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 apologize for backtracking but there is something I have been thinking about all week that I would like to address concerning the mists of darkness.
The following interpretation from Nephi's account is a description of the mists of darkness.
In my stupidity I did not include this in the last post. This is a good example of how much more I need to be familiar with the scriptures.
And the mists of darkness are the temptations of the Devil which blindeth the eyes and hardeneth the hearts of the children of men and leadeth them away into broad roads, that they perish and are lost. (1 Nephi 12:11 - 18, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 17)
Is it possible though that the reasons the mists blind the eyes and harden the hearts of the children of men who have entered into the path is because they did not watch themselves and their thoughts and their words and their deeds and continue in the faith of Christ?
Am I in such a position?
Is my heart hardened and are my eyes blinded because I have not watched myself and my thoughts and my words and my deeds and I have not continued in the faith of Christ?
Joseph declared the following concerning the Saints of his day and their traditions.
I have tried for a number of years to get the minds of the Saints prepared to receive the things
of God; but we frequently see some of them, after suffering all they have for the work of God, will
fly to pieces like glass as soon as anything comes that is contrary to their traditions: they cannot
stand the fire at all. How many will be able to abide a celestial law, and go through and receive
their exaltation, I am unable to say, as many are called, but few are chosen. (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith pg. 331)
Is it possible that those traditions also play a very large part in the mists of darkness?
If the iron rod, the word of God, includes continuing revelation would those who cling to tradition accept new revelation?
I read a blog post this week that I agree with concerning "Light and Truth"
A passage in the Teachings and Commandments explains God’s glory in these words: “The glory of God is intelligence, or in other words, light and truth. Light and truth forsake that evil one. Every spirit of man was innocent in the beginning, and God having redeemed man from the Fall, man became again, in their infant state, innocent before God. And that wicked one comes and takes away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers.” (T&C 93:11.)
Light and truth are another way to define “intelligence.” And “truth” is likewise defined as “knowledge of things as they are, and as they were, and as they are to come.” (T&C 93:8.) Which raises the question of how we can know of things as they are, were, and are to come?
The most obvious source to know of things past, present and in the future is to study scripture. Scriptures require us to have faith enough to believe they are trustworthy. Exercising that degree of faith lets the believer learn about things as they are, were, and are to come, while the unbeliever rejects that opportunity.
The Book of Mormon assumes many readers will disbelieve it. Nephi recorded that Christ posed this question for the reader to contemplate: “Wherefore murmur ye because that ye shall receive more of my word?” (NC 2 Ne. 12:9.) The question is rhetorical, but certainly worth contemplating: Why do we disbelieve something that originated with Christ?
The explanation is in that first statement from the T&C: “[the] wicked one comes and takes away light and truth, through disobedience, from the children of men, and because of the tradition of their fathers.” Rejecting the words of Christ is itself “disobedience.” And justifying that rejection because it is something new and contrary to the “tradition of [your] fathers” is wrong.
The result is that the believer gains more “light and truth” than the one who refuses to believe. They are “more intelligent” because they accept more “light and truth.” (DenverSnuffer.com, "Light and Truth",October 24, 2019)
I apologize for copying and pasting nearly the whole post but I feel it is necessary to see how the scriptures and new revelation fit together.
Why would we murmur because Christ was willing to speak more to us?
Does it match the symbolism of the mists of darkness to equate them with the wicked one taking away light and truth?
As someone turns from the path is their mind darkened?
Does tradition have the effect of blinding eyes and hardening hearts?
Does tradition have the effect of blinding eyes and hardening hearts?
Do the traditions of the fathers lead to people being blinded by the mists of darkness because they refuse to take hold of the word of God?
On to this post.
I found something very interesting in the glossary of terms with respect to the iron rod. I didn't copy into the last post because I want to do so now for consideration.
As we consider this from the glossary of terms I would like to again visit the definition of the meaning of the tree from Lehi's vision.
Nephi gives the definition during his recording of his view of the very same vision.
And I looked, and I beheld the Son of God a going forth among the children of men; and I saw many fall down at his feet and worship him. And it came to pass that I beheld that the rod of iron which my father had seen was the word of God, which led to the fountain of living waters, or to the tree of life, which waters are a representation of the love of God. And I also beheld that the tree of life was a representation of the love of God. (1 Nephi 11:24 - 25, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 10)
Before I continue let me express that I don't want to impose any meaning on the record to suit my understanding.
I do not want to fall back into my patterns of reading something into the record and therefore disqualifying myself from receiving understanding from the record; letting it inform me.
At this point, my opinion is that the tree of life in the vision, from what I understand of what Nephi stated, is different than the Tree of Life mentioned elsewhere in the scriptures.
Let me be clear that that is my opinion at the moment and I am ready to discard that opinion if I am persuaded that it is incorrect.
At present my opinion and understanding is that the tree in the vision does not represent eternal life, though I do fully agree with the entry in the glossary of terms that holding to the iron rod will allow one at the end of the journey to lay hold on eternal life.
From my point of view I don't see that the entry from the glossary of terms leads to a definition of the tree in Lehi's vision as being eternal life.
Is it possible that the symbolism of the path, the rod and partaking of the fruit is not meant to symbolize a completion of the journey or the end of the journey?
Again I don't want to impose something on to the record. I am grappling with things that are new to me again. I am merely sharing my present understanding.
A good sister in our little Book of Mormon study group brought something up that I had never considered before as we read this part of the vision.
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.
This is the first group that Lehi describes coming to the tree to partake of the fruit.
Then Lehi saw
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.
