Lehi's Allegory? part 1

1 Nephi 8:19 - 35, NC 1 Nephi 2 pars. 10 - 12


And I beheld a rod of iron, and it extended along the bank of the river and led to the tree by which I stood. And I also beheld a straight and narrow path which came along by the rod of iron, even to the tree by which I stood; and it also led by the head of the fountain unto a large and spacious field, as if it had been a world. And I saw numberless concourses of people, many of whom were pressing forward that they might obtain the path which led unto the tree by which I stood. And it came to pass that they did come forth and commenced in the path which led to the tree. And it came to pass that there arose a mist of darkness, yea, even an exceeding great mist of darkness, insomuch that they who had commenced in the path did lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost. And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mists of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partook of the fruit of the tree. And after they had partaken of the fruit of the tree, they did cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed.  And I also cast my eyes around about and beheld, on the other side of the river of water, a great and spacious building. And it stood as it were in the air, high above the earth. And it was filled with people, both old and young, both male and female, and their manner of dress was exceeding fine; and they were in the attitude of mocking and pointing their fingers towards those who had come up and were partaking of the fruit. And after they had tasted of the fruit, they were ashamed because of those that were a scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost.  And now I, Nephi, do not speak all the words of my father. But to be short in writing, behold, he saw other multitudes pressing forward; and they came and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron. And they did press their way forward, continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree. And he also saw other multitudes pressing their way towards that great and spacious building. And it came to pass that many were drowned in the depths of the fountain, and many were lost from his view, wandering in strange roads. And great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building. And after they did enter into that building, they did point the finger of scorn at me and those that were partaking of the fruit also. But we heeded them not — thus are the words of my father — for as many as heeded them had fallen away. And Laman and Lemuel partook not of the fruit, said my father.

As we look at the events occurring in Lehi's vision is it possible that it is an allegory for the Doctrine of Christ as explained by Nephi?

As we look at the parts of Lehi's vision and compare them with Nephi's explanation of the Doctrine of Christ, which includes commentary from both the Father and the Son, do things line up?

Lehi describes many individuals who "commenced" in the path.

What does Nephi have to say about entering into the path or "commencing" in the path?

And now, if the Lamb of God, he being holy, should have need to be baptized by water to fulfill all righteousness, Oh, then, how much more need have we, being unholy, to be baptized, yea, even by water? And now I would ask of you, my beloved brethren, wherein the Lamb of God did fulfill all righteousness in being baptized by water? Know ye not that he was holy? But notwithstanding he being holy, he sheweth unto the children of men that according to the flesh he humbleth himself before the Father, and witnesseth unto the Father that he would be obedient unto him in keeping his commandments. Wherefore, after he was baptized with water, the holy ghost descended upon him in the form of a dove. And again, it sheweth unto the children of men the straitness of the path and the narrowness of the gate by which they should enter, he having set the example before them. (2 Nephi 31:7 - 9, NC 2 Nephi 13 par. 2)

The first thing Nephi shares is that the Savior followed the path and did so even though He was holy in order to set the example.

 And he said unto the children of men, Follow thou me. (2 Nephi 31:10, NC 2 Nephi 13: par. 2)

All are invited to follow the Savior along this strait path.

Nephi continues

 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, can we follow Jesus save we shall be willing to keep the commandments of the Father? And the Father said, Repent ye, repent ye, and be baptized in the name of my Beloved Son. And also the voice of the Son came unto me, saying, He that is baptized in my name, to him will the Father give the holy ghost like unto me. Wherefore, follow me and do the things which ye have seen me do. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, I know that if ye shall follow the Son with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ by baptism — yea, by following your Lord and Savior down into the water according to his word — behold, then shall ye receive the holy ghost. Yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and of the holy ghost, and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel. But behold, my beloved brethren, thus came the voice of the Son unto me, saying, After ye have repented of your sins, and witnessed unto the Father that ye are willing to keep my commandments by the baptism of water, and have received the baptism of fire and of the holy ghost, and can speak with a new tongue — yea, even with the tongue of angels — and after this should deny me, it would have been better for you that ye had not known me. And I heard a voice from the Father saying, Yea, the words of my beloved are true and faithful. He that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved. And now my beloved brethren, I know by this that unless a man shall endure to the end in following the example of the Son of the living God, he cannot be saved. Wherefore, do the things which I have told you I have seen that your Lord and your Redeemer should do; for, for this cause have they been shewn unto me: that ye might know the gate by which ye should enter. For the gate by which ye should enter is repentance and baptism by water, and then cometh a remission of your sins by fire and by the holy ghost. And then are ye in this straight and narrow path which leads to eternal life. (2 Nephi 31:10 - 18, NC 2 Nephi 13 par. 3) 

For those in Lehi's vision who commenced in the path that led to the tree is this what got them onto the path?

Is it possible that the vision given to Lehi is describing through symbolism what Nephi is talking about here; repentance, following the Lord into the waters of baptism without hypocrisy and receiving afterwards the gift of the holy ghost from the Father?

When Lehi states in the vision, And it came to pass that there arose a mist of darkness, yea, even an exceeding great mist of darkness, insomuch that they who had commenced in the path did lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost. (1 Nephi 8:19 - 35, NC 1 Nephi 2 pars. 10 - 12), is he speaking of those who, after they have received the gift of the holy ghost and can speak with the tongue of angels, have then denied the Savior?

What could happen to an individual to make them turn from the Lord after having had that marvelous experience?

Do we have any examples of this?

Is their state really worse than if they had never known the Lord?

When the sons of Mosiah were instrumental in the conversion of the thousands of the Lamanites the other unconverted Lamanites and the Nephite dissenters came among them and began to slay them.

This is what is recorded concerning that event and those who slew the converted Lamanites.

Now the greatest number of those of the Lamanites who slew so many of their brethren were Amlicites and Amulonites, the greatest number of whom were after the order of the Nehors. Now among those who joined the people of the Lord, there were none who were Amlicites, or Amulonites, or who were after the order of Nehor, but they were actual descendants of Laman and Lemuel. And thus we can plainly discern that after a people have been once enlightened by the spirit of God, and have had great knowledge of things pertaining to righteousness, and then have fallen away into sin and transgression, they become more hardened; and thus their state becomes worse than if they had never known these things. (Alma 24:26 - 30, NC Alma 14 par. 12)

In the New Testament we further read from Peter to the saints concerning this condition of having had righteousness and turning from it.

