The Articles of Faith, a concise statement of core knowledge, provide a foundational understanding of a particular religious or philosophical tradition. Typically, they address fundamental questions about the divine, humanity's relationship with it, and the ultimate destiny of individuals and the world. These articles frequently articulate the essence of God, the function of prophets or spiritual leaders, the significance of scripture or sacred texts, ethical principles governing human behavior, and doctrines concerning salvation, the afterlife, or reincarnation. Whether presented as a creed, a set of doctrines, or a guiding philosophy, the Articles of Faith serve as a touchstone for adherents, offering clarity, unity, and a framework for spiritual practice and understanding.

The Book of Mormon teaches that “all are alike unto God,” including “black and white, bond and free, male and female” (2 Nephi 26:33). Throughout the history of the Church, people of every race and ethnicity in many countries have been baptized and have lived as faithful members. During Joseph Smith’s lifetime, a few black male members of the Church were ordained to the priesthood. Early in its history, Church leaders stopped conferring the priesthood on black males of African descent. Church records offer no clear insights into the origins of this practice. Church leaders believed that a revelation from God was needed to alter this practice and prayerfully sought guidance. The revelation came to Church President Spencer W. Kimball and was affirmed to other Church leaders in the Salt Lake Temple on June 1, 1978. The revelation removed all restrictions with regard to race that once applied to the priesthood.

Official Declaration 1, known as the 1890 Manifesto, is a pivotal document in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Presented by President Wilford Woodruff, it marked the official end of the practice of plural marriage (polygamy) among Church members. The declaration was a response to mounting legal and social pressures from the U.S. government, including anti-polygamy laws and the threat of disincorporation and property seizure. By issuing the manifesto, President Woodruff sought to align the Church with the laws of the land, ensuring its survival and the ability to continue its broader spiritual mission. 

1–10, President Joseph F. Smith ponders upon the writings of Peter and our Lord’s visit to the spirit world; 11–24, President Smith sees the righteous dead assembled in paradise and Christ’s ministry among them; 25–37, He sees how the preaching of the gospel was organized among the spirits; 38–52, He sees Adam, Eve, and many of the holy prophets in the spirit world who considered their spirit state before their resurrection as a bondage; 53–60, The righteous dead of this day continue their labors in the world of spirits.

Joseph Smith, the Prophet, received a vision in the temple at Kirtland, Ohio, on January 21, 1836. The occasion was the administration of ordinances in preparation for the dedication of the temple. 1–6, The Prophet sees his brother Alvin in the celestial kingdom; 7–9, The doctrine of salvation for the dead is revealed; 10, All children are saved in the celestial kingdom.

The word and will of the Lord, given through President Brigham Young at Winter Quarters, the camp of Israel, Omaha Nation, on the west bank of the Missouri River, near Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Announcement of the martyrdom of Joseph Smith the Prophet and his brother, Hyrum Smith the Patriarch, at Carthage, Illinois, June 27, 1844. This document was included at the end of the 1844 edition of the Doctrine and Covenants, which was nearly ready for publication when Joseph and Hyrum Smith were murdered. 1–2, Joseph and Hyrum martyred in Carthage Jail; 3, The preeminent position of the Prophet is acclaimed; 4–7, Their innocent blood testifies of the truth and divinity of the work.

1–4, Governments should preserve freedom of conscience and worship; 5–8, All men should uphold their governments and owe respect and deference to the law; 9–10, Religious societies should not exercise civil powers; 11–12, Men are justified in defending themselves and their property.

1–6, The Saints are commanded to prepare for the Second Coming; 7–16, All men are commanded to flee from Babylon, come to Zion, and prepare for the great day of the Lord; 17–35, He will stand on Mount Zion, the continents will become one land, and the lost tribes of Israel will return; 36–40, The gospel was restored through Joseph Smith to be preached in all the world; 41–51, The Lord will come down in vengeance upon the wicked; 52–56, It will be the year of His redeemed; 57–74, The gospel is to be sent forth to save the Saints and for the destruction of the wicked.

Hey everyone! Today, I want to dive into a section of scripture that, for many, sparks a lot of questions and sometimes even controversy: Doctrine and Covenants 132. This revelation, given through Joseph Smith, is a cornerstone of LDS doctrine and holds profound insights into eternal marriage, the celestial kingdom, and the very nature of our eternal families. It's a deep dive, so let's break it down together.

The standard works contain brief, almost clinical passages that unlock the grandest promises of the gospel. For me, one of the most profound and concentrated revelations is Doctrine and Covenants 131. It might only be a few verses long, but the truths revealed here by the Prophet Joseph Smith fundamentally shape our understanding of the afterlife, eternal progression, and the path back to the presence of God.

Some sections of the LDS scripture, despite not being the longest, possess a profound impact. For me, Doctrine and Covenants 130 is one of those sections. It might be relatively brief, but its insights into the nature of God, our own incredible human potential, and the path to eternal life are simply breathtaking. Every time I delve into it, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and wonder.