There is a difference between the first group coming to the tree and the second group that this good sister pointed out may be why the second group did not become ashamed.
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.
The second group "fell down" and partook of the fruit of the tree.
What symbolism is there about "falling down"?
One option is that they were exhausted and could barely make it to the tree.
Another option is that they were filled with humility and meekness and so they fell down and worshipped and were able to partake of the fruit and give no heed to those who were mocking.
Do we see an example of these things in the scriptures?
In the book of 3 Nephi we have the account of the nations of the Nephites and Lamanites being plagued by the Gaddianton robbers.
The plague came to such a critical point that the head of the robbers sent a letter to the governor of the Nephites demanding surrender.
And now behold, this Lachoneus, the governor, was a just man, and could not be frightened by the demands and the threatenings of a robber. Therefore, he did not hearken to the epistle of Giddianhi, the governor of the robbers, but he did cause that his people should cry unto the Lord for strength against the time that the robbers should come down against them. Yea, he sent a proclamation among all the people that they should gather together their women and their children, their flocks and their herds, and all their substance save it were their land, unto one place. And he caused that fortifications should be built round about them and the strength thereof should be exceeding great. And he caused that there should be armies, both of the Nephites and of the Lamanites (or of all them who were numbered among the Nephites) should be placed as guards round about, to watch them and to guard them from the robbers, day and night. Yea, he said unto them, As the Lord liveth, except ye repent of all your iniquities and cry unto the Lord, that they would in no wise be delivered out of the hands of those Gaddianton robbers. And so great and marvelous were the words and prophecies of Lachoneus that they did cause fear to come upon all the people; and they did exert themselves in their might to do according to the words of Lachoneus. (3 Nephi 3:11 - 16, NC 3 Nephi 2 par. 3)
Notice that Lachoneus preached repentance in order to obtain deliverance from the robbers.
Could we reasonably believe that what Lachoneus was teaching would have had an effect to move the people of Nephi to enter into the path?
Could this account show a point of decision for a nation as to whether they would move to the one side or the other of the fountain of filthy water that Lehi saw in vision that divided those in the path and at the tree from the others?
Is the Nephite nation at the head of the fountain of waters at this point in their history?
We know that because the people heeded the words of Lachoneus that they were delivered in a miraculous way.
When their deliverance was complete we read the following.
And they did rejoice and cry again with one voice, saying, May the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, protect this people in righteousness so long as they shall call on the name of their God for protection! And it came to pass that they did break forth, all as one, in singing and praising their God for the great thing which he had done for them in preserving them from falling into the hands of their enemies. Yea, they did cry, Hosanna to the Most High God! And they did cry, Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty, the Most High God! And their hearts were swollen with joy unto the gushing out of many tears because of the great goodness of God in delivering them out of the hands of their enemies. And they knew it was because of their repentance and their humility that they had been delivered from an everlasting destruction. And now behold, there was not a living soul among all the people of the Nephites who did doubt in the least the words of all the holy prophets which had been spoken, for they knew that it must needs be that they must be fulfilled. And they knew it must be expedient that Christ had come, because of the many signs which had been given according to the words of the prophets. And because of the things which had come to pass already, they knew it must needs be that all things should come to pass according to that which had been spoken. Therefore, they did forsake all their sins, and their abominations, and their whoredoms, and did serve God with all diligence, day and night. (3 Nephi 4:27 - 3 Nephi 5:3, NC 3 Nephi 2 par. 14)
Did you catch that?
They "knew" that it was because of their travel in the path (repentance and humility) that they had been delivered.
Is it possible that at this point they all came to the tree in Lehi's vision and partook of the fruit?
What was in them for every living soul to not doubt in the least the words of all the holy prophets which had been spoken?
What was in them for all of them to forsake all their sins, and their abominations, and their whoredoms, to serve God with all diligence, day and night.?
Was there another group among the Nephites who were filled the same way and did the same things?
And now it came to pass that when king Benjamin had thus spoken to his people, he sent among them, desiring to know of his people if they believed the words which he had spoken unto them. And they all cried with one voice, saying, Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us! And also, we know of their surety and truth because of the spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually. And we, ourselves, also through the infinite goodness of God and the manifestations of his spirit, have great views of that which is to come; and were it expedient, we could prophesy of all things. And it is the faith which we have had on the things which our king has spoken unto us that has brought us to this great knowledge, whereby we do rejoice with such exceeding great joy. And we are willing to enter into a covenant with our God to do his will, and to be obedient to his commandments in all things that he shall command us, all the remainder of our days, that we may not bring upon ourselves a never-ending torment as has been spoken by the angel, that we may not drink out of the cup of the wrath of God. (Mosiah 5;1 - 5, NC Mosiah 3 par. 1)
Is it possible that what occurred to King Benjamin's people and what occurred to the Nephites under Lachoneus is the same thing?
Was there exceeding great joy in both accounts?
Does Lehi talk about the fruit filling one with exceeding great joy?
Did both groups follow the Doctrine of Christ in order to arrive at these moments where they had no more disposition to do evil but to do good continually?
Could these accounts be recorded events of entire peoples partaking of the fruit of the tree that Lehi saw?
If so, is it possible to lose this great gift that is given; that of receiving of the gift of the fruit of the tree of life?
This is a continuation of the account of the people of Lachoneus.