For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning, for it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb: The dog is turned to his own vomit again, and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.(2 Peter, NC 2 Peter 1 par. 10)

Is it possible that this is what Lehi is seeing as he views mists of darkness overcoming those who have commenced upon the path through repentance, baptism and the reception of the holy ghost that God promises to give to one who enters the path?

If someone turns from righteousness after having received it can it be said of them that they wandered off and were lost because their final state is worse?

Is this at all related to the Savior's statement, No man having put his hand to the plow and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God.(Luke 9:57 - 62, NC Luke 8 par. 2)?

What could the mists of darkness represent?

I used to think they basically represented sex, drugs and rock and roll.

Now I believe that there is much more to them than that.

After the marvelous experience had by King Benjamin's people he declared something that I believe more aptly describes what the mists of darkness represent.

And finally, I cannot tell you all the things whereby ye may commit sin; for there are divers ways and means, even so many that I cannot number them. But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe to keep the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember and perish not.(Mosiah 4:26 - 30, NC Mosiah 2 par. 6)

Is it possible that those overcome by the mists of darkness after having entered into the path are overcome because they have not watched themselves, and their thoughts, and their words and their deeds, and they have not observed to keep the commandments of God (this is a huge topic; the commandments of God) and have not continued in the faith of what they had learned concerning Jesus Christ?

Alma the younger asked some questions to those who were part of the church in Zarahemla who had originally been cleansed and commenced on the path.

And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now? Have ye walked keeping yourselves blameless before God? Could ye say — if ye were called to die at this time — within yourselves that ye have been sufficiently humble, that your garments have been cleansed and made white through the blood of Christ, who will come to redeem his people from their sins? Behold, are ye stripped of pride? I say unto you, if ye are not, ye are not prepared to meet God. Behold, ye must prepare quickly; for the kingdom of Heaven is soon at hand, and such an one hath not eternal life. Behold, I say, is there one among you who is not stripped of envy? I say unto you that such an one is not prepared. And I would that he should prepare quickly, for the hour is close at hand; and he knoweth not when the time shall come, for such an one is not found guiltless.(Alma 5:26 - 29, NC Alma 3 par. 5)

Could these questions Alma asked be related to not watching oneself and ones' words and ones' deeds and failing to continue in the faith of Christ?

Is it possible that this is what Lehi is seeing represented here?

After the symbolism of the first group being overcome by the mists of darkness Lehi sees another group coming forward.

And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mists of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partook of the fruit of the tree.

What is the represented by the iron rod?

Nephi declared to Laman and Lemuel,

And they said unto me, What meaneth the rod of iron which our father saw that led to the tree? And I said unto them that it was the word of God, and that whoso would hearken unto the word of God and would hold fast unto it, they would never perish, neither could the temptations and the fiery darts of the adversary overpower them unto blindness, to lead them away to destruction. (1 Nephi 15:21 - 30, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 5)

What is entailed in the word of God?

Does what Nephi describes line up with the word of God that the iron rod represents?

Nephi asks a question to those who have commenced in the path so to speak?

And now my beloved brethren, after ye have gotten into this straight and narrow path, I would ask if all is done. Behold, I say unto you, nay, for ye have not come thus far save it were by the word of Christ, with unshaken faith in him, relying wholly upon the merits of him who is mighty to save. Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life. (2 Nephi 31:19 - 20, NC 2 Nephi 13 par. 4)

Is it possible that the symbolism of the first group being overcome by the mists of darkness is meant to show what will inevitably happen if we consider that all is done once we commence on the path?

Is the next group catching hold of the iron rod and pressing forward through the mists meant to represent people pressing forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men?

Are these people who are feasting upon the word of Christ?

What does it mean to have a steadfastness in Christ?

Samuel, speaking of the converted Lamanites while preaching on the wall, declared,

But behold, my brethren, the Lamanites hath he hated because their deeds have been evil continually, and this because of the iniquity of the tradition of their fathers. But behold, salvation hath come unto them through the preaching of the Nephites, and for this intent hath the Lord prolonged their days. And I would that ye should behold that the more part of them are in the path of their duty, and they do walk circumspectly before God, and they do observe to keep his commandments, and his statutes, and his judgments, according to the law of Moses. Yea, I say unto you that the more part of them are doing this, and they are striving, with unwearied diligence, that they may bring the remainder of their brethren to the knowledge of the truth; therefore, there are many who do add to their numbers daily. And behold, ye do know of yourselves, for ye have witnessed it, that as many of them as are brought to the knowledge of the truth, and to know of the wicked and abominable traditions of their fathers, and are led to believe the holy scriptures — yea, the prophecies of the holy prophets which are written, which leadeth them to faith on the Lord and unto repentance, which faith and repentance bringeth a change of heart unto them — therefore, as many as have come to this, ye know of yourselves, are firm and steadfast in the faith, and in the thing wherewith they have been made free. And ye know also that they have buried their weapons of war, and they fear to take them up lest by any means they shall sin. Yea, ye can see that they fear to sin, for behold, they will suffer themselves that they be trodden down and slain by their enemies, and will not lift their swords against them, and this because of their faith in Christ. (Helaman 15:10 - 17, NC Helaman 5 par 16)

Did the converted Lamanites exhibit a steadfastness in Christ?

What does it mean to have a perfect brightness of hope?

We talked about "hope" in the post "I Fear Exceedingly for Laman and Lemuel".

Is that the perfect brightness of hope Nephi is talking about?

Did the Lamanites described above exhibit a brightness of hope by striving with unwearied diligence to bring the rest of the Lamanites to the knowledge of the truth?

Is there a promise from God given to an individual as an individual presses forward on the path?

Isn't it God's promises that give hope because His promises are sure even though they are future?

If one possesses a perfect brightness of hope are they pressing forward relying on and fixing their course based upon the promises of God?

What does it mean to feast upon the words of Christ?

Where are the words of Christ found?

Are the words of Christ the same thing as the word of God?

In the T&C glossary of terms we read this concerning the iron rod.

Iron Rod

The word of God (1 Nephi 3:10; 1 Nephi 4:5), as seen in vision by both Lehi and Nephi; the path back to the tree of life is found in the revelations from God, as contained, in large measure, in the scriptures. Scriptures are of vital importance to mankind. Nephi has an angel instructing him, as well as Christ being shown to him, and the message includes this specific teaching about the importance of revelations and the scriptures.

Continuing on in his teachings of the Doctrine of Christ Nephi declares this concerning feasting on the words of Christ.

