This chronology includes around 240 instances or notations of speaking in tongues in Mormon History most quoting original sources. Some items are included to provide environmental context.
Speaking in tongues was an important aspect of Christianity including early 19th century America. Heber C. Kimball remembered he and Brigham Young visiting a group Mormons who spoke in tongues in 1832. The two men were baptized shortly thereafter, and it was reported that Brigham Young who introduced Joseph Smith to the gift. With the prophet's endorsement (including his singing in tongues), the practice spread. Other sources suggest the gift was heavily used earlier in 1830.
It is important to recognize the connection between Joseph Smith's view of ancient language and the gift of tongues. Joseph Smith saw the "Pure" language as being corrupted at the time of the Tower of Babel. He considered a restoration of aspects of this Pure or "Adamic" language as a part of his mission. Certain words such as the name of God, keywords mentioned in the facsimiles of the Book of Abraham and aspects of the temple endowment ritual were tied to the Adamic tongue. Often, when one spoke in tongues, fellow Mormons believed they were speaking in the Adamic language. Items having to do with the translation of ancient languages are not included here, except for a few references to translations of the characters from the Adamic language.
At other times Latter Day Saints felt they were speaking in Indian (Lamanite) dialects, and that this gift would be used to communicate with or convert American Indians whom were considered to be of the pure blood of Israel.
Speaking in tongues became an integral part of 19th century Mormon spirituality. Brigham Young would sometimes hold conversations with others in tongues. Women readily engaged in the practice of speaking and singing in tongues, as well interpreting. Patriarchal blessings often promised the gift, sometimes in conjunction with preaching to American Indians. One interpretation of a song in tongues was considered of such importance that it was included in a collection of revelations. Sometimes blessings were given in tongues.
As time went on, caution was urged. Interpretation was to accompany the gift, which was not to be taken as doctrine. Later the frequency of the gift slowed and eventually those who commonly spoke in tongues died off. Sometimes, manifestations of the gift in the 20th century were regarded with suspicion. Eventually church materials would define the gift of tongues primarily as the ability of missionaries or others to learn languages to preach the gospel.
Chronology
-- 1st century
The New Testament refers to the gift of tongues as a sign of those who believe.
-- 2nd - 4th centuries
A number of early Christian references are made to speaking in tongues, including Justin Martyr (150 AD), Tertullian (207 AD), Novatian (360 AD), Eusebius (339 AD) Chrysostom (407), and Augustine of Hippo (430).
-- 1265
Thomas Aquinas wrote about the gift of tongues in the New Testament, which he understood to be an ability to speak every language, given for the purposes of missionary work. He explained that Christ did not have this gift because his mission was to the Jews, "nor does each one of the faithful now speak save in one tongue"; for "no one speaks in the tongues of all nations, because the Church herself already speaks the languages of all nations".
-- 17th century
Early Quakers, such as Edward Burrough, make mention of tongues speaking in their meetings: "We spoke with new tongues, as the Lord gave us utterance, and His Spirit led us". (1)
-- mid-17th century
Roger Williams argued that true Christianity was lost under Constantine and that revelation was the means of authority (as opposed to a Baptist baptism or a Congrationalist covenant). This would open the 3rd dispensation (1. Primitive purity, 2. Transgression and apostasy, and -"There is a Time of purity and Primitive Sincerity, there in a time of Transgression and Apostacy, there is a time of the coming of the Babilonian Apostacy and Wilderness." This would be an age of spirit; in this "restauration of Zion . . . it may please the Lord againe to . . . powre forth those fiery streames againe of Tongues and Prophecie." (2)
-- Late January, 1800
An account of the people called shakers: The Gift of Tongues
"But this I well remember; that they were much abused and persecuted, Mother [Ann Lee] in particular. At one time, the worldly authority held a trial respecting her; when she was so endued with the spirit and power of God, that she spake before the court and a large concourse of people, in twelve different languages, to the astonishment of many present; particularly some of the learned, who understood her, when she spake in French, Hebrew, Greek, and Latin: also some being present who understood other languages." "There were many operations by the power of God, and wonderful gifts; as speaking in unknown tongues, trembling, groaning, and sometimes turning round . . ." [(testimony of Mary Hocknell, b. 1759, who joined the Shakers as a young woman in England, and with whom Brown conversed)]
On the third day after our arrival [thus, on about January 26, 1800], there came an elderly man (by name Seth Youngs) from Lebanon, . . . whom I had heard had the gift of speaking in unknown tongues, or in languages he did not understand . .. . . I was satisfied from the appearance of the man, and previous conversation, that he was not a man of learning. . . .
. . . After meeting, all the family sitting round the fire, as he was talking concerning the happiness of a religious life, suddenly his head shook, as if by a severe electric shock; he then closed his eyes and sung half an hour, in some language, said to be Hebrew. As soon as he ended, he said, "this was one of the songs of Zion;" . . .
The same evening he spake a few minutes in some Indian tongue, or it appeared such by the gesticulations, &c. He told us that, "he could only speak as he was inspired by the power of God, and then he had no will or power to stop; and that it often came upon him unexpected, and unthought of; and that he did not understand what he said, except when he had a sense of it given to him." I was informed of an illiterate sister at Lebanon, in the same order, that had the gift of interpretation of tongues; and that she sometimes could translate, or explain languages thus spoken:
[Brown, Thomas "An account of the people called shakers: Their Faith, Doctrines, and Practice, Exemplified in the Life, Conversations, and Experience of the Author During the Time He Belonged to the Society. To Which is Affixed a History of Their Rise and Progress to the Present Day."] (3)
-- Mar 26, 1830
The Book of Mormon, translated by Joseph Smith is published. It describes the gift of tongues as the tongue of angels, a gift given through the Holy Ghost. For example, see 2 Ne. 31: 13-14; Morm. 9: 7, 24; 2 Ne. 32: 2; Omni 1: 25; Alma 29: 8; 3 Ne. 29: 6. (4)
-- April 6th, 1830
The Holy Ghost was poured out upon the whole community . . . in a miraculous manner.... Some prophecied, [sic] many spoke with new tongues, and some . . . of our number were . . . completely overpowered for a time, that we were obliged to lay them upon beds &c &c, and when bodily sensibility was restored to them they shouted Hosanas to God and the Lamb—& declared that the Heavens had been opened unto them . . . that they had seen Jesus Christ sitting at the right hand of the Majesty on high, and many great and glorious things.
[Dean C. Jessee, ed., The Papers of Joseph Smith. Volume 1: Autobiographical and Historical Writings (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1989), 243. When the editors of the history moved this passage to its proper place, the reference to "new tongues" was dropped] (5)
-- 5 November 1830
John Murdock reported that upon being baptized, "the spirit of the Lord sensibly attended the ministration, and I came out of the water rejoicing and singing praises to God [possibly singing in tongues] and the Lamb." [John Murdock, "Autobiography," 12, 15, 16] (5)
-- Dec 1, 1830
Joseph Smith translates Moses 6:2-19 as part of his inspired translation of the Bible:
Moses 1:5-6 And a book of remembrance was kept, in the which was recorded, in the language of Adam, for it was given unto as many as called upon God to write by the spirit of inspiration; And by them their children were taught to read and write, having a language which was pure and undefiled. (6)
-- 1831
Campbellite Josiah Jones reported in 1831 that Lyman Wight "sung a song which no one ever heard before, and which they said was the most melodious that they ever listened to. It was sung in another tongue."
[Letter to the Editor, The Evangelist, June 1841. The letter, although published in 1841, is dated "Kirtland, 1831."] (5)
-- Before January 10, 1831
John Corrill, later a convert, visited Kirtland where he said he heard Mormons "speak in tongues unknown to me," and was informed by some non-Mormons who were present "that the tongues were regular Indian dialects, which I was also informed, on inquiry, the persons who spoke had never learned."
[John Corrill, A Brief History of the Church of Christ of Latter Day Saints, (Commonly Called Mormons) . . . (St. Louis: John Corrill, 1839), 9] (5)
-- Eary 1831
Describing the situation in northern Ohio in early 1831, Whitmer said Satan "took a notion to blind the minds of some of the weaker ones, and made them think that an angel of the Lord appeared to them and showed them writings on the outside of the Bible, and on parchment, which flew through the air, and on the back of their hands, and many such foolish and vain things others lost their strength, and some slid on the floor, and such like maneuvers, which proved greatly to the injury of the cause."
[F. Mark McKiernan and Roger D. Launius, eds., An Early Latter Day Saint History: The Book of John Whitmer, Kept by Commandment (Independence: Herald House, 1980), 36] (5)
-- February 4, 1831
Thomas Campbell, father of well-known founder of the Disciples of Christ, Alexander Campbell, spent the winter of 1830-31 in Mentor, Ohio, and on 4 February wrote to Sidney Rigdon, complaining that Mormon claims to authority based on charismatic displays of spiritual gifts were "in no wise superior to the pretensions of the first quakers, of the French Prophets, of the Shakers, of Jemima Wilkinson, &c." Campbell criticized the Mormons for "their feigned pretensions to miraculous gifts, the gift of tongues, &c," and challenged them to prove their possession of such gifts "in three or four foreign languages."
[As quoted in Howe, Mormonism Unvailed, 121] (5)
-- February 15, 1831
Eber D. Howe "A scene of the wildest enthusiasm was exhibited,. . . they would fall, as without strength, roll upon the floor, . . . they exhibited all the apish actions imaginable, making grimaces both horrid and ridiculous.... At other times they are taken with a fit of jabbering that they neither understand themselves nor any body else, and this they call speaking foreign languages by divine inspiration."
[Painesville (Ohio) Telegraph, 15 February 1831, 3] (5)
-- circa Mar 8, 1831
Revelation, circa 8 March 1831-A [D&C 46]
48th Commandment Marh concerning conformation & sacrament meetings &c ... And again it is given by the Holy Ghost to some to know the diversities of opperations whether it be of God or not so that the manifestations of the spirit may be given to evry man to prophet [profit] withall And again Verily I say unto you to some it is given by the spirit of God the word of wisdom to another it is given the word of Knowledge that all may be taught to be wise & to have knowledge & again to some it is given to have faith to be healed & to others it is given to have faith to heal And again to some it is given the working of miracles & to others it is given to prophecy & to others the decerning of spirits & again it is given to some to speak with tongues & to another it is given the interpretation of tongues & all these gifts cometh from [God] for the benefit of the children of God ... (7)
-- Probably 1831
Smith recalled the confused situation in Kirtland, "many false spirits were introduced, many strange visions were seen, and wild enthusiastic notions were entertained . . . and many ridiculous things were entered into, calculated to bring disgrace upon the church of God."
[Joseph Smith, "Try the Spirits,'" Times and Seasons 3 (1 April 1842): 747] (5)
-- May 1831
"... there are many spirits which are false spirits, which have gone forth in the earth, deceiving the world. ... if you behold a spirit manifested that you cannot understand, and you receive not that spirit ... "
[D&C 50] (5)
-- Oct. 24, 1831
[Ezra Booth] ... "Being carried away in the spirit" and "I know it to be so by the spirit," are well known phrases, and in common use in the Mormonite church. We will first notice the gift of tongues, exercised by some when carried away in the spirit. These persons were apparently lost to all surrounding circumstances, and wrapt up in the contemplation of things, and in communicating with persons not present. -- They articulated sounds, which but few present professed to understand; and those few, declared them to be the Indian language. A merchant, who had formerly been a member of the Methodist society, observed, he had formerly traded with the Indians, and he knew it to be their dialect. Being myself present on some of these occasions, a person proffered his services as my interpreter, and translated these sounds, which to me were unintelligible, into English language. One individual could read any chapter of the Old or New-Testament, in several different languages. This was known to be the case by a person who professed to understand those languages. In the midst of this delirium, they would, at times, fancy themselves addressing a congregation of their red brethren; and mounted upon a stump, or the fence, or from some elevated situation, would harangue their assembly, until they had convinced and converted them. They would then lead them into the water, and baptize them, and pronounce their sins forgiven. In this exercise, some of them actually went into the water; and in the water, performed the ceremony used in baptizing. These actors assumed the visage of the savage, and so nearly imitated him, not only in language, but in gestures and actions, that it seemed the soul and body were completely metamorphosed into the Indian. No doubt was then entertained but that this was an extraordinary work of the Lord, designed to prepare those young men for the Indian mission; and many who are still leaders of the church, could say, "we know by the spirit that it is the work of the Lord." And now they can say, "we know by the spirit that it was it is the work of the Devil." Most of those who were the principal actors, have since apostatized, and the work is unanimously discarded by the church. The limits, which my want of time to write, as well as your want of patience to read, compel me to prescribe for myself, will allow me only to touch on some of the most prominent parts of this newly-invented, and heterogeneous system. ... (8)
-- Between November 1831 and February 16, 1832
[Joseph Smith Translation] A new verse is created, splitting off from the previous verse -- Mark 16:17 ("17 In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;") (9)
-- January (?) 1832
[Heber C. Kimball diary] "Upon one occasion Father John Young, Brigham, Joseph and myself had gathered together to get some wood for Phineas H. Young; while we were thus engaged we were pondering upon the things which had been told to us by the elders, and upon the Saints gathering to Zion; and the glory of God shone upon us, and we saw the gathering of the Saints to Zion and the glory that would rest upon them, and many more things connected with that great event, such as the sufferings and persecutions which would come upon the people of God, and the calamities and judgments which would come upon the world. These things caused such great joy to spring up in our bosoms that we were hardly able to contain ourselves; and we did shout aloud, `Hosanna to God and the Lamb!' These things increasing our desires to hear more, I took my horses and sleigh and started for Columbia, Bradford County, Pennsylvania—distance one hundred and twenty-five miles; Brigham and Phineas Young and their wives went along with me. We stayed with the Church there about six days, attended their meetings, heard them speak in tongues, interpret and prophesy, which truly caused us to rejoice and praise the Lord. We returned home confirmed in the truth, but were not yet baptized, and as we were on our way we bore testimony to the truth of those things which we had seen and heard, and to our friends and neighbors; many received our testimony and became members of the Church. (10)
-- During January , 1832
[Brigham Young] In January, 1832, my brother Phinehas and I accompanied Heber C. Kimball, who took his horses and sleigh and went to Columbia, Pennsylvania where there was a branch of the Church. We travelled through snow and ice, crossing rivers until we were almost discouraged; still our faith was to learn more of the principles of Mormonism.
We arrived at the place where there was a small branch of the Church; we conversed with them, attended their meetings and heard them preach, and after staying about one week we returned home, being still more convinced of the truth of the work, and anxious to learn its principles and to learn more of Joseph Smith's mission. The members of the branch in Pennsylvania were the first in the Church who received the gift of tongues. (11)
-- circa March 1832
[Revelation] Sample of Pure Language, circa March 1832
A Sample of pure Language given by Joseph the Seer as copied by Br Johnson
Question What is the name of God in pure Language
Answer
Awmen.
Q The meaning of the pure word A[w]men
A It is the being which made all things in all its parts.
Q What is the name of the Son of God.
A The Son Awmen.
Q What is the Son Awmen.
A It is the greatest of all the parts of Awmen which is the Godhead
the first born.
Q What [DEL:is] is man.
A This signifies Sons Awmen. the human family the children of men
the greatest parts of Awmen Sons the Son Awmen
Q What are Angels called in pure language.
A Awmen Angls-men
Q What are the meaning of these words.
A Awmen's Ministerring servants Sanctified who are sent forth
from heaven to minister for or to Sons Awmen the greatest part of
Awmen Son. Sons Awmen Son Awmen Awmen (7)
-- Apr 14, 1832
Brigham Young (a carpenter and joiner) baptized, later receives the gift of tongues and interpretation; speaks in tongues. (12)
-- September 1832
[Heber C. Kimball diary] "In September, Brothers Brigham and Joseph Young and myself went up to Kirtland, Ohio, in my wagon, to visit the Prophet. * * * We saw Brother Joseph Smith and had a glorious time, during which Brother Brigham spoke in tongues before Joseph, this being the first time that Joseph had heard the gift of tongues. He rose up and testified that the gift was from God, and then the gift fell upon him and he spoke in tongues himself; he afterwards declared it was the pure or Adamic language which he spoke. * * * We had a precious season, and returned with a blessing in our souls. ..." (10)
-- Sep 8, 1832
[Brigham Young] September 8th, 1832, my wife died of consumption, leaving me two little girls, Elizabeth, born September 26th, 1825, in Port Byron, Cayuga County, New York, and Vilate, born June 1st, 1830, in Mendon, Monroe County, New York. In her expiring moments she clapped her hands and praised the Lord, and called upon Brother Kimball and all around to praise the Lord. After my wife's death I made my home at Brother Kimball's.
A few weeks after my baptism I was at Brother Kimball's house one morning, and while family prayer was being offered up, Brother Alpheus Gifford commenced speaking in tongues. Soon the Spirit came on me, and I spoke in tongues, and we thought only of the day of Pentecost, when the Apostles were clothed upon with cloven tongues of fire. (11)
-- After Sep 8, 1832
In September, 1832, Brother Heber C. Kimball took his horse and wagon, Brother Joseph Young and myself accompanying him and started for Kirtland to see the Prophet Joseph. We visited many friends on the way, and some branches of the Church. We exhorted them and prayed with them, and I spoke in tongues. Some pronounced it genuine and from the Lord, and others pronounced it of the devil. ...
In the evening a few of the brethren came in, and we conversed together upon the things of the kingdom. He called upon me to pray; in my prayer I spoke in tongues. As soon as we arose from our knees the brethren flocked around him, and asked his opinion concerning the gift of tongues that was upon me. He told them it was the pure Adamic language. Some said to him they expected he would condemn the gift Brother Brigham had, but he said, "No, it is of God, and the time will come when Brother Brigham Young will preside over this Church. The latter part of this conversation was in my absence. ..." [a later reconstruction from other sources] (11)
-- Autumn 1832
Ohio disciples receive gift of tongues [per Wilford Woodruff]. (12)
-- Nov 8, 1832
[Brigham Young Sermon] During this visit a meeting was held in which Brigham spoke in tongues. ... -- Kirtland, Ohio
[Diary of Charles Lowell Walker. Andrew Karl Larson, ed. Logan: Utah State University Press, 1980. 134] (13)
-- Nov 14, 1832
[Joseph Smith] In Kirtland Smith "speak[s] with Tongues and Sing[s] in Tongues also," having learned about speaking with "unknown tongues" from Young a week earlier. (14)
-- November 14, 1832
[Zebedee Coltrin] "the came to Kirtland to Brothers Joseph Smith and heard him Speak with Tongues and Sing in Tongues" (15)
-- November 18, 1832
[Zebedee Coltrin] "18 the went to meating the Lord blest [blessed] us much and in the Eaving [Evening] had meatig [meeting] Br Green Speak in tongs [tongues] and Br Joseph Smith with tongs [tongues] also by the Holy ghost" (15)
-- Jan 4, 1833
LETTER to N. E. Seaton, Esq. KIRTLAND, January 4th, 1833. Mr. Editor-Sir, Considering the liberal principles upon which your interesting and valuable paper is published, myself being a subscriber, and feeling a deep interest in the causes of Zion ...
For some length of time I have been carefully reviewing the state of things, as it now appears, throughout our Christian land; and have looked at it with feelings of the most painful anxiety. While upon one hand I behold the manifest withdrawal of God's Holy Spirit ...
Christ said to His disciples (Mark xvi: 17 and 18), that these signs should follow them that believe-"In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover;" and also, in connection with this, read 1st Corinthians, 12th chapter. By the foregoing testimonies we may look at the Christian world and see the apostasy there has been from the apostolic platform; and who can look at this and not exclaim in the language of Isaiah, "The earth also is defiled under the inhabitants thereof; because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinances, and broken the everlasting covenant?"
The plain fact is this, the power of God begins to fall upon the nations, and the light of the latter-day glory begins to break forth through the dark atmosphere of sectarian wickedness... (17)
-- January the 20th 1833
[Hyrum Smith Journals] I Hyrum Smith BaptiseD two in to the visiBle Church of Christ in <the> Beautiful waters of Kirtland the S[c]hool of Christ Began in Kirtland myself Spa[ke] with tounges anD many others ... (18)
-- Jan 22, 1833 (Tuesday)
Joseph Smith, jun., Sidney Rigdon, Frederick G. Williams, Newel K. Whitney, Hyrum Smith, Zebedee Coltrin, Joseph Smith, sen., Samuel H. Smith, John Murdock, Lyman E. Johnson, Orson Hyde, Ezra Thayer, Levi W. Hancock and William Smith assembled in conference at Kirtland, O. On this occasion the Prophet Joseph, Zebedee Coltrin and Wm. Smith spoke in tongues, "after which the Lord poured out his spirit in a miraculous manner, until all the Elders and several members, both male and female, spoke in tongues." Praises were sung to God and the Lamb, and speaking and praying in tongues occupied the conference until a late hour at night. (19)
-- January 22-23, 1833
"[Joseph Smith] spoke to the conference in another tongue, and was followed in the same gift by Brother Zebedee Coltrin, and he by Brother William Smith, after which the Lord poured out His Spirit in a miraculous manner, until all the Elders spake in tongues, and several members, both male and female exercised the same gift. Great and glorious were the divine manifestations of the Holy Ghost. Praises were sung to God and the Lamb; speaking and praying, all in tongues, occupied the conference until a late hour at night, so rejoiced were we at the return of these long absent blessings. [History of the Church, 1:323] (5)
-- 22-Jan 23, 1833
At a conference of elders, Joseph Jr. speaks in tongues and institutes the ordinance of washing feet. Joseph Sr. gives him a blessing. Lucy describes a private family meeting about this time at which Joseph Jr. washes his brothers feet; they speak in tongues and send a messenger for Lucy. She abandons her bread unbaked to join them. (20)
-- Jan 23, 1833
On the second day of the "conference of High Priests" in Kirtland "Conference opened with prayer by the President [Joseph Smith] and after much speaking, praying and singing, all done in tongues, proceeded to washing hands, faces [and] feet in the name of the Lord, as commanded of God, each one washing his own, after which the President girded himself with a towel and again washed the feet of all the Elders, wiping them with the towel. His father presenting himself, the President asked of him a blessing before he would wash his feet, which he obtained by the laying on of his father's hands pronouncing upon his head that he should continue in his Priest[']s office until Christ come."
-- Jan 24, 1833
The School of the Prophets commences in accordance with revelation of Dec. 27, 1832. One participant writes, "Much instruction received by the gift of tongues and the interpretation thereof. . . .[T]he science we engaged in for the winter was English grammar, of which we obtained a general knowledge."