And now it came to pass that the people of the Nephites did all return to their own lands in the twenty and sixth year, every man with his family, his flocks and his herds, his horses and his cattle, and all things whatsoever did belong unto them. And it came to pass that they had not eaten up all their provisions, therefore they did take with them all that they had not devoured of all their grain of every kind, and their gold, and their silver, and all their precious things, and they did return to their own lands and their possessions, both on the north and on the south, both on the land northward and on the land southward. And they granted unto those robbers who had entered into a covenant to keep the peace of the land (who were desirous to remain Lamanites) lands according to their numbers, that they might have, with their labors, wherewith to subsist upon. And thus they did establish peace in all the land, and they began again to prosper and to wax great. And the twenty and sixth and seventh years passed away and there was great order in the land, and they had formed their laws according to equity and justice. And now there was nothing in all the land to hinder the people from prospering continually except they should fall into transgression. And now it was Gidgiddoni, and the judge Lachoneus, and those who had been appointed leaders who had established this great peace in the land. And it came to pass that there were many cities built anew, and there were many old cities repaired, and there were many highways cast up and many roads made which led from city to city, and from land to land, and from place to place. And thus passed away the twenty and eighth year, and the people had continual peace. But it came to pass in the twenty and ninth year, there began to be some disputings among the people; and some were lifted up unto pride and boastings because of their exceeding great riches, yea, even unto great persecutions, for there were many merchants in the land, and also many lawyers and many officers. And the people began to be distinguished by ranks according to their riches and their chance for learning — yea, some were ignorant because of their poverty, and others did receive great learning because of their riches. Some were lifted up in pride, and others were exceeding humble; some did return railing for railing, while others would receive railing, and persecution, and all manner of afflictions, and would not turn and revile again, but were humble and penitent before God. And thus there became a great unequality in all the land, insomuch that the church began to be broken up, yea, insomuch that in the thirtieth year, the church was broken up in all the land, save it were among a few of the Lamanites who were converted unto the true faith; and they would not depart from it, for they were firm, and steadfast, and immovable, willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of the Lord. Now the cause of this iniquity of the people was this: Satan had great power unto the stirring up of the people to do all manner of iniquity and to the puffing them up with pride, tempting them to seek for power, and authority, and riches, and the vain things of the world. And thus Satan did lead away the hearts of the people to do all manner of iniquity; therefore, they had not enjoyed peace but a few years. And thus in the commencement of the thirtieth year — the people having been delivered up for the space of a long time to be carried about by the temptations of the Devil, whithersoever he desired to carry them, and to do whatsoever iniquity he desired they should — and thus in the commencement of this, the thirtieth year, they were in a state of awful wickedness. Now they did not sin ignorantly, for they knew the will of God concerning them, for it had been taught unto them; therefore, they did willfully rebel against God. (3 Nephi 6:1 - 18, NC 3 Nephi 3 pars. 1 - 3)
Lehi talks of a great and spacious building in the air with no foundation filled with those in fine apparel mocking those partaking of the fruit.
Nephi gives us an interpretation of the building.
And the large and spacious building which thy father saw is vain imaginations and the pride of the children of men. (1 Nephi 11:32 - 36, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 14)
Would the things that exist in the great and spacious building Lehi saw match what is described here; disputations, pride, boastings, persecutions, exceeding great riches, chances for learning, railing on others, returning railings, unequality, seeking for power, seeking for authority, vain things of the world?
The record says that every last soul initially felt the joy as they were delivered.
Could we reasonably state that every last soul partook of the fruit of the tree that Lehi saw?
In this group we see two divisions.
One part is overtaken by the things that belong to the great and spacious building Lehi saw.
Could we reasonably state that this group after having partaken of the fruit of the tree looked around as if they were ashamed because of the mocking coming from the great and spacious building or in other words they were drawn away from the fruit and towards those things that were contrary to the fruit; those things that exist in the great and spacious building?
The other part manifests a different spirit.
The record states that the other group would not return railing for railing but they were humble and penitent before God.
They were with the Lamanites who were firm and steadfast and immovable, willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of God.
Could we reasonably equate this group with those who had fallen down and partaken of the fruit?
Could we state that this group gave no heed to the scoffing but continued to partake of the fruit?
The record says of the first group that they did not sin ignorantly but they willfully rebelled against God.
Is it possible that this event equates to what Lehi described in his vision?
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.
If someone falls to those things that are part of the great and spacious building after having partaken of the fruit could it be said concerning them that they fell into forbidden paths and were lost because they have at this point willfully rebelled against God after knowing the will of God concerning them?
Can the phrase to be ashamed of something imply something other than embarrassment?
Can the phrase to be ashamed of something imply turning from something?
Is it necessary to have actual people pointing fingers and scorning for mocking to occur?
Isn't the mere existence of the things of the great and spacious building something that mocks at what one can receive from the tree in Lehi's vision?
Is this why the commentary of the Father as recorded by Nephi in his explanation of the Doctrine of Christ is so important?
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. (2 Nephi 31:14 - 18, NC 2 Nephi 13 par. 3)
Lehi, in finishing the description of his vision, states that multitudes pressed their way to the great and spacious building.
How many people are in just one multitude?
Does the vision imply that for the most part the majority of the human family will not even attempt to enter the path?
Many did not even make it to the building but were drowned in the filthy water and also lost in strange paths.
Looking at this situation two questions come to mind
1) What does it mean to drown in the filthy water while pressing towards the great and spacious building?
Nephi said the following concerning the filthy water.
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 15:21 - 30, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 5)
With the interpretation of the waters given by Nephi could we say that many who pressed towards the great and spacious building who drowned in the filthy waters were overcome by that awful hell created for the wicked?
Do we have a possible example of this?
Mormon recorded the following at the end of the Nephite nation.