And now behold, my beloved brethren, I suppose that ye ponder somewhat in your hearts concerning that which ye should do after ye have entered in by the way. But behold, why do ye ponder these things in your hearts? Do ye not remember that I said unto you that after ye had received the holy ghost, ye could speak with the tongue of angels? And now, how could ye speak with the tongue of angels save it were by the holy ghost? Angels speak by the power of the holy ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, Feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do. (2 Nephi 32:1 - 6, NC 2 Nephi 14 par. 1)

Are the words delivered by angels also included in the words of Christ?

Did Nephi give heed to the scriptures and revelations from God and did he receive the words of God delivered by angels as well as he walked the path?

Mormon declared that angels appear to those who have a firm mind in every form of godliness.(Moroni 7:29 - 34, NC Moroni 7 par. 6)

Would someone pressing forward with a steadfastness in Christ and a perfect brightness of hope have a firm mind in every form of godliness?

Is it possible that the iron rod Lehi is seeing is a representation of what Nephi is describing about what one must do to press forward upon the path without being overcome by the mists of darkness?

The Human Family and the Path

1 Nephi 8:19 - 35, NC 1 Nephi 2 pars. 10 - 12


And I beheld a rod of iron, and it extended along the bank of the river and led to the tree by which I stood. And I also beheld a straight and narrow path which came along by the rod of iron, even to the tree by which I stood; and it also led by the head of the fountain unto a large and spacious field, as if it had been a world. And I saw numberless concourses of people, many of whom were pressing forward that they might obtain the path which led unto the tree by which I stood. And it came to pass that they did come forth and commenced in the path which led to the tree. And it came to pass that there arose a mist of darkness, yea, even an exceeding great mist of darkness, insomuch that they who had commenced in the path did lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost. And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mists of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partook of the fruit of the tree. And after they had partaken of the fruit of the tree, they did cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed.  And I also cast my eyes around about and beheld, on the other side of the river of water, a great and spacious building. And it stood as it were in the air, high above the earth. And it was filled with people, both old and young, both male and female, and their manner of dress was exceeding fine; and they were in the attitude of mocking and pointing their fingers towards those who had come up and were partaking of the fruit. And after they had tasted of the fruit, they were ashamed because of those that were a scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost.  And now I, Nephi, do not speak all the words of my father. But to be short in writing, behold, he saw other multitudes pressing forward; and they came and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron. And they did press their way forward, continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree. And he also saw other multitudes pressing their way towards that great and spacious building. And it came to pass that many were drowned in the depths of the fountain, and many were lost from his view, wandering in strange roads. And great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building. And after they did enter into that building, they did point the finger of scorn at me and those that were partaking of the fruit also. But we heeded them not — thus are the words of my father — for as many as heeded them had fallen away. And Laman and Lemuel partook not of the fruit, said my father.

I have a question at this point about the field, the numberless concourses of people, and the path.

Lehi mentions that the large and spacious field is as if it had been a world.

The new glossary of terms defines the term world as follows.


World

“The world and earth are not synonymous terms. The world is the human family.” What is the end of the world? The destruction of the wicked. (T&C Glossary of terms, "World")

If the Book of Mormon was translated by the gift and power of God then was the term Lehi used to describe what he saw meant to convey that Lehi was shown the entire human family?

What would that imply?

Was he shown the human family representationally like "Here is a big group of people that represents the human family".

Or is it possible that Lehi was shown a vision of all things like Nephi and Isaiah and all others?

We know that Moses saw the vision of all of the events of the human family down through time.

And it came to pass, as the voice was still speaking, he cast his eyes and beheld the earth, yea, even all the face of it; and there was not a particle of it which he did not behold, discerning it by the spirit of God. And he beheld also the inhabitants thereof, and there was not a soul whom he beheld not. And he discerned them by the spirit of God, and their numbers were great, even as numberless as the sand upon the seashore. And he beheld many lands, and each land was called earth, and there were inhabitants on the face thereof. And it came to pass that Moses called upon God, saying, Show me, I pray you, why these things are so and by whom you made them. And behold, the glory of God was upon Moses so that Moses stood in the presence of God, and he talked with him face to face. And the Lord God said unto Moses, For my own purpose have I made these things. Here is wisdom and it remains in me. And by the word of my power have I created them, who is my Only Begotten Son, who is full of grace and truth. And worlds without number have I created, and I also created them for my own purpose; and by the same I created them, who is my Only Begotten. And the first man of all men have I called Adam, which is many. But only an account of this earth and the inhabitants thereof give I unto you. For behold, there are many worlds which have passed away by the word of my power, and there are many also which now stand, and numberless are they unto man; but all things are numbered unto me, for they are mine and I know them. (Moses 1:27 - 35, OC Genesis 1 par. 6)

Remember that Nephi after being shown the vision of all was given the charge not to write concerning the things that John the Revelator was ordained to write.

Is it possible that Lehi used the part of his vision, that of the tree and the other symbols to explain his vision of all things that maybe he was commanded not to write because Nephi was ordained to write them?

Could Lehi have used the vision of the tree of life to describe the results of the actions of the human family over the history of the world?

Would that be like unto Zenos using the allegory of the olive tree to describe what he was shown concerning the work of the Father to preserve His promises to the Fathers down throughout the history of the world?

Lehi recounts the vision in two parts.  The first part deals with his family.  The second part picks up after Lehi speaks of his family and it involves the entire human family if I understand the term "world" correctly in context.

Following Nephi's recording of what his father declared concerning the vision Nephi describes that his father, Lehi, continues to teach Nephi's brethren concerning the workings of God all the way down to the end times.  This is all contained in the first part of (1 Nephi 10, NC 1 Nephi 3).

Then Nephi seeks to receive what Lehi had received.

When the Spirit inquired of Nephi what he wanted Nephi declared,

I desire to behold the things which my father saw. (1 Nephi 11:3, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 6)

Is it out of the realm of possibilities that Nephi was shown exactly what his father, Lehi, had seen; the tree and the fruit and the vision of the history of world?

Nephi would then become a second witness and it would follow exactly as true witnesses testify.

There is a part of the record that shows how this might be.

When Laman and Lemuel asked Nephi concerning the river of water that their father saw Nephi responded.

And I said unto them that the water which my father saw was filthiness; and so much was his mind swallowed up in other things that he beheld not the filthiness of the water. (1 Nephi 15:27, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 5)

Just as real witnesses testify of the same event with little differences in detail Nephi and Lehi both testified of the same thing but some details that Nephi saw and paid attention to Lehi did not observe because Lehi was focused on other things unfolding in the same vision.