-- After February 27, 1833
"Mysteries of God, As revealed to Enoch, on the Mount Mehujah, and sung in tongues by Elder D[avid] W. Patton [sic], of the 'Church of Latter Day Saints,'" -- heavily modified version from the Kirtland Revelations Book (who fell a Martyr to the cause of Christ, in the Missouri persecution,) and interpreted by Elder S. Rigdon.
Age after age has rolled away,
Since man first dwelt in mortal clay,
And countless millions slept in death,
That once supplied a place on earth.
According to the fate of man,
Which God has fixed, in his own plan,
So age must come, and age must go,
Till work complete is here below.
Which had been seen by saints of old,
And by the Prophets were foretold;
Which wondrous things are drawing hear,
That Enoch saw, and saints did cheer.
Enoch, who did converse with God,
Stood on the mount, and stretch'd abroad,
His soul, wide as eternity,
He rent the veil, and wonders see.
With mighty faith he did expand,
O'er heaven and earth, and sea and land,
Till things above and things below,
He did behold; yea, did then know.
His heart, he tun'd to notes above;
His soul o'erwhelm'd with boundless love;
He sang a song in heavenly lays,
While angels tongues joined him in praise.
With finger-end God touched his eyes,
That he might gaze within the skies;
His voice he rais'd to God on high,
Who heard his groans, and drew him nigh.
With joy and wonder, all amaz'd,
Amid the heavenly throngs he gazed;
While Heavenly music charm'd his ear,
And angel notes removed all fear.
Hosanna! he aloud did cry,
To God, who dwells amid the sky;
Again, hosanna did resound,
Among the heavenly host around.
His voice he rais'd in highest strains,—
Echoed and re-echoed again,
Till heaven and earth his voice did hear—
Eternity did record bear.
The trump of God around the throne,
Proclaim'd the power of God anon;
And sounded loud what should take place,
From age to age, from race to race.
Among the heavenly host he sand,
God's scheme of life for sinful man,
And for the Gospel's saving grace,
He prais'd the father, face to face.
The end of all his labors here,
Were all unfolded to him there;
His city raised to dwell on high;
With all the saints above the sky.
He saw before him all things pass,
From end to end, from first to last;
Yea, things before the world began,
Or dust was fashion'd into man.
The place of Adam's first abode,
While in the presence of his God,
Before the mountains raised their heads,
On the small dust of balance weigh'd.
With God he saw, his race began,
And from him emanated man;
And with him did in glory dwell,
Before there was an earth or hell.
From age to age, what e'er took place,
Was present there, before his face;
And to the latest years of man,
Was plain before him, Heaven's plan.
His eyes with wonder did behold,
Eternal glories yet untold;
And glorious things of later time,
Which Angels have to tell to man.
He then did hear, in days of old,
The message that to John was told,—
The angel, which the news did bring,
He heard him talk, and heard him sing.
He knew before the days of John,
What glories were on him to dawn;
The message which he did receive,
He heard, and saw, and did believe.
He knew full well, what John should hear,
Concerning times and latter years—
When God, again, should set his hand,
To gather Israel to their land.
The Gospel then, from darkest shades,
Should rise and go with rapid strides,
Till nations distant far and near,
The glorious proclamation hear.
The angel which this news proclaim'd,
Should come and visit earth again,—
Commit the gospel, long since lost,
To man, with power, as at the first.
AMEN. (21)
-- During Jun 1833
Saints in Zion (Missouri) receive gift of tongues [per Wilford Woodruff]. (12)
-- Jul 2, 1833
A Second Communication to the Brethren in Zion-- This communication to the Brethren in Zion (Missouri) ...
We received your letters of June 7th: one from Brothers William W. Phelps and Oliver Cowdery; one from Brother David Whitmer; and one from Brother Sidney Gilbert, for which we are thankful to our Heavenly Father, as also to hear of your welfare, and the prosperity of Zion. Having received your letters in the mail of today, we hasten to answer, in order that our reply may go with tomorrow's mail. ...
We are engaged in writing a letter to Eugene respecting the two Smiths, as we have received two letters from them; one from John Smith, the other from the Elder of the Church. As to the gift of tongues, all we can say is, that in this place, we have received it as the ancients did: we wish you, however, to be careful lest in this you be deceived.
Guard against evils which may arise from any accounts given by women, or otherwise; be careful in all things lest any root of bitterness spring up among you, and thereby many be defiled. Satan will no doubt trouble you about the gift of tongues, unless you are careful; you cannot watch him too closely, nor pray too much. May the Lord give you wisdom in all things. ... (17)
-- During July 1833
The Evening and Morning Star publishes an announcement titled "Free People of Color." So that any Mormon Negroes can migrate into Missouri without being captured as slaves, the announcement quotes the law that allows free Negroes to come and go unhindered. The southern settlers in Missouri, whose animosities toward the Mormons have been building all along, are infuriated by this announcement. They join together to form a secret constitution to rid themselves of the Mormons "peaceably if we can, forcibly if we must." They accuse the Mormons of (1) pretending to claim personal revelations, miracles, tongues, and thereby blaspheming God; (2) being deluded fanatics; (3) increasing in numbers daily; (4) being the very dregs of society; (5) raising sedition among the slaves; (6) inviting free Negroes and mulattoes of other states to become Mormons and move to Missouri; (7) declaring that God has given the state of Missouri to them.
(History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 1:374-76.) (22)
-- Sep 11, 1833
A council is held in Jackson County, Missouri. Bishop Partridge is acknowledged as head of the Church in Zion, and ten high priests are chosen to preside over the ten branches there. W. W. Phelps sings a song about the tribulations of the Nephites in tongues and Lyman Wight interprets the tongues. (22)
-- Oct 27, 1833-28
After visiting other villages in Upper Canada (Ontario), Joseph [Smith], Sidney [Rigdon], and Freeman [Nickerson] return to Mount Pleasant on the 24th. Joseph finds the people "very superstitious," but on Sunday, the 27th begin baptizing--twelve on Sunday, two on Monday. "One of the sisters got the gift of tongues which made the saints rejoice may God increse the gifts among them for his sons sake." (16)
-- Oct 28, 1833
[Joseph Smith Diary] 28th Appointed a meeting for this day Monday the 27th [28 October 1833] at the request of some who desires to be baptized. At candle lighting [we] held a meeting for confirmation. We broke bread [and] laid on hands for the gift of the Holy Spirit. [We] had a good meeting. The spirit was given in great power to some and the rest had great peace. May God carry on his work in this place till all shall know him. Amen.
Held [a] meeting yesterday at 10 o'clock. After [the] meeting two [people] came forward and were baptised. [We] confirmed them at the watter's edge.
Held [a] meeting last evening [and] ordained Br[other] E[leazer] F[reeman] Nickerson to the office of Elder. [We] had a good meeting. One of the sisters got the gift of toungues which made the Saints rejoice. May God incre[a]se the gifts among them for his Son's sake. (23)
-- Oct. 5-Nov 4, 1833
Joseph, Sidney Rigdon, and Freeman Nickerson leave Kirtland on a mission to Upper Canada and return to Kirtland. Their mission follows this itinerary: ... Two are baptized and confirmed; the gift of tongues is experienced .... (22)
-- During 1833
On the opening of the year 1833, the "gift of tongues" again made its appearance at head-quarters, and from thence extended to all their branches in different parts. Whether the languages now introduced, differed materially from those practiced two or three years previous, (and pronounced to be of the Devil,) we have not been informed. It appears that this last device, was all that was then lacking to make the system perfect. They had long before professed to be fully endowed with the power of healing all manner of diseases, discerning spirits, and casting out devils. But a succession of failures had rendered them rather stale, and given distrust to many of the faithful. A new expedient was therefore indispensably necessary, in order to revive the drooping spirits of the deluded, and at the same time, insure a new crop of converts. The scheme proved eminently successful. Hundreds were soon convinced of the truth of the whole, by hearing of and seeing the manner in which the "tongues" were performed, although the trick would seem more susceptible of discovery than any previous one. This gift was not confined to the Elders and high priests, who, in other respects, were supposed to have a superabundant share of "the spirit"; but nearly all the proselytes, both old and young, could show their faith by speaking with "tongues." And it would appear, from all the facts which we have been able to gather upon this subject, that if this gift were not supernaturally bestowed, it required but a few moments instruction from a priest, to render his pupil expert in various dead languages, which could never be understood by man or beast, except a supernatural power was at the instant given to some one present to interpret it. -- They sometimes professed to believe that these "tongues" were the same which were "confounded" at the building of Babel.
Some curious particulars are related respecting these blasphemous practices, by a Mr. Higby, who was eight months an Elder in the Mormon church, and which he published in a small pamphlet. He says that shortly after he joined them, a Mormon Elder said to him, "you must go to work in the vineyard of the Lord as a preacher of the Gospel. I have viewed your heart by the spirit of discernment; I see what is in your heart, and what the will of the Lord is, concerning you all," Mr. Higby says that he was soon after ordained an Elder in the said church, and commissioned to preach and baptize, ordain Elders, confirm the churches, heal the sick, in short, that he was ordained to all the gifts of the church, which were the same as given to the apostles of old. He continues -- "about the 10th of April following, R. Cahoon and D. Patton came again to the place -- a meeting was called, and previous to the meeting, they said that some one would speak with tongues before they left the place. Accordingly he set himself to work at that meeting to verify his prophecy. During the meeting he said, 'Father H. if you will rise in the name of Jesus Christ, you can speak in Tongues.' He arose immediately, hesitated, and said, 'my faith fails me --I have not faith enough.' -- Said Patton, 'you have -- speak in the name of Jesus Christ -- make some sound as you list, without further thought, and God will make it a language.' The old gentleman, after considerable urging, spoke and made some sounds, which were pronounced to be a correct tongue. Several others spoke in a similar manner, and among them was myself. I spoke as I listed, not knowing what I said, yet it was declared to be a tongue. The sound of the words used by some, in speaking in tongues, was a medium between talking and singing -- and all, as I am now convinced, a mere gibberish, spoken at random and without thought.
"We had another meeting shortly after, at which there were present several others, besides those of the church . -- Cahoon spoke in unknown tongues, as he pretended, going on at considerable length, which Patton interpreted nearly as follows: that the judgment of God should follow the men of this generation; that their tongues should be stayed that they should not utter; and their flesh should fall from off their bones; their eyes pine away in their sockets; and it shall come to pass that the beasts of the forest and the fowls of the air shall devour them, nearly as it is written in the prophets. He then asked me to speak, which I did, and he interpreted as he though proper.
"The next time those men came among us, they gave us a rule for speaking in unknown tongues, and also for interpreting what was spoken by others. This rule, they said, was perfect -- that as long as we followed it we could not err. And so I believe; it was a perfect rule to lead men astray. The rule, as given by Cahoon, is this: rise upon your feet and look and lean on Christ; speak or make some sound; continue to make sounds of some kind, and the Lord will make a correct tongue or language of it. The interpretation was to be given in the same way." Upon this, Mr. H. justly remarks: -- "Men of sense may smile at this recital; and those who scoff at all religion and know nothing of those feelings of the human heart which the devotional man enjoys, in converse with his Maker, will doubtless ridicule what they consider the weakness of folly; but the man of religious feeling will know how to pity, rather than upbraid, that zeal without knowledge, which leads a man to fancy that he has found the ladder of Jacob, and that he sees the angel of the Lord ascending and descending before his eyes; while the Christian philosopher, who has read the history of mankind, will find abundant apology for that man, who, by a constant and over anxious exercise of mind, is led at length to fancy himself on the banks of the Ulai with Daniel, or on the Isle of Patmos with St. John." The would frequently sing in this gibberish forming a tune as they proceeded. The same song they said, would be sung when the lost tribes appeared in Zion, in Missouri.
Another seceder from this delusion, relates that he was present on a certain occasion, in an upper room in Kirtland, where were assembled from fifteen to twenty Elders and High Priests. After sundry exhortation by the priests, the prophet himself arose, and with much earnestness, warned his followers to be zealous and faithful in their duties, saying, "It is our privilege to see God face to face -- yes, (says he) I will prophecy unto you in the name of the Lord, that the day will come when no man will be permitted to preach unless he has seen the Lord -- people will ask each teacher, 'have you seen the face of the Lord,' and if he say nay, they will say, away with this fellow, for we have a man to teach us that has seen the face of the Lord,'" After a short pause, he added, "the Lord is willing we should see his glory to-day, and all that will exercise faith, shall see the Lord of Glory." They then concluded to spend the day in fasting and prayer. Each one kept his seat with his eyes closed, and his body inclined forward. Soon after Joseph says, "Sidney (Rigdon,) have you seen the Lord?" He answered, "I saw the image of a man pass before my face, whose locks were white, and whose countenance was exceedingly fair, even surpassing all beauty that I ever beheld." Then Joseph replied, "I knew you had seen a vision but would have seen more were it not for unbelief." Sidney confessed his faith was weak that morning. Hiram Smith said he had seen nearly the same as Sidney, which was pronounced by Joseph to be the Redeemer of the world. Upon this, R. Cahoon fell upon his knees, holding his hands in an erect position. In fifteen or twenty minutes he arose and declared he had seen the temple of Zion, filled with disciples, while the top was covered with the glory of the Lord, in the form of a cloud. Another one then placed himself in the same position, but saw no vision, his faith being weak. Joseph next arose, and passing round the room laying his hand upon each one, and spoke as follows, as near as the narrator can recollect: --
"Ak man oh son oh man ah ne commene en holle goste en haben en glai hosanne hosanne en holle goste en esac milkea jeremiah, exekiel, Nephi, Lehi, St. John," &c. &c. After administering the sacrament, several of the brethren were called upon to arise and speak in tongues. Several of them performed with considerable applause. Our informant says he was at length called upon to speak or sing, "in tongues," at his own option -- preferring the latter mode, he sung, to the tune of Bruce's Address, a combination of sounds, which astonished all present.
This gibberish for several months was practiced almost daily, while they were about their common avocations, as well as when they assembled for worship. But we will not dwell upon this part of our history. A particular recital of such scenes of fanaticism, gives too much pain to the intelligent mind, and excites a contempt for our species.
We would here, barely ask the subjects of this delusion, and all others who may become so, whether it be possible, that the great and intelligent Ruler of the Universe, can be thus miraculously engaged in bestowing all sorts of language upon a few people merely for their own amusement? -- languages that can neither benefit themselves, or any one else, because no one can understand them. For the full introduction of the Gospel, the gift of tongues was wisely confered upon the Apostles & some others who were engaged in its first promulgation. But for what purpose? was it a mere pastime to them, by means of which they could divert each other, while assembled in their private rooms, without knowing the import of any thing they said? If such were the facts, then these modern tongues may be genuine -- But no -- they were for a wiser and more noble purpose -- a purpose every way worthy of that exalted Being. The gospel was to be proclaimed and published to "every creature," to perhaps a hundred different nations, all speaking a distinct tongue -- and to be preached, too, by a small number of men, who had been taught only a single language. Whenever they spoke in a language not their own, it was most clearly understood, by themselves and others, who had assembled from various nations, without the intervention of sooth-sayers, or one pretending to have the "spirit of interpretation." Will any one presume to compare the wisdom of God in those manifestations, with what has been related by Smith and his followers? Yes -- a distorted imagination can discover infinitely more power and glory in the unintelligible jargon of Mormonism.
If what has been exhibited here, are truly languages, they must be such as are spoken and understood by human beings somewhere: otherwise the names of "tongues" or languages will not attach to them. But they are a mere gibberish. If these people had the "gift of tongues," as they impudently assert, how much more consistent with rationality, and worthy of the Deity, would it appear for them to show it forth and test its true character, before an audience of French or Spanish, or some of the numerous Indian tribes in our country, all speaking different tongues, and to whom they profess to be more especially sent? No -- such an attempt would explode the whole system of folly and delusion. It would seem that they would much rather be talking their nonsense to each other, and declaring it to the world as an extraordinary manifestation of the power of God. (24)
-- January 1834
[Publication: 'The Unitarian'] "They . . . claim for themselves and the members of their church the power of speaking with tongues and of working miracles. They jabber with some strange sounds, and call this the speaking with tongues. They assert it as a fact, that among them the dead have been raised and the sick healed. From these facts, as they call them, they draw the conclusion that they are the members of the true church of Christ."
[The Unitarian. Conducted by Bernard Whitman. Cambridge and Boston: James Munroe and Company, Booksellers to the University, 1834.] (3)
-- February 5, 1834
[Greene M. Evan] Tuesday 5 this day we met at Brother Rud[d]s at the lake this evening we had a meeting and a powerful time it was [to?] there was quite a large company together and Brother Wm Ssmithe [William Smith] spake in the gift of tongues with much power. . Amen (25)
-- February 6, 1834
[Greene M. Evan] Wedneseday 6th this day we visited some of our Bretheren in Springfield in evening we held a meeting in the schooll house in that place and Brother Wm . . Smith . . [William Smith] spake on the subject of the order of Gods house or the church of Christ and also spake in the gift of tounges* and two men arose and began to make some disturbance in the assembly in talking in the most abusive maner* to Brother Wm and disturbed us considerable . . But through the grace of God we were able to overcome the devil and they at last left the house in peace and we had a verry good meeting and the Lord blest us much . . (25)
-- Feb 12, 1834 (Wednesday)
[Joseph Smith Sermon] (Location: Joseph Smith Home, Kirtland, Ohio, USA
Source: Orson Hyde Record in the Kirtland Council Minute Book....
Brother Joseph then proceeded to give an explanation of the gift of tongues: That it was particularly instituted for the preaching of the Gospel to other nations and languages, but it was not given for the government of the Church. He further said, if brother Gordon [the individual who had spoken in tongues] introduced the gift of tongues as a testimony against brother Carpenter, that it was contrary to the rules and regulations of the Church, because in all our decisions we must judge from actual testimony. . . . Brother Joseph advised that [we] speak in our own language in all such matters and then the adversary cannot lead our minds astray . . . Brother said . . . that brother Gordon's tongues in the end, did operate as testimony, as by his remarks in tongues, the former decision was set aside, and his taken. That it was his decision that brother Gordon's manifestation was incorrect and from a suspicious heart. (26)
-- February 26, 1834
[Greene M. Evan] On Tuesday 26 this evening had an appointment about two miles north of this in the morning met at Bro . . Segars and Baptised two in the evening filled our appointment just before meeting commenced a sister was taken with a distress in her stomach and called for us to lay hands on her we went out and prayed to know whether it was right for that people to have a sign and got the witness that she should be healed went in and laid hands on her and commanded the disease in the name of Jesus to depart from her and then I prayed that the cloud of darkness might be broke then I exhorted and contended for the gifts of the Church and for the first time the Lord poured out his spirit and gave the gift of toungs unto in pub* and we had a glorious time some were convinced of the power of God and the next morning (25)
-- March 5, 1834
[Greene M. Evan] it being Tuesday 5 in the evening they caried* me to Bro . S . to meeting here we had a powerful time it was a prayer meeting and lasted verry late after it was dismissed it seemed as though the people could not go away and we got to talking and a Bro. brooke* into the gift of toungs* and then an other Bro . and then the spirit of interpertation* came upon me it was a powerful exhortation their neighbors [-] came forward to be baptised and in the morning Bro. H . waited upon them it being soon after his ordination and in the place of his residence he was blesse[d] much in the afternoon we went to sister Woodworths to meet Bro J [Joseph Smith] and found him a starting for another place but we stoped* him there in the evening Bro's and Sisters* Winchester came here for a visit had a good one (25)
-- Jul 31, 1834
Samuel Brown's license is withdrawn for encouraging brethern to speak in tongues. (12)
-- Sep 8, 1834
New Portage, Ohio. At a conference of elders, Joseph Smith answered questions regarding the gift of tongues and told the brethren -"that it was particularly instituted for the preaching of the Gospel to other nations,-" and not for governing the Church. (27)
-- Sept. 8th, 1834
Minutes of a conference of the Elders of the Church of the Latter-Day Saints, held at New Portage Ohio. September 8th 1834. ...
Brother A. Palmer made a few observations, and proceeded to present a case which had previously occasioned some difficulty in the church. It was that a certain brother Carpenter had been tried for a fault before the church when the Church gave him a certain time to reflect whether he would acknowledge or not. Brother Gordon at the time spake in tongues and declared that brother Carpenter should not have any lenity. He, brother Palmer, wished instruction on this point, whether they had proceeded right or not, as brother Carpenter was dissatisfied &c.
Brother Joseph then proceeded to give an explanation of the gift of tongues: That it was particularly instituted for the preaching of the Gospel to other nations and languages, but it was not given for the government of the Church. He further said, if brother Gordon introduced the Gift of tongues as a testimony against brother Carpenter, that it was contrary to the rules and regulations of the Church, because, in all our decisions we must judge from actual testimony. Brother Gordon said the testimony was had and the decision given before the gift of tongues was manifest. Brother Joseph advised that [we] speak in our own language in all such matters, and then the adversary cannot lead our minds astray. Brother Palmer then gave a relation of a certain difficulty which took place in a conference He, brother Palmer presided, when several of the brethren spoke out of order and brother J. B. Bosworth refuses to submit to order according to his (brother Palmers) request. He now wished instruction on this point, whether he, or some one else should preside over this branch of the Church, and also whether such conduct could be approbated in conferences. Brother Gordon then made some remarks on the subjects which was at the time before the council.
Brother Joseph said, relative to the first question, that brother Gordons Tongues in the end, did operate as testimony, as, by his remarks in tongues, the former decision was set aside, and his taken. That it was his decision that brother Gordons manifestation was incorrect, and from a suspicious heart. He approved the first decision, but discarded the second. Brother Joseph Keeler said that in the former decision he had acted hastily himself in urging brother Carpenter to make acknowledgement without having time to reflect. He asked forgiveness wherein he had erred. Brother Gordon said he discovered that he was in an error, and was satisfied with this council, & was willing to ask forgiveness of the brethren and of the Lord. Decision was then given on the second question that brother J. B. Bosworth was out of his place in opposing brother Palmer, when he (brother Palmer) ordered the council. A vote was then taken whether the conference was satisfied with the two decisions. Passed by unanimous vote. A motion was then made and passed by unanimous vote that a letter be written to brother J. B. Bosworth informing him of the last decision, That he has acted out of place in opposing brother Palmer in a former council, when requested to take his seat, that the business might proceed according to order and that such letter be signed by the clerk of this conference, by the direction of the same The case of brother Milton Stow was then brought up when it was proven that he had delivered prophecies at two differnt times which were not true. At one time in saying that Zion was redeemed, and at another in saying that brother Carpenter was cut off forever, and also in saying, that sister Carpenter was dead. When it was decided by vote that brother Milton Stow be, and by the decision of this conference is suspended from the priveleges of the Church of the Latter Day-Saints and from acting in the authority of an Elder in said Church of the Latter Day-Saints till he appear before the Bishops council at Kirtland and make proper satisfaction. Conference closed by prayer of the Clerk.