And it came to pass that I did go forth among the Nephites and did repent of the oath which I had made that I would no more assist them. And they gave me command again of their armies, for they looked upon me as though I could deliver them from their afflictions. But behold, I was without hope, for I knew the judgments of the Lord which should come upon them; for they repented not of their iniquities, but did struggle for their lives without calling upon that Being who had created them. (Mormon 5:1 - 7, NC Mormon 2 par. 4)
Is it a hell to struggle for one's life without calling on God?
Without repentance from our iniquities can there be any joy?
Would being in such a situation "drown" a person so to speak?
2) Why is Lehi specific to mention that there were those who were pressing towards the building who were lost in "strange" roads instead of in "forbidden" paths?
Is walking in a "forbidden" path worse than walking in a "strange" road.
If a path is "forbidden" are there serious consequences for walking in that path, in addition to the path not getting you to where you need to go?
If you are in a strange road does that imply that it will not get you to where you need to go but no additional condemnation is added for being in that road?
Isn't it curious that there are those who are drowned in that hell or lost in strange roads that do not make it to the building?
What does that mean?
Is it important that those drowned in the filthy water or lost in the strange roads not a part of pointing the finger of scorn?
Is there something additionally bad about being in a position of pointing a finger of scorn?
Why is it that those on the strange roads do not point the finger of scorn?
What is it that would put one in a position to point the finger of scorn?
And the large and spacious building which thy father saw is vain imaginations and the pride of the children of men. And a great and a terrible gulf divideth them, yea, even the sword of the justice of the Eternal God and Messiah who is the Lamb of God, of whom the holy ghost beareth record from the beginning of the world until this time, and from this time henceforth and for ever. (1 Nephi 12:11 - 18, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 17)
Do I possess pride?
Do I point the finger of scorn?
What are vain imaginations?
Do I possess vain imaginations?
If I find myself in this state what can I expect if I do not repent?
And the multitude of the earth was gathered together, and I beheld that they were in a large and spacious building, like unto the building which my father saw. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me again, saying, Behold, the world and the wisdom thereof; yea, behold, the house of Israel hath gathered together to fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And it came to pass that I saw and bear record that the great and spacious building was the pride of the world; and the fall thereof was exceeding great. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me, saying, Thus shall be the destruction of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, that shall fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb.(1 Nephi 11:32 - 36, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 14)
What is entailed in fighting against the twelve apostles of the Lamb?
Is it possible for me to find myself doing just that?
If I embrace or participate in those things mentioned among the Nephites during the time of Lachoneus following their deliverance from the robbers am I fighting against the twelve apostles of the Lamb?
In the glossary of terms I read the following as a definition for destruction or to destroy.
If I use the above definition for destruction, then if I am embroiled in those things belonging to the great and spacious building can I expect to come into bondage of one sort or another?
I have often wondered if Lehi's vision is an overall view of what different paths or objectives if pursued to the end will end up at.
How does repentance fit in?
Even if a choice has been made ad the head of the filthy waters to pursue the direction of the building or end up in a strange road can a person repent and return to the head of the filthy waters and then decide to enter the path?
It would appear that once on the path or at the tree that to turn from righteousness at that point entails receiving a much greater condemnation.
Is it possible to repent even at that point?
Is there a point of no return?
The prophet Joseph stated the following.
The doctrine that the Presbyterians and Methodists have quarreled so much about—once in
grace, always in grace, or falling away from grace, I will say a word about. They are both wrong.
Truth takes a road between them both, for while the Presbyterian says: “Once in grace, you cannot
fall”; the Methodist says: “You can have grace today, fall from it tomorrow, next day have grace
again; and so follow on, changing continually.” But the doctrine of the Scriptures and the spirit of Elijah would show them both false, and take a road between them both; for, according to the Scripture, if men have received the good word of God, and tasted of the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, it is impossible to renew them again, seeing they have crucified the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame; so there is a possibility of falling away; you could not be renewed again, and the power of Elijah cannot seal against this sin, for this is a reserve made in the seals and power of the Priesthood. (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pgs. 338 - 339)
Is this state portrayed in Lehi's vision?
Lehi closes with what I perceive to be the only safe course.
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 —
What gave Lehi and the others the power to heed not the fingers of scorn?
Again I looked at a definition in the glossary of terms that seems to shed some light on this.
It would appear that the only safe course to pursue is to continue to partake of the fruit which I believe is a symbol of light and truth; making the connection to the mind of God greater and greater.
Nephi, in his description of the Doctrine of Christ states the following.
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. Wherefore, now after I have spoken these words, if ye cannot understand them, it will be because ye ask not, neither do ye knock. Wherefore, ye are not brought into the light, but must perish in the dark. For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way and receive the holy ghost, it will shew unto you all things what ye should do. Behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and there will be no more doctrine given until after he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh. And when he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh, the things which he shall say unto you shall ye observe to do. (2 Nephi 32:1 - 6, NC 2 Nephi 14 par. 1)
Nephi states that those feasting on the words of Christ, those who have received the holy ghost, all things that they should do will be shown unto them.
Could this be an interpretation of continuing to partake of the fruit of the tree and not giving heed to the finger of scorn?
Nephi speaks of a time for anyone who follows this path where the Doctrine of Christ will be complete in the life of the faithful individual and Christ will appear to them in the flesh and then He, Christ, will teach them what they should observe to do.
If Lehi's vision is an allegory for the Doctrine of Christ as explained by Nephi then does Lehi's vision portray this event of the Lord appearing in the flesh to individuals or is that something that happens further along and not portrayed?
It is so hard to boil things down in such a limited format. I am sure there is so much more to look at and to consider. I hope that I may have many opportunities to learn from the Lord and to converse with others to gain new understanding concerning these things.
