Doctrine and Covenants 136

Published on October 15, 2025 at 6:30 PM

A Blueprint for the Saints in the Wilderness

The plains of Nebraska in 1847 were a far cry from the bustling city many Latter-day Saints envisioned. Yet, it was in this stark landscape, amidst the arduous journey westward, that a pivotal revelation unfolded. Doctrine and Covenants 136, received by President Brigham Young, serves as a profound testament to divine guidance, leadership, and the unwavering faith of a people seeking their promised Zion. This revelation, a cornerstone of Mormonism and Utah history, offers a blueprint for establishing the kingdom of God on earth and lays the groundwork for future events and blessings.

Brigham Young’s Commission: Leading the Way West

As the Pioneer Company, led by Brigham Young, pressed onward towards the Rocky Mountains, the need for clear direction and spiritual fortification was paramount. This was not simply a migration; it was a divinely orchestrated exodus, a gathering of Israel to a new land. Doctrine and Covenants 136 was the Lord’s answer to their prayers, a confirmation of their sacred mission.

Brigham Young, a steadfast and inspired leader, was entrusted with this momentous task. The revelation underscores the importance of his prophetic mantle, emphasizing that his words, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost, were to be received as the will of the Lord. This principle of righteous leadership is central to the Restoration, assuring the Saints that their efforts were guided by divine authority.

Temple Dedication & Prophecy: Building Sacred Ground

A significant portion of the revelation speaks to the future building of temples. Even in the midst of their challenging journey, the Lord revealed His mind and will concerning the construction of sacred edifices. Doctrine and Covenants 136 contains prophetic pronouncements about the dedication of the Salt Lake Temple, a structure that would become the spiritual heart of the growing community.

The Lord said, "Stop fighting and be united in all your councils, as you are in all the bonds of spiritual union, until you are ready to prepare for your journey." This instruction emphasizes the critical importance of unity and collaboration, particularly as they readied themselves to construct monumental edifices dedicated to the Lord. The promise associated with these sacred places is immense, offering blessings and covenants that bind families eternally.

Zion’s Foundation in Salt Lake City: A Sanctuary for the Faithful

The vision of Zion, a holy city, was taking shape in the hearts and minds of the Latter-day Saints. Doctrine and Covenants 136 provides critical directives for the establishment and organization of this new gathering place. The revelation clarifies that while many were scattered, the Lord was establishing His covenant people in the valleys of the mountains.

The Saints were called to "prepare for yourselves a place and a city, and a place for encampment, which shall be called the city of the stake of Zion." This wasn't just about building physical structures; it was about building a community founded on principles of righteousness, mutual support, and obedience to divine law. Salt Lake City, in its nascent stages, was envisioned as a refuge and a center for the administration of God’s kingdom.

Gathering Israel & Future Blessings: A Prophecy of Growth

The revelation’s overarching theme is the gathering of the scattered tribes of Israel. Doctrine and Covenants 136 reassures the Saints that the Lord is orchestrating this grand design, and their trek westward is a vital part of it. The Lord promised, "And it shall come to pass that the righteous shall be gathered out from among all nations and come unto Mount Zion and unto the stakes of Zion."

This gathering is not merely a physical one; it is a spiritual homecoming. It signifies a time when those who choose to follow Christ and His restored gospel will be united in purpose and fellowship. The future blessings promised are immense, encompassing peace, prosperity, and the continued manifestation of God’s power among His covenant people.

Obedience & Divine Guidance: The Key to Success

Throughout Doctrine and Covenants 136, the emphasis on obedience and listening to prophetic counsel is undeniable. The Lord’s directions are clear: "If you continue in the faith and obedience of the commandments of God, ye shall be led to victory." This principle remains a guiding light for Latter-day Saints today.

The revelation serves as a perpetual reminder that through obedience to God’s revealed word and the inspired leadership He provides, His children can overcome adversity, build His kingdom, and partake of His eternal blessings. Doctrine and Covenants 136 is more than just a historical document; it’s a living testament to divine guidance, a blueprint for Zion, and a powerful promise of future events for the faithful. It reminds us that even in the most challenging circumstances, the Lord watches over His people and reveals His will to lead them to their eternal inheritance.

Thank you so much for visiting my site; you are a blessing. You are welcome to leave any questions or comments in the space provided below.

What have you learned?

What is the historical context of Doctrine and Covenants 136? Where were the Saints, and why was this revelation given?"
Who received this revelation, and why is that significant for the Doctrine and Covenants?
What were the most important instructions the Lord gave the saints regarding how they should organize their journey?
Besides practical organization, what did the Lord emphasize about the Saints' attitude and covenant in this section?
Why is Doctrine and Covenants 136 still important for members of the church today, even though the pioneer journey is finished?

ANSWERS

Doctrine and Covenants 136 was received at Winter Quarters, Nebraska, in January 1847. This was a critical time: the Saints had been driven from Nauvoo and spent the harsh winter gathered on the Missouri River, preparing to continue their journey to the West. This revelation was given because the Lord needed to provide a detailed, organized plan for the migration. It was essential to have strict organizational rules—including captains, guards, and specified responsibilities—to ensure the safety and survival of thousands of people moving across the unpopulated plains.
Brigham Young, who was the President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and later the second President of the Church, received this revelation.

This is significant because D&C 136 is the only section in the Doctrine and Covenants that was given through Brigham Young. It confirms his role as the Prophet and authorized leader after the death of Joseph Smith and shows that the Lord continued to guide His people through revelation after the martyrdom.
The Lord stressed the absolute necessity of unity and organization for survival. The key instructions included
1. Organization by Companies: The "Camp of Israel" was to be divided into manageable companies, headed by captains of hundreds, fifties, and tens.
2. Preparation: Every company was required to be prepared with wagons, teams, provisions, and clothing.
3. Mutual Care: The Saints were commanded to care for the poor, the widows, the fatherless, and the families of those men who had gone on special missions or served in the Mormon Battalion. No one was to be left behind if they could be helped.
The Lord commanded the Saints to approach the journey with a specific spiritual attitude. They were told:
1. To be humble and joyful (D&C 136:28).
2. To sing, pray, and praise the Lord (D&C 136:28).
3. To live by the covenant: "Let my counsel be given to the first presidency and to those who are appointed to manage the affairs of the Camp of Israel, and let them keep all my commandments" (D&C 136:4).

Essentially, the Lord required them to covenant to obey the specific instructions concerning the trek and to live righteously while undertaking this immense physical task.

5. D&C 136 contains timeless principles of discipleship that apply to building the Kingdom of God today:

Unity and Order: It teaches that any successful endeavor (whether building a temple, conducting missionary work, or raising a family) requires careful organization and unity under appointed leaders.
Caring for the Poor: The commandment to care for the needy and the dependent is a central tenet of the gospel, regardless of location or time.
Trust in Guidance: It reinforces the principle that when the Saints listen to the Word and Will of the Lord given through His prophets, they will be preserved and prosper.