Theosis in the Book of Mormon: The Work and Glory of the Father, Mother and Son, and Holy Ghost

Title

Theosis in the Book of Mormon: The Work and Glory of the Father, Mother and Son, and Holy Ghost

Publication Type

Journal Article

Year of Publication

2023

Authors

Larsen, Val (Primary), and Wright, Newell D. (Primary)

Pagination

275–326

Volume

56

Terms of use

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Bibliographic Citation

Abstract

While some scholars have suggested that the doctrine of theosis — the transformation of human beings into divine beings — emerged only in Nauvoo, the essence of the doctrine was already present in the Book of Mormon, both in precept and example. The doctrine is especially well developed in 1 Nephi, Alma 19, and Helaman 5. The focus in 1 Nephi is on Lehi and Nephi’s rejection of Deuteronomist reforms that erased the divine Mother and Son, who, that book shows, are closely coupled as they, the Father, and Holy Ghost work to transform human beings into divine beings. The article shows that theosis is evident in the lives of Lehi, Sariah, Sam, Nephi, Alma, Alma2, Ammon2, Lamoni, Lamoni’s wife, Abish, and especially Nephi2. The divine Mother’s participation in the salvation of her children is especially evident in Lehi’s dream, Nephi’s vision, and the stories of Abish and the Lamanite Queen.

Sariah
Abish
King Lamoni
Alma the Younger
King Lamoni's Wife
Alma the Elder
Nephi (Son of Lehi)
Nephi (Son of Helaman)
Lehi (Prophet)
Sam (Son of Lehi)
Deuteronomist Reforms
King Josiah
Theosis
Apotheosis
Ammon (Son of King Mosiah)
Smith, Joseph, Jr.

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