There are two different words used by Nephi regarding contact with the “iron rod” or word of God. Joseph Smith translated the two words as cling or clinging for one, with hold or holding for the other. The different word use raises the question of meaning. If they meant identical things, then the same word would have been translated. Therefore, there must be a reason for the different words. 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 (1 Nephi 2:10, emphasis added). 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 (1 Nephi 2:12, emphasis added).
Some catch hold, then cling. Some hold, then hold fast. Both of these different approaches result in the persons reaching the destination, then partaking of the fruit. But they are situated differently as they move along the process. Some are clinging and some are holding as they move toward their destination. To cling implies something frantic, something charged with emotion, and something more desperate than to hold. Holding seems calm, thoughtfully committed, and more methodical than does clinging. From this, it’s possible to conclude that there are at least two kinds of people who will make their way to partake of the fruit of the tree of life in this world. For one group, the process is unnerving, fearful, and emotionally wrenching. They cling on despite earth and hell. They fight to retain their grip, and they make heroic efforts in the opposition they face. They cling because they cannot relent, cannot relax, and know they face peril as they live their lives daily. For them their hopes are kept despite all their fears. They cling because they desire more than the opposition can deter them. For another group, the process is less emotional, but nonetheless filled with determination. They are not as charged with fear, but face what comes to them calmly and with the assurance that the Lord’s word is in their hands and will be a refuge that will bring them to eternal life. There is another, more likely possibility, as well. There are not two groups, but only one. From time to time everyone faces moments of difficulty. The only way to stay with the rod is to cling. Then the seasons change, the storm relents, and calm returns. During those times when life improves, the person can continue to hold and move forward, but they have purchased the season of calm by the things they have endured in faith. Now they know it is only necessary to hold on, and all things will come to them. There is not a life that gets lived without challenge, difficulty, and seasons of despair. Everyone will at times be required to cling, and at other times have the ability to hold the course. Whether it is the one season or the other, however, at the end of the journey one may be able to lay hold on eternal life. (T&C, Glossary of terms, "Iron Rod")
As we consider this from the glossary of terms I would like to again visit the definition of the meaning of the tree from Lehi's vision.
Nephi gives the definition during his recording of his view of the very same vision.
And I looked, and I beheld the Son of God a going forth among the children of men; and I saw many fall down at his feet and worship him. And it came to pass that I beheld that the rod of iron which my father had seen was the word of God, which led to the fountain of living waters, or to the tree of life, which waters are a representation of the love of God. And I also beheld that the tree of life was a representation of the love of God. (1 Nephi 11:24 - 25, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 10)
Before I continue let me express that I don't want to impose any meaning on the record to suit my understanding.
I do not want to fall back into my patterns of reading something into the record and therefore disqualifying myself from receiving understanding from the record; letting it inform me.
At this point, my opinion is that the tree of life in the vision, from what I understand of what Nephi stated, is different than the Tree of Life mentioned elsewhere in the scriptures.
Let me be clear that that is my opinion at the moment and I am ready to discard that opinion if I am persuaded that it is incorrect.
At present my opinion and understanding is that the tree in the vision does not represent eternal life, though I do fully agree with the entry in the glossary of terms that holding to the iron rod will allow one at the end of the journey to lay hold on eternal life.
From my point of view I don't see that the entry from the glossary of terms leads to a definition of the tree in Lehi's vision as being eternal life.
Is it possible that the symbolism of the path, the rod and partaking of the fruit is not meant to symbolize a completion of the journey or the end of the journey?
Again I don't want to impose something on to the record. I am grappling with things that are new to me again. I am merely sharing my present understanding.
A good sister in our little Book of Mormon study group brought something up that I had never considered before as we read this part of the vision.
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.
This is the first group that Lehi describes coming to the tree to partake of the fruit.
Then Lehi saw
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.
There is a difference between the first group coming to the tree and the second group that this good sister pointed out may be why the second group did not become ashamed.
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.
The second group "fell down" and partook of the fruit of the tree.
What symbolism is there about "falling down"?
One option is that they were exhausted and could barely make it to the tree.
Another option is that they were filled with humility and meekness and so they fell down and worshipped and were able to partake of the fruit and give no heed to those who were mocking.
Do we see an example of these things in the scriptures?
In the book of 3 Nephi we have the account of the nations of the Nephites and Lamanites being plagued by the Gaddianton robbers.
The plague came to such a critical point that the head of the robbers sent a letter to the governor of the Nephites demanding surrender.
And now behold, this Lachoneus, the governor, was a just man, and could not be frightened by the demands and the threatenings of a robber. Therefore, he did not hearken to the epistle of Giddianhi, the governor of the robbers, but he did cause that his people should cry unto the Lord for strength against the time that the robbers should come down against them. Yea, he sent a proclamation among all the people that they should gather together their women and their children, their flocks and their herds, and all their substance save it were their land, unto one place. And he caused that fortifications should be built round about them and the strength thereof should be exceeding great. And he caused that there should be armies, both of the Nephites and of the Lamanites (or of all them who were numbered among the Nephites) should be placed as guards round about, to watch them and to guard them from the robbers, day and night. Yea, he said unto them, As the Lord liveth, except ye repent of all your iniquities and cry unto the Lord, that they would in no wise be delivered out of the hands of those Gaddianton robbers. And so great and marvelous were the words and prophecies of Lachoneus that they did cause fear to come upon all the people; and they did exert themselves in their might to do according to the words of Lachoneus. (3 Nephi 3:11 - 16, NC 3 Nephi 2 par. 3)
Notice that Lachoneus preached repentance in order to obtain deliverance from the robbers.