Oliver Cowdery
Clerk of Conference
__________ (28)
-- Feb 20, 1835
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] 20 Left Mr Snellin. Travled to Brother Wright Akemans. Spent the day in labouring with our hands. From thence to Mr Hubbel. Distance 3 miles. Spent the Evening in preaching the word to Mr Hubbels household. Brother Henry Spoke in tongues and interpeted the same. The Spirit of God rested upon us. (30)
-- May 22, 1835
Freedom N. York, May 22, 1835. This morning agreeably to appointment, conference met in this place. The twelve apostles or travelling high council being present, after an agreeable salutation and rejoicing in each other's prosperity, Elder D. W. Patten being chairman conference was opened by singing and prayer by the president.
.... The representation of the church closed about 3 o'clock P.M. and the council then proceeded to give some general and particular instructions relative to the “word of wisdom", the gift of tongues and interpretation, prophecyings [sic] and of a proper use of all the spiritual gifts &c. after these remarks conference adjourned until tomorrow morning -- (31)
-- During June 1835
Joseph receives a brief visit from a Mr. Hewitt of the Irvingite Church in Scotland, which also believes in apostles, prophets, pastors, and gifts of tongues. (22)
-- Sep 14, 1835
Patriarchal Blessing of Elizabeth Ann Whitney given by Joseph Smith, Sr. on September 14, 1835
... for thou art bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh, and the Lord has so ordained that those of the same family and descent might be one to fulfil his purposes; for thou art of the same lineage of thy husband, thy life has been hid also, and thou mayest rejoice, for thy posterity shall be blessed. Thou hast a gift to sing the songs of Zion [sing in tongues], and if thou wilt be humble before the Lord & keep all his commandments, it shall be increased. (32)
-- During 1835
[Elizabeth Ann Whitney] Great manifestations of power were witnessed in the Kirtland Temple; it used oftentimes to seem as though it was illuminated, and many and powerful were the manifestations to those who were humble and participated in the ordinances bestowed upon the faithful Saints in that house. The first patriarchal blessing meeting over which Joseph Smith, Sen., presided was one of the most striking and noticeable features of that particular period of time. In this meeting I received the gift of singing inspirationally, and the first Song of Zion ever given in the pure language was sung by me then, and interpreted by Parley P. Pratt, and written down; of which I have preserved the original copy. It describes the manner in which the ancient patriarchs blessed their families, and gives some account of "Adam-ondi-Ahman."
In ancient days there lived a man,
Amidst a pleasant garden,
Where lovely flowers immortal bloom'd,
And shed around a rich perfume;
Behold, his name was Adam.
One of the nobles of the Earth,
Had mighty power in blessing;
Received the Priesthood, and went forth
And blessed his seed, and gave the earth
Blessings for their possession.
He sealed them for eternal life,
And all their generations,
Who should obey the Gospel plan.
Down to the latest years of man-
A multitude of nations.
Isaac and Jacob, they in turn
Had power to bless their children;
Hence, Jacob by his faith did learn,
And gave directions for his bones
To be conveyed to Canaan.
By the same spirit, Joseph gave
A great and mighty blessing
To Ephraim, and Manasseh too,
Whereby their seed were carried through
Long travels, though distressing.
By that same faith they built a ship,
And crossed the mighty ocean,
Obtain'd the choicest land of Earth
Foretold the great Messiah's birth,
And all the great commotion.
The Holy Priesthood long remain'd
In all its power and glory,
Until the Priests of God were slain,
Their records hid from wicked men
Within the hill Cumorah.
Their remnants sank in sorrow down,
Became a loathsome people,
To misery and sorrow doom'd,
Their pleasant fields o'erspread with gloom,
Ruled by a Gentile nation.
But now the Priesthood is restored,
And we partake its blessings;
Our parents and our children dear
With Joseph's remnants have a share
To latest generations.
As Adam blest his family
In Adam-ondi-Ahman,
So shall our aged father bless
His seed who dwell in righteousness
Upon the land of Zion.
The Prophet Joseph promised me that I should never lose this gift if I would be wise in using it; and his words have been verified. (29)
-- Oct 25, 1835
[Joseph Smith Diary] Sunday, 25th [I] attended meeting. President Rigdon preached in the fore noon [and] Eider Lyman Johnson in the after noon. After which Elder S[eymour] Bronson [Brunson] joined Br[other] W[illia]m Perry and Sister Eliza Brown in matrimony and I blessed them with long life and prosperity in the name of Jesus Christ.
At evening I attended prayer meeting. Opened it and ex[h]orted the brethren and Sister[s] about one hour. The Lord pour[e]d out his spirit and some glorious things were spoken in the gift of toungs [tongues] and interp[r]eted concerning the redemption of Zion. (33)
-- Nov 3, 1835
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] 3rd Rode to Br Wests. Preeached at his house. Two persons had the gift of tongues. 2 mil. (30)
-- Nov 12, 1835
[Joseph Smith Diary] ... But when you are endowed and prepared to preach the gospel to all nations, kindred and toungs [tongues] in there own languages you must faithfully warn all and bind up the testimony and seal up the law. ... (33)
-- Dec 29, 1835
Patriarchal Blessing of Lyman Wight given by Joseph Smith, Sr. on December 29, 1835 .... Thou hast labored much in the cause of thy God, even since the word was proclaimed in these regions, and great shall be thy rejoicing with those who were converted under thy ministry, in as much as they remain faithful, in the great day to come; yea, and great shall be thy reward in the Kingdom of God: for it is in thy power, by keeping the command-ments, to call thy thousands into the true fold, even among tongues and languages that thou knowest not: therefore, gird up thy loins like a man of God, lay aside every principle which is not ordained of him, seek humility and faith, that thy mind may be stayed upon the God of Jacob, who will deliver thee from the powers of darkness, and give thee power to do mighty works] ... (32)
-- During 1835
(Erastus Snow) Ordained a seventy during the Kirtland School of Prophets, and endowed in the Kirtland Temple with 360 others: "Then we all, like as did Israel when they surrounded Jericho, with one united voice gave shout of Hosannah, Hosannah, Hosannah to God and the Lamb; Amen, Amen, Amen. When this was done the Holy Ghost was shed forth upon us; some received visions of the Judgments that were to be poured out upon this generation; some spoke in tongues, some interpreted; others prophesied; others saw Zion in her glory, and the angels came and worshipped with us, and some saw them, yea, even twelve legions of them, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof." (34)
(Zina D. H. Young) After baptism by Hyrum Smith, Zina's entire family moved to Kirtland, Ohio, where she exercised the "gift of tongues and interpretation thereof." Eliza R. Snow and Zina often worked as a revelatory team, one speaking in tongues while the other interpreted. (34)
-- Jan 17, 1836
[Joseph Smith Diary] 17th Sunday morning the 17th Attended meeting at the schoolhouse at the usual hour. A large congregation assembled. I proceeded to organize the several quorums present. First the Presidency, then the Twelve [Apostles], and the Seventy, all who were present. Also the Counsellers of Kirtland and Zion.
President Rigdon then arose and observed that instead of preaching the time would be occupied by the Presidency and Twelve [Apostles] in speaking each in their turn untill they had all spoken. The Lord poured out his spirit upon us and the brethren began to confess their faults one to the other. The congregation were soon overwhelmed in tears and some of our hearts were too big for utterance. The gift of toungs [tongues] come upon us also like the rushing of a mighty wind and my soul was filled with the glory of God. ... (33)
-- Jan 18, 1836
[Joseph Smith Diary] 19th Tuesday the 19th Spent the day at School. The Lord blessed us in our Studies. This day we commenced reading in our Hebrew Bibles with much success. It seems as if the Lord opens our minds in a marvelous manner to understand his word in the original language. My prayer is that God will speedily indu [endow] us with a knowledge of all langnages and toungs [tongues] that his servants may go forth for the last time to bind up the law and seal up the testimony. (33)
-- Jan 21, 1836
[Joseph Smith Diary] ....
The heavens were opened upon us ... [I saw] Eld[e]r Brigham Young standing in a strange land in the far southwest, in a desert place, upon a rock in the midst of about a dozen men of colour who appeared hostile. He was preaching to them in their own toung [tongue] and the angel of God standing above his head with a drawn sword in his hand protec[t]ing him, but he did not see it. ... (33)
-- Jan 22, 1836
[Joseph Smith Diary] ...
We called [the meeting] to order and organized. The Presidency then proceeded to consecrate the oil. We then laid our hands upon Elder Thomas B. Marsh who is the President of the 12 [Apostles] and ordained him to the authority of anointing his brethren. I then pour[eld the consecrated oil upon his head in the name of Jesus Christ and sealed such blessings upon him as the Lord put into my heart. The rest of the Presidency then laid their hands upon him and blessed him each in their turn beginning at the eldest. He [Elder Marsh] then anointed /and blessed/ his brethren from the oldest to the youngest. I also laid my hands upon them and pronounced many great and glorious [blessings] upon their heads. The heavens were opened and angels ministered unto US.
The 12 [Apostles] then proceeded to anoint and bless the Presidency of the 70 and seal upon their heads power and authority to anoint their brethren. The heavens were opened upon Elder Sylvester Smith and he leaping up exclaimed, "The Horsemen of Israel and the chariots thereof." Br[other] [Don] Carloss Smith was also annointed and blessed to preside over the High Priesthood.
President Rigdon arose to conclude the servises of the evening by invoking the benediction of heaven upon the Lord's anointed /which he did/ in an eloquent manner. The congregation shouted a loud hosannah.
The gift of toungs [tongues] fell upon us in mighty pow[e]r, angels mingled their voices with ours, while their presence was in our midst and unseasing pra[i]ses swelled our bosoms for the space of half an hour.
I then observed to the brethren that it was time to retire. We accordingly /closed/ our interview and returned home at about 2 o'clock in the morning. The spirit and visions of God attended me through the night. (33)
-- Friday, the 22nd
[Oliver Cowdery] Copied blessings. At evening met in the president's room where were the presidents, the twelve, the presidents of the 70, the high councils of Kirtland and Zion, and the bishops and their counsellors. The presidents proceeded and annointed Thomas B. Marsh, the president of the twelve, and he annointed the other eleven. The twelve then proceeded, president Marsh taking the lead, and annointed the presidents of the Seventy. Elder Don Carlos Smith was ordained and annointed president of the high priesthood of the Melchisedek priesthood, by the presidents of the Church Church. Near the Close of the meeting, 2 O'clock in the morning, almost all present broke out in tongues and songs of Zion. (35)
-- Feb 6, 1836
[Joseph Smith Diary] Saturday, 6th Called the anointed together to receive the seal of all their blessings. The High Priests and Elders [met] in the council room as usual. The Seventy [met] with the Twelve [Apostles] in the second room and the Bishop in the 3rd. I laboured with each of these quorems for some time to bring [them] to the order which God had shown /to/ me which is as follows:
[The] first part to be spent in solemn prayer before God without any talking or confusion and the conclusion with a sealing prayer by Pres[ident] Sidney Rigdon when all the quorems are to shout with one accord a solemn hosannah to God and the Lamb with an Amen, Amen, and Amen. Then all take [their] seats and lift up their hearts in silent prayer to God and if any obtain a prophecy or vision to rise and speak that all may be edified and rejoice together.
I had considerable trouble to get all the quorems united in this order. I went from room to room repeatedly and charged each separately, assuring them that it was according to the mind of God. Yet notwithstanding all my labour, while I was in the east room with the Bishops' quorems, I felt by the spirit that something was wrong in the quorem of Elders in the west room.
I immediately requested Pres[ident] O[liver] Cowdery and H[yrum] Smith to go in and see what was the matter. The quorem of Elders had not observed the order which I had given them. [They] were reminded of it by Pres[ident] [Don] Carloss Smith and mildly requested to observe order and continue in prayer and [as] requested. Some of them replied that they had a teacher of their own and did not wish to be troubled by others. This caused the spirit of the Lord to withdraw. This interrupted the meeting and this quorem lost th[e]ir blessing in a great measure.
The other quorems were more careful and the quorem of the Seventy enjoyed a great flow of the Holy Spirit. Many arose and spok[e], testifying that they were filled with the Holy Spirit which was like fire in their bones, so that they could not hold their peace, but were constrained to cry hosannah to God and the Lamb and glory in the highest.
Pres[ident] W[illia]m Smith, one of the Twelve [Apostles], saw a vision of the Twelve and Seven[ties] in council together in old England. [He] prophecied that a great work would be done by them in the old co[u]ntries and God already beginning the work in the hearts of the p[e]ople. Pres[ident] Z[ebedee] Coltrin, one of the seven [Presidents of the Seventy], saw a vision of the Lord's Host. Others were filled with the spirit and spoke in tongues and prophecied. This was a time of rejoicing long to be remembered! Praise the Lord. (33)
-- Mar 27, 1836
President Brigham Young gave a short address in tongues, and David W. Patten interpreted. -- Kirtland, Ohio [History of the Church. 7 Vols. B. H. Roberts, ed. Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, Co., 1902. 2:428] (13)
The Kirtland Temple is dedicated. The doors to the temple are open at seven A.M. Joseph seats the people. Almost 1,000 enter, many others are turned away. Contributions in excess of $950 are given. At nine A.M. Sidney Rigdon opens the service and speaks for two and a half hours on the need for belief in "present revelation," at one point drawing tears from many. He says that in spite of the many houses of worship built on the earth, this is the only one built by divine revelation. Songs of hosanna are sung. The audience rises to sustain the First Presidency. The Twelve are sustained "as Prophets, Seers, Revelators, and special witnesses to all nations of the earth." (History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:417.) The Presidents of the Seventy are sustained as "Apostles and special witnesses to the nations, to assist the Twelve in opening the Gospel kingdom among all people." Other officers are also sustained. "The vote was unanimous in every instance." (HC 2:418.) Another hymn is sung. Joseph offers the dedicatoryprayer, which was given by revelation. It is recorded as D&C 109.The dedication is then unanimously accepted and the Lord's Supper is administered. Others rise to speak. President Frederick G. Williams testifies that an angel entered the window. David Whitmer also testifies that he saw an angel. President Brigham Young gives a short speech in tongues, which David W. Patten interprets; Elder Patten then speaks in tongues himself. The meeting is adjourned at about four o'clock.In the evening 416 brothers meet for the ordinance of the washing of feet. George A. Smith begins to prophesy, and a noise "like the sound of a rushing mighty wind" fills the temple; all arise and feel the invisible power, and experience visions, angels, the gift of tongues. People in the neighborhood hearing unusual noises and seeing the bright light above the temple run toward it to see what is happening.
(History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7 volumes) 2:410-28.) (22)
[Joseph Smith Diary] 27th Sunday morning the 27th The congregation began to assemble /at the Chapel [Kirtland Temple]/ at about 7 o'clock, one hour earlier than the doors were to be opened. Many brethren had come in from the regions round about to witness the dedication of the Lord's House and Share in His blessings. Such was the anxiety on this occasion that Some hundreds (probably five or six) assembled collected before the doors were opened.
The Presidency entered with the door ke[e]pers and ar[r]anged them at the inner and outer doors, also placed our stewards to receiv[e] donations from those who should feel disposed to contribute something to defray the expenses of building the House of the Lord. /We also dedicated the pulpits and concecrated them to the Lord/ The doors were then opened.
President Rigdon, President Cowdery, and myself Seated the congregation as they came in. According to the best calculations we could make we received between 9 /hundred/ and 1,000 which is as many as can be comfortably situated. We then informed the door keepers that we could receive no more and a multitude were deprived of the benefits of the meeting on account of the House not being sufficiently capacious [spacious] to receive them.
I felt to regret that any of my brethren and sisters should be deprived of the meeting. I recommended them to repair to the School house and hold a meeting which they did and filled that house /also/ and yet many were left out.
The assembly were then organized in the following manner, viz:
President F. G. Williams, Presdt Joseph Smith, Sen father and Presdt W. W. Phelps occupied the first pulpit /in the west end of the house/ for the Melchisedec priesthood. Presdt S. Rigdon. myself, and Prest Hyrum Smith the 2nd. Presdt D. Whitmer, Presdt O. Cowdery, and Presdt John Whitmer the 3rd. The 4th was occupied by the preisdent of the high priests and his counselors and 2 choristers, 12 apostles on the right, the high council of Kirtland on the left. The pulpits /in the east end of the house/ for the Aaronic priesthood were occupied in the following manner: The Bishop of Kirtland and his counsellors in the 2nd, the presdt of the priest and his counsellors in the 3rd, the presdt of the Teachers and his counsellors in the 4th, the 7 presdt of the seventies. The high council of Zion on the right, the 7 presdt of the Seventies on the left.
West end of the House
Pres[i]d[en]t F[rederick] Williams, Pres[i]d[en]t Joseph Smith, Sen[ior], and President W[illiam] W. Phelps occupied the 1st pulpit for the Melchisedic Priesthood. Pres[i]d[en]t S[idney] Rigdon, myself, and Pres[i]d[en]t Hyrum Smith in the 2nd [pulpit]. Pres[i]d[ent] D[avid] Whitmer, Pres[i]d[en]t O[liver] Cowdery, and Pres[i]d[en]t J[ohn] Whitmer in the 3d [pulpit]. The 4th [pulpit] was occipied by the President of the High Priests and his counsellors, and 2 choiresters. The 12 Apostles on the right in the 3 highest seats, the Pres[i]d[en]t of the Eld[e]rs, his clerk, and counsellors in the seat immediately below the 12 [Apostles]. The High Council of Kirtland consisting of 12 [counsellors] on the left in the 3 first seats. The 4th seat below them was occupied by Eld[e]rs W[arren] A. Cowdery and W[arren] Parrish who served as scribes.
The pulpits in the east end of the House for the Aaronic Priesthood were occupied as follows: The Bishop of Kirtland and his counsellors in the 1st pulpit. The Bishop of Zion and his counsillors in the 2nd. The Pres[i]d[en]t of the Priests and his counsellors in the 3d. The Pres[i]d[en]t of the Teachers and his counsellors /and one choirester/ in the 4th. The High Council of Zion consisting of 12 counsellors on the right. The Pres[i]d[en]t of the Deacons and his counsillors in the seat below them. The 7 Pres[i]d[en]ts of the Seventies on the left. The choir of singers were seated in the 4 corners of the room in seats prepared for that purpose.
/Rec[eive]d by contribution $960.00
/9 o'clock A.M. the servises of the day were opened by Pres[i]d[en]t S[idney] Rigdon by reading 1st the 96th Psalm [and] secondly the 24th Psalm. The choir then Sung hymn on the 29th page of Latter day Saints' collection of hymns ["Ere long the veil will rend in twain," by Parley P. Pratt]. Prayer by Pres[i]d[en]t Rigdon. Choir then sung hymn on 14th page ["O happy souls, who pray," William W. Phelps]. Pres[i]d[en]t Rigdon then /read/ the 18[th], 19[th] and 20[th] verses of the 8th Chapter of Mat[t]hew and preached more particularly from the 20th verse. His prayer and address were very forcible and sublime, and well adapted to the occasion.
After he close his sermon, he called upon the several quorums commenceing with the Presidency to manifest by rising up their willingness to acknowledge me as a prophet and seer and uphold me as such by their p[r]ayers of faith. All the quorums in their turn cheerfully complyed with this request. He then called upon all the congregation of Saints also to give their assent by rising on their feet which they did unanimously.
After [an] intermission of 20 minutes the servises of the day were resumed by singing Adam-ondi-Ahman. I then made a short address and called upon the several quorums and all the congregation of Saints to acknowledge the Presidency as Prophets and Seers and uphold them by their prayers. They all covenanted to do so by rising.
I then called upon the quorums and congregation of Saints to acknowledge the 12 Apostles who were present as Prophets and Seers and special witnesses to all the nations of the earth, holding the keys of the kingdom to unlock it or cause it to be done among all nations them and [to] uphold them by their prayers, which they assented to by rising.* [see note bottom of manuscript page 176]
I then called upon the quorums and congregation of Saints to acknowledge the High Council of Kirtland in all the authorities of the Melchisedec Priesthood and uphold them by their prayers which they assented to by rising.
I then called upon the quorums and congregation of Saints to acknowledge and uphold by their prayers the Bishops of Kirtland and Zion and their counsellors, the Presidents of the Priests in all the authority of the Aaronic Priesthood which they did by rising.
I then called upon the quorums and congregation of Saints to acknowledge the High Council of Zion and uphold them by their prayers in all authority of the High Priesthood which they did by rising.
I next called upon the quorums and congregation of Saints to acknowledge the Presidents of the Seventys who act as their represent[at]ives as /Apostles and/ special witnesses to the nations to assist the 12 [Apostles] in opening the gospel kingdom among all people and to uphold them by their prayers which they did by rising.
I then called upon the quorums and all the Saints to acknowledge [the] President of Elders and his counsellors and uphold them by their prayers which they did by rising.
The quorums and congregation of Saints were then called upon to acknowledge and uphold by their prayers the Presidents of the Priests, Teachers, and Deacons and their counsellors which they did by rising.
* N.B. The Presidents of the Seventys were acknowledged first after the 12 Apostles.
The hymn on the hundred and 14 page ["How pleased and blessed was I," by Isaac Watts] was then sung, after which I offered to God the following dedication prayer:
[Dedicatory] Prayer
At the dedication of the Lord's House in Kirtland, Ohio, March 27th 1836 by Joseph Smith, Jr., President of the Church of the Latter Day Saints.
Thanks be to thy name, O Lord God of Israel, who keepest covenant and shewest mercy unto thy servants, who walk uprightly before thee with all their hearts. Thou who hast commanded thy servants to build an house to thy name in this place (Kirtland). And now thou beholdest, O Lord, that so thy servants have done according to thy commandment. And now we ask the[e], Holy Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, the Son of thy bosom, in whose name alone salvation can be administered to the children of men, we ask the[e], O Lord, to accept of this house, the workmanship of the hands of us, thy servants, which thou didst command us to build; for thou knowest that we have done this work through great tribulation; and out of our poverty we have given of our substance to build a house to thy name, that the Son of Man might have a place to manifest himself to his people.
And as thou hast said, in a revelation given unto us, calling us thy friends, saying, "Call your Solemn Assembly, as I have commanded you; and as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; Seek learning; even by study, and also by faith. Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing, and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house [of] fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God; that your incomings may be in the name of the Lord, that your outgoings may be in the name of the Lord: that all your salutations may be in the name of the Lord, with uplifted hands to the Most High."
