Expository Study of Alma 40
Understanding the Plan of Salvation, Pre-existence, and Resurrection

Ever wondered how the teachings in Alma 40 can deepen your understanding of the Plan of Salvation? This chapter sheds light on the doctrine of Pre-existence, the Plan of Salvation, and the resurrection, which are central to Latter-day Saint theology. Through Alma’s words, we learn about the state of the soul after death and before the resurrection, offering clarity and hope about our eternal journey.

In Alma 40, the resurrection isn’t just a distant event; it’s a pivotal part of our spiritual path, assuring us that our spirits continue after death and will reunite with our bodies. This doctrine is crucial in comprehending how life, death, and resurrection fit into the eternal Plan of Salvation. By grasping these concepts, we see our life’s purpose more clearly and understand the eternal significance of our choices.

Stay with me as we unpack these profound doctrines and see how they interconnect to form the foundation of our faith. Through this expository study, you’ll gain greater insight into the promises and hope that the Plan of Salvation offers to all of us.

Understanding the Plan of Salvation

The Plan of Salvation, sometimes called the Plan of Happiness, is a central tenet in many Christian denominations, especially within the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). This plan outlines God’s design for the happiness and eternal destiny of His children. According to LDS beliefs, the Plan of Salvation explains the purpose of life, the role of Jesus Christ, and the journey from pre-mortal existence to the afterlife. Using Moses 1:39 as a foundation, we learn that God’s purpose is simple yet profound: “For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.”

Joseph Smith on the Plan of Salvation

Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS Church, offered extensive teachings on the Plan of Salvation. These insights can be found in various church publications, including the “History of the Church” and other recorded sermons and letters. One significant reference is found in History of the Church 4:597, where Joseph Smith emphasizes God’s intricate design and deep understanding of human needs.

Joseph Smith taught that God has an all-encompassing knowledge of both the living and the dead, and has created a comprehensive plan for their salvation. He said, “He knows the situation of both the living and the dead, and has made ample provision for their redemption, according to their several circumstances, and the laws of the kingdom of God, whether in this world, or in the world to come” (History of the Church 4:597).

This teaching highlights three essential points:

1. Divine Knowledge and Care: God is fully aware of every individual’s circumstances and needs.
2. Provision for All: The Plan of Salvation is inclusive, addressing the salvation of both the living and the dead.
3. Universal Laws: The laws governing this plan are consistent whether in the present life or the afterlife.

Joseph Smith also outlined that the Plan of Salvation had been in the works before the world even began. It was during the premortal life, which includes a preparatory phase before we are born on Earth, that Jesus Christ was chosen to be the Savior. This choice was critical for the implementation of the Plan of Salvation.

In the premortal world, much like a grand council meeting, we all accepted this plan and were eager for the opportunity to come to Earth. This illustrates our eternal nature and the journey set before us to gain a physical body, acquire knowledge, and face life’s tests and challenges. These experiences are designed to help us grow and prepare for eternity.

The teachings of Joseph Smith on the Plan of Salvation are profound, offering a detailed roadmap for understanding life’s purpose and our eternal journey. They act as a guiding light, showing us that everything, both seen and unseen, is part of God’s grand design for our happiness and eventual return to His presence. This is the essence of the Plan of Salvation, a doctrine that brings hope and clarity to life’s biggest questions.

Jewish Perspectives on Pre-existence and Creation

In Jewish thought, the idea of pre-existence and creation is foundational yet complex. It explores the principles of what existed before the world and how the universe came into being. Jewish teachings and texts, like the Babylonian Talmud and Bereshit Rabbah, offer insights into these ideas.

Pre-existence in Jewish Thought

Jewish perspectives on pre-existence often center around the concept that certain things existed before the world’s creation. According to the Babylonian Talmud (Tractate Pesahim 54e)¹, six entities were created before the world:

1. The Torah
2. Repentance
3. The Garden of Eden
4. Gehenna (Hell)
5. The Throne of Glory
6. The Messiah

These six items were considered God’s initial framework before physical creation occurred. It suggests that elements of salvation and divine planning were set in place from the beginning.

Creation Narrative in Bereshit Rabbah

In Bereshit Rabbah 1², it explains that the world wasn’t made out of nothing but was formed using pre-existent material. This midrash interprets Genesis to show that creation was a process involving divine wisdom and purpose.