Could we reasonably believe that what Lachoneus was teaching would have had an effect to move the people of Nephi to enter into the path?
Could this account show a point of decision for a nation as to whether they would move to the one side or the other of the fountain of filthy water that Lehi saw in vision that divided those in the path and at the tree from the others?
Is the Nephite nation at the head of the fountain of waters at this point in their history?
We know that because the people heeded the words of Lachoneus that they were delivered in a miraculous way.
When their deliverance was complete we read the following.
And they did rejoice and cry again with one voice, saying, May the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, protect this people in righteousness so long as they shall call on the name of their God for protection! And it came to pass that they did break forth, all as one, in singing and praising their God for the great thing which he had done for them in preserving them from falling into the hands of their enemies. Yea, they did cry, Hosanna to the Most High God! And they did cry, Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty, the Most High God! And their hearts were swollen with joy unto the gushing out of many tears because of the great goodness of God in delivering them out of the hands of their enemies. And they knew it was because of their repentance and their humility that they had been delivered from an everlasting destruction. And now behold, there was not a living soul among all the people of the Nephites who did doubt in the least the words of all the holy prophets which had been spoken, for they knew that it must needs be that they must be fulfilled. And they knew it must be expedient that Christ had come, because of the many signs which had been given according to the words of the prophets. And because of the things which had come to pass already, they knew it must needs be that all things should come to pass according to that which had been spoken. Therefore, they did forsake all their sins, and their abominations, and their whoredoms, and did serve God with all diligence, day and night. (3 Nephi 4:27 - 3 Nephi 5:3, NC 3 Nephi 2 par. 14)
Did you catch that?
They "knew" that it was because of their travel in the path (repentance and humility) that they had been delivered.
Is it possible that at this point they all came to the tree in Lehi's vision and partook of the fruit?
What was in them for every living soul to not doubt in the least the words of all the holy prophets which had been spoken?
What was in them for all of them to forsake all their sins, and their abominations, and their whoredoms, to serve God with all diligence, day and night.?
Was there another group among the Nephites who were filled the same way and did the same things?
And now it came to pass that when king Benjamin had thus spoken to his people, he sent among them, desiring to know of his people if they believed the words which he had spoken unto them. And they all cried with one voice, saying, Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us! And also, we know of their surety and truth because of the spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually. And we, ourselves, also through the infinite goodness of God and the manifestations of his spirit, have great views of that which is to come; and were it expedient, we could prophesy of all things. And it is the faith which we have had on the things which our king has spoken unto us that has brought us to this great knowledge, whereby we do rejoice with such exceeding great joy. And we are willing to enter into a covenant with our God to do his will, and to be obedient to his commandments in all things that he shall command us, all the remainder of our days, that we may not bring upon ourselves a never-ending torment as has been spoken by the angel, that we may not drink out of the cup of the wrath of God. (Mosiah 5;1 - 5, NC Mosiah 3 par. 1)
Is it possible that what occurred to King Benjamin's people and what occurred to the Nephites under Lachoneus is the same thing?
Was there exceeding great joy in both accounts?
Does Lehi talk about the fruit filling one with exceeding great joy?
Did both groups follow the Doctrine of Christ in order to arrive at these moments where they had no more disposition to do evil but to do good continually?
Could these accounts be recorded events of entire peoples partaking of the fruit of the tree that Lehi saw?
If so, is it possible to lose this great gift that is given; that of receiving of the gift of the fruit of the tree of life?
This is a continuation of the account of the people of Lachoneus.
And now it came to pass that the people of the Nephites did all return to their own lands in the twenty and sixth year, every man with his family, his flocks and his herds, his horses and his cattle, and all things whatsoever did belong unto them. And it came to pass that they had not eaten up all their provisions, therefore they did take with them all that they had not devoured of all their grain of every kind, and their gold, and their silver, and all their precious things, and they did return to their own lands and their possessions, both on the north and on the south, both on the land northward and on the land southward. And they granted unto those robbers who had entered into a covenant to keep the peace of the land (who were desirous to remain Lamanites) lands according to their numbers, that they might have, with their labors, wherewith to subsist upon. And thus they did establish peace in all the land, and they began again to prosper and to wax great. And the twenty and sixth and seventh years passed away and there was great order in the land, and they had formed their laws according to equity and justice. And now there was nothing in all the land to hinder the people from prospering continually except they should fall into transgression. And now it was Gidgiddoni, and the judge Lachoneus, and those who had been appointed leaders who had established this great peace in the land. And it came to pass that there were many cities built anew, and there were many old cities repaired, and there were many highways cast up and many roads made which led from city to city, and from land to land, and from place to place. And thus passed away the twenty and eighth year, and the people had continual peace. But it came to pass in the twenty and ninth year, there began to be some disputings among the people; and some were lifted up unto pride and boastings because of their exceeding great riches, yea, even unto great persecutions, for there were many merchants in the land, and also many lawyers and many officers. And the people began to be distinguished by ranks according to their riches and their chance for learning — yea, some were ignorant because of their poverty, and others did receive great learning because of their riches. Some were lifted up in pride, and others were exceeding humble; some did return railing for railing, while others would receive railing, and persecution, and all manner of afflictions, and would not turn and revile again, but were humble and penitent before God. And thus there became a great unequality in all the land, insomuch that the church began to be broken up, yea, insomuch that in the thirtieth year, the church was broken up in all the land, save it were among a few of the Lamanites who were converted unto the true faith; and they would not depart from it, for they were firm, and steadfast, and immovable, willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of the Lord. Now the cause of this iniquity of the people was this: Satan had great power unto the stirring up of the people to do all manner of iniquity and to the puffing them up with pride, tempting them to seek for power, and authority, and riches, and the vain things of the world. And thus Satan did lead away the hearts of the people to do all manner of iniquity; therefore, they had not enjoyed peace but a few years. And thus in the commencement of the thirtieth year — the people having been delivered up for the space of a long time to be carried about by the temptations of the Devil, whithersoever he desired to carry them, and to do whatsoever iniquity he desired they should — and thus in the commencement of this, the thirtieth year, they were in a state of awful wickedness. Now they did not sin ignorantly, for they knew the will of God concerning them, for it had been taught unto them; therefore, they did willfully rebel against God. (3 Nephi 6:1 - 18, NC 3 Nephi 3 pars. 1 - 3)
Lehi talks of a great and spacious building in the air with no foundation filled with those in fine apparel mocking those partaking of the fruit.