And now, Holy Father, we ask thee to assist us, thy people with thy grace in calling our Solemn Assembly, that it may be done to thy honor, and to thy divine acceptance, and in a manner that we may be found worthy in thy sight to secure a fulfil[l]ment of the promises which thou hast made unto us thy people, in the revelatio[n]s given unto us; that thy glory may rest down upon thy people, and upon this thy house, which we now dedicate to thee; that it may be sanctified and consecrated to be holy, and that thy holy presence may be continually in this house; and that all people who shall enter upon the threshold of the Lord's House may feel thy power and be constrained to acknowledge that thou hast sanctified it, and that it is thy house, a place of thy holiness.
And do thou grant, Holy Father, that all those who shall worship in this house, may be taught words of wisdom out of the best books, and that they may seek learning, even by study, and also by faith, as thou hast said; and that they may grow up in thee and receive a fulness of the Holy Ghost, and be organized according to thy laws, and be prepared to obtain every needful thing and that this house may be a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of glory and of God, even thy house; that all the incomings of thy people, into this house, may be in the name of the Lord; that all their outgoings, from this house, may be in the name of the Lord; that all their salutations may be in the name of [the] Lord, with holy hands uplifted to the Most High; and that no unclean thing shall be permitted to come into thy house to pollute it.
And when thy people transgress, any of them, they may speedily repent and return to thee, and find favour in thy sight, and be restored to the blessings which thou hast ordained, to be poured out upon those who shall reverance thee in this thy house.
And we ask, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house, armed with thy power, and that thy name may be upon them and thy glory be round about them, and thine angels have charge over them, and from this place they may bear exceeding great and glorious tidings, in truth, unto the ends of the earth, that they may know that this is thy work, and that thou hast put forth thy hand, to fulfil that which thou hast spoken by the mouths of thy prophets concerning the last days.
We ask the[e], Holy Father, to establish the people that shall worship and honorably hold a name and standing in this thy house, to all generations, and for eterni/ty/ that no weapon formed against them shall prosper; that he who diggeth a pit for them shall fall into the same himself; that no combination of wickedness shall have power to rise up and prevail over thy people, upon whom thy name shall be put in this house: and if any people shall rise against this people, that thine anger be kindled against them: and if they shall smite this people, thou wilt smite them, thou wilt fight for thy people as thou didst in the day of battle, that they may be delivered from the hands of all their enemies.
We ask thee, Holy Father, to confound and astonish, and bring to shame and confusion, all those who have spread lying reports abroad over the world against thy servant or servants, if they will not repent when the everlasting gospel shall be proclaimed in their ears, and that all their works may be brought to nought, and be swept away by the hail, and by the judgements, which thou wilt send upon them in thine anger, that their may be an end to lyings and slanders against thy people: for thou knowest, O Lord, that thy servants have been innocent before thee in bearing record of thy name for which they have suffered these things, therefore we plead before thee a full and complete deliverance from under this yoke. Break it off O Lord; break it off from the necks of thy servants, by thy power, that we may rise up in the midst of this generation and do thy work!
O Jehovah, have mercy upon this people, and as all men sin, forgive the transgressions of thy people, and let them be blotted out forever. Let the anointing of thy ministers be sealed upon them with power from on high. Let it be fulfilled upon them as upon those on the day of Pentacost. Let the gift of tongues be poured out upon thy people, even cloven tongues as of fire, and the interpretation thereof. And let thy house be filled, as with a rushing mighty wind, with thy glory.
Put upon thy servants the testimony of the covenant that where they go out and proclaim thy word, they may seal up the law, and prepare the hearts of thy Saints for all those judg/e/ments thou art about to send, in thy wrath, upon the inhabitants of the earth because of their transgressions, that thy people may not faint in the day of trouble.
And whatever city thy servants shall enter, and the people of that city receive not their testimony let thy peace and thy salvation be upon that city, that they may gather out from that city the righteous, that they may come forth to Zion or to her stakes, the places of thine appointment, with songs of everlasting joy, and until this be ac[c]omplished let not thy judgements fall upon that city.
And whatever city thy servants shall enter, and the people of that city receive not their testimony of thy servants, and thy servants warn them to save themselves from this untoward generation let it be upon that city according to that which thou hast spoken, by the mouths of thy prophets; but deliver thou, O Jehovah, we beseech thee, thy servants from their hands, and cleanse them from their blood. O Lord, we delight not in the destruction of our fellow men; their souls are precious before thee, but thy word must be fulfilled. Help thy servants to say, with thy grace assisting them, thy will be done, O Lord, and not ours.
We know that thou hast spoken by the mouth of thy prophets, terrible things concerning the wicked in the last days, that thou wilt pour out thy judgements, without measure. Therefore, O Lord, deliver thy people from the calamity of the wicked. Enable thy servants to seal up the law and bind up the testimony, that they may be prepared against the day of burning.
We ask thee, Holy Father, to remember those who have been driven by the inhabitants of Jackson County, Missouri, from the lands of their inheritance, and break off, O Lord, this yoke of affliction that has been put upon them. Thou knowest, O Lord, that they have been greatly oppressed and afflicted, by wicked men, and our hearts flow out in sorrow because of their grevious [grievous] burdens. O Lord, how long wilt thou suffer this people to bear this affliction and the cries of the innocent ones to ascend up in thine ears, and their blood to come up in testimony before thee and not make a display of thy power in their behalf?
Have mercy, O Lord, upon that wicked mob, who have driven thy people, that they may cease to spoil, that they may repent of their sins, if repentance is to be found; but if they will not, make bare thine arm, O Lord, and redeem that which thou didst appoint a Zion unto thy people. And if it cannot be otherwise, [grant] that the cause of thy people may not fail before thee. May thine anger be kindled and thine indignation fall upon them that they may be wasted away, both root and branch from under heaven; but inasmuch as they will repent, thou art gracious and merciful, and will turn away thy wrath, when thou lookest upon the face of thine anointed.
Have mercy, O Lord, upon all the nations of the earth. Have mercy upon the rulers of our land. May those principles which were so honorably and nobly defended: viz, the Constitution of our land, by our fathers, be established forever. Remember the Kings, the princes, the nobles, and the great ones of the earth, and all people, and the Churches, all the poor, the needy, and the afflicted ones of the earth; that their hearts may be softened when thy servants shall go out from thy house, O Jehovah, to bear testimony of thy name, /that/ their prejudices may give way before the truth, and thy people may obtain favour in the sight of all, that all the ends of the earth may know that we thy servants have heard thy voice, and that thou hast sent us, that from among all these thy servants, the sons of Jacob, may gather out the righteous to build a holy city to thy name, as thou hast commanded them.
We ask thee to appoint unto Zion other stakes besides this one, which thou hast appointed, that the gathering of thy people may roll on in great power and majesty, that thy work may be cut short in righteousness.
Now these words, O Lord, we have spoken before thee, concerning the revelations and commandments which thou hast given unto us, who are i[de]ntified with the Gentiles. But thou knowest that we have a great love for the children of Jacob who have been scattered upon the mountains, for a long time in a cloudy and dark day.
We therefore ask thee to have mercy upon the children of Jacob, that Jerusalem, from this hour, may begin to be redeemed, and the yoke of bondage may begin to be broken off from the house of David, and the children of Judah may begin to return to the lands which thou didst give to Abraham, their father, and cause that the remnants of Jacob, who have been cursed and smitten, because of their transgression, to be converted from their wild and savage condition, to the fulness of the everlasting gospel, that they may lay down their weapons of bloodshed and cease their rebellions. And may all the scattered remnants of Israel, who have been driven to the ends of the earth, come to a knowledge of the truth, believe in the Messiah, and be redeemed from oppression, and rejoice before thee.
O Lord, remember thy servant Joseph Smith, Jun[ior], and all his afflictions and persecutions, how he has covenanted with Jehovah and vowed to thee O mighty God of Jacob, and the commandments which thou hast given unto him, and that he hath sincerely strove to do thy will. Have mercy, O Lord, upon his wife and children, that they may be exalted in thy presence, and preserved by thy fostering hand. Have mercy upon all their immediate connexions, that their prejudices may be broken up, and swept away as with a flood, that they may be converted and redeemed with Israel and know that thou art God.
Remember, O Lord, the Presidents, even all the Presidents of thy Church, that thy right hand may exalt them with all their families, and their immediate connexions, that their names may be perpetuated and had in everlasting rememberance from generation to generation.
Remember all thy Church, O Lord, with all their families, and all their immediate connexions, with all their sick and afflicted ones, with all the poor and meek of the earth, that the kingdom which thou hast set up without hands, may become a great mountain and fill the whole earth, that thy Church may come forth out of the wilderness of darkness, and shine forth fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners, and be adorned as a bride for that day when thou shalt unveil the heavens, and cause the mountains to flow down at thy presence, and the valleys to be exalted, the rough places made smooth, that thy glory may fill the earth. That when the trump shall sound for the dead, we shall be caught up in the cloud to meet thee, that we may ever be with the Lord, that our garments may be pure, that we may [be] clothed upon with robes of righteousness, with palms in our hands, and crowns of glory upon our heads, and reap eternal joy for all our sufferings.
O Lord, God Almighty, hear us in these our petitions, and answer us from heaven, thy holy habitation, where thou sittest enthroned with glory, honour, power, majesty, might, dominion, truth, justice, judgement, mercy, and an infinity of fulness, from everlasting to everlasting.
O hear, O hear, O hear us, O Lord, and answer these petitions, and accept the dedication of this house unto thee, the work of our hands, which we have built unto thy name; and also this Church to put upon it thy name. And help us by the power of thy spirit, that we may mingle our voices with those bright shining seruphs, around thy throne with acclamation of praise, singing hosanna to God and the Lamb! And let these thine anointed ones be clothed with salvation, and thy Saints shout aloud for joy. Amen and Amen.
Sung "Hosanah to God and the Lamb," after which the Lord's Supper was administered.
I then bore testimony of the administering of angels. Pres[i]d[en]t Williams also arose and testified that while Pres[i]d[en]t Rigdon was making his first prayer an angel entered the window and /took his/ [position] seated between Father Smith and himself, and remained their during his prayer. Pres[i]d[en]t David Whitmer also saw angels in the House.
We then sealed the proceedings of the day by shouting hosanah to God and the Lamb 3 times, sealing it each time with Amen, Amen, and Amen and after requesting all the official members to meet again in the evening we retired. Met in the evening and instructed the quorums respecting the ordinance of washing of feet which we were to attend to on Wednesday following. (33)
-- Mar 30, 1836
[Joseph Smith Diary] 30th Wednesday morning, 8 o'clock, March 30th 1836 According to appointment the Presidency, the 12 [Apostles], the Seventies, the High Councils, the Bishops and their entire quorums, the Elders, and all the official members in this Stake of Zion amounting to about 300 met in the Temple of the Lord to attend to the ordinance of washing feet.
I ascended the pulpit and remarked to the congregation that we had passed through many trials and afflictions since the organization of this Church and that this is a year of jubilee to us and a time of rejoicing, and that it was expedient for us to prepare bread and wine sufficient to make our hearts glad, as we should not probably leave this house until morning. To this end we should call on the brethren to make a contribution; the stewards passed round and took up a liberal contribution and messengers were dispatched for bread and wine.
Tubs, water, and towels were prepared and I called the House to order and the Presidency preceeded to wash the feet of the 12 [Apostles], pronouncing many prophecys and blessings upon them in the name of the Lord Jesus. The brethren began to prophesy upon each others' heads and cursings upon the enimies of Christ who inhabit Jackson County, Missouri. Continued prophesying, blessing, and sealing them with Hosanna and Amen until nearly 7 o'clock P.M.
The bread /and wine/ was then brought in and I observed that we had fasted all the day, and lest we faint as the Saviour did so shall we do on this occasion. We shall bless the bread and give it to the 12 [Apostles] and they to the multitude, after which we shall bless the wine and do likewise.
While waiting for the wine I made the following remarks: that the time that we were required to tarry in Kirtland to be endued [endowed] would be fulfilled in a few days, and then the Elders would go forth and each must stand for himself, that it was not necessary for them to be sent out two by two as in former times; but to go in all meekness, in sobriety and preach Jesus Christ and him crucified, not to contend with others on the account of their faith or systems of religion but persue a steady course.
This I delivered by way of commandment, and all that observe them not will pull down persecution upon your /their/ heads, while those who do shall always be filled with the Holy Ghost. This I pronounced as a prophesy sealed with a Hosanna and Amen.
Also that the Seventies are not called to serve tables or preside over Churches to settle difficulties, but to preach the gospel and build them up, and set others who do not belong to these quorums to preside over them who are High Priests. The Twelve [Apostles] also are not to serve tables, but to bear the keys of the kingdom to all nations and unlock them and call upon the Seventies to follow after them and assist them. The 12 [Apostles] are at liberty to go wheresoever they will and if one shall say, I wish to go to such a place let all the rest say Amen.
The Seventies are at liberty to go to Zion if they please or go wheresoever they will and preach the gospel and let the redem[p]tion of Zion be our object, and strive to affect it by sending up all the strength of the Lord's House wherever we find them. I want to enter into the following covenant, that if any more of our brethren are slain or driven from their lands in Missouri by the mob that we will give ourselves no rest until we are avenged of our enimies to the uttermost. This covenant was sealed unaminously [unanimously] by a hosanna and Amen.
I then observed to the quorums that I had now completed the organization of the Church and we had passed through all the necessary ceremonies. That I had given them all the instruction they needed and that they now were at liberty after obtaining their lisences to go forth and build up the kingdom of God. That it was expedient for me and the Presidency to retire, having spent the night previous in waiting upon the Lord in his Temple, and having to attend another dedication on the morrow, or conclude the one commenced on the last Sabbath for the benefit of those of my brethren and sisters who could not get into the House on the former occasion, but that it was expedient for the brethren to tarry all night and worship before the Lord in his house. I left the meeting in charge of the 12 [Apostles] and retired at about 9 o'clock in the evening.
The brethren continued exhorting, prophesying, and speaking in tongues until 5 o'clock in the morning. The Saviour made his appearance to some, while angels minestered unto others, and it was a penticost and enduement [endowment] indeed, long to be remembered. For the sound shall go forth from this place into all the world and the occurrences of this day shall be handeld] down upon the pages of sacred history to all generations as the day of Pentecost. So shall this day be numbered and celebrated as a year of Jubilee and time of rejoicing to the Saints of the Most High God. (33)
-- During 1836: March
Patriarchal Blessing] Elijah Abel. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
"Brother Abel, in the name of Jesus, I lay my hands upon they [sic] head to bless thee, and thou shalt be blessed even forever. .... Thou shalt travel in the East, and visit foreign countries, speak in all the various tongues, and thou shalt be able to teach different languages. Thou shall see visions of this world and other worlds, and comprehend the laws of all kingdoms, and confound the wisdom of this generation. Thy life shall be preserved to a good old age. Thou must seek first the kingdom of heaven, and all blessings shall be added thereto. Thou shalt be made equal to thy brethren, and thy soul be white in eternity and thy robes glittering: thou shalt receive these blessings because of the covenants of thy fathers. Thou shalt save thy thousands, so much good, and receive all the power that thou needest to accomplish thy mission. These and all the blessings which thou canst desire in righteousness, I seal upon thee, in the name of Jesus. Amen." (From typescript; Dialogue 8(1):11-68, 1973.) [Age, 27; Scribe: Warren Cowdery.] (36)
-- Apr 28, 1836
[Orson Pratt Journal] ... The next evening, the 28th of April, I went alone to fill the appointment. Went to the schoolhouse, found it crowded with men, but no females. I went in to the pulpit and was about to commence the meeting when a man by the name of Lewis Burwall, a Methodist by profession and one of the trustees of the schoolhouse arose in a spirit of opposition and requested me to answer a few questions before I preached. He proceeded to ask me what church I belonged to. I answered the Church of the Latter-day Saints. He wished to know if we did not call ourselves Mormons. I answered no, but we were generally known by that name. He wished to know if I believed in the Book of Mormon. I replied, yes, with all my heart. He then said he had read the book and made some very harsh expressions and desired of me if I could speak in tongues, etc. I answered him that we professed as a church to be earnestly seeking for all the gifts of the gospel mentioned in the scriptures but he insisted on my answering him yes or no. I replied that I did not consider myself bound at that time to answer any question as I had given out that appointment on purpose for preaching and that I would endeavor if the people would listen, to tell them what we as a church believed in, and after I was through they should have the privilege of replying. But he insisted on knowing what we believed in before I preached. About this time the most part of the congregation began to stamp their feet and hiss at Burwall and the congregation began to be divided: the more part determined to hear preaching while the remainder said that I should not preach without answering the questions. I replied that I would tell them my belief in my discourse. By this time the whole house was in an uproar, some crying one thing some crying another; some crying delusion, imposture, others crying, let us hear then judge, while others were crying liberty of conscience. The congregation began to contend very sharply one with another and became very angry, that they came to blows and began to knock down. The noise was such for one or two hours that it might have been heard some distance, while I stood in the pit very calm and composed, lifting my heart in silent prayer that the Lord would deliver me out of their hands unhurt. Some threatened to lay violent hands upon me while others said they would not permit me to be hurt. At length a few gentlemen present opened one of the pulpit doors, took me by the hand and we went through the midst unhurt. The congregation soon finding that I had left the pulpit followed on after me nearly through the village, when I saw myself so thronged that I concluded the only way for me to get out of their midst would be to go into a tavern and pass out the back door, which I accordingly did, assisted by some few gentlemen. I left the village that night and traveled to Mount Pleasant. The next day great excitement prevailed throughout the village and the more part of the people were determined to have a meeting. They accordingly appointed a meeting in a very large wagon house and sent up to Mount Pleasant for me to come down. I, accordingly, in company with three or four brethren went down. A very large congregation had collected who listened with great attention. I addressed them upon the first principles of the gospel. After I got through three or four arose in opposition, but about all they could do was to call for signs and their folly was exposed before the people. ... (37)
-- Sep 5, 1836
Patriarchal Blessing of Raymond Clark given by Joseph Smith, Sr. on September 5, 1836
-- Patriarchal Blessing Recd. under the hand of Joseph Smith Senr. On Raymond Clark which was Born In the town of Wells St[ate]. of Vermont Age 38 years
Brother Clark In the Name of Jesus Christ I Lay my hands on thy head in as much as thou art an Orphan for thou art of the Seed of Joseph throu[gh] the loins of Ephraim thou Shalt have power to lay hands on the Sick for the restoring of he[a]lth in fa[i]th thou will be Ordained to the priests office be thou faithfull for thou Will be permit[t]ed to gow [go] to preach to the Spirits in prison Thou Shall have power to procla[i]m the gospel to the Red men of the forist [forest] the gift of toungs [tongues] will be given The[e] that thou may procla[i]m the truth of the Everlasting Gospel to them be thou faithfull [illegible] things which Is Required of the[e] instruct thy children in the way they Should [illegible] ... (38)
-- 1836: 11 September
Patriarchal Blessing] Betsy Pratt. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
... thou shalt see Angels. thou shalt speak in Tongues the wonderfull works of God yea if faithfull thou shalt see thy Children serving the Lord in righteousness in the Land of Zion. this is thy Blessing which is for thee and thy Children throughout their generations if faithful in keeping the commandments of the Lord and thou shalt desire it, thou shalt live to the age of seventy-five. even so, Amen." (From photocopy of manuscript; P8, f23, RLDS Archives.) [Age, 37; Scribe, ? Gibbs.] (36)
-- Dec 1, 1836
At a patriarchal blessing meeting held in the Lord's House this the first day of Decr. 1836 Joseph Smith Senr. the Patriarch of the church being present and holding the meeting, a blessing was conferred on the head of Elisha Wright born in Glover Vt. April 9th 1811
.... Thou shalt have power over unclean spirits, power over sickness, shalt command the destroyer to stand back say Satan get hence, power to preach in tongues and interpret languages. power to open the heavens, power to stand in the midst of Judgements, stand in courts.
thou shalt have power to translate thyself like Enoch, power over fires & flood power to instruct the Saints and bring them to Zion, power over the treasures of the earth ... (32)
-- During 1836
Patriarchal Blessing of John Lytle given by Joseph Smith, Sr. [no date, 1836]
... Thou shalt have power and authority to preach, to the Lamanites, the gospel of thy Saviour in its power & verity. Thou shalt if thou art humble and contrite have conferred upon thee, the gift of tongues so that thou mayest speak to the aboriginal inhabitants of this continent, the wonderful works of God in their own tongue by the power of the Holy Ghost. ... (32)
Patriarchal Blessing of Jonathan Fisher given by Joseph Smith, Sr. [no date, probably 1836]
-- Blessing of Jonathan Fisher who was born in Alstead New Hampshire April 6 1785
Brother Fisher: In the name of Jesus Christ the great Redeemer I lay my hands upon thy head and upon the head of thy seed and bestow upon thee a father[']s blessing. In thy future life if thou puttest thy trust in God thy father, thou shalt be blessed, though thou mayest see days of affliction, thou shalt be delivered from them and from the power of the enemy of all righteousness. The chastirements [chastisements] of thy heavenly Father shall work out unto thee an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. If thou with all thy heart desirest to be instrumental in my time, thou shalt have bestowed upon thee the gift of tongues. that thou mayest speak unto men the wonderful works of God in their language. Thou shalt have peace of mind on thy journey to thy friends. ... (32)
Patriarchal Blessing of Mariah Crandall given by Joseph Smith, Sr. [no date, 1836]
-- Blessing of Mariah Crandall born in Thurman Warren County N. Y. aged 23 years October 9th 1835
My young Sister in the name of Jesus Christ the great Redeemer and by the authority of the Priesthood, which I have received from God, I lay my hands on thy head for the Spiritual and temporal benefit of thee and thy posterity. Inasmuch as thou keepest the commandments of God thou shalt be blessed with long life. Thou shalt be blessed with a companion thou shalt raise up children who shall be strong in the faith of the gospel, one of them shall be filled with the Holy Ghost at 8 years of age and shall speak with tongues and prophecy . They shall be strong men and women in Christ Jesus.
