this vision was given.
Assignment to a particular kingdom in the resurrection is contingent upon the faith and works exhibited during mortal life. The three degrees are (in descending order):
- The celestial kingdom. Its glory is compared to the sun.
- The terrestrial kingdom. Its glory is compared to the moon.
- The telestial kingdom. Its glory is compared to the stars.
The few who do not inherit any degree of glory (though they are resurrected) reside in a state called outer darkness, which, though not a degree of glory, is often discussed in this context.
For a more complete explanation of this doctrine see the plan of salvation article. For information regarding qualification for the several degrees, see the individual articles.
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