Nephi gives us an interpretation of the building.
And the large and spacious building which thy father saw is vain imaginations and the pride of the children of men. (1 Nephi 11:32 - 36, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 14)
Would the things that exist in the great and spacious building Lehi saw match what is described here; disputations, pride, boastings, persecutions, exceeding great riches, chances for learning, railing on others, returning railings, unequality, seeking for power, seeking for authority, vain things of the world?
The record says that every last soul initially felt the joy as they were delivered.
Could we reasonably state that every last soul partook of the fruit of the tree that Lehi saw?
In this group we see two divisions.
One part is overtaken by the things that belong to the great and spacious building Lehi saw.
Could we reasonably state that this group after having partaken of the fruit of the tree looked around as if they were ashamed because of the mocking coming from the great and spacious building or in other words they were drawn away from the fruit and towards those things that were contrary to the fruit; those things that exist in the great and spacious building?
The other part manifests a different spirit.
The record states that the other group would not return railing for railing but they were humble and penitent before God.
They were with the Lamanites who were firm and steadfast and immovable, willing with all diligence to keep the commandments of God.
Could we reasonably equate this group with those who had fallen down and partaken of the fruit?
Could we state that this group gave no heed to the scoffing but continued to partake of the fruit?
The record says of the first group that they did not sin ignorantly but they willfully rebelled against God.
Is it possible that this event equates to what Lehi described in his vision?
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.
If someone falls to those things that are part of the great and spacious building after having partaken of the fruit could it be said concerning them that they fell into forbidden paths and were lost because they have at this point willfully rebelled against God after knowing the will of God concerning them?
Can the phrase to be ashamed of something imply something other than embarrassment?
Can the phrase to be ashamed of something imply turning from something?
Is it necessary to have actual people pointing fingers and scorning for mocking to occur?
Isn't the mere existence of the things of the great and spacious building something that mocks at what one can receive from the tree in Lehi's vision?
Is this why the commentary of the Father as recorded by Nephi in his explanation of the Doctrine of Christ is so important?
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. (2 Nephi 31:14 - 18, NC 2 Nephi 13 par. 3)
Lehi, in finishing the description of his vision, states that multitudes pressed their way to the great and spacious building.
How many people are in just one multitude?
Does the vision imply that for the most part the majority of the human family will not even attempt to enter the path?
Many did not even make it to the building but were drowned in the filthy water and also lost in strange paths.
Looking at this situation two questions come to mind
1) What does it mean to drown in the filthy water while pressing towards the great and spacious building?
Nephi said the following concerning the filthy water.
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 15:21 - 30, NC 1 Nephi 4 par. 5)
With the interpretation of the waters given by Nephi could we say that many who pressed towards the great and spacious building who drowned in the filthy waters were overcome by that awful hell created for the wicked?
Do we have a possible example of this?
Mormon recorded the following at the end of the Nephite nation.
And it came to pass that I did go forth among the Nephites and did repent of the oath which I had made that I would no more assist them. And they gave me command again of their armies, for they looked upon me as though I could deliver them from their afflictions. But behold, I was without hope, for I knew the judgments of the Lord which should come upon them; for they repented not of their iniquities, but did struggle for their lives without calling upon that Being who had created them. (Mormon 5:1 - 7, NC Mormon 2 par. 4)
Is it a hell to struggle for one's life without calling on God?
Without repentance from our iniquities can there be any joy?
Would being in such a situation "drown" a person so to speak?
2) Why is Lehi specific to mention that there were those who were pressing towards the building who were lost in "strange" roads instead of in "forbidden" paths?
Is walking in a "forbidden" path worse than walking in a "strange" road.
If a path is "forbidden" are there serious consequences for walking in that path, in addition to the path not getting you to where you need to go?
If you are in a strange road does that imply that it will not get you to where you need to go but no additional condemnation is added for being in that road?
Isn't it curious that there are those who are drowned in that hell or lost in strange roads that do not make it to the building?
What does that mean?
Is it important that those drowned in the filthy water or lost in the strange roads not a part of pointing the finger of scorn?
Is there something additionally bad about being in a position of pointing a finger of scorn?
Why is it that those on the strange roads do not point the finger of scorn?
What is it that would put one in a position to point the finger of scorn?
And the large and spacious building which thy father saw is vain imaginations and the pride of the children of men. And a great and a terrible gulf divideth them, yea, even the sword of the justice of the Eternal God and Messiah who is the Lamb of God, of whom the holy ghost beareth record from the beginning of the world until this time, and from this time henceforth and for ever. (1 Nephi 12:11 - 18, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 17)
Do I possess pride?
Do I point the finger of scorn?
What are vain imaginations?
Do I possess vain imaginations?