Thou shalt stand on the earth when Jesus comes in the Clouds of heaven. If thou livest up to thy privileges. Thou shalt have forty days notice of the coming of the Saviour. ... (32)
-- Jan 5, 1837
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] 5th I repaired to the house of the Lord for a Prayer meeting at 2 oclock PM. We had a good time. One man gave us an account of the general gathering of Israel in the gift of tongues. I interpreted the Substance of the same. (30)
-- Jan 6, 1837
Patriarchal Blessing of John Lyons given by Joseph Smith, Sr. on January 6, 1837... Thou shalt speak with tongues and have the power of interpritation [interpretation] and inasmuch as thou art faithful thou shalt hear the voice of God speaking out of the heavens and shalt have the administration of angels. Thou shalt receive a crown of righteousness and shalt stand in Zion as the saviour of the people. Thou art forty and one years old and thou shalt live forty and four years more, if faithful and shall stand upon the earth in the last days and see it cleansed from wickedness and shall see the saviour come to Zion with power and great glory. ... (32)
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... Sunday Went up to the house of the Lord to worship. We had an interesting meeting. Their was about fifteen hundred people assembled. Their was two discourses deliverd from the Aaronic Priesthood one from Councellor Knight & the other from Priest Willey. Priest Willey had much of the Spirit of God in Preaching to the Church after breaking bread Elder Sherman Sung in the gift of tongues & pro claimed great & marvelous things while clothed upon by the power & spirit of God. Elder Smoot for the first time after his sickness Also attended meeting.
I spent the evening with Priest Turpin at Bishop Whitney's. Had a vary happy time in speaking Singing hearing & interpeting tongues & in prayer with the family. (30)
-- Jan 8, 1837.
[Willard Richards Journal] --I partook of the sacrament, and was confirmed by Reynolds Cahoon. I received such a measure of the Spirit as to be sensible of the subject of a song of Zion, which was sung by Elder Lyman Sherman, in the gift of tongues, on the coming of Christ. (39)
-- Jan 28, 1837
Patriarchal Blessing of Jacob Zundel given by Joseph Smith, Sr. on January 28, 1837 .... and thou shalt travel into strange lands and preach to many nations yea kings and emperors and confound them by the wisdom that shall be given thee by the spirit and thou shalt go to Germany and preach to thy own nation and shall be instrumental in bringing many into the kingdom and shall have power to bring many of thy friends according to the flesh with thee to Zion, the city of the living God. Thou shalt not only speak in the German language but thou shalt speak in other tongues and shalt have the power of interpretation (if thou art faithful) by the power of the Holy Ghost that shall rest upon thee. ... (32)
-- Apr 6, 1837
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] April 6th 1837 This being more particular the day of the Solumn assembly or a day that is looked upon annually with feeling of greater interest in Celebration of the 6th of April 1830 as upon that day the Church of Latter day Saints was first organized in this last dispensation & fulness of times. Henceforth the Solumn assembly of the Elders of Israel & all official members that can, will meet in the LORDS house annually to attend to the most Solumn ordinances of the house of GOD & of receieving the visions & great things of heavens. Therefore I shall be more particular in recording the transactions of this day than others for it is sumthing similar to the Pentecost that St Paul speak of at Jerrusalem.
I repaired to the house of the Lord at 8 oclock A.M. & after spending an hour in the lower part of the house the presidency of the Church Called the quorums of the Seventies into the upper part of the house that they might be by themselves for a while as there was some business to be attended to in these quorums before they Could procede to the business of the day below. In the first place six of the Presidents of the Seventies were to leave the Seventies & take a station in the quorum of the travling high priesthood and six other Presidents chosen in their stead. I shall not here give the particulars of this change of Councillers. Suffice it to say that all of the Councillors first chosen excepting Joseph Young were high priest before the organization of the seventies & they had a right to officiate in the lower offices of the Church & there was some difference in the authority and office of the quorums of high Priesthood & Seventies. The six new Presidents Chosen out of the Seventies to take the place of thos that were to leave were: John Gould, Josiah Butterfield, Salmon Gee, [ ] Foster, John Gaylard.
After this matter was aranged there was a glorious ordinance performed upon the heads of those who had been anointed (by the first presidency of the Church Joseph Smith jr. Sidney Rigdon &c was this ordinance performed. It was as follows:
While all of the anointed present lifted there hands towards heaven this first presidency of the Church Confirmed & sealed upon our heads all the blessings of our ordination, anointing, & Patriarchal with a seal in the presence of God & the Lamb & holy angels that they should all be fulfilled upon our heads that not one jot or tittle should fail & the seal was confirmed upon our heads with a shout of all the anointed with uplifted hand to heaven HOSANNA, Hosanna, Hosanna, to GOD & the LAMB, Amen, Amen, & Amen. + Hosanna Hosanna, Hosanna, to GOD & the LAMB, Amen, Amen, & Amen. * Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna, to GOD & the LAMB, Amen, Amen, & Amen. This was repeated as it is written & if ever a shout entered the Cabinet of heaven that did & was repeated by angels on high & caused the power of God to rest upon us.
(O ye Priest of Baal. O, ye Gentile religionest. O ye inhabitants of Babylon possessing the mark of the beast, what knowledge have ye of the ordinances or blessings or virtues of the house & Church of God?) Great and marvelous are the blessings and power of the ordinances of the Lord & his gospel made manifest on these occasions.
After being in the upper room about two hours we again Joined the congregation of the Saints in the lower Court & the house came to order for the business of the day. The veils were closed & each apartment commenced the duties of the day.
The washing of the feet of the anointed was the first business that was performed. The twelve assisted our presidency in washing the feet. Elder Heber Kimble one of the twelve apostles attended to the washing of my feet & prophesied upon my head & pronounced me clean from the Blood of this generation. This as it was with JESUS when he washed his deciples feet. Great were the blessings that rested upon us in this ordinance.
After the washing of feet, the veils were rolled, which brought the congregation into one assembly. The stand of the priesthood were still coverd with the veils. The Presidency stood in the lower stand & President Joseph Smith jr. arose and addressed the Congregation for the term of three hours Clothed with the power, spirit, & image of GOD. He unbosom'd his mind & feelings in the house of his friends. He presented many things of vast importance to the minds of the Elders of Israel.
O that they might be written upon our hearts as with an iron pen to remain forever that we might practice them in our lives. That fountain of light, principle & virtue that came forth out of the heart & mouth of the prophet JOSepH whose Soul like Enochs swell'd wide as eternity. I say such evidences presented in such a forcible manner ought to drive into oblivion every particle of unbelief & dubiety from the mind of the hearers, for such language sentiment principle & spirit cannot flow from darkness. Joseph Smith jr. is a prophet of God rised up for the deliverance of Israel as true as my heart now burns within me while I am penning thes lines which is as true as truth itself.
President Hiram Smith followed Joseph with many useful remarks. He also was Clothed with much of the spirit of God. Joseph desired us to give heed to his words & teaching this once & be wise that Zion & her stakes might spedily be redeemed. He instructed us to be sure & ask those that enter the Kingdom to send up their wise men to Kirtland with there money to counsel with the presidency & purchase an interitance before they move their families or bring the poor to the places of gathering for to suffer. Also that we must keep in view the institution of the Kirtland Safety Society & if the Elders of Israel would be faithful & do what was in their power this once Kirtland should spedily be redeemed & become a strong hold not be thrown down.
Joseph presented us in some degree the plot of the city of Kirtland (which is the strong hold of the daughter of Zion) as it was given him by vision. It was great marvelous & glorious. The city extended to the east, west, North, & South. Steam boats will come puffing into the city. Our Goods will be conveyed upon railroads from Kirtland to many places & probably to Zion. Houses of worship would be reared unto the most high. Beautiful streets was to be made for the Saints to walk in. Kings of the earth would come to behold the glory thereof & many glorious things not now to be named would be bestowed upon the Saints. But all these thing are better imagined than spoken by the Children of Jacob.
President Olvier Cowdery followed Hiram Smith & made but few remarks but verry appropriate. He called upon the Elders to keep within the bounds of their knowledge & to let the great mysteries of the Kingdom alone for the gentiles had not a knowledge even of the first principles of the gospel. That it was far better to preach what the people would call the small things of the Bible than to enter into the vishions of Isaiah, Ezekiel, & John &c.
President Sidney Rigdon next spoke & said many important things and impress'd it upon the Elders of Israel with great force & eloquence to lay to with their mights this once for the redemption of Kirtland that Israel may be safe & free and have a place to set his foot <for if we do give heed to the word we should sin less.>
After the Presidency Closed their remarks the twelve were Called upon to break bread for the multitude (as Jesus did in the days of the Apostles) that they might all be filled. They did so & we were all filled & was made glad while feasting with Patriarchs, Prophets, Apostles, Evangelest, Pasters, Teachers, & Deacons.
After the feast was Closed thanks was returned to GOD with uplifted hands to heaven this being about the seting of the son. All had the privilege of returning to thir homes that felt disposed & the rest might spend the night in the house of the Lord in prayer, & exhortation, praise & thanksgiving.
At about candle light the meeting commenced with great interest. Joseph requested the congregation to speak their feelings freely & pray according to the spirit. The saints began to open their mouths & they were filled with language unto edification one a prayer another exortation some a doctrin & a psalm others a toungue, some an interpretation. Prophecy was also poured out upon us & all things was done decently & in order & the night was spent gloriously by the saints. Much of the gifts of the gospel rested upon us.
One Brother Clothed with the gift of tongues laid his hands upon my head & prophesied great blessing upon me. Another Brother possessing the interpretation uttered it unto me to my joy & consolation with the many blessing pronounced upon my head he rehersed the blessing that Jacob pronounced upon the heads of Joseph & said that I should possess the blessings of heaven & of earth & be much blessed in my ministry &c.
Much Prophecy was uttered upon the heads of many of the Saints in other languages & was interpeted which was glorious. Thus was this day & night spent gloriously & those scenes will long be remember e d. ... (30)
-- Apr 20, 1837
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] April 20th Spent this day in the house of the Lord in prayer and fasting with the congregation of the Saints. Much of the power, gifts, and graces of the gospel was poured out upon us. Speaking and interpeting of tongues was manifest in the Congregation. One brother sung a lengthy song in tongues & sister Hide interpeted the same. It was great & glorious. Much of it was respecting the fame of Joseph and his magnus works. (30)
-- May 27, 1837
At a blessing meeting held in the Lord's House in Kirtland the 27th day of May 1837. Joseph Smith Sen. the Patriarch of the Church of the Latter Day Saints, being present and holding the meeting a Patriarchal blessing was confer[r]ed on the head of Hannah Elizabeth Adams, daughter of Reuben Root and wife of James Marvin Adams born in Augusta, Oneida County N. Y. on the 12th of July 1808.
.... The Lord thy God will strengthen thy mind, - help thy memory and strengthen thy intellectual powers. Thou shalt instruct many in the principles of righteousness. * shalt instruct the daughters of the Lamanites * shalt speak in the gift of tongues * shalt understand their languages by the power of the spirit. Thou shalt be filled with glory * even the glory of God, if thou wilt live for these blessings * thou shalt bless the Lord that thou didst see my face.... (32)
-- Jun 11, 1837
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] June 11th I was called upon to address the conference in the forepart of the Day. It was with peculiar feelings that I arose to address a large Congregation of Saints raised up in another nation under an other Government seperate from mine own nation for this was the first time that I arose to address a congregation of Saints under the British government. I addressed the people from 2nd Cor. IV Ch. 3, 4 verses. The Spirit of the Lord was with us & we were blessed. After I closed, the Saints spake with tongues and prophesyed. Five presented themselves for baptism which was administered unto them by Elder Page. After an intermishion, Elder Page addressed us upon the priesthood & bore strong testimony to the people. Our Conference Closed by returning thanks to God & we took the parting hand with many Brethren & Sisters.
I returned with several Elders to Elder Stodards to spend the night & there was a woman present who was possessed with the devil. She was oft times dumb & greatly afflicted by the evil spirits that dwelt in her. She believed in Jesus Christ of Nazareth and us as his servent & called upon us to cast the devil out of her. According to her request four of us lade hands upon her & commanded the devil in the name of JESUS CHRIST to depart out of her & it was immediately done & the woman arose with great joy & gave thanks & prase unto God for according to her faith she was made whole from that hour. A Child also that was sick was made whole by the laying on of hands according to the word of God. See Mark 16 ch 17th. 6 mile. (30)
-- 1837: 13 June
Patriarchal Blessing] Flora Jacobs. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
... Thou shalt have a place in a stake of Zion shalt have many Servants & maid servants shalt have the power of God shall see the glory of God thou shalt have the gift of speaking in tongues Shall have the interpretation of tongues Thou shalt do a great work in Zion among the Lamanites shall instruct their daughters in the principles of righteousness and in the principles of domestic life All the righteous desires of thy heart shall be granted thee if thou hast desired to tarry in the flesh to see the winding up scene of this generation that desire shall be given thee if thou hast desired to see thy Savior it shall be granted thee ... (36)
-- July 6, 1837
[Mary Fielding Smith] [July 6:?] Our thursday meeting was again better than any former one. the hearts of the people were melted and the Spirit & power of God rested down upon us in a remarkable manner many spake in tongues & others prophesied & interpreted. it has been said by many who have lived in Kirtland a great while, that such a time of love & refreshing has never been known. some of the Sisters while engaged in conversing in tounges their countenences beaming with joy, clasped each others hands & kissd in the most affectina<te> manner. they were describing in this way the love and felicitys of the Celestial World. altho the House of the Lord was more than half filld during this time their were few dry faces the Brether<en> as well as the Sisters were all melted down and we wept and praised God together some of the prophicies deliverd in toungs and interpre<td> were so great that I cannot begin to describe them but I do assure you. (40)
-- Dec 6, 1837
... At a blessing meeting held in the Lord[']s House in Kirtland this this 6th of Dec 1837 By Joseph Smith sen the Patriarch of the Church of Latter day saints A Patriarchal Blessing was pronounced on the head of Luman Andros Shirtliff Son of Noah Shirtliff ... Thou shalt be mighty in the Earth the time shall come when mountains shall fall down at thy word if it shall be calculated to bring forth the Glory of God and the furtherance of his work in the Earth The time come when thou shall say to the winds and waves be still and they shall obey you yea Prisons Bars and Gates shal[l] give way at thy word Thou shalt go to the furthest Bounds of the Earth yea beyond the great waters Thou shall go and preach the Gospel of the Kingdom to a people off [of] whom you have not he[a]rd And speaking a language which you didst not know whose speech you neaver [never] did hear If thou wilt look to God by Faith he will give you his spirit and thou shall prevail thou shall preach in Tongues and have the interpretation of tongues Thou shall have the spirit and Power of God and prevail I pray God to uphold and support thee and show thee thy duty Thou hast desired to know it Be faithful and thou shall understand and comprehend the Heavens shall comprehend the mysteries of his kingdom And the mysteries of this generation ... (38)
-- Dec 17, 1837
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] 17 Sunday Preached two discourses at Brother Ames. I spent the night at Br Ames & had an interesting time in the evening I blessed two children, & I spake in tongues & interpeted & Prophesy'd & we rejoiced. (30)
-- Dec 23, 1837
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] 23 I Preached at Mr John M Sullers. The Power of God rested upon me. I spoke in tongues & Interpeted & some cryed aloud & one wished to be baptized. <Spent the night. Distance> 2 m. (30)
-- Jan 19, 1838
[Wilford Woodruff Journal] 19 Walked to Br Justus Ames & to John Kents. Crossed the Thoroughfare. Walked to <Cap.> Isaac Crocketts & held a meeting at his house. I arose to speak & the Power of God rested upon me. I Prophesied of the judgments of God & spoke in tongues & interpeted the same. Elder Ball spoke to us in the spirit of God. Two offered themselves for Baptism. We spent the night at Mr Crocketts. Distance 8 miles. (30)
-- Mar 4, 1838
Patriarchal Blessing of William Swartzell given by Joseph Smith, Sr. on March 4, 1838 ...
Thou art not called to cross the great waters--thou need not cross the briny deep, but thou may go even to South America, and do a great work in that land. Thou shall feel the solemnities of an endless eternity to rest upon thee even in that land. Thou shall have an inheritance in Zion, and dwell there with thy family. Thou shall gain thy wife if thou continue in faith, and rejoice greatly. Thou shall speak in other tongues, and prophecy: no power of the adversary shall be able to take thy life; yet thou wilt be tried. ... (38)
-- 1838: 8 April
Patriarchal Blessing] Cyrene Dustin. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
.... I lay mine hands on they head and I say unto thee thou shalt be secured against the destroyer Satan shall not overthrow thee the power of diseases shall be broken off thy system shall be renovated by the healing power of the Spirit of God and thou be made every whit whole and I bless thee with the blessing of a father and no blessing shall be with held from thee the Lord will give thee grace and glory thy name is written in heaven and it is thy privilege to behold the heavens opened on they head be faithful and thy tongue shall be loosed thou shalt sing the songs of Zion and speak in tongues and have the interpretation thereof thou shalt prophecy and see visions the Glory of God shall shine round about thee and thine heart shall rejoice with fullness of Joy thou shalt not be smitten by the hand of the destroyer Angles shall minister unto thee ere long and thou shalt see them and hear them sing ... (36)
-- Apr 8, 1838
Patriarchal Blessing of Alexander S. Standley given by Joseph Smith, Sr. on April 8, 1838... Thou shalt have power to remove mountains, if expedient, thou shalt raise the dead, prophesy, speak in tongues, and proclaim the gospel, and thousands and tens of thousands shall obey the mandate-of-Heaven throu[gh] thy ministry and be stars of rejoicing in the days of the Lord Jesus.
Thou shalt have power over the elements, water shall not stay thee, prisons shall not hold thee, and some will think thee to be God, and seek to worship thee, and no power shall be kept from thee. Thou shalt have power to head the sick, to open the eyes of the blind, and to unstop the ears of the deaf, to cause the lame to walk and the tongue of the dumb to sing. ... (38)
-- Thurs. [August] 23 [1838]
[Samuel D. Tyler] I was running a wheel-barow this forenoon & Elders Snow & Jackson were filling it for me; the sun beat hot upon me and my sore legs (See p. 21 for they have not yet got well for it is the pleasure of the Lord in this thing to try my faith, & perhaps the faith of others,) became painful. I had sat down on the run. Elder G. Snow observing that I was in pain & without my speaking a word he laid his hand upon my legs & spake in an unknown tongue perhaps 15 or twenty words; he then said Amen. Is the pain gone, said he? At that moment I first perceived that I was entirely free of the pain for the Lord had taken it from me & I noticed it not before he asked me, for my mind had soared above pain & I was thinking of the words spoken. Now the interpretation I did not know, because I have not the gift of interpetation. But I believe that he meekly entreated the Lord for me & the Lord heard & answered him. (41)
-- During 1838
(Eliza R. Snow) When the Snow family moved to Adam-Ondi-Ahman, Missouri, the thirty-one-year-old teacher became friends with Zina Diantha Huntington (later Young). The two exercised the gift of tongues jointly throughout their lives”one would speak in tongues, the other interpret. (34)
-- January 29, 1839
[Lorenzo Brown] On the 29th of the same month they returned bringing with them one of the Tribe, William Clute He was baptised the 31st and on the 4th of February was ordained an Elder and shortly after returned hom(e) with instructions to preach to his Tribe. He has not been since heard of
Our meetings were good. We were blessed spiritually with the gift of Tongues Through which and the interpretation we learned many things There were several Hymns given one of which was given through myself and interpreted by Sister Esther Crowely who had the gift the most perfect of any person I ever knew. These lines I cannot withold the impulse to subjoin as I then thought and still think them good. They were given several times until they were committed to memory
Come every Saint and hearken now
Did you not make a solemn vow
When the Saviors name ye took on you
With all your sins to bid adieu
In the eyes of all who did you see
Your covenant was to follow me
Thro vile report as well as good
To live by faith and every word
Think on the covenant you did mak(e)
Your secret prayers do not forsake
For when my saints neglect to pray
Their faith grows weaker every day
Advantage Satan then will take
And saints their covenant soon will break
Hear what neglect will bring Saint to
T'will bring them down to pain and wo
If the mysteries of Heaven they've known
Alas forever they're undone
A lake of fire compared to
There they must dwell in pain & wo (42)
-- Before 10th of March, 1839
[Benjamin F. Johnson] And often at Mother Huntington's did we have the most spirited and enjoyable testimony or prayer meetings. There the gift of tongues came to me in power, and never has it left me. To Sister Zina was both the gift of tongues and interpretation given, and under the influence of our spiritual enjoyment it seemed we formed a mutual attachment, which before I left Far West grew into feelings of reciprocal love, with hopes, which although not realized in full, did not hinder our being ever the warmest and truest of friends. (43)
-- April 21, 1839
[Lorenzo Brown] Started on our westward journey to gather with the saints but where to go we hardly knew as this winter past the brethren were expelled from Missouri and there was now no particular location Our company was composed of my Father with two teams Grandfather Mumford, & Charles with one Enoch Crowel in one drawn by a single horse and John and Jesse Crosby who joined us two days after with a three hors team We were altogether fifteen in number. Had a first rate time on our journey laying still on Sundays and attending prayers both morning and evening. One Sunday while in the State of Ohio there was a violent storm of rain The next morning we had gone but a little way when we were stopped by a stream swollen high by the rain whilst consulting one of our number spoke in tongues which being interpreted was that if we attempted to cross some of us would drown This we afterward proved true. We stayed there all day the brethren killed game the sisters cooked. A pile of rails hard by made a very good table, and we had an excellent dinner. Each one contributing something. T'was a fine family and was enjoyed by all present (42)
-- June, 1839
Beginning in 1839, Joseph Smith begins to deemphasize "ecstatic tongues [or tongues for purely spiritual purposes], while at the same time limiting glossolalic practice to xenoglossia, or the ability to speak foreign languages." (5)
-- Jun 27, 1839
[Joseph Smith Sermon] Other important items of doctrines fromJoseph given in Commerce Ills
... Tongues.