Is it possible that as Lehi declares that he sees numberless concourses of people many of whom are seeking the path that leads to the tree that he is seeing history unfold and events occurring where many in the human family over the history of the world begin to search out the path that leads to the path of God?

Lehi describes the path as being narrow and leading beside the fountain of water that Nephi later clarifies is filthy water representing the depths of hell and being a gulf separating the wicked from the tree of life.

Is this given in this way to show that there are points of decision that lead either to the one hand or to the other?

Again we come back to being wicked vs. being righteous.  Here is a possible definition again for wickedness.

What does it mean to be wicked?  

And the whole world lies in sin and groans under darkness and under the bondage of sin, and by this you may know they are under the bondage of sin, because they come not unto me, for whoever comes not unto me is under the bondage of sin. And whoever receives not my voice is not acquainted with my voice and is not of me. And by this you may know the righteous from the wicked, and that the whole world groans under sin and darkness, even now. (D&C 84:49 - 53) ,Teachings and Commandments 82 par. 19)

Does Lehi see, as he is possibly looking down through history, many people(individuals, families and nations even) arriving at a point of decision that will determine whether they will start, according to their own will, down that narrow path that leads to the tree by planting a seed in their hearts by beginning to inquire of and receive from God or will they live without God in the world refusing to come to Him and inquire of Him?

That type of decision would begin to lead them down one side or another of the fountain of filthy water.

Those on the one side would be separated from those on the other by a gulf.

Is it possible that this is what Lehi is seeing in the context of history unrolling before his eyes from the beginning of the earth to the end?

Lehi describes the path to the tree as narrow.

There seem to be many places in the scriptures that talk about the path.

Here are just a couple.

O then, my beloved brethren, come unto the Lord, the Holy One. Remember that his paths are righteousness. Behold, the way for man is narrow, but it lieth in a straight course before him, and the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel, and he employeth no servant there. And there is none other way save it be by the gate, for he cannot be deceived, for the Lord God is his name. (2 Nephi 9:41, NC 2 Nephi 6 par. 11)

I have charity for the Jew — I say Jew because I mean them from whence I came. I also have charity for the gentiles. But behold, for none of these can I hope except they shall be reconciled unto Christ, and enter into the narrow gate, and walk in the straight path which leads to life, and continue in the path until the end of the day of probation. (2 Nephi 33:8 - 9, NC 2 Nephi 15 par. 1)

This way that leads to the tree of life that Lehi and Nephi describe is always described as a path.

It is not a road or a freeway.  It is a path and it is narrow.

The Lord invited all of us to follow this path.  This is the path that he followed to come to the Father.

No man can come unto me except he follows the path of my Father, who has sent me as His messenger of salvation. And this is what my Father expects of you, that you heed his Son. For the Father testifies he sent me, and anyone who accepts the Father’s testimony, and has the faith in him to heed his testimony, I will raise upward in the resurrection of the just. (T&C 171, The Testimony of St. John 5 par. 18)

Now, therefore, know that Jesus is the Messiah, the Walker in the Path who has proven for evermore that Father Ahman sent Him into the world to prove His Father’s path. (T&C 171, The Testimony of St. John 12 par. 21)

Nephi declared that this path is the only way and means to come to God the Father and to enter the path is only the beginning of the journey.

We must remember the following exhortation as we discuss in the next blog concerning traveling on this narrow straight path.

The path of God is razor thin. It may lie in a straight course, but the way in which the Lord walks that straight line He doesn't even cast a shadow to the left or the right. When you walk that line and begin to see the shadow, you've already departed from the path even though you think you're still on it. You have to question every step of the way; every step you take, and measure every word you speak, because you and I are going to be judged on that basis. (St. George Conference Q&A:2017 Denver C. Snuffer, pg 8)

Beckoning and Decisions

1 Nephi 8:12 - 18, NC 1 Nephi 2 par. 9


And as I partook of the fruit thereof, it filled my soul with exceeding great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous that my family should partake of it also, for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit. And as I cast my eyes around about, that perhaps I might discover my family also, and I beheld a river of water and it ran along, and it was near the tree of which I was partaking the fruit. And I looked to behold from whence it came, and I saw the head thereof a little way off. And at the head thereof I beheld your mother Sariah, and Sam, and Nephi, and they stood as if they knew not whither they should go. And it came to pass that I beckoned unto them; and I also did say unto them with a loud voice that they should come unto me and partake of the fruit, which was desirable above all other fruit. And it came to pass that they did come unto me and partake of the fruit also. And it came to pass that I was desirous that Laman and Lemuel should come and partake of the fruit also; wherefore, I cast mine eyes towards the head of the river that perhaps I might see them. And it came to pass that I saw them, but they would not come unto me and partake of the fruit.

Do we see in Lehi's dream a representation of the journey of Lehi's family both to truth and light and away from truth and light?

In real life just as in his vision of the tree Lehi is the first to fully partake.

Remember Lehi's exclamation when he fully partook?

And it came to pass that when my father had read and seen many great and marvelous things, he did exclaim many things unto the Lord; such as: Great and marvelous are thy works, O Lord God Almighty! Thy throne is high in the heavens, and thy power, and goodness, and mercy are over all the inhabitants of the earth; and because thou art merciful, thou wilt not suffer those who come unto thee that they shall perish!  And after this manner was the language of my father in the praising of his God; for his soul did rejoice, and his whole heart was filled, because of the things which he had seen , yea, which the Lord had shown unto him. (1 Nephi 1:14 - 15, NC 1 Nephi 1 par. 3)

What was Lehi's reaction towards his family after he had fully partaken?

And now I, Nephi, do not make a full account of the things which my father hath written, for he hath written many things which he saw in visions and in dreams; and he also hath written many things which he prophesied and spake unto his children, of which I shall not make a full account. (1 Nephi 1:16, NC 1 Nephi 1 par. 4)

In the vision Sariah, Sam and Nephi are not quite as far up the path as Lehi. They are a little way off at the head of the river.

Does that make Lehi any better than the others because he happens to be farther up the path at the moment?

Once Sariah, Sam and Nephi reach the tree and fully partake of the fruit is not their reward just as great as Lehi's?

I understand that this may look like something trivial to consider and maybe it is but in my own life I have struggled with judging others and my own arrogance towards others who happened to "arrive" at a place that I feel is important after I have already "arrived".

I have never until just recently considered that if I am to "partake" of the fruit of the tree that Lehi saw I must repent and cast out these feelings in me.