If I find myself in this state what can I expect if I do not repent?
And the multitude of the earth was gathered together, and I beheld that they were in a large and spacious building, like unto the building which my father saw. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me again, saying, Behold, the world and the wisdom thereof; yea, behold, the house of Israel hath gathered together to fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And it came to pass that I saw and bear record that the great and spacious building was the pride of the world; and the fall thereof was exceeding great. And the angel of the Lord spake unto me, saying, Thus shall be the destruction of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, that shall fight against the twelve apostles of the Lamb.(1 Nephi 11:32 - 36, NC 1 Nephi 3 par. 14)
What is entailed in fighting against the twelve apostles of the Lamb?
Is it possible for me to find myself doing just that?
If I embrace or participate in those things mentioned among the Nephites during the time of Lachoneus following their deliverance from the robbers am I fighting against the twelve apostles of the Lamb?
In the glossary of terms I read the following as a definition for destruction or to destroy.
Destroy
In the vernacular of the Book of Mormon, to destroy did not mean annihilation. It merely meant to end the organized existence of a people or to terminate their government, deprive them of a land, and end their cultural dominance. In the Book of Mormon, a people were destroyed when they lost control over their government and land. Their ability to preserve their own values and choose the way they were governed was taken over by others. Most often it was from a different ethnic group, though not always. Once people were destroyed, they were oppressed and suffered. Often they were oppressed with grievous taxes and had religious liberties removed. Then they faced a choice: either repent, in which case they came through the period of oppression with another chance; or if they were angry and rebellious, they would then be “swept away.” Being destroyed is not at all the same as being “swept away.” It is possible for people to have been destroyed and not even realize it. But when they are “swept away,” they face extinction and cannot help but notice it. (T&C glossary of terms, "Destroy")
If I use the above definition for destruction, then if I am embroiled in those things belonging to the great and spacious building can I expect to come into bondage of one sort or another?
I have often wondered if Lehi's vision is an overall view of what different paths or objectives if pursued to the end will end up at.
How does repentance fit in?
Even if a choice has been made ad the head of the filthy waters to pursue the direction of the building or end up in a strange road can a person repent and return to the head of the filthy waters and then decide to enter the path?
It would appear that once on the path or at the tree that to turn from righteousness at that point entails receiving a much greater condemnation.
Is it possible to repent even at that point?
Is there a point of no return?
The prophet Joseph stated the following.
The doctrine that the Presbyterians and Methodists have quarreled so much about—once in
grace, always in grace, or falling away from grace, I will say a word about. They are both wrong.
Truth takes a road between them both, for while the Presbyterian says: “Once in grace, you cannot
fall”; the Methodist says: “You can have grace today, fall from it tomorrow, next day have grace
again; and so follow on, changing continually.” But the doctrine of the Scriptures and the spirit of Elijah would show them both false, and take a road between them both; for, according to the Scripture, if men have received the good word of God, and tasted of the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, it is impossible to renew them again, seeing they have crucified the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame; so there is a possibility of falling away; you could not be renewed again, and the power of Elijah cannot seal against this sin, for this is a reserve made in the seals and power of the Priesthood. (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pgs. 338 - 339)
Is this state portrayed in Lehi's vision?
Lehi closes with what I perceive to be the only safe course.
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 —
What gave Lehi and the others the power to heed not the fingers of scorn?
Again I looked at a definition in the glossary of terms that seems to shed some light on this.
Temptation
All can fill themselves with the mind of God, and if they do so, they will find themselves, as the scriptures recite, having no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually (Mosiah 3:1). This kind of repentance comes as a consequence of the things one knows, as a consequence of the light and truth within one. It causes temptation to disappear because one gives it no heed. This is how the Lord overcame all temptations. He suffered temptations, but gave no heed unto them (JSH 16:6). When someone “gives heed” to his temptations, he loses the battle our Lord won. It is possible to live in a world filled with sin and avoid becoming embroiled in the errors. “Do not let your eyes focus on the wickedness you see around you, but look up to Heaven and the example of Heaven’s God, where there is no corruption.”(T&C Glossary of terms, "Temptation")
It would appear that the only safe course to pursue is to continue to partake of the fruit which I believe is a symbol of light and truth; making the connection to the mind of God greater and greater.
Nephi, in his description of the Doctrine of Christ states the following.
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. Wherefore, now after I have spoken these words, if ye cannot understand them, it will be because ye ask not, neither do ye knock. Wherefore, ye are not brought into the light, but must perish in the dark. For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way and receive the holy ghost, it will shew unto you all things what ye should do. Behold, this is the doctrine of Christ, and there will be no more doctrine given until after he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh. And when he shall manifest himself unto you in the flesh, the things which he shall say unto you shall ye observe to do. (2 Nephi 32:1 - 6, NC 2 Nephi 14 par. 1)
Nephi states that those feasting on the words of Christ, those who have received the holy ghost, all things that they should do will be shown unto them.
Could this be an interpretation of continuing to partake of the fruit of the tree and not giving heed to the finger of scorn?
Nephi speaks of a time for anyone who follows this path where the Doctrine of Christ will be complete in the life of the faithful individual and Christ will appear to them in the flesh and then He, Christ, will teach them what they should observe to do.
If Lehi's vision is an allegory for the Doctrine of Christ as explained by Nephi then does Lehi's vision portray this event of the Lord appearing in the flesh to individuals or is that something that happens further along and not portrayed?
It is so hard to boil things down in such a limited format. I am sure there is so much more to look at and to consider. I hope that I may have many opportunities to learn from the Lord and to converse with others to gain new understanding concerning these things.
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