• Wisdom and Torah: The world was created with the Torah as its blueprint, signifying the importance of divine law and wisdom.
• Creation Ex Nihilo: Although there might be pre-existent elements, traditional Jewish belief reconciles this with the idea that God can bring forth existence from a prior state of nothingness.

The Plan of Salvation

The doctrine of pre-existence ties seamlessly with the Plan of Salvation in Jewish thought. By establishing these key elements before the world’s creation, it showcases a meticulous plan meant to guide humanity.

• Repentance: This pre-existing concept highlights that the opportunity for redemption was available before humanity’s fall.
• Messiah: The pre-existence of the Messiah reinforces the integral role of divine salvation in Jewish eschatology.

Conclusion of Pre-existence and Creation

Jewish teachings about pre-existence and creation emphasize a world built on divine wisdom and order. From the Torah to the Messiah, these pre-existent elements highlight a grand design meant to shape the path of salvation and existence itself. Understanding these perspectives deepens our appreciation of how ancient Jewish beliefs connect with broader theological concepts.

Alma 40: The Eternal Present

In the Book of Alma, chapter 40, we find profound insights into the nature of time and existence from a divine perspective. Alma speaks about the resurrection and the eternal nature of life with God. Verses 4-10, in particular, introduce the idea that “all is as one day with God,” suggesting an “Eternal Present.”³ This perspective helps frame the plan of salvation and life after death in a way that comforts and guides believers.

Comparative Insights: Insights from Shlomo Yaffe and Yanki Tauber’s article “What Happens After Death?” with Alma 40

Both Shlomo Yaffe and Yanki Tauber explore what happens after death in their article “What Happens After Death?”⁴ They provide a unique understanding that aligns closely with the teachings found in Alma 40. Let’s break this down:

1. The Eternal Nature of the Soul
   • Alma 40: Alma explains that resurrection is a reinstatement of the body to a perfect form and emphasizes that the soul lives beyond physical death. This resonates with the plan of salvation, where our lives are part of a larger, eternal journey.
   • Yaffe & Tauber: Similarly, they highlight that the soul transcends physical demise and continues its journey in the afterlife. They discuss how the soul retains its identity and essence, similar to Alma’s teachings about eternal progression.
2. Divine Timelessness
   • Alma 40:8: Alma states, “All is as one day with God,” suggesting that God’s perception of time is different from ours. This “Eternal Present” means that past, present, and future are one to God.
   • Yaffe & Tauber: They touch on the idea that God exists outside of our linear perception of time. This aligns with Alma’s suggestion that God’s viewpoint encompasses all time simultaneously, thus He sees the plan of salvation in its entirety.
3. Resurrection and Judgment
   • Alma 40:9-10: Alma details the resurrection and judgment, where the righteous are restored to happiness and the wicked to misery, emphasizing the fairness and justice of God’s eternal plan.
   • Yaffe & Tauber: In their discussion, they also mention a form of judgment and eventual peace or turmoil based on one’s earthly deeds. They emphasize a compassionate, all-knowing deity who judges fairly, much like Alma’s description.

The comparison reveals a common theme: the eternal nature of the soul and divine timelessness. Both sources provide comforting assurances that life continues beyond death as part of an all-encompassing divine plan. This perspective is crucial for understanding the plan of salvation, offering peace and purpose to believers as they navigate their mortal existence.

Understanding these insights helps us appreciate the harmony between different theological viewpoints and enriches our comprehension of the eternal truths taught in the scriptures.

Alma 40 and Christ’s Teachings

In Alma 40, we find a detailed account of resurrection and life after death. Comparing it with Christ’s teachings in John 5:18-24, we gain a deeper understanding of the eternal present and the plan of salvation. Let’s explore these passages and the profound lessons they offer.

Alma’s Explanation of Resurrection

Alma speaks boldly about resurrection, addressing his son Corianton who struggled with understanding life after death. Alma emphasizes that the resurrection is integral to God’s plan of salvation.

• Resurrection and Eternal Present: Alma 40:4-10 discusses how the resurrection will come to everyone, both the good and the bad. This ties directly into Christ’s words in John 5:18-24, where Jesus declares, “the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live.” Both Alma and Christ are stressing that resurrection isn’t just a future event, but something happening now.

