Discourses of Brigham Young

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

74447

Title

Discourses of Brigham Young

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This collection presents the essential doctrines of Brigham Young, the second President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and founder of Utah. Arranged from his stenographic reports spanning nearly thirty years, these discourses reveal a coherent system of faith applying Gospel principles to daily life, colonization, industry, and family. The text offers a self-revelation of a man who guided his followers through adversity with spiritual authority, practical wisdom, and unwavering devotion to the restoration of the Gospel.

Summary up to 500 words

In *Discourses of Brigham Young*, the second President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, presents a comprehensive system he terms the 'Gospel of Life and Salvation.' This work defines religion not merely as a spiritual path but as a practical guide for conquering the 'Great American Desert,' establishing industry, and building civilization. Young organizes his teachings around eternal laws that govern both temporal and spiritual affairs, emphasizing that true faith requires self-sustaining communities, thrift, and the proper use of wealth to beautify Zion. A central pillar of Young's doctrine is the nature of the resurrection. He asserts that while physical bodies return to dust, faithful individuals will be resurrected with immortal tabernacles, retaining their unique identity and intelligence. Death is portrayed not as an end but as a transition; spirits dwell in a glorious state free from Satan's influence until reunited with purified bodies by divine power. Young details the process where even those cast into the sea or buried in unmarked graves will receive new, glorified bodies composed of elements gathered from the earth. The text extensively addresses social and economic duties, advocating for the United Order, tithing, and adherence to the Word of Wisdom as essential laws for health and prosperity. Family life is treated with gravity; Young instructs on marriage, child-rearing, and parental duties, emphasizing that parents must teach by example. He also addresses persecution and political matters, urging Saints to remain obedient to God's laws while navigating earthly governments. Young defends Joseph Smith against critics, portraying him as a prophet delivered from enemies through divine protection. Ultimately, the discourses conclude with an exhortation to live godly lives so that one may face death without mourning. Young argues that those who honor their calling die in peace, securing a glorious resurrection. He encourages readers to live moral lives that can be scrutinized by holy beings, confident in the promise of eternal life and the ultimate triumph of righteousness over evil.

LLM editorial rating

4.5/5

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Categories

• Religion