Were given for the purpose of preaching among those whose language is not understood as on the day of Pentecost &c , & it is not necessary for tongues to be taught to the church particularly. for any man that has the Holy Ghost, can speak of the things of God in his own tongue, as well as to speak in another, for faith comes not by signs but by hearing the word of God. ... (44)
-- Before Aug 8, 1839
[Joseph Smith Sermon] ... There will be great manifestation of Spirit both false & true. &c. Being born again comes by the Spirit of God through ordinances. An angel of God never has wings. Some will say that they have seen a Spirit, that he offered them his hand, but they did not touch it. This is a lie. First it is contrary to the plan of God A Spirit cannot come but in glory. An angel has flesh and bones, we see not their glory. The Devil may appear as an angel of light. Ask God to reveal it, if it be of the Devil, he will flee from you, if of God he will manifest himself or make it manifest, we may come to Jesus & ask him. he will know all about it.--If he comes to a little child, he will adapt himself to the Language & capacity of a little child.--There is no Gold nor Silver &c. it is false, all is plain in heaven; every Spirit or vision or Singing is not of God. The Devil is an orator, [DEL: &c: :DEL] he is powerful: he took our Savior onto a pinnacle of the temple, & kept him in the wilderness forforty days. The gift of discerning spirits will be given to the presiding Elder, pray for him. that he may have this gift Speak not in the Gift of tongues without understanding it, or without interpretation, The Devil can speak in Tongues. The Adversary will come with his work, he can tempt all classes, Can speak in English or Dutch.--Let no one speak in tongues unless he interpret except by the consent of the one who is placed to preside, then he may discern or interpret or another may. Let us seek for the Glory of Abraham, Noah, Adam, the Apostles have communion with these things and then we shall be among that number when Christ comes. [Willard Richards Pocket Companion] (44)
-- Fall, 1839
[Joseph Lee Robinson] Some received the gift of tongues and some prophesied. I, your humble servant, did receive the gift of tongues which I covet very much, particularly the gift to sing in tongues which I did receive in a remarkable manner. Many times we sang in our congregations for Saints, for the Lord did pour out his spirit abundantly upon me, not only in singing in tongues, for we have seen strong men sit and shake like a poppy leaf, also to the great edification and comforting of the Saints. (45)
-- December 6
[Brigham Young] -- Brother Haight took his team, and we rode with him to Brother Joseph Murdock's, in Hamilton, Madison County, where we arrived on the 7th, in the evening. Brother George A. was confined to his room sick, and received a thorough series of Thompsonian nursing. I found the Saints in confusion; they had the gift of tongues among them, and the interpretation, and they were so ignorant of the nature of these gifts that they supposed that everything which was spoken in tongues was immediate revelation from God; a false spirit had therefore crept in, and division was the result. I taught them that when they spoke in tongues the language might be from the Lord, but with that tongue they spoke the things which were in their hearts, whether they were good or evil; the gift of tongues was given for a blessing to the Saints, but not to govern them, nor to control the elders, or dictate the affairs of the Church. God had placed in the Church different gifts; among which were apostles, prophets, helps and governments, and wisdom was profitable to direct. Before leaving, the Saints came to an understanding on these matters. The brethren were very kind to us: Brother Benager Moon gave me satinette to make me an overcoat; Sister Lucetta Murdock made it for me; this was a great blessing to me, as I had worn a quilt, with a comforter run through it, in lieu of an overcoat, all the way from Nauvoo, which had not much of a ministerial appearance. Held meetings on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. (11)
-- 1840: 21 January
Patriarchal Blessing] Martha Jane Knowlton. (Given by Joseph Smith, Sen.)
... Thou art of the House of Israel, of the lineage of Joseph, and the covenant of Abraham and nothing can overthrow thee if faithful; and thou shalt surmount every difficulty; and, ere long thou shalt be filled with spirit of prophecy, gift of Tongues, and instruct the Lamanites in needle work; for the spirit testifies, these things were predicted at thy confirmation; and if faithful shall abide until Christ shall come. God shall bless thee all the way through life. Thou shalt not marry a Gentile for this is contrary to the order of heaven.... (36)
-- Feb 7, 1840. Friday.
[William Clayton Journal] .... Dinner at Kannons and then Brother Taylor gave me his blessing. He blessed me with wisdom and utterance so that I should be a wonder to myself and others. By the spirit. Ministering angels. He blessed Brother Fielding and then Brother F. blessed Brother Taylor. Brother T[aylor] afterwards give an address in tongues and interpreted. ... (46)
-- Feb 12, 1840. Wednesday.
[William Clayton Journal] ... Brother R[ichards] came to dinner. Went to see Brother Romney and prayed for him. Was troubled with temptation about the gift of tongues &c. Prayed with Sister Sumner. (46)
-- May 29, 1840. Friday.
[William Clayton Journal] ... . Brother Kimball and Young came to Hardman's and sung some and afterwards spake with each other in tongues. I had supper with Sarah and Rebecca. Brother Kimball went to Prince's. (46)
-- Jun 12, 1840. Friday.
[William Clayton Journal] At Council meeting a number of the saints attended. Brother Green almost got the gift of tongues. Brother Young spake in tongues. (46)
-- Jun 13, 1840. Saturday.
[William Clayton Journal] About 2 o'clock this A.M. Elizabeth Crooks began in her sleep to sing in tongues. She spake and sung in about 7 languages occupying about 2 hours. During the day Betsy Pool got the gift of tongues. (46)
-- Jun 14, 1840. Sunday.
[William Clayton Journal] ... In the P.M. Sister Pool spake in tongues then Rich[ard] Hardman James Mahon Sister Heath. We confirmed 4. Christiana Crooks and Jemima Whittaker spake in tongues. I preached on Galatians 1 though we are an angel &c. After preaching I baptized William Hardman and a young woman. (46)
-- Jun 27, 1840. Saturday.
[William Clayton Journal] Very poorly all day. At night Brother Green spake in tongues. The power of Satan was powerfully manifested upon some of the Sisters. Sarah gave me a pint of porter. (46)
-- Jun 29, 1840. Monday.
[William Clayton Journal] Went to Hart Street. Found them all confusion. One blaming another &c. To Sister Booth's to Dinner. She gave me 1/6. Stayed at the meeting. 2 spake in tongues. I addressed them and tried to encourage them to dilige[nce]. My face was very bad. (46)
-- Oct 6, 1840. Tuesday.
[William Clayton Journal] This day Elder Turley went to prove to the cabin passengers the rationality of prophecy and administration of angels. They will not admit of reasonable evidence. They found themselves confounded. At night Elizabeth and William Poole spoke in tongues. He prophesied of the death of his child. (46)
-- Oct 12, 1840
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... The People are much stired up in Manchester. Their will soon be persecution arise against the Saints in this town. The work is progressing. The servants of God have preached in the streets, & the town is warned & the methodist Preachers are much stired up against it. They gathered together at a house & sent for a young Brother, a Priest, by the name of James Mahon who had the gift of tongues to come & meet them & speak to them in Hebrew & if he did not speak to them correctly in Hebrew they would rise up against the work & try to overthrow it. They are watching for iniquity & trying to stir up the people against the work of God. (30)
-- November 21, 1840. Saturday.
[William Clayton Journal] This night we had to camp at a wood there being no houses near. We [had] some rain. Elder Turley and some others camped in the wood. He spake much to them and [called] upon those who had had quarrels to forgive each and manifest it. Many acknowledged their faults and asked forgiveness. Some spake in tongues and Wm. Poole interpreted. It was a time of rejoicing. (46)
-- Spring, 1841
[Joseph Lee Robinson] It came to pass that in the spring of 1841, as I was visiting with a Brother Charles H. Lang and family, that he requested me to bless him before I left him in the morning. We had a very interesting visit. I laid my hands upon his head in the name of the Lord and began to bless him in my mother tongue. I had said a few words and the spirit of the Lord rested upon me to talk in tongues. I broke out in an unknown tongue which I spoke to some length. Then, before I took my hands from his head, I gave the interpretation of that tongue in English. There were many good things said but among others a prophecy was uttered. We said to him that the Lord should open up the way for him and family that they should go up to Zion that season, as all the Saints that could expected to go that season. As he was a poor man with a wife and several helpless children, he had nothing else not so much as one cow. (45)
-- Sep 12, 1841
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 12 Sunday We tarried in Schenectady untill 9 o-clock. Received an addition of several passengers & proceded on. We passed Rome during the night. In the evening we sung a few Hymns & as soon as we closed Mr Roberts broke out in a tremendious noise which he called tongues. I reproved him before the whole company for his folly & impoliteness. His conversation had been such that the passengers would form an idea that he was in part a representative of the Latter Day Saints. I wished to change that Idea in the minds of the company for it was fals. He was not a member of the Church. (30)
-- Dec 26, 1841
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] Dec 26th Sunday I visited the sick in the morning & spent the fore part of the day in writing. I received A letter last evening from Br Azmon Woodruff of South Richland under Date Nov 15th 1841. Joseph the Seer Called upon me & others of the Twelve to attend meeting at his house. We did so in the evening & herd many good principles presented by presidents Joseph & Hyram Smith such as the following: Speak not in tongues to your own nation but to those of annother tongue. Then if one of another tongue interpets it will be a sign to the unbeliever, & then it would condemn those who heard if they rejected it for the Lord does not work in vain. Joseph spoke upon the 14 ch. 1 cor. Prophesies will cease &c ie. A person will cease or stop prophesying & not continue all the while &c untill we come to perfection or a fulness. Then part work will be done away. (30)
[Joseph Smith Sermon] Sunday, 26.--The public {meeting of the Saints was at my house this evening, and after Patriarch Hyrum Smith and Elder Brigham Young had spoken on the principles of faith, and the gifts of the Spirit, I read the 13th chapter of First Corinthians, also a part of the 14th chapter, and remarked that the gift of tongues was necessary in the Church; but that if Satan could not speak in tongues, he could not tempt a Dutchman, or any other nation, but the English, for he can tempt the Englishman, for he has tempted me, and I am an Englishman; but the gift of tongues by the power of the Holy Ghost in the Church, is for the benefit of the servants of God to preach to unbelievers, as on the day of Pentecost. When devout men from every nation shall assemble to hear the things of God, let the Elders preach to them in their own mother tongue, whether it is German, French, Spanish or "Irish," or any other, and let those interpret who understand the language spoken, in their own mother tongue,and this is what the Apostle meant in First Corinthians xiv: 27.} [Manuscript History of the Church] (44)
-- Feb 19, 1842
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... It is truly interesting edifying & glorious to contemplate the great & mighty work which God has set his hand to esstablish in these last days by revealing the fullness of the everlasting gospel as recorded in the Book of mormon & esstablishing his church & kingdom as at the Beginning which is according to the order of heaven with Seers prophets Apostles, Elders Priests, Bishops, Teachers, Revelation, Administering of Angels gifts, graces, Knowledge, wisdom tongues healings &c &c.
Truly the Lord has raised up Joseph the Seer of the seed of Abraham out of the loins of ancient Joseph, & is now clothing him with mighty power & wisdom & knowledge which is more clearly manifest & felt in the midst of his intimate friends than any other class of mankind. The Lord is Blessing Joseph with Power to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom of God; to translate through the urim & Thummim Ancient records & Hyeroglyphics as old as Abraham or Adam, which causes our hearts to burn within us while we behold their glorious truths opened unto us.
Joseph the Seer has presented us some of the Book of Abraham which was written by his own hand but hid from the knowledge of man for the last four thousand years but has now come to light through the mercy of God. Joseph has had these records in his possession for several years but has never presented them before the world in the english language untill now. But he is now about to publish it to the world or parts of it by publishing it in the Times & Seasons, for Joseph the Seer is now the Editor of that paper & Elder Taylor assists him in writing while it has fallen to my lot to take charge of the Business part of the esstablishment.
I have had the privilege this day of assisting in setting the TIPE for printing the first peace of the B00K OF ABRAHAM that is to be presented to the inhabitants of the EARTH in the LAST DAYS.
My Soul has been much edifyed of late from time to time in hearing Joseph the Seer convers about the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. Truly GOD is with him & is making him mighty in wisdom & knowledge & I am convinced for myself that none of the Prophets Seers or Revelators of the Earth have ever accomplished a greater work than will be accomplished in the Last days through the mercy of God By JOSepH THE SEER. (30)
-- Mar 1, 1842
The Wentworth Letter-- THE WENTWORTH LETTER. March 1, 1842.-At the request of Mr. John Wentworth, Editor and Proprietor of the Chicago Democrat. I have written the following sketch of the rise, progress, persecution, and faith of the Latter-day Saints, of which I have the honor, under God, of being the founder. Mr. Wentworth says that he wishes to furnish Mr. Bastow, a friend of his, who is writing the history of New Hampshire, with this document. As Mr. Bastow has taken the proper steps to obtain correct information, all that I shall ask at his hands, is, that he publish the account entire, ungarnished, and without misrepresentation.
I was born in the town of Sharon, Windsor County, Vermont, on the 23rd of December, A.D. 1805.....
We believe in the gift of tongues, prophecy, revelation, visions, healing, interpretation of tongues, etc.
.... Respectfully, &c., JOSEPH SMITH.
{1842-March 1-DHC 4:535-541} (17)
-- 1Apr42
[Joseph Smith Sermon] Article appearing in Times and Seasons 3 (1 April 1842):743 "TRY THE SPIRI Recent occurrences that have transpired amongst us render it an imperative duty devolving upon me to say something in relation to the spirits by which men are actuated.
... Every one of these professes to be competent to try his neighbor's spirit, but no one can try his own, and what is the reason? Because they have not a key to unlock, no rule wherewith to measure, and no criterion whereby they can test it. Could any one tell the length, breadth or height of a building without a rule? test the quality of metals without a criterion, or point out the movements of the planetary systems, without a knowledge of astronomy? Certainly not; and if such ignorance as this is manifested about a spirit of this kind, who can describe an angel of light? If Satan should appear as one in glory, who can tell his color, his signs, his appearance, his glory?--or what is the manner of his manifestation? Who can detect the spirit of the French prophets with their revelations and their visions, and power of manifestations? Or who can point out the spirit of the Irvingites, with their apostles and prophets, and visions and tongues, and interpretations, &c., &c. . ...
The Irvingites have apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and angels. They profess to have the gift of tongues, and the interpretation of tongues, and, in some few instances, to have the gift of healing.
The first prophetic spirit that was manifested was in some Misses Campbell that Mr. Irving met with, while on a journey in Scotland; they had [what is termed among their sect] "utterances," which were evidently of a supernatural agency. Mr. Irving, falling into the common error of considering all supernatural manifestations to be of God, took them to London with him, and introduced them into his church.
They were there honored as the prophetesses of God, and when they spoke, Mr. Irving or any of his ministers had to keep silence. They were peculiarly wrought upon before the congregation, and had strange utterances, uttered with an unnatural, shrill voice, and with thrilling intonations they frequently made use of a few broken, unconnected sentences, that were ambiguous, incoherent, and incomprehensible; at other times they were more clearly understood. They would frequently cry out, "There is iniquity! There is iniquity!" And Mr. Irving has been led, under the influence of this charge, to fall down upon his knees before the public congregation, and to confess his sin, not knowing whether he had sinned, nor wherein, nor whether the thing referred to him, or somebody else. During these operations, the bodies of the persons speaking were powerfully wrought upon, their countenances were distorted, they had frequent twitchings in their hands, and the whole system was powerfully convulsed at intervals: they sometimes, however, (it is supposed) spoke in correct tongues, and had true interpretations.
Under the influence of this spirit the church was organized by these women; apostles, prophets, &c. were soon called, and a systematic order of things introduced, as above mentioned. A Mr. Baxter (afterwards one of their principal prophets) upon going into one of their meetings, says, "I saw a power manifested, and thought that was the power of God, and asked that it might fall upon me, and it did so, and I began to prophesy." Eight or nine years ago they had about sixty preachers going through the streets of London, testifying that London was to be the place where the "two witnesses" spoken of by John, were to prophesy; that (they) "the church and the spirit were the witnesses, and that at the end of three years and a half there was to be an earthquake and great destruction, and our Savior was to come. Their apostles were collected together at the appointed time watching the event, but Jesus did not come, and the prophecy was then ambiguously explained away. They frequently had signs given them by the spirit to prove to them that what was manifested to them should take place. Mr. Baxter related an impression that he had concerning a child.
It was manifested to him that he should visit the child, and lay hands upon it, and that it should be healed; and to prove to him that this was of God, he should meet his brother in a certain place, who should speak unto him certain words. His brother addressed him precisely in the way and manner that the manifestation designated. The sign took place, but when he laid his hands upon the child it did not recover. I cannot vouch for the authority of the last statement, as Mr. Baxter at that time had left the Irvingites, but it is in accordance with many of their proceedings, and the thing never has been attempted to be denied.
... Again it may be asked, how it was that they could speak in tongues if they were of the devil! We would answer that they could be made to speak in another tongue, as well as their own, as they were under the control of that spirit, and the devil can tempt the Hottentot, the Turk, the Jew, or any other nation; and if these men were under the influence of his spirit, they of course could speak Hebrew, Latin, Greek, Italian, Dutch, or any other language that the devil knew.
Some will say, "try the spirits" by the word. "Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God." John 4:2, 3. One of the Irvingites once quoted this passage whilst under the influence of a spirit, and then said, "I confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh." And yet these prophecies failed, their Messiah did not come; and the great things spoken of by them have fallen to the ground. What is the matter here? Did not the Apostle speak the truth? Certainly he did--but he spoke to a people who were under the penalty of death, the moment they embraced Christianity; and no one without a knowledge of the fact would confess it, and expose themselves to death, and this was consequently given as a criterion to the church or churches to which John wrote. But the devil on a certain occasion cried out, "I know thee, who thou art, the Holy One of God!" Here was a frank acknowledgment under other circumstances that "Jesus had come in the flesh." On another occasion the devil said, "Paul we know, and Jesus we know"--of course, "come in the flesh." No man nor set of men without the regular constituted authorities, the Priesthood and discerning of spirits, can tell true from false spirits. This power they possessed in the Apostles' day, but it has departed from the world for ages.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has also had its false spirits; and as it is made up of all those different sects professing every variety of opinion, and having been under the influence of so many kinds of spirits, it is not to be wondered at if there should be found among us false spirits.
Soon after the Gospel was established in Kirtland, and during the absence of the authorities of the Church, many false spirits were introduced, many strange visions were seen, and wild, enthusiastic notions were entertained; men ran out of doors under the influence of this spirit, and some of them got upon the stumps of trees and shouted, and all kinds of extravagances were entered into by them; one man pursued a ball that he said he saw flying in the air, until he came to a precipice, when he jumped into the top of a tree, which saved his life; and many ridiculous things were entered into, calculated to bring disgrace upon the Church of God, to cause the Spirit of God to be withdrawn, and to uproot and destroy those glorious principles which had been developed for the salvation of the human family. But when the authorities returned, the spirit was made manifest, those members that were exercised with it were tried for their fellowship, and those that would not repent and forsake it were cut off.
At a subsequent period a Shaker spirit was on the point of being introduced, and at another time the Methodist and Presbyterian falling down power, but the spirit was rebuked and put down, and those who would not submit to rule and good order were disfellowshiped. We have also had brethren and sisters who have had the gift of tongues falsely; they would speak in a muttering unnatural voice, and their bodies be distorted like the Irvingites before alluded to; whereas, there is nothing unnatural in the Spirit of God. A circumstance of this kind took place in Upper Canada, but was rebuked by the presiding Elder; another, a woman near the same place, professed to have the discerning of spirits, and began to accuse another sister of things that she was not guilty of, which she said she knew was so by the spirit, but was afterwards proven to be false; she placed herself in the capacity of the "accuser of the brethren," and no person through the discerning of spirits can bring a charge against another, they must be proven guilty by positive evidence, or they stand clear. ... (47)
-- Apr 19, 1842 - Tuesday
Minutes of the Proceedings of the
Fifth Meeting
of the
Female Relief Society.
Lodge Room, April 19th. <1842>
...Councillor Cleveland stated that she many times felt in her heart, what she could not express in our own language, and as the Prophet had given us liberty to improve the gifts of the gospel in our meetings, and feeling the power resting upon, desired to speak in the gift of tongues, which she did in a powerful manner.
Mrs. Sessions arose and gave the interpretation of what Councillor C. had spoken in an unknown tongue, and said that God was well pleas'd with this Society, that if we would be humble and faithful the Lord would pour out upon the members generally the gift of prophecy - that when the speaker laid her hand on the head of Sister Snow, she said that not only she should have the spirit but that all should have it also ... (48)
-- Apr 28, 1842 - Thursday
[Relief Society] Minutes of the Proceedings
of the
Sixth Meeting of the Society.
Lodge Room, April 28th, 1842.
The Meeting met according to adjournment, present Prest. Joseph Smith and Elder W[illard] Richards-
President Smith arose and said that the purport of his being present on the occasion was, to make observations respecting the Priesthood, and give instructions for the benefit of the Society ...
Those ordain'd to lead the Society, are authoriz'd to appoint to different offices as the circumstances shall require.
If any have a matter to reveal, let it be in your own tongue. Do not indulge too much in the gift of tongues, or the devil will take advantage of the innocent. You may speak in tongues for your comfort but I lay this down for a rule that if any thing is
is taught by the gift of tongues, it is not to be received for doctrine.
Prest. S. then offered instruction respecting the propriety of females administering to the sick by the laying on of hands- said it was according to revelation &c. said he never was plac'd in similar circumstances, and never had given the same instruction.
He clos'd his instructions by expressing his satisfaction in improving the opportunity.
The spirit of the Lord was pour'd out in a very powerful manner, never to be forgotten by those present on that interesting occasion.... (48)
-- May 5, 1842
At a British Mission conference in Manchester, Lorenzo Snow sings a hymn "beautifully in tongues."
-- Jun 15, 1842
The Gift of Holy Ghost-- THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST Various and conflicting are the opinions of men in regard to the gift of the Holy Ghost. Some people have been in the habit of calling every supernatural manifestation the effects of the Spirit of God, whilst there are others that think there is no manifestation connected with it at all; and that it is nothing but a mere impulse of the mind, or an inward feeling, impression, or secret testimony or evidence, which men possess, and that there is no such a thing as an outward manifestation. ...
We believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost being enjoyed now, as much as it was in the Apostles' days; we believe that it [the gift of the Holy Ghost] is necessary to make and to organize the Priesthood, that no man can be called to fill any office in the ministry without it; we also believe in prophecy, in tongues, in visions, and in revelations, in gifts, and in healings; and that these things cannot be enjoyed without the gift of the Holy Ghost. We believe that the holy men of old spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost, and that holy men in these days speak by the same principle; we believe in its being a comforter and a witness bearer, that it brings things past to our remembrance, leads us into all truth, and shows us of things to come; we believe that "no man can know that Jesus is the Christ, but by the Holy Ghost." We believe in it [this gift of the Holy Ghost] in all its fullness, and power, and greatness, and glory; but whilst we do this, we believe in it rationally, consistently, and scripturally, and not according to the wild vagaries, foolish notions and traditions of men.