Jesus’ Teachings in John 5

In John 5:18-24, Jesus teaches the Jews about his divine power and authority. Here are the key points from this passage:

• Equality with God: Jesus makes a bold statement about his relationship with God the Father, “For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son.” This declaration underscores the inseparable nature of Christ’s mission in the Plan of Salvation.
• Promise of Eternal Life: Jesus promises eternal life to those who believe in Him. This is congruent with Alma’s assurance of resurrection, reinforcing the idea that belief in Christ is central to eternal life.

The Role of Resurrection in the Plan of Salvation

Understanding the resurrection is vital to grasping the Plan of Salvation. Here’s how:

• Step in God’s Plan: Resurrection signifies a key step in our progression. It’s not just a return to life but an advancement towards eternal life.
• Perfect Bodies: Alma teaches that our bodies and spirits will be reunited perfectly (Alma 40:23). This fullness is a part of God’s plan to bring us to a complete, eternal state.
• Judgment and Justice: Both Alma and Christ highlight the role of judgment post-resurrection. It’s a time when everyone receives according to their works, woven into the fabric of divine justice.

Lessons and Personal Reflection

By comparing Alma’s teachings with those of Christ, we can glean several important lessons:

• Faith in Christ: Resurrection is a demonstration of Christ’s power. Believing in Him is fundamental to being a part of this eternal promise.
• Ongoing Reality: The resurrection and the eternal present remind us that God’s plan is continuously unfolding. We are part of an ongoing, divine story.
• Purpose Beyond Life: Understanding the resurrection gives life greater meaning. It’s a reminder that our actions here affect our eternal journey.

Why it Matters

Thinking about these scriptures, one might wonder – why do they matter so much? Simple. They offer hope and clarity. In a world often filled with confusion, these teachings provide a roadmap for life and beyond. They assure us that death is not the end but a step in a greater, divine plan.

The resurrection isn’t just a future promise but a current reality shaping our choices, actions, and faith every day. As we strive to align our lives with Christ’s teachings, we are actively participating in God’s grand plan of salvation.

Resurrection: Insights from Key Figures

When discussing the doctrine of resurrection, it’s vital to understand insights from key figures in the faith. One such figure is Elder Neal A. Maxwell, whose book A Wonderful Flood of Light offers profound reflections on this doctrine. Let’s look at some significant insights he provides, focusing on how they relate to the Plan of Salvation.

The Nature of Resurrection

Elder Maxwell explains that resurrection is not just about our bodies coming back to life but about becoming whole again. He describes it as a reunion of the body and the spirit, completing our journey from mortality to immortality. This reunion is an essential part of the Plan of Salvation, allowing us to return to our Heavenly Father.

The Universality of Resurrection

According to Elder Maxwell, resurrection is not just for a select few. It’s a universal gift from God, promised to all His children. This mirrors the inclusive nature of the Plan of Salvation, which is designed for every individual.

Key Points:

• Resurrection is a gift from God to all His children.
• It underscores the inclusive nature of the Plan of Salvation.

The Timing of Resurrection

Elder Maxwell elaborates on the timing of resurrection, emphasizing that it occurs according to God’s timetable. This means that while some may be resurrected at the Second Coming of Christ, others may wait longer. This timing aligns with God’s perfect knowledge and justice, which are core components of the Plan of Salvation.

Key Points:

• Resurrection happens according to God’s timetable.
• It demonstrates God’s perfect knowledge and justice.

Implications for our Daily Lives

The doctrine of resurrection has practical implications for our daily lives. Elder Maxwell suggests that knowing we will be resurrected can give us hope and courage. It can help us to endure challenges and strive for a life that aligns with God’s will.

Key Points:

• Knowing about resurrection can provide hope and courage.
• It encourages us to live according to God’s will.

Final Thoughts

Though not exhaustive, these insights from Elder Neal A. Maxwell’s A Wonderful Flood of Light can deepen our understanding of the resurrection. They highlight how this doctrine fits into the broader Plan of Salvation, offering hope and clarity.