A parable that has been very instructive for me was given by the Lord concerning this principle that I have struggled with.

For the kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man, a householder, who went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the laborers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour and found others standing idle in the marketplace, and said unto them, Go also into the vineyard, and whatever is right, I will give you. And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle, and said unto them, Why stand you here all the day idle? They say unto him, Because no man has hired us. He said unto them, Go also into the vineyard, and whatever is right, you shall receive.  So when evening came, the lord of the vineyard said unto his steward, Call the laborers and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that began about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more. And they likewise received every man a penny. And when they had received a penny, they murmured against the master of the house, saying, These last have wrought one hour only, and you have made them equal unto us who have borne the burden and the heat of the day. But he answered one of them and said, Friend, I do you no wrong. Did not you agree with me for a penny? Take yours and go your way. I will give unto this last even as unto you. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with my own? Is your eye evil because I am good? So the last shall be first, and the first, last. And many are called, but few chosen. (Matthew 20:1 - 16: NC Matthew 9 pars. 25 -26)

Is it possible that those who partake fully of the fruit of the tree that Lehi saw fall into this following category?

Man must hope, or he cannot receive (Ether 12:32; see also Ether 5:6 RE). That phrase is filled with a great deal of significance.  The term “hope,” particularly as it’s used here, is not that well understood. We sometimes view it as a weak virtue—something of a wisp, a phantom; something that we emote that we would like or desire. But in this context, the word “hope” is much more. It’s a concrete assurance based upon a promise or a covenant . Hope comes from knowing the Lord has
promised a person something. As the Lord has assured us, He does not make (and then break) promises. When He promises something, He will deliver it. He does not excuse Himself; even though the heavens and the earth [may] pass away, [His word] shall not pass away but shall [all] be fulfilled (T&C 43:3). Anyone who receives a promise from Him has an absolute certainty... There’s a direct relationship between faith, hope, and charity. Faith comes from obedience and sacrifice. Hope comes from the promise given to a person, by God, which their faith has secured for them. And charity comes as those holding faith and receiving hope, seek to have all others share in the same promises. The greatest gift you can give to another is eternal life. All those who have such a promise from God want everyone else to have a similar promise for themselves. They teach, preach, exhort, and write to share with everyone that same opportunity to gain hope in God. They understand how rare a thing it is to bring a soul to salvation. But they’re not interested in merely making a bad-person good or a
good-person better, nor are they content to move souls from a Telestial destiny to a
Terrestrial destiny. Those who have such promises for themselves long, hope, pray, and
preach to bring every other soul back to God to dwell with Him in Celestial glory. They seek
the eternal life of all mankind. They participate with God in His great work. They join Christ
in His declaration:
For behold, the Lord your Redeemer suffered death in the flesh; wherefore, he suffered
the pain of all men that all men might repent and come unto him. And he ha[th] risen
again from the dead that he might bring all men unto him on conditions of repentance.
And how great is his joy in the soul that repent[eth]. Wherefore, you are called to cry
repentance unto this people. And if it so be that you should labor all your days in
crying repentance unto this people and bring save it be one soul unto me, how great
shall be your joy with him in the kingdom of my Father? And now if your joy will be
great with one soul that you have brought unto me in the kingdom of my Father, how
great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me? (JSH 15:31 RE) ("Hope, Part 3, Denver Snuffer Podcast, Aug. 18, 2019)

Is Lehi working from a space such as the one described above where he now has a hope in Christ or promises made to him by God and now he desires that all others, starting with his family, would receive the same promises?

The Prophet Joseph described it this way.

Love is one of the chief characteristics of Deity, and ought to be manifested by those who
aspire to be the sons of God. A man filled with the love of God, is not content with blessing his
family alone, but ranges through the whole world, anxious to bless the whole human race. (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith pg. 174)

From what we studied earlier concerning Lehi and his ascension to the throne of God in the post "The Family of God", could we say that Lehi has become a son of God?

Did Lehi manifest in Jerusalem a desire to bless the whole human race of his world (Jerusalem)?

Did Lehi manifest a desire to bless his family?

Does Lehi in any way possess a feeling of being "better" or more "authoritative" or in a position of "power" over anyone he beckons to in order to invite them to come to the tree and partake as well?

Is Lehi willing to sacrifice in order to beckon others to come to the tree?

After having partaken fully of the fruit of the tree, which tree represents the love of God, is Lehi filled with the love of God?

If I am ever going to be able to beckon to others as Lehi did do I first need to partake fully of the fruit of the tree that Lehi saw?

Can I ever beckon to others if I am filled with pride concerning any supposed truth and light I may possess?

Can I ever pick fruit from the tree to give to others or is it the responsibility of everyone to come to the tree and partake?

Is this principle related to the parable of the ten virgins the Savior taught?

Lehi never picks the fruit for anyone else.  He beckons to them to come and even cries out to them in a loud voice to invite them.

If I happen to be somewhere up the path the Savior trod, beyond others, does that make me any more important than them?

If I make it up the path further does that impose upon me an obligation to sacrifice and serve to assist all to move farther up the path?

Where was the Savior on the path when He sacrificed everything infinitely in order to assist all others to move along the path?

It seems to me that this all applies to what Lehi is doing at the tree beckoning to others to come and partake.

Sariah, Sam and Nephi start at the head of the river not knowing where to go.

Is that how we all start in this life as the veil of mortality is placed on us?

Does this have anything to do with what Alma taught?

And again, my brethren, I would cite your minds forward to the time when the Lord God gave these commandments unto his children. And I would that ye should remember that the Lord God ordained priests after his Holy Order, which was after the Order of his Son, to teach these things unto the people. And those priests were ordained after the Order of his Son in a manner that thereby the people might know in what manner to look forward to his Son for redemption. And this is the manner after which they were ordained: being called and prepared from the foundation of the world, according to the foreknowledge of God, on account of their exceeding faith and good works in the first place, being left to choose good or evil; therefore they, having chosen good, and exercising exceeding great faith, are called with a holy calling — yea, with that holy calling which was prepared with, and according to, a preparatory redemption for such. And thus they have been called to this holy calling on account of their faith, while others would reject the spirit of God on account of the hardness of their hearts and blindness of their minds (while, if it had not been for this, they might had as great privilege as their brethren — or in fine, in the first place they were on the same standing with their brethren — thus, this holy calling being prepared from the foundation of the world for such as would not harden their hearts, being in and through the atonement of the Only Begotten Son who was prepared), and thus, being called by this holy calling and ordained unto the High Priesthood of the Holy Order of God to teach his commandments unto the children of men, that they also might enter into his rest — this High Priesthood being after the Order of his Son, which Order was from the foundation of the world, or in other words, being without beginning of days or end of years, being prepared from eternity to all eternity according to his foreknowledge of all things. Now they were ordained after this manner, being called with a holy calling, and ordained with a holy ordinance, and taking upon them the High Priesthood of the Holy Order — which calling, and ordinance, and High Priesthood is without beginning or end; thus, they become high priests for ever after the Order of the Son, the Only Begotten of the Father who is without beginning of days or end of years, who is full of grace, equity, and truth. And thus it is. Amen. (Alma 13:1 - 9, NC Alma 9 par. 10)

Are we all on the same standing as we begin mortality?