The human family are very apt to run to extremes, especially in religious matters, and hence people in general, either want some miraculous display, or they will not believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost at all. If an Elder lays his hands upon a person, it is thought by many that the person must immediately rise and speak in tongues and prophesy; this idea is gathered from the circumstance of Paul laying his hands upon certain individuals who had been previously (as they stated) baptized unto John's baptism; which when he had done, they "spake in tongues and prophesied." Phillip also, when he had preached the Gospel to the inhabitants of the city of Samaria, sent for Peter and John, who when they came laid their hands upon them for the gift of the Holy Ghost; for as yet he was fallen upon none of them; and when Simon Magus saw that through the laying on of the Apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money that he might possess the same power. (Acts viii.) These passages are considered by many as affording sufficient evidence for some miraculous, visible manifestation, whenever hands are laid on for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
We believe that the Holy Ghost is imparted by the laying on of hands of those in authority, and that the gift of tongues, and also the gift of prophecy are gifts of the Spirit, and are obtained through that medium; but then to say that men always prophesied and spoke in tongues when they had the imposition of hands, would be to state that which is untrue, contrary to the practice of the Apostles, and at variance with holy writ; for Paul says, "To one is given the gift of tongues, to another the gift of prophecy, and to another the gift of healing;" and again: "Do all prophesy? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?" evidently showing that all did not possess these several gifts; but that one received one gift, and another received another gift-all did not prophesy, all did not speak in tongues, all did not work miracles; but all did receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; sometimes they spake in tongues and prophesied in the Apostles' days, and sometimes they did not. The same is the case with us also in our administrations, while more frequently there is no manifestation at all; that is visible to the surrounding multitude; this will appear plain when we consult the writings of the Apostles, and notice their proceedings in relation to this matter. Paul, in 1st Cor. xii, says, "Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant;" it is evident from this, that some of them were ignorant in relation to these matters, or they would not need instruction.
Again, in chapter xiv, he says, "Follow after charity and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy." It is very evident from these Scriptures that many of them had not spiritual gifts, for if they had spiritual gifts where was the necessity of Paul telling them to follow after them, and it is as evident that they did not all receive those gifts by the imposition of the hands; for they as a Church had been baptized and confirmed by the laying on of hands-and yet to a Church of this kind, under the immediate inspection and superintendency of the Apostles, it was necessary for Paul to say, "Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy," evidently showing that those gifts were in the Church, but not enjoyed by all in their outward manifestations.
But suppose the gifts of the Spirit were immediately, upon the imposition of hands, enjoyed by all, in all their fullness and power; the skeptic would still be as far from receiving any testimony except upon a mere casualty as before, for all the gifts of the Spirit are not visible to the natural vision, or understanding of man; indeed very few of them are. We read that "Christ ascended into heaven and gave gifts unto men; and He gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors and Teachers." (Eph. iv).
The Church is a compact body composed of different members, and is strictly analogous to the human system, and Paul, after speaking of the different gifts, says, 'Now ye are the body of Christ and members in particular; and God hath set some in the Church, first Apostles, secondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all Teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?" It is evident that they do not; yet are they all members of one body. All members of the natural body are not the eye, the ear, the head or the hand-yet the eye cannot say to the ear I have no need of thee, nor the head to the foot, I have no need of thee; they are all so many component parts in the perfect machine-the one body; and if one member suffer, the whole of the members suffer with it: and if one member rejoice, all the rest are honored with it.
These, then, are all gifts; they come from God; they are of God; they are all the gifts of the Holy Ghost; they are what Christ ascended into heaven to impart; and yet how few of them could be known by the generality of men. Peter and John were Apostles, yet the Jewish court scourged them as impostors. Paul was both an Apostle and Prophet, yet they stoned him and put him into prison. The people knew nothing about it, although he had in his possession the gift of the Holy Ghost. Our Savior was "anointed with the oil of gladness above his fellows," yet so far from the people knowing Him, they said He was Beelzebub, and crucified Him as an impostor. Who could point out a Pastor, a Teacher, or an Evangelist by their appearance, yet had they the gift of the Holy Ghost?
But to come to the other members of the Church, and examine the gifts as spoken of by Paul, and we shall find that the world can in general know nothing about them, and that there is but one or two that could be immediately known, if they were all poured out immediately upon the imposition of hands. In I. Cor. xii., Paul says, "There are diversities of gifts yet the same spirit, and there are differences of administrations but the same Lord; and there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestations of the Spirit is given unto every man to profit withal. For to one is given, by the Spirit, the word of wisdom, to another, the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith, by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing, by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another the discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues. But all these worketh that one and the self same spirit, dividing to each man severally as he will."
There are several gifts mentioned here, yet which of them all could be known by an observer at the imposition of hands? The word of wisdom, and the word of knowledge, are as much gifts as any other, yet if a person possessed both of these gifts, or received them by the imposition of hands, who would know it? Another might receive the gift of faith, and they would be as ignorant of it. Or suppose a man had the gift of healing or power to work miracles, that would not then be known; it would require time and circumstances to call these gifts into operation. Suppose a man had the discerning of spirits, who would be the wiser for it? Or if he had the interpretation of tongues, unless someone spoke in an unknown tongue, he of course would have to be silent; there are only two gifts that could be made visible-the gift of tongues and the gift of prophecy. These are things that are the most talked about, and yet if a person spoke in an unknown tongue, according to Paul's testimony, he would be a barbarian to those present. They would say that it was gibberish; and if he prophesied they would call it nonsense. The gift of tongues is the smallest gift perhaps of the whole, and yet it is one that is the most sought after.
So that according to the testimony of Scripture and the manifestations of the Spirit in ancient days, very little could be known about it by the surrounding multitude, except on some extraordinary occasion, as on the day of Pentecost.
The greatest, the best, and the most useful gifts would be known nothing about by an observer It is true that a man might prophesy, which is a great gift, and one that Paul told the people-the Church-to seek after and to covet, rather than to speak in tongues; but what does the world know about prophesying? Paul says that it "serveth only to those that believe." But does not the Scriptures say that they spake in tongues and prophesied? Yes; but who is it that writes these Scriptures? Not the men of the world or mere casual observers, but the Apostles-men who knew one gift from another ...
Be not so curious about tongues, do not speak in tongues except there be an interpreter present; the ultimate design of tongues is to speak to foreigners, and if persons are very anxious to display their intelligence, let them speak to such in their own tongues. The gifts of God are all useful in their place, but when they are applied to that which God does not intend, they prove an injury, a snare and a curse instead of a blessing. We may some future time enter more fully into this subject, but shall let this suffice for the present. {1842-June 15-DHC 5:26-32} (17)
-- Jan 2, 1843
[Joseph Smith Diary] ...."Because faith is wanting the fruits [of faith] are not [evident]. No man since the world was, ever had faith without having something along with it. The ancients quen[c]hed the violence of [nature and] escaped the edged of the sword. Women received their Dead &c. By faith the worlds were made. A man who has none of the gifts has no faith. He deceives himself if he supposes it. Faith has been wanting not only among the brethren but professed Christendom also, that Tongues and healings and prophecy and prophets and apostles and all these gifts and blessings have been wanting." Joseph spoke at great length and edification to the little co[mpany]. ... (49)
-- Jan 22, 1843
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 22d Sunday President Joseph Smith deliverd an interesting discourse at the Temple to a large congregation. ....
Their is a difference between the kingdom of God & the fruits & blessings that flow from that kingdom becaus their was more miracles, gifts, graces visions healings, tongues &c in the days of Jesus Christ & the Apostles & on the day of pentecost than under Johns Administration. It does not prove by any means that John had not the kingdom of God; any more than it would that a woman had not a milk pan because she had not a pan of milk. For while the pan might be Compared to the kingdom the milk might be Compared to the blessings of the kingdom.... (30)
-- 1843: 30 May
Patriarchal Blessing] Thomas Smith. (Given by John Halbiston {Holliston?}, Manchester, England.)
.... The Lord will keep thee faithfull in thy high calling & thou shalt carry the gospel to other nations & preach in other tongues & gather the tribes of Israel & Judah & be mighty in word & deed & be an honored instrument in the Lords hand in accomplishing his great designs & bring many to the knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus Christ. The mystery of redemption shall be revealed unto thee in plainness & thou shalt see the propheses accomplished. ... (36)
-- Jul 30, 1843
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 30th Sunday Six of the quorum of the Twelve met at Temperance Hall in Pittsburgh with the Saints. .... He was followed by Elder B Young who also bore testimony to the work of the Lord and among the many remarks he made he argued in the following manner:
Why do the people oppose the gifts & graces? If a man Can get faith by the power of God & the gift of the Holy Gost so as to lay hands upon his wife & Children or friends when they lie sick & languishing nigh unto death & Command the fever or disease or the power of the destroyer or even death itself to depart to cease its work, to be still & the person is relieved I ask what harm is their in all this? Or if a man by faith & humility before God can get the testimony of Jesus Christ & prophecy of things to Come or speak in tongues or cast out devils, I ask what harm in all this? Does it do any harm? No it does not. I know the New Testament is true for I have proved it according to the pattern given by believing in Christ obeying the gospel & knowing the signs do follow. Then I ask does these things harm any one? No they do not. ... (30)
-- Aug 2, 1843
[Brigham Young] --2-- Elder Charles Beck gave us $48 to help us to Baltimore. On the 3rd we started at 6 a.m., by stage, and rode all day and night, and arrived in the morning of the 4th at Cumberland.
While in the stage we had a very interesting conversation with two Campbellite preachers who attacked us on "Mormonism." They contended that that which was in part had been done away, and that which was perfect had come, and that there was now no need of tongues, interpretations, and etc. Elder Woodruff replied,--"You then have no need to contend, for if that which is perfect has come, you certainly should all see eye to eye, being in possession of perfect knowledge." ... (11)
-- September, 1843
[Joseph Lee Robinson] We will now mention our exhortations or prophecy given in tongues one Sunday evening in my house. On this evening Brother Archibald Patten gave us a very lengthy and spirited lecture in tongues. E. T. Benson wished someone to give the interpretations on Brother Patten and said Brother Robinson could give it. I immediately arose to my feet and commenced by saying the Saints should continue their labors in building the temple of God in that place to completion so far that they should receive their endowments in the same and after the Lord should remove the Saints west out from these United States into a goodly land among the Lamanites in the midst of the Rocky Mountains. And there that they should preach the gospel to the house of Joseph and that many of them would be baptized and that the elders should go to the nations of the earth and preach the gospel to them and gather out many of the honest in heart and gather them out and that the work of the Lord should prosper with mighty power and that he would establish His Saints and increase them and bless them abundantly and that he would raise a mighty army of the Lamanites and that they should come forth from the mountains and that they should fall upon the Gentiles with mighty power and that a trembling and fear should fall upon these Gentiles but they should have no power to resist them that as well might the puny arm of man be raised to stop the mighty northwest winds for the Gentiles to stop this mighty army. At that time when I was saying these words I could see them coming over the hills across the river west of Nauvoo. They looked terrible as a dark cloud. Then I said they should avenge the blood of the prophets that was shed in Carthage Jail and that Governor Ford would not execute one man (as Governor Ford at this time with an armed force was in pursuit of the murderers saying that he would bring them to justice).
But that this army of Lamanites should avenge the blood of the prophets. Yea, that they should make a clean job of it. This is only a synopsis of the prophecy but it gives some of the particular parts of the prophecy. We consider it a very interesting prophecy that would be literally fulfilled. (45)
-- Dec 29, 1844
[Brigham Young Sermon] .... Now the office of the Holy Ghost concerning the speaking in tongues and prophesying we know these things are brought to us to know that there is such a thing but we cannot tell how we know or whence they came for it is utterly impossible for us to speak these in our natural tongue. But they can be uttered by the spirit and also the interpretation is given in the same way. Now this is that what the Savior Jesus meant and said to Nicodemus in John 3, when he said the wind blows where it listeth, ye can hear the sound thereof but ye know not from whence it comes or wither it goes. So it is with everyone that is born of the spirit but he told Nicodemus that he spoke to him the things that he knew and understood and I bare witness of these that they are in our Church and are made manifest unto us in these last days by the power of the Holy Ghost. Amen. -- Nauvoo, Illinois [George Laub Journal] (13)
-- Mar 26, 1845
[Patriarchal Blessing of Matthias Cowley on March 26, 1845]
... and thou cause thine enemies to flee before thee, and thou shalt be able to put ten thousand of them to flight, thou shalt have the spirit of Prophecy, and Revelation, the gift of tongues, and be able to do many miracles in the name of [the] Lord - shalt live to see Israel gathered in fulness - the City of Zion built in Jackson County, Missouri, and the House of the Lord, and the cloud rest upon it, according to the Revelation. ... (38)
-- 18th of June [1845]
[Heber C. Kimball] Brigham Young, George A. Smith, and myself went to the temple to see how things were progressing. The rafters were mostly on, all things going well. Returned home and found Sister Whitney. She anointed my wife and sang in tongues; I also sang and the Lord blessed us. (50)
-- Jun 19, 1845
[Heber C. Kimball] My wife porly. Br. come to work on my timber. Went to work reding history at W. Richards, B. Young, G. A. Smith. Br. Benson red for us. Sister Richards sent for us to Cloth us [in the robes of the Holy Order] and pray for hur as she felt as she should not live long. We offered up the Signs and praided for my wife; after dinner B. Young, G. A. and my self went to the Temple to see how things ware going on. The Rafters most on. All things going will. At fore in the after noon, we met at W. R. for prair, may the Lord bless His people. Present to this meting of the twelve B. Y. [Brigham Young], G. A. [George A. Smith], J. T. [John Taylor], Orson Pratt, Bishop Miller, Wm. Claton, W. R[ichards]. and my Self, Elder Levi Richards, A. Limon, O. Hide. We offerd prair Br. Whitney as he had gon to St. Lewis, that he might proper [prosper], also for Sister Richards, and for my wife that they might recover, that Elder Hide might prosper in the East, and that Jugment to come on Juge Young, that our Enimes might be cursed. Returned home found my wifee quite sick with fowing[?]. Sister Whitney come in annointed hur and sung in Toungs [tongues]. I also sung. The Lord blest us. (51)
-- Jun 20, 1845
Patriarchal Blessing of Sidney Roberts given by William Smith on June 20, 1845
... for the gift of wisdom shall be given unto thee and also the gift of tongues and by Revelations thou shalt speak unto the Gentiles and thy voice shall be unto them as one that hath a familiar Spirit and they shall say who is this that turneth things upside down yet thou shalt prosper in the labor of thy hands and in thy ministry and none shall hinder thee for the Spirit of God hath said it and it shall be fulfilled every whit upon thine head ... (38)
-- During June 1845
Patriarchal Blessing of Mathew L. Peck given by William Smith [no date, probably June 1845]
... the time shall come when enemies shall seek thy life but like Paul of old who was let from the window in a basket thou shalt escape from them thou shalt have the Spirit of prophecy to prophecy of things to come, and they shall come to pass. thou shalt also have the gift of tongues and speak in other languages the wonderful works of God thou shalt visit many cities and as a messenger of peace thou shalt be called upon to decide the cause of the innocent and stand before multitudes of people after thine enduement [endowment] ... (38)
-- Aug 4, 1845
Patriarchal Blessing of Charles Azleton given by William Smith on August 4, 1845
... true wisdom and true knowledge shall be given thee and the gift of discerning spirits and speaking other tongues a name that shall be like precious ointment for the Priesthood is also to thy posterity for of thee shall come a mighty people and their names shall be great prepare thyself watch unto prayer study to show thyself approved get wisdom and learning from the best books and works of nature seek the holy spirit that it may prepare thee for thy ministry ... (38)
Patriarchal Blessing of John Needham given by William Smith on August 4, 1845
... the Lamanites shall hear thy voice for in other tongues the Gospel shall be preached to them the gift of tongues and interpretation shall be given thee, by Revelation thou shalt speak and thy tongue shall be unloosed none shall deceive thee for thou shalt have the discerning of Spirits also great wisdom even the true knowledge of God power to organize kingdoms and build up a church of God ... (38)
Patriarchal Blessing of John P. McEwan given by William Smith on August 4, 1845
... for thou shalt have the gifts and blessing[s] of the Gospel the discerning of Spirits; gift of tongues and interpretation none shall have power to gainsay thy word for in distant lands thy voice shall be heard and while the heathen rage and imagine vain things
the Lamanites shall rejoice in thy testimony and they who are of thy Bretheren [Brethren] thy father[']s house shall hear thy voice and incline thine ears and their hearts shall understand and with thee when thine inheritance is sealed shall they be brought into the celestial mansions ... (38)
-- Aug 6, 1845
Patriarchal Blessing of Joseph McNeill given by William Smith on August 6, 1845
... gird thyself for the work for as a Messenger of peace thy voice shall be heard in distant lands and thy kindred shall be brought by the labors of thy ministry and even of the fruits of thy labors shall thousands call thee blessed for by Revelation shalt thou speak the gift and power of the Holy Ghost shall be upon thee and in other tongues shalt thou make known the fulness of the Gospel the gift of discerning Spirits the gift of wisdom power by faith to heal the sick cast out Devils the interpretation of tongues and every necessary blessing temporal & spiritual necessary to perfect thy ministry and complete thy Salvation shall be thine ... (38)
-- Dec 15, 1845
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] 15 Conference met again this morning. The fore part of the day was spent in making such Changes in the conferences as the circumstances required. In the Afternoon the Joint Stock Company was taken up And much said upon the subject. The evening was ocupied mostly upon the emegration. At the close I gave some Council to the Elders, such as to sustain the Presidency, the Priesthood & to be governed by it & not by tongues or the visions of some woman, but learn the operation of the spirits as there are many gone out into the world. Dont spend the time in whiping the sects but Preach the gospel of Jesus Christ. (30)
-- Dec 30, 1845. Tuesday.
[William Clayton Journal] The morning was pleasant, and at an early hour a very large number were at the Temple waiting for the washing and anointing, they having been notified the day before to attend at an early hour . . .
The labors of the day having been brought to a close at so early an hour viz; half past 8, it was thought proper to have a little season of recreation, accordingly, Brother Hans Hanson was invited to produce his violin. He did so, and played several lively airs, among the rest some very good lively dancing tunes. This was too much for the gravity of Brother Joseph Young, who indulged in a hornpipe, and was soon joined by several others, and before the dance was over several French fours were indulged in. The first was opened by President B. Young with Sister Whitney and Elder H. C. Kimball with Sister Lewis. The spirit of dancing increased until the whole floor was covered with dancers. After this had continued about an hour, several excellent songs were sung, in which several of the brethren and sisters joined. The Upper California was sung by Erastus Snow. After which Sister Whitney being invited by President Young, stood up and invoking the gift of tongues, sung one of the most beautiful songs in tongues, that ever was heard. The interpretation was given by her husband, Bishop Whitney, it related to our efforts to build this House, and to the privilege we now have of meeting together in it, of our departure shortly to the country of the Lamanites, and their rejoicing when they hear the gospel, and of the ingathering of Israel. Altogether, it was one of the most touching and beautiful exhibitions of the power of the Spirit in the gift of tongues which was ever seen. (So it appeared to the writer of this.) After a little conversation of a general nature, the exercises of the evening were closed by prayer by President B. Young, and soon after most of the persons present left the Temple for their homes . . . (46)
-- Jan 2, 1846. Friday.
[William Clayton Journal] ... At an early hour those who slept in the Temple were stirring, and large company had assembled in the vestry, waiting for their washing and anointing... After the regular exercises and business of the day was over ... the President gave permission to any one to speak or pray, or shout, or speak in tongues. No one seemed disposed to use the opportunity, where upon the President arose and made a short address to those present, himself. ... (46)
-- Feb 28, 1846
[Samuel W. Richards journal, Feb. 28, 1846] - at sundown to the Temple, where we spent the evening in holy conversation, administering the Sacrament, and speaking in Tongues, enjoyed the fruits of the Gospel. te(3)
-- Mar 15, 1846
[Thomas Bullock journal, Mar. 15, 1846] At sundown went to the Temple. [There were] 14 [in attendance, who] partook of the Sacrament[,] after which we had a most glorious time. Some of the brethren spoke in tongues. Bro. Z[ebedee] Coltrin and [Benjamin] Brown held a talk in tongues which was afterwards interpreted and confirmed. Some prophesied. Bro. [William] Anderson related a vision. And all of us rejoiced with exceeding great gladness. A light was flickering over bro. Anderson's head while relating his vision, Phinehas Richards face shone with great brightness. Two men arrayed all in priestly garments were seen in the n[orth]e[ast] corner of the room. The power of the Holy Ghost rested down upon us. I arose full of the Spirit and spoke with great animation, which was very cheerfully responded to by all, and prophesied of things to come. A brother testified that our meeting was accepted of God. And we continued our meeting until after midnight, [a meeting] which was the most profitable, happy, and glorious meeting I had ever attended in my life, and may the remembrance be deeply rooted in my soul for ever and ever. te(3)
-- Mar 21, 1846
Patriarchal Blessing] ... The Blessing of Abigail Hall, the daughter of Thomas and Catherine Harback; given in the City of Joseph, March 21st, 1846 by Isaac Morley.
... The gifts of the Gospel will become thy blessing, the Spirit of the Lord will cause thee to speak in unknown tongues and to understand truth from error. Wisdom will become thy gift, and faith will cause thee to be endowed with power from on high. Power will be given thee to act upon thy agency in behalf of thy deceased friends, and all the blessings that have been sealed upon thee will be verified in thy salvation and thy exaltation ... (38)
-- Mar 22, 1846
[Samuel W. Richards journal, Mar. 22, 1846] Went to my Quorum meeting in the Temple. The whole Quo- [rum] being present consisting of 15 members ... it was proposed by C[urtis] E. B[olton] that we pray for the Prophet Joseph [Smith] to come into our midst and converse with us, some consented to do so but the idea was first objected to as being unwise by Bro. Levi [Richards] who received a reprimand by way of [a] hint to leave the room from Bro. B[rown,] [though] not being agreed [to by the] Quorum. The matter was taken up, and after some remarks from several of the brethren, it was decided by the President, that we had no right to pray for such a thing, and all was right again. The Sacrament was administered and our great joy encreased by the gift of Tongues and Prophecy by which great bless- ings were spoken and made known to us. te(3)
-- Apr 29, 1846
[Minutes, Apr. 29, 1846] Minutes of the Dedication of the [Nauvoo] Temple April 30th, 1846. 7:45 p.m. Present at the dedication of the House of the Lord this evening ... Elder Hyde then requested the brethren to form a circle ... and then dedicate the House, they moved to the front part of the Melchizedek Stand and formed a circle. Elder O[rson] Hyde President (Elder Wilford Woodruff entered). This temple has been built in 5 years and the Gov[ernmen]t has oppressed us more and more every year and now they drive us away from it and now "I prophesy in the name of the Lord God of Hosts that this Government shall begin to be oppressed and be oppressed more and more every year and at the end of five years they shall be as badly oppressed as this people now is and they shall not know which way to look for Sunday" "It is the general government." (Amen.) ...