The State of the Soul After Death

The state of the soul after death has puzzled humans for centuries. Religion, philosophy, and literature have all tried to explain what happens when we die. For a clear understanding, we can turn to Alma 40:11-15 in the Book of Mormon, which offers a unique perspective on the state of the soul between death and the resurrection and connects deeply with the Plan of Salvation.

Heaven and Hell in Jewish Thought

Sheol: The Jewish Underworld

In Jewish thought, the concept of the afterlife is not as clearly defined as in many other religions. One of the oldest ideas is Sheol, a shadowy place where souls go after death. Here, souls exist in a state of neither joy nor suffering, but rather a silent, dormant state. This concept differs drastically from the Christian notions of a vivid Heaven and Hell.

Gehenna and Gan Eden

Over time, Jewish beliefs evolved to include more defined realms like Gehenna and Gan Eden. Gehenna is often compared to the Christian Hell, but with some differences. Souls that are not wholly righteous but not utterly wicked go to Gehenna to be purified before they can move on. This purification process typically lasts no more than 12 months, unlike the eternal damnation in Christian Hell.

Gan Eden, on the other hand, is somewhat akin to Heaven. Only the truly righteous souls ascend directly to Gan Eden, a place of peace and closeness to God. According to Rabbi Or N. Rose⁵, these concepts symbolize moral and spiritual purification rather than endless torment or reward.

Insights from Rabbi Or N. Rose

Rabbi Or N. Rose sheds further light on these ideas. He notes that while Jewish texts don’t agree on every detail, the overarching theme remains clear: the soul undergoes a process of growth and purification after death. This process ensures that each soul reaches its rightful place, whether it needs purification or is deemed righteous right away.

Connecting to Alma 40:11-15

In Alma 40:11-15, we find further details on the state of the soul after death. Alma explains that after death, all spirits return to God. The righteous are received into a state of happiness—paradise—while the wicked enter a state of darkness and weeping. This bears similarities to Jewish thoughts on Gehenna and Gan Eden, highlighting the universal quest for moral redemption and spiritual purification that is part of the Plan of Salvation.

Understanding the state of the soul after death is crucial. It not only provides comfort but also gives a moral compass for living a righteous life. As we navigate our lives, these doctrines remind us of the broader purpose and the eternal journey of our souls.

The Thief on the Cross: A Case Study

The story of the thief on the cross is one of the most compelling narratives of grace and hope in the Bible. Found in both Matthew 27:38-44 and Luke 23:39-43, it presents a unique perspective on salvation and the afterlife. As we explore this story, we’ll understand how the Plan of Salvation comes into play, especially when Jesus promises paradise to a repentant thief in his last moments.

Matthew’s Account

In Matthew 27:38-44, we see two thieves crucified alongside Jesus. Initially, both of them mock Him along with the crowd. This scene shows the raw human emotions of pain and scorn, even in their final moments.

• Mocking and Ridicule: The thieves, along with the passersby, jeer at Jesus, challenging Him to save Himself if He is truly the Son of God. This reflects a common struggle many have with faith in dire circumstances.
• Human Desperation: Despite their impending death, the thieves display human desperation and hopelessness, resonating with many who face their mortality.

Luke’s Perspective

In Luke 23:39-43, the narrative shifts as one thief has a change of heart. This account offers a deeper insight into individual repentance and forgiveness.

• Repentance and Faith: One thief, recognizing Jesus’ innocence and divinity, rebukes the other thief. He then asks Jesus to remember him when He comes into His kingdom. This represents a turning point, showing the power of last-minute faith.
• Promise of Paradise: Jesus responds with, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” This promise underscores the immediacy and certainty of salvation for those who believe.

The Idea of Paradise

Jesus’ mention of paradise is central to understanding the Plan of Salvation. Here’s what we can take away:

1. Instant Salvation: The thief’s faith, even in his final moments, secures his place in paradise. This emphasizes the reality of the infinite atonement of Christ and God’s grace, mercy, and justice.
2. The Nature of Paradise: Jesus’ promise of paradise suggests a place of peace and reunion with God. It assures believers that faith brings eternal life.

Lessons from the Thief on the Cross

The story of the thief on the cross teaches us several important lessons:

• Grace and Mercy: Salvation depends on God’s grace, mercy and our faith.
• Hope for All: No one is too far gone for God’s salvation. Even in our darkest moments, there’s hope if we turn to Him.
• Immediate Assurance: Jesus assures the thief of his place in paradise, reinforcing the immediacy and certainty of salvation upon true repentance and faith.