Are we all left to choose good and evil?

At the beginning of the record could we see that even Sariah, Sam and Nephi were somewhat skeptical of Lehi's words?

Did they make a conscious decision to respond to Lehi's beckoning and crying and leave the head of the river of water to come and partake of the fruit?

Nephi declared this concerning the river of water from his father's vision.

What meaneth the river of water which our father saw? And I said unto them that the water which my father saw was filthiness; and so much was his mind swallowed up in other things that he beheld not the filthiness of the water. And I said unto them that it was an awful gulf which separateth the wicked from the tree of life, and also from the saints of God. And I said unto them that it was a representation of that awful hell which the angel said unto me was prepared for the wicked. And I said unto them that our father also saw that the justice of God did also divide the wicked from the righteous, and the brightness thereof was like unto the brightness of a flaming fire which ascendeth up unto God for ever and ever and hath no end. (1 Nephi 15:26 - 30, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 5)

What do we know of Laman and Lemuel's response to Lehi's beckoning?

When Nephi asked them,

Have ye inquired of the Lord? (1 Nephi 15:8, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 2)

concerning things Laman and Lemuel were asking of Nephi
Laman and Lemuel's answer was

"We have not, for the Lord maketh no such thing known unto us." (1 Nephi 15:9, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 2)

Without a belief that God would answer them is it possible for Laman and Lemuel to plant the seed of belief in the Lord in their hearts so that it may swell and with nourishment grow up to produce fruit?

Is it a hell to not communicate with God?

If we are unable to receive commandments from God for our own personal individually unique situations in life does that mean that we have chosen to become wicked and need to repent?

What does it mean to be wicked?  What is the definition?

And the whole world lies in sin and groans under darkness and under the bondage of sin, and by this you may know they are under the bondage of sin, because they come not unto me, for whoever comes not unto me is under the bondage of sin. And whoever receives not my voice is not acquainted with my voice and is not of me. And by this you may know the righteous from the wicked, and that the whole world groans under sin and darkness, even now. (D&C 84:49 - 53) ,Teachings and Commandments 82 par. 19)

Is it possible to receive the God's voice if we do not inquire of Him?

If we are not personally acquainted with His voice it says that we are not of Him.

God states that the righteous are distinguished from the wicked because the righteous receive His voice and the wicked do not.

The Book of Mormon seems to contrast very clearly through the recorded actions of the family and now through Lehi's vision just how important the decision to believe in Christ and to act upon that belief by crying to God is versus believing that He will make no such things known unto us.

Does all this give new meaning to what Nephi declared to Laman and Lemuel about not keeping the commandments of God because they would not inquire of Him?

How is it that ye do not keep the commandments of the Lord?  How is it that ye will perish because of the hardness of your hearts?  Do ye not remember the things which the Lord hath said, If ye will not harden your hearts and ask me in faith, believing that ye shall receive, with diligence in keeping my commandments, surely these things shall be made known unto you?" (1 Nephi 15:10 - 11, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 2)

That seems pretty harsh doesn't it?

How am I doing at keeping the commandments of God?

If  I died today would I perish because of my hardness of heart?

Do I personally receive God's voice am I acquainted with it?

What are the responsibilities devolving upon me to receive and be acquainted with God's voice?

Am I willing to make a decision to respond to someone who is at the tree Lehi saw who is beckoning to me to come and partake?

Is it my responsibility to respond to the invitation?

Is this part of Lehi's vision a good representation of what Alma taught as quoted above?

Is there someone (Lehi) who is a priest of the Holy Order, a son of God, who is preaching righteousness (inviting others to come and partake of the very same thing he is a part of; to enter into the rest or glory of God)?

Are Sariah, Laman, Lemuel, Sam and Nephi all beginning on equal standing?

Are there decisions made that go one way or another and would Laman and Lemuel have had as great a privilege as their mother and their brothers if they had responded to Lehi's beckoning?

How should I be responding to a priest of the holy Order, a son of God, who is beckoning to all and even crying with a loud voice to invite all to come to the tree and partake of the fruit which is white above all that is white and sweet above all things and delicious to the soul?

Where can I find such a priest who would beckon?

Who is there on there earth now that possesses a hope in Christ, who has obtained promises from God Himself, and desires that all around him receive the same promises (the same wages for working in the vineyard at this late hour)?

What About the Fruit?

1 Nephi 8:1 - 10, NC 1 Nephi 2 pars. 7 - 8


And it came to pass that while my father tarried in the wilderness, he spake unto us, saying, Behold, I have dreamed a dream, or in other words, I have seen a vision. And behold, because of the thing which I have seen, I have reason to rejoice in the Lord because of Nephi and also of Sam; for I have reason to suppose that they and also many of their seed will be saved. But behold, Laman and Lemuel, I fear exceedingly because of you. For behold, methought I saw in my dream a dark and dreary wilderness. And it came to pass that I saw a man and he was dressed in a white robe; and he came and stood before me. And it came to pass that he spake unto me and bade me follow him. And it came to pass that as I followed him, I beheld myself that I was in a dark and dreary waste. And after I had traveled for the space of many hours in darkness, I began to pray unto the Lord that he would have mercy on me according to the multitude of his tender mercies. And it came to pass, after I had prayed unto the Lord, I beheld a large and spacious field. And it came to pass that I beheld a tree whose fruit was desirable to make one happy. And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the fruit thereof, and beheld that it was most sweet, above all that I ever before tasted. Yea, and I beheld that the fruit thereof was white to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen.

Can we consider this fruit that Lehi is partaking of?

I had always considered that the fruit was the love of God until I more closely considered Nephi's response to the angel.