- * W[illiam] Anderson says as Brother Hyde has prophesied he would tell what was spoken in tongues and give the translation of it and he fully believed it. I rejoice in this thing and am willing to do all in our power to accomplish these things [and] get away [with] the brethren - ...
May we rise before we close. We shall offer up our Hosannahs and where there's [time, to] shout out the ranks of the [priesthood this] evening. The order of it is Hosannah, Hosannah, Hosannah to God and the Lamb Amen Amen and Amen[,] and I don't know that there'll be any hour [available] if we should speak it out [in] the angels voices [tongues]. We belong to God. [I] feel like giving one shout in the House of God. If this is your mind signify it by rising upon your feet (all upright). The signs and shouts (thank God [for] being [here][.] You are dismissed with the blessings of thy Lord and your God Amen.) - * The brethren adjourned to the attic story where a table was spread and loaded with "A Feast of Fat Things For the Righteous" in the shapes of wine, grapes[,] intestines [?] cakes &c &c which made a delightful banquet & was blessed by Elder Wilford Woodruff after which the feast was partaken of in great good harmony & happiness in testimony of the occasion of the dedication of the House of the Lord. ... te(3)
-- Dec 29, 1846
[Apostle Wilford Woodruff Journal] ... The fore part of the evening was occupied in conversing upon a variety of subjects And Had a little intermission during which time Elders Young Kimball and others had a little recreation and bodily exercise and had prayers after which Presidents Young and Kimball spoke in tongues a while. ... (30)
-- Tuesday, Dec 29, 1846.
[Apostle Willard Richards Journal] Winter Quarters. ... [At] quarter [to] 9, instrumental music ceased when all in the house united in singing three or four hymns, "Roll Round with the Years," etc., after which all united in prayer led by President Young in which he thanked the Lord for the privilege of praising God in the song, dance, etc., etc., after which he gave an address in tongues, then conversed in tongues with Elder Kimball. President Young proposed that he form a company of 50 of his own family, then see how many men can go as pioneers, etc., how many families can go, how many families will stay etc., etc.... (39)
-- Jan 1, 1847
Eliza R. Snow's diary mentions receiving a blessing "thro' our belov'd mother Chase and sis[ter] Clarissa [Decker] by the gift of tongues," adding: "To describe the scene . . . would be beyond my power
-- Mar 14, 1847
... Eliza R. Snow writes in her journal: "with Mother Chase & [Patty] Sessions. Father [Heber C.] Kimb[all] called in and gave us much beautiful instruction, after which we had some glorious communications of the spirit of God both by way of prophecy and the gift of tongues, and our hearts were made to rejoice and praise the name of God."
-- Jun 18, 1847
... Eliza R. Snow writes: " I spoke to br. H[unter] in the gift of tongues, sis. S[essions] interpreted, after which br. H[unter], sis. S[essions] & I laid hands on sis. H[unter]'s head and rebuk'd her illness & blessed her. I then sang a song to them & sis. S[essions] sang the interpretation. Susanna present & arose & bless'd sis. H[unter]."
-- Oct 9, 1847
[Hosea Stout Diary] We were all over safe at 9 oclock[.] Jack Redding who was with the pioneers turned back with us as a pilot[.] We now traveled on over a leve[l] Bottom for five miles when we came to the Blufs through which we passed for thirteen miles.
It is a barren country of sand hills or a continual succession of Mounds through which we had to pass. The day was very warm & still together with the heat of the sane, made it very pleasant traveling to prairie Creek.12 feet wide & 1 feet deep[.] Low Banks and some miry where we arrived at three o clock and encamped[.] Here was plenty of grass but no wood.
To night was the most sad and gloomy time which we had. Not knowing where the Twelve and those with them were or what had become of them.Perhap they were broke down, & robbed of all their animals and now near Larimie coming slow afoot.Distressed & nearly exhausted.We sat pondering over these THS[.] Some of our own company were sick.While in this melencholy mood Bishop Calkins took me out aside and said that he felt like he wanted to speak in toungs which he said was an uncommon thing for himand if it was right & any one here who could interpret he would be glad to speak.
I spoke to the company about who all were anxious to hear him. Saying if there was any intelligence for us in toungs there would be an interpretation also.
He spoke some time vehemently. Levi Nickerson only understood enough to know that it was relative to our situation and those we were in pursuit of & that all was well.
Bishop Calkins then gave us the interpretation which in substance was that our mission was of God, whose eyes & the eyes of angels were over us for our good.
That the Lord had turned away our enemies from us & we had not been seen
For us to press on & be faithfull and our eyes should see those who we sought and we all should return to our homes in peace.
We all felt the force of what was said & agreed to try and do better if we could & press on untill we met them if we had to go to the valley.
This was a very singular circumstance for there was not one of us who was given to enthusiastic notions of this sort which is so common with some brethren[.] But now we all felt an assureance that we would realize what had been spoken. (53)
-- May 26, 1850
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... when the Spirit of the Lord touched your understanding and told you Joseph was a descendent of Joseph sold into Egypt that spirit told you to look to the welfare of scattered Israel - labor to preach the gospel and gather Israel - the Spirit of the Lord has poured out on this people - I witnessed it in 1000s to seek diligently to save Israel. I have heard them speak in tongues and our Poets and Poetesses have stretched their arms and minds to write about gather Israel - your prayers are answered in a degree, your desires and anticipations may be realized, if your hearts are ready to receive you are now situated and located as this people have desired to be year to year - they have poured out their souls to God - fasted, prayed and wept to place them precisely where they are .... (13)
-- Feb 19, 1851
[Lorenzo Brown] Attended meeting this evening at Israel Hoits good meeting & a good deal of talking in tongues because they could not talk in their own (42)
-- Apr 7, 1852 (Morning, Conference)
[Brigham Young Sermon] .... You brethren who can, you are not called up here to preach, take the stand. You are at liberty to speak in [-] pray can shout, as the Lord may dictate. There never has been a day that I have felt better than I do today, I do not feel I preach [-] and with thunder it through me. I could talk in tongues till your were too tired. I could prophesy but I had better stop as we will make me a prophet. God has been as visible in leading this people as it was in leading Moses and Israel and Abraham. ... (13)
-- Apr 9, 1852 (Morning, Conference)
[Brigham Young Sermon] President Brigham Young addressed the saints on the subject of their endowments and poured forth revelation after revelation on the subject. A most heavenly influence prevailed. He closed by shouting Hallelujah, praise ye the Lord'- Sister Bybee spoke in tongues, when President Young declared it to be a proper tongue, and enquired, what the nations would do if they were here; and said, if he was to give way to the brethren and sisters, the day of Pentecost would be in the shade in comparison to it. -- SLC Tabernacle
[Deseret News. Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City; 1850-current. 2:46] (13)
-- Nov 8, 1852
[Journal History, Nov. 8, 1852] ... Pres[ident] Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards, Tho[ma]s Bullock, W[illia]m C. Staines, James Ure, James W. Cummings, Samuel L. Sprague, W[illia]m W. Phelps, each with a wife met in the Temple room. The brethren annointed each other. The wives were annointed by Sister [Elizabeth Ann] Whitney and [Eliza R.] Snow; afterwards all partook of cakes and wine. Some spoke in tongues, etc. te(3)
-- Apr 13, 1853
Ninth General Epistle-- NINTH GENERAL EPISTLE of the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, from Great Salt Lake Valley, to the Saints scattered abroad throughout the Earth, Greeting:
... Keep yourselves pure, live spotless and undefiled, all ye who profess to be Saints. Show your faith by your works. Let the Elders flee from any country where they are persecuted beyond endurance, and open the door of salvation to the first people who are willing to receive them. Translate the Book of Mormon into every language and dialect under heaven, and print the same, as God shall give you the opportunity. And from this hour the gift of tongues, and by it translations, from language to language, shall be more and more manifest unto the Elders of Israel, until no nation, kingdom, tribe, or family, shall be destitute of the offer of the word of God on the earth. ... (17)
-- Feb 3, 1854
... Woodruff writes that "during the evening Sisters [Elizabeth] Whitney & Eliza Snow called upon us and spent the evening. . . . Before they left Sister Whitney sung in tongues in the pure language which Adam & Eve made use of in the garden of Eden. This gift was obtained while in Kirtland through the promise of Joseph. He told her if she would rise upon her feet (while in a meeting) she would have the pure Language. She done so and immediately commenced singing in that language. It was as near heavenly music as any thing I ever he[a]rd."
-- Mar 2, 1854
Wilford Woodruff writes, "I addressed the Saints. Many spoke prayed & sung. One spoke in tongues & Brother Covington interpreted it."
-- May 10, 1854
[Brigham Young Sermon] .... The Indians here are of the house of Israel yet they are our brethren in sorrow because of the sins of their fathers, and we are called to redeem them. .... Now mark it, that if you do not do this, I will tell you that it will not be a many years until your throats will be cut and the Indians will take scalps enough to make a wick-a-up, and you will write this down as a prophecy, and write it down too, that if you will follow my counsel and do as I tell you and build your walls and forts as I direct you, not one of you shall be hurt. Write it down that if you want to know why these things are so I will tell you, it is because God will not be mocked, and have the priesthood which he has given trampled upon, and if you that have the privilege of coming to this place, you are in a situation to save Israel. I will tell it right out here, there was an army of elders called to go to the Lamanites and there was not one man that manifested any wisdom about it, and that was Porter Rockwell, he is an old Mormon, he said, I think it best to go to the Lamanites and live with them and preach to them, and teach them, and to make them know that we are their friends, and stick by them until they do know the truth. I have heard the people speak in tongues and prophecy and say I have got to go and teach the Lamanites and teach them to work and prepare them to receive the gospel, but as soon as they come among them, they want to kill them, but at the same time they will steal worse than the Indians. Now what should you do in such a case? Kill the Mormon thief and teach the Indian, for I have a thousand excuses for the Indians, to where I have one for the brethren in stealing from and killing each other. ... (13)
-- May 21, 1854
[Brigham Young Sermon] .... We shall have to mingle this people until the whole house of Israel is gathered together and even the ten tribes come again to the earth and inhabit the land given to their fathers. We have a considerable pill to swallow but it is so. I am sure there are women present who have spoken in tongues that they would have to go among the Lamanites and instruct them to sew, to knit, to wash and perform all domestic works. And the men have said that they were going to preach to the Lamanites. I ask you now are you going to swallow your faith and eat up your own revelations and persecute [-] you degraded beings who are forsaken of God. Now I tell you the time has come that you will have to carry out that which you have seen years and years ago and make them honorable.... (13)
-- May 13, 1855 (Morning)
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... If the kingdom was left without the Presidency or Twelve, what should we do, let's see, in Great Salt Lake we have got President and Councillors of Stake, and High Council, 19 Bishops, one in each ward. Great Salt Lake is in difficulty, we want to know what the Lord designs about the temple. How shall I find out, says the architect? I can tell you how. Who is the leading man, the President David Fullmer. He presides over all the counsellors, and the High Council, and all officers of the Stake. Well, we will fast and pray, not for this invitation to speak in tongues and this brother and sister interpret. In D. Fullmer should be concentrated all the faith, and if they had common sense they would do this. David Fullmer is the man who should get the word of the Lord, and the only man who can dictate in absence of the Twelve and First Presidency.... (13)
-- May 23, 1855
[James Henry Martineau] Attended a party given to John Steel and W. C. Mitchell, who are appointed to go on a mission. Zilpha, wife of Elder G. A. Smith spoke in tongues with great power: also Job P. Hall: and Prest J. C. L. Smith sang in tongues. Prest Smith gave the interpretation of Sister Zilpha's tongue, which was to encourage the missionaries; and warned and reproved the sisters for their non-compliance with the law of celestial marriage, and predicted many things that should come upon them, and the trials shortly to come upon the saints. (54)
-- Jul 15, 1855
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... B. Young said he had something to say concerning the saving of Israel. Can not imagine that we could have need [of] this priesthood had it not have been for this Book of Mormon. Here we are of the Gentiles and inasmuch as we have received of this gospel, that duty binds us to look after this House of Israel [Indians]. The Lord makes it our duty to look after the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Lord has planted this people in the midst of the House of Israel; and no matter how we profess to be an enlightened people, but when we come to the principles of eternal life we have wandered far from the true faith. Yet we account of these traditions of the Gentiles. We have imbibed those things in our hearts. We are now called to look after Israel, who are a loathsome people. Yet some of the Gentile nations are not filthy as any [of] these Indians. They will eat that which we would not. The Lord in his wisdom has appointed our location in the midst of Israel, which is a astounding miracle. How many times have you heard it spoken in tongues and prophesied of in days past and said that you should yet go and teach the Lamanites. If the Latter-day Saints are faithful in these things of teaching that people, all will be well with us; but if we neglect it we shall regret it, and they always, yeah, ever and ever.... (13)
-- Jun 22, 1856 (Afternoon)
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... In the first rise of the Church, when the gifts of the Gospel were bestowed on an individual, or upon individuals, the people could not understand but that the giver of the gift gave also the exercise of it; how much labor the Elders that understood this matter have had to make it plain to the understandings of the people. Take, for instance, the gift of tongues; years ago in this Church you could find men of age, and seemingly of experience, who would preach and raise up Branches, and when quite young boys or girls would get up and speak in tongues, and others interpret, and perhaps that interpretation instructing the Elders who brought them into the Church, they would turn round and say, '"I know my duty, this is the word of the Lord to me and I must do as these boys or girls have spoken in tongues.'" You ask one of the Elders if they understand things so now, and they will say, '"No, the gifts are from the Lord, and we are agents to use them as we please.'" If a man is called to be a Prophet, and the gift of prophecy is poured upon him, though he afterwards actually defies the power of God and turns away from the holy commandments, that man will continue in his gift and will prophecy lies. He will make false prophecies, yet he will do it by the spirit of prophecy; he will feel that he is a prophet and can prophecy, but he does it by another spirit and power than that which was given him of the Lord. He uses the gift as much as you and I use ours. The gift of seeing with the natural eyes is just as much a gift as the gift of tongues. The Lord gave that gift and we can do as we please with regard to seeing; we can use the sight of the eye to the glory of God, or to our own destruction. The gift of taste is the gift of God, we can use that to feed and pamper the lusts of the flesh, or we can use it to the glory of God. The gift of communicating one with another is the gift of God, just as much so as the gift of prophecy, of discerning spirits, of tongues, of healing, or any other gift, though sight, taste, and speech, are so generally bestowed that they are not considered in the same miraculous light as are those gifts mentioned in the Gospel. We can use these gifts, and every other gift God has given us, to the praise and glory of God, to serve Him, or we can use them to dishonor Him and His cause; we can use the gift of speech to blaspheme His name. ... (13)
-- September 4, 1856
[James Henry Martineau] Had an excellent meeting (fast) to day. Sister Zilpha Smith, wife of Geo. A. Smith spoke powerfully in tongues. I had to some extent the gift of interpretation for which I have long prayed. (54)
-- January 18, 1857
[James Henry Martineau] "Now I look at you [Julia Sherman] I see you have his [Lyman R. Sherman] eyes exactly - and his hair. He was a good man - Joseph's right hand man. He was a most beautiful singer, especially in singing in tongues - the finest I ever saw. He died a martyr to the Gospel, and will receive a Martyr's crown."
I was much rejoiced to hear Br. Kimball say this, for it shows to me that a truly good man will never be forgotten, in time, nor in eternity. (54)
-- Aug 23, 1857
Heber C. Kimball preaches: "Some of you, ladies, that go abroad from house to house, blessing the sick, having your little circles of women come together, why are you troubling yourselves to bless and lay your hands on women, and prophesy on them, if you do not believe the principle? You make yourselves fools to say that that same power should not be on the man that has got the Priesthood, and with sisters that have not got any, only what they hold in connection will their husbands. We can tell what will come to pass; and one of you can talk in tongues and pour out your souls to God, and then one interpret; that is the course you take, and it is all right: go ahead, and God bless you and multiply blessings on you; but do not go round tattling about your husbands and talking against the Priesthood you are connected to. I do not say many of you do it; but you that do it are poor, miserable skunks." ...
-- Jun 6, 1858
[Brigham Young Sermon] .... Some do not understand duties which do not coincide with their natural feelings and affections. Do you comprehend that statement? I have tried to tell you; but I am sometimes at a loss to convey a correct understanding with words. I should have the language of angels to enable me to exactly convey my ideas, and that would require an audience who understand that language. ... (13)
-- Jul 31, 1864
[Brigham Young Sermon] In my remarks this afternoon I wish to address strangers, as well as the Saints; ... Again we read of certain ones, who had been baptized to John's baptism, who were baptized again by Paul, '"and when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them, and they spake with tongues and prophesied.'" This is the Gospel we believe in and practice, now judge ye for yourselves whether we have the Bible to sustain us in this practice of the ordinances of the Gospel. I say let God be true, if it makes every man a liar. Now the inquirer asks, '"is not the Holy Ghost given to others, as well as to members of your Church?'" I would answer yes, in some instances; but in such cases they receive it through grace, not through obedience to the ordinances. ... The gifts of the Gospel are given to strengthen the faith of the believer;'"'"They shall speak with new tongues,'" saith Jesus. The stranger who is ignorant of our history inquires:'"'"Have you the gift of tongues in your Church?'" Yes, and were I to permit it now, hundreds of the Elders and the sisters would rise up in this congregation and speak in new tongues, and interpret as well as the learned of the age; but I do not permit it. Does the gift of prophesy exist with us? This fact is so evident and plain that it appears to us almost a loss of time to talk about it.... (13)
-- Nov 6, 1864
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... In my reflections I foresee a time, when we shall be able to communicate with each other easier and with much more pleasure and satisfaction than we now do; but we will then use a different language... Although the language that we now speak is as good as any language that has yet come to our knowledge, still it is very meagre, and limited in its range and power, and though it is a good medium at ordinary times, yet it comes very far short of being such a medium, as man needs to convey thoughts, when he is inspired by the power of God, through the gift of the Holy Ghost, and is full of the revelations of Jesus... It is written '"Therefore, wait ye upon me, saith the Lord, until the day that I rise up to the prey: for my determination is to gather the nations, that I may assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon them mine indignation, even all my fierce anger: for all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy... For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the Lord, to serve him with one consent...'" When a man rises up to speak in the name of the Lord, and is filled with the light, and the intelligence and power which cometh from God, his countenance alone will convey more, to those who are inspired by the same spirit, than can possibly be conveyed, by the words of any language now used by mankind. ..... -- SLC Bowery
[Journal of Discourses... Liverpool, England, 1853-86... 10:353-357; Deseret News... Also Deseret Evening News, Deseret News Weekly, Deseret News Semi- Weekly, and Deseret News Extra, Salt Lake City]. (13)
-- 1-Aug 10, 1865
[Brigham Young Sermon] .... every president, bishop, elder, priest, teacher, deacon and member standing in his order and officiating in his standing and degree of priesthood as ministers of the words of life, as shepherds to watch over departments and sections of the flock of God in all the world, and as helps to strengthen the hands of the Presidency of the whole church. A sister who receives the gift of tongues is not thereby empowered to dictate her president, or the church. All gifts and endowments given of the Lord to members of His church are not given to control the church; but they are under the control and guidance of the priesthood, and are judged of by it. ... (13)
-- Aug 26, 1866
[Brigham Young Sermon] Pres. B. Young delivered a very instructive discourse on various principles of the gospel, teaching the Saints on the gift of tongues and other gifts promised to believers, and showing how the Christian world profess a belief in the bible, but refuse to obey its teachings. -- Salt Lake City (13)
-- Jul 11, 1869
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... Jesus set in his Church, according to Paul's words to the Corinthians, firstly apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Again I will ask the question: has there been any revelation from heaven that God has taken these gifts out of His Church; and if so through whom and when? .... When I look at the economy of heaven my heart leaps for joy, and if I had the tongue of an angel, or the tongues of the whole human family combined, I would praise God in the highest for His great wisdom and condescension ... (13)
-- 1870
John H. Beadle of Utah, writing in 1870, remarked that "this exercise [of tongues] is a little too ridiculous, even for the Mormons at present, and is rarely heard of."
[John H. Beadle, Life in Utah: or, The Mysteries and Crimes of Mormonism (Philadelphia: National Publishing Co., [1870]), 323.] (5)
-- May 7, 1871
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... Now, to our experience again. Suppose you obey the ordinances of the Gospel, and do not speak in tongues to-day, never mind that. Suppose you do not have the spirit of prophecy, no matter. Suppose you do not receive any particular gift attended by the rushing of a mighty wind, as on the day of Pentecost, there is no particular necessity that you should. On the Day of Pentecost there was special need for it, it was a peculiarly trying time.... (13)
-- Aug 11, 1872
[Brigham Young Sermon] .... From China let us go directly to the Cape of Good Hope, and there an Elder is preaching and baptizing people into the kingdom of God, and when they get into this kingdom they begin to read and understand, and to prophesy, and if they are not checked in the gifts, you will hear them speak in tongues. Let me say here, to the Latter-day Saints, it is frequently asked by our brethren, '"Why do not the people speak with tongues?'" We do, and we speak with tongues that you can understand, and Paul says he would rather speak five or ten words in a language that can be understood, than many in a language that can not be. This is what he conveyed. We speak with tongues that can be understood; but the reason that we do not encourage this little, particular, peculiar gift, which is for the edifying of some few in the Church, I have not time to explain. ... (13)
-- 1873
T. B. H. Stenhouse, a disaffected Mormon, complained that Young was "the least desirous of listening to the exercise of this 'gift [of tongues],'" relating also an instance in which a woman glossolalist was cautioned by two of Young's wives "not to mention the circumstance, as 'Brother Young' was opposed to such manifestations."
[T. B. H. Stenhouse, The Rocky Mountain Saints: A Full and Complete History] (5)
-- Aug 31, 1873
[Brigham Young Sermon] ... Some may receive the gift of tongues, that they will get up and speak in tongues, and speak in many other languages beside their mother tongue, the language that they were brought up in, that they were first taught, and be able to proclaim the Gospel of life and salvation that all men could understand it. ... Are we entitled to the gift of speaking in, or the gift of the interpretation of, tongues? No. .... (13)
-- Feb 21, 1874
During meeting of Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association in Assembly Hall on Salt Lake Temple Square, "Mother [Elizabeth A.] Whitney sung in tongues, and Carrie Carter in attempting an interpretation threw her bonnet and muff on the floor, & fell on her knees, remaining for some time in that position."
-- May 14, 1875
"after urging," Elizabeth Ann Whitney spoke in tongues with fluid ease for some five minutes. Eliza R. Snow affirmed that it was the "pure tongue of Adam."
-- 1878
Orson Pratt, who did not