The thief’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith and the all-encompassing scope of the Plan of Salvation. It beautifully illustrates that even at the end of one’s life, a sincere turn towards Jesus can assure a place in paradise.

Apostolic Teachings on Resurrection

Understanding the apostolic teachings on resurrection, particularly as presented by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15, can deepen our comprehension of the Plan of Salvation and the promise of eternal life. Paul’s insights in this chapter are not just theological doctrines but foundational truths that offer hope and purpose.

The Centrality of Resurrection in the Plan of Salvation

The resurrection is not an appendage to the gospel; it’s its heartbeat. Paul starts by reminding the Corinthians of the gospel he first preached – a gospel that hinges on the fact that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. Without the resurrection, the Plan of Salvation crumbles.

Proof of the Resurrection

Paul doesn’t ask the Corinthians to accept the resurrection blindly. He lists witnesses who saw the risen Christ:

1. Cephas (Peter)
2. The Twelve Disciples
3. Over 500 Brethren at once
4. James
5. All the Apostles
6. Paul himself

By presenting these witnesses, Paul strengthens the credibility of Christ’s resurrection. It’s akin to having a lineup of eye-witnesses in a court case; it makes the resurrection undeniable.

The Consequences of Denying the Resurrection

Paul argues powerfully about the implications if there were no resurrection:

• Christian Faith Would be Useless: If Christ hasn’t been raised, then our preaching is in vain, and so is our faith.
• We Would Still Be in Our Sins: Without the resurrection, sin remains unchallenged and undefeated.
• Christians Who Have Died Would Be Lost: Those who have fallen asleep in Christ would have perished without hope.

These points underscore that the resurrection is not just a peripheral belief but essential to the “Plan of Salvation.”

The Order of Resurrection

Paul also explains the sequence of the resurrection:

1. Christ the Firstfruits: His resurrection is the guarantee of our future resurrection.
2. Those Who Belong to Christ at His Coming: When Jesus returns, all believers will be raised to life.

This ordered sequence presents a vision of hope and assurance that believers too will follow Christ in resurrection.

The Nature of the Resurrected Body

What will our resurrected bodies be like? Paul uses analogies to explain:

• Seed to Plant: Our current bodies are like seeds; they must die to bring forth a new, glorified body.
• Earthly Versus Heavenly Bodies: Just as there are earthly bodies, so too will there be heavenly bodies. Our resurrected bodies will be imperishable, glorious, powerful, and spiritual.

A Victory Over Death

Finally, Paul celebrates the ultimate victory over death:

• “Death is swallowed up in victory.”
• “O death, where is your sting?”

The resurrection isn’t just a future promise; it’s a present reality that impacts how we live now. It encourages us to stand firm, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain.

In essence, the apostolic teachings on the resurrection as laid out in 1 Corinthians 15 provide a profound understanding of the Plan of Salvation. It assures us that death does not have the final say, and through Christ, we have the hope of eternal life.

First and Second Resurrections

In our journey through the Plan of Salvation, understanding the First and Second Resurrections is crucial. Alma 40:16-22 provides us with profound insights into these events. Let’s explore the teachings on this topic, focusing on the insights from Joseph Fielding Smith and Bruce R. McConkie.

Joseph Fielding Smith and Bruce R. McConkie’s Views

Joseph Fielding Smith’s Insights

Joseph Fielding Smith, in his work “Doctrines of Salvation,”⁶ offers a comprehensive look at the First Resurrection. He teaches that the First Resurrection began with Jesus Christ himself. According to Smith, this resurrection is for the righteous, those who have lived according to God’s will. It includes all who have kept their covenants with God, from Adam’s time up until the second coming of Christ. Smith breaks it down into:

• The Morning of the First Resurrection: This includes the most faithful followers of Christ, who will rise at His second coming.
• Afternoon of the First Resurrection: This phase stretches until the end of the Millennium, where those who were somewhat faithful, but not as valiant, will be resurrected.

Smith emphasizes that this resurrection is not a singular event but a period where the faithful are steadily raised.

Bruce R. McConkie’s Commentary

Bruce R. McConkie, in his numerous writings and speeches, also illuminates the significance of the First Resurrection⁷. McConkie aligns closely with Smith but adds layers of understanding. He states:

• Pre-Christ Resurrection: Those who lived and died with faith before Christ’s resurrection were the first to be resurrected when Christ rose.
• Resurrection Timing: He agrees that the righteous will be resurrected in phases. McConkie mentions a specific order; prophets, patriarchs, and those who have held Melchizedek Priesthood keys will rise among the first.

McConkie also highlights that the First Resurrection is exclusive to the righteous. This underscores the immense importance of adhering to the principles laid out in the Plan of Salvation.

Both Smith and McConkie draw heavily from scriptural references:

• Alma 40:16-22: Emphasizes the resurrection’s certainty and the division between the righteous and the wicked.
• John 5:25-29a: Speaks of a spiritual awakening where the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God.
• Revelation 20:4: Details the millennial reign and resurrection of those who were beheaded for their testimony of Jesus.

Understanding these teachings can deepen our comprehension of the Plan of Salvation and the destinies that await us based on our choices and faithfulness in this life.

Understanding the Second Resurrection

The concept of the Second Resurrection is central to the Plan of Salvation. For those who seek a deeper understanding, this doctrine provides clarity on how our eternal fate is determined.

The Nature of the Second Resurrection

The Second Resurrection plays a crucial role in the grand scheme of things. Alma 40:26 states that those who didn’t follow the gospel will face a different fate. This includes the Sons of Perdition, individuals who have willfully rejected Christ after knowing Him.

Alma 40:26: “And the wicked shall go away into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and wailing and gnashing of teeth…”

This scripture makes it clear that this resurrection isn’t just a second chance. It’s a final judgment for those who knew the truth and turned away from it.

Biblical Insights: John and Revelation

The Second Resurrection isn’t unique to the Book of Mormon. Both John and Revelation speak about it, offering additional insights into its implications.

John 5:29b: “…and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.”

Here, John clarifies that the Second Resurrection brings a final judgment, not a reward. It’s the destiny for those who persist in their wickedness.

Revelation 20:12-13: “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened…and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”

Revelation aligns with John and Alma. The judgment is thorough, and no deed is overlooked. The Second Resurrection is part of the Plan of Salvation, ensuring that justice is served.

The State of the Sons of Perdition

The term “Sons of Perdition”⁸ refers to those who have fully rejected Christ. Their fate in the Second Resurrection is particularly severe.

• Total Knowledge and Rejection: They had a full understanding of Christ’s divinity and still chose to reject Him.
• Eternal Consequences: Unlike others who face temporary suffering, Sons of Perdition endure eternal darkness.

Alma 40 emphasizes that their suffering is a result of their conscious decisions. The Plan of Salvation includes mercy, but it also includes justice for those who reject divine truth.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the Second Resurrection is essential for grasping the full scope of the Plan of Salvation:

• Final Judgment: It ensures that every individual is judged according to their actions and choices.
• Just and Fair: It rewards righteousness and punishes wickedness, maintaining the balance of justice and mercy within God’s plan.

In summary, the Second Resurrection reveals God’s intricate plan for justice and clarity for our eternal progression. This doctrine motivates us to strive for righteousness and remain steadfast in faith.

Conclusion

Alma 40 intricately ties together the doctrine of Pre-existence, the Plan of Salvation, and the resurrection. These teachings provide a clear path for understanding our eternal journey.

Grasping our pre-mortal existence, mortal life, and resurrected state enriches our appreciation for the Plan of Salvation. This divine blueprint offers hope, purpose, and clarity.

Reflect on these truths and their impact on your life. Consider how the resurrection and pre-existence shape your daily decisions and spiritual goals. Explore further and share your insights.

Thank you for joining me on this spiritual exploration. Share your thoughts and let’s continue learning together.

ENDNOTES

1. The Babylonian Talmud is considered authoritative, second to the Tanakh where it helps guide Jewish religious piety and life today. See: The Babylonian Talmud – Jewish History (chabad.org). See Pesachim 54a:1 with Rashi (sefaria.org). It is also quoted in the Babylonian Talmud Tractate Nedarim 39b – referencing the same seven things created before the world was (Torah, Repentance, the Garden of Eden, Gehenna, the Throne of glory, and the house of the sanctuary, and the name of the Messiah). ↩︎
2. See Bereishit Rabbah 1 (sefaria.org). Bereshit Rabbah is a talmudic-era midrash on the Book of Genesis. It covers most of the book (excluding genealogies and similar passages) with verse-by-verse and often word-by-word commentary. Written in Hebrew mixed with Aramaic and occasional Greek words, its style is simple and clear. ↩︎
3. Hugh Nibley, “One Eternal Round” purchase through my Amazon Affiliate link: “Hugh Nibley began serious research on One Eternal Round as early as 1988. When Nibley’s long-time colleague Michael D. Rhodes took over the project following Nibley’s death in 2005, he was faced with thirty boxes of research notes and drafts, 450 computer files, and as many as twenty versions of one chapter. Fortunately, Michael is familiar with most of Nibley’s prodigious output, as well as the subjects listed in the preface, which are a reflection of Nibley’s mind and interests and which are all within the scope of One Eternal Round.
   
   Throughout Nibley’s long career, his critics have seen him as a patternist that has gone too far, conveniently seeing what fits and discarding what doesn’t. With One Eternal Round, it becomes more difficult to maintain this disparaging assessment of Nibley’s work. Nibley and Rhodes point out that they “are not picking convenient parallels at random,” but that the subjects treated in One Eternal Round are central and were of “immense importance” to the Egyptians. Joseph Smith’s explanation of Facsimile 2 is at the core of what they sought after: an understanding of the nature of life, the afterlife, and the cosmos, all of which would lead them to resurrection and godhood. Nibley’s book provides significant evidence of Joseph Smith’s authenticity by presenting for the first time many facts, symbols, and artifacts that he could not have known about in his day.” {From BYU Studies Quarterly Abstract} ↩︎
4. What Happens After Death? Chabad.org: One of the fundamental beliefs of Judaism is that life does not begin with birth, nor does it end with death. This is articulated in the verse in Kohelet (Ecclesiastes), “And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to G‑d, who gave it.”
   
   The Lubavitcher Rebbe would often point out that a basic law of physics (known as the First Law of Thermodynamics) is that no energy is ever “lost” or destroyed; it only assumes another form. If such is the case with physical energy, how much more so a spiritual entity such as the soul, whose existence is not limited by time, space, or any of the other delineators of the physical state. Certainly, the spiritual energy that in the human being is the source of sight and hearing, emotion and intellect, will and consciousness does not cease to exist merely because the physical body has ceased to function; rather, it passes from one form of existence (physical life as expressed and acted via the body) to a higher, exclusively spiritual form of existence.
   
   While there are numerous stations in a soul’s journey, these can generally be grouped into four general phases:
   i. the wholly spiritual existence of the soul before it enters the body;
   ii. physical life;
   iii. post-physical life in Gan Eden (the “Garden of Eden,” also called “Heaven” and “Paradise”);
   iv. the “world to come” (olam haba) that follows the resurrection of the dead.
   
   What are these four phases, and why are all four necessary? ↩︎
5. Rabbi Or N. Rose Heaven and Hell in Jewish Tradition: “What the next world is, however, is far from clear. The rabbis use the term Olam Ha-Ba to refer to a heaven-like afterlife as well as to the messianic era or the age of resurrection, and it is often difficult to know which one is being referred to. When the Talmud
    does speak of Olam Ha-Ba in connection to the afterlife, it often uses it interchangeably with the term Gan Eden (“the Garden of Eden”), referring to a heavenly realm where souls reside after physical death.
   
   The use of the term Gan Eden to describe “heaven” suggests that the rabbis conceived of the afterlife as a return to the blissful existence of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden before the “fall.” It is generally believed that in Gan Eden the human soul exists in a disembodied state until the time of bodily resurrection in the days of the Messiah.” ↩︎
6. Doctrines of Salvation, comp. Bruce R. McConkie, 3 vols. [1954–56], 2:295–97). ↩︎
7. (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 3 vols. [1971–73], 1:196). ↩︎
8. See this article from Faithful Answers, Informed Responses (FAIR) on the Sons of Perdition ↩︎