...Knowest thou the meaning of the tree which thy father saw? And I answered him, saying, Yea, it is the love of God, which sheddeth itself abroad in the hearts of the children of men; wherefore, it is the most desirable above all things. And he spake unto me, saying, Yea, and the most joyous to the soul. (1 Nephi 11, NC 1 Nephi 3 par 9)

The question the angel asked was concerning the tree Lehi saw not the fruit that Lehi partook of.

Nephi's answer dealt with the tree and not the fruit.

So what about the fruit?

If the tree Lehi saw is a representation of the love of God that sheddeth itself abroad in the hearts of men then what are the "fruits" that are produced by that love?

In the scriptures fruit is used as a symbol many times to signify various things.

Zenos' allegory quoted by Jacob in the book of Jacob discusses fruit.  Throughout the entire allegory we see that the Master of the vineyard is trying to preserve "the natural fruit" of an ancient olive tree through His many actions to prune and to dig and to nourish and to graft.

Is what the Lord told His disciples during the last supper in any way related to Zenos' allegory of the olive tree?

I am the true vine or head of the Father’s family, and my Father is the husbandman over that family. Every branch connected to me that does not produce fruit, he will remove, and every branch that produces fruit he will prune back so that it produces better fruit. You will bear fruit if you follow the things I have taught you. Stay connected to me as part of the Heavenly family, and I will nourish you. Just as a branch cannot produce fruit if it is not connected to the vine, neither will you be able to bear fruit unless you remain connected with me. I am the vine, and you are the branches. He that stays connected to me, and I to him, will be abundantly fruitful; but without the connection to me you will perish. If a man loses his connection with me, he is merely a withered branch; and men take the withered branches, cut them away and burn them. If you stay connected to me, and my words live in you, you will ask according to my will, and you will be given the ability to accomplish my will. It will please and vindicate my Father if you produce abundant fruit, and that will prove you follow me. Just like the Father has loved me, I have in turn likewise loved you. Therefore, remain connected with me and my love will be with you. If you practice my teachings you will always remain connected with me; just as I have kept my Father’s teachings and have remained connected with him.
(Teachings and Commandments section 171, The Testimony of St. John 10 par. 17)

One thing we are taught by the Lord during His visit to the Nephites concerning fruit is that fruits are a good measure of something that is good versus something that is bad.

Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns? Or figs of thistles? Even so, every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire. Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them. (3 Nephi 14:15 - 20, NC 3 Nephi  6 par 10)

What kind of fruit would those who are connected to Christ, part of the family of God, bear?

Whether we know it or not or like it or not aren't we all constantly bearing fruit of one sort or another?

Is there an even more current prophetic understanding of fruit?

Fruit

A genealogical term, in many instances; family. Adam and Eve were commanded to be fruitful and multiply (Genesis 2:9). Christ’s gospel involves perpetuating a “family of Gods.” Marriage mirrors the infinite. The “fruit” to be saved refers to an eternal family, with God at the head.1 “In John 9:10 Christ compared Himself to a true vine to which we all must connect if we are going to bear fruit. Christ inspired prophecies about a coming servant. We should all be His servants. For any of His servants to produce fruit they must connect to Him, the true vine. Life comes from that connection. We are preserved by Christ, nourished through His word, and we pray in our sacrament prayers to always have His spirit to be with us. The vine and fruit refer to the family of God. The context is about becoming a son of God. He intends to make many sons of God, to bring many sons unto glory.”2 Throughout Zenos’ allegory of the olive tree, fruit means “salvation,” in a covenantal sense. It requires the promises made to the fathers (see Abraham 1:1) to be the same covenant given to you.3

“The Savior provided a test whereby one can easily distinguish between true and false prophets. You shall know them by their fruits (Matthew 3:46). The question was, ‘Well, if there is a test to apply, in order to determine whether or not he [Joseph Smith] was a prophet, the presence of the test suggests the possibility of a prophet.’ I thought that an interesting point. Why would you have a test if there is not going to be another prophet? So, you shall know them by their fruits suggests the possibility that there will, in fact, be someone you better apply that test to, someone for whom the test will become both relevant and important. So I couldn’t categorically dismiss Joseph Smith as a prophet for the reason there absolutely could never be more. Therefore, I needed to ask the next question: What are Joseph’s fruits?”4In Matthew 6:14, Christ explained how to measure “fruit.” Either make the tree good and his fruit good, or else make the tree corrupt and his fruit corrupt, for the tree is known by the fruit. And Jesus said, O you generation of vipers. How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man, out of the good treasure of the heart, brings forth good things; and an evil man, out of the evil treasure, brings forth evil things. And again I say unto you that every idle word men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment; for by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned. Christ determined that the test for “fruit” is the words one speaks. But how should “words” be measured? Anger, conflict, violence, war, and division amongst families were just some of the results of the words Christ spoke. If Christ’s words were measured by how people were affected by them, then Christ produced bad fruit. Therefore, the reaction people have to words cannot be an accurate measure of “fruit.” It must be the substance, the truth, or the independent value of the words — separate from how people respond to a man’s words. Prophets and righteous individuals have been arousing anger, provoking violent reactions, and being called anything from foolish to vile because of their words, and that does nothing to diminish the goodness of their fruit. (Teachings and Commandments, Glossary of Terms: Fruit)

If our words determine what our fruit is would it be important to always look inward to make sure that we speak words of truth?

If the reactions of others to words spoken cannot be a reliable measure of good or bad fruit does that make the test of the truth of any words spoken a very solitary, individual labor that we must perform without relying on others' responses?

Has this and will this always be the test; so that everyone is required to stand on their own so that they may be individually accountable for their decisions as to what is truth and what is error? 

Is it possible for truth to be mistaken for error because we use tradition and happy feelings as a measure to determine if something is good fruit or not?

All of these things, although true and it would seem at least somewhat related to Lehi's vision, do not seem to fit the exact context of what Lehi is experiencing with the fruit.

Alma talked about fruit in the course of speaking about exercising faith by planting the word he, Alma, was teaching in our hearts.

And now behold, after ye have tasted this light, is your knowledge perfect? Behold, I say unto you, nay; neither must ye lay aside your faith, for ye have only exercised your faith to plant the seed, that ye might try the experiment to know if the seed was good. And behold, as the tree beginneth to grow, ye will say, Let us nourish it with great care, that it may get root, that it may grow up and bring forth fruit unto us. And now behold, if ye nourish it with much care, it will get root, and grow up, and bring forth fruit. But if ye neglect the tree and take no thought for its nourishment, behold, it will not get any root; and when the heat of the sun cometh and scorcheth it, because it hath no root, it withers away, and ye pluck it up and cast it out. Now this is not because the seed was not good, neither is it because the fruit thereof would not be desirable, but it is because your ground is barren and ye will not nourish the tree; therefore, ye cannot have the fruit thereof. And thus it is: if ye will not nourish the word, looking forward with an eye of faith to the fruit thereof, ye can never pluck of the fruit of the tree of life. But if ye will nourish the word, yea, nourish the tree as it beginneth to grow, by your faith, with great diligence, and with patience, looking forward to the fruit thereof, it shall take root; and behold, it shall be a tree springing up unto everlasting life. And because of your diligence, and your faith, and your patience with the word, in nourishing it that it may take root in you, behold, by and by, ye shall pluck the fruit thereof, which is most precious, which is sweet above all that is sweet, and which is white above all that is white, yea, and pure above all that is pure. And ye shall feast upon this fruit, even until ye are filled, that ye hunger not, neither shall ye thirst. Then, my brethren, ye shall reap the rewards of your faith, and your diligence, and patience, and long-suffering, waiting for the tree to bring forth fruit unto you.

Alma's words seem to fit more closely to the context of the fruit that Lehi is experiencing here.

He uses the same descriptions as Lehi; white above all that is white and sweet above all that is sweet.

Alma describes this "fruit" as the result of nourishing, with patience and diligence, the "word" in ourselves until the "word" takes root and grows up unto a tree springing up unto everlasting life.

Later, when asked what the "word" is that Alma was inviting all to plant in their hearts, Alma stated

...cast about your eyes and begin to believe in the Son of God, that he will come to redeem his people, and that he shall suffer and die to atone for their sins, and that he shall rise again from the dead, which shall bring to pass the resurrection, that all men shall stand before him to be judged at the last and judgment day according to their works. And now, my brethren, I desire that ye should plant this word in your hearts. And as it beginneth to swell, even so nourish it by your faith. And behold, it will become a tree, springing up in you unto everlasting life. And then may God grant unto you that your burdens may be light through the joy of his Son. And even all this can ye do, if ye will. Amen. (Alma 33:22 - 23, NC Alma 16 par. 32)

Does this fit with Nephi's description of the meaning of the tree that Lehi saw?

Would beginning to believe in the Son of God shed forth the love of God in someone's heart?

Can the love of God that is shed forth abroad in the hearts of the children of men grow up inside each one of us until it is mature and produces fruit?

Can the matured love of God existing in our hearts allow us to have everlasting life?

What is everlasting life?

Everlasting life seems to be distinguished differently in the scriptures from eternal life.  Why?

Alma states that once we begin to feast upon the resultant "fruit" springing from this tree (love of God?) inside us growing up unto everlasting life we will be filled so that we will never more thirst nor hunger.

Are there other places in the scriptures that mention never hungering and never thirsting?

The Lord told the Samaritan woman at Jacob's well that He could give her living water that would continually quench thirst.

The Lord also taught the following to the Jews

Then Jesus said to them, In the name of Father Ahman I tell you the truth, Moses was not the one who gave bread, it was my Father who did that. But now my Father is offering true life-giving bread from Heaven, which is light and truth. For the Bread of God is sent from the Heavenly Council to give light and truth to the world. They responded, Master, feed us with this bread forever.  Jesus said bluntly to them, I am the bread that gives life; he that follows the path with me will never hunger for light; and any who believe on me shall never thirst for truth. Unfortunately, as I have already told you, even though you have seen me, you do not believe me. But my Father has provided some who will heed my words, and those who follow me I will safely keep. I am descended from above as a Messenger sent to follow Father Ahman’s plan. Father’s plan is that by completing my ascent I will have the power to rescue creation, losing nothing. Moreover, those who are here on this journey with me will be added upon for evermore if they have faith in me. They will rise up to likewise generate endless lives, worlds without end. (Teachings and Commandments section 171, The Testimony of St. John 15 pars. 15 - 16)

The Lord declared that the path He follows, if they would follow it as well they would never thirst for truth and never hunger for light.

Is the fruit the path that the Lord follows or is the fruit what one receives as they follow the path of the Lord?

There is an account in 3 Nephi where the Lord is administering the sacrament to those at the temple in the land of Bountiful.  In this account the record shows us something about being filled.

And it came to pass that he commanded the multitude that they should cease to pray, and also his disciples. And he commanded them that they should not cease to pray in their hearts. And he commanded them that they should arise and stand up upon their feet, and they arose up and stood upon their feet. And it came to pass that he broke bread again, and blessed it, and gave to the disciples to eat. And when they had eaten, he commanded them that they should break bread and give unto the multitude. And when they had given unto the multitude, he also gave them wine to drink, and commanded them that they should give unto the multitude. Now there had been no bread, neither wine, brought by the disciples, neither by the multitude; but he truly gave unto them bread to eat, and also wine to drink. And he said unto them, He that eateth this bread, eateth of my body to their soul, and he that drinketh of this wine, drinketh of my blood to their soul; and their soul shall never hunger nor thirst, but shall be filled. Now when the multitude had all eat and drank, behold, they were filled with the spirit, and they did cry out with one voice and gave glory to Jesus, whom they both saw and heard. (3 Nephi 20:1 - 9, NC 3 Nephi 9 par. 6)

This account speaks of the multitude being filled with the spirit.

If someone is filled with the spirit can they continue to receive light and truth until they have a fullness of light and truth?

Is this related to being connected to the true vine who is Christ?

Is it by the power of the spirit that we can be connected to Him and receive truth and light and be able to be "fruitful"?

If someone hungers for truth or thirsts for light is it through the medium of the spirit that they receive so that they hunger and thirst no more because that light and truth is given to them even as they ask?

Is it a sweet experience to receive truth and light?

Would someone receive the spirit by following the path the Lord followed?

We talked more extensively about receiving from the spirit or the Holy Spirit (are they the same thing?) in the previous blog post "Making Things Known Which the Lord Manifested."

Is Lehi's experience with the fruit meant to convey the purity (whiteness) and sweetness to the soul of the truth and light (fruit) that is imparted by the spirit to any individual who nourishes the love of God in their hearts so that it develops and grows up in their soul?

Is this the meaning of the love of God; to believe in the Son of God that He has come to redeem His people, that He suffered and died and rose again the third day; bringing about the resurrection of all men to stand before Him at the last judgement day?

Is this what is meant by the tree and the fruit that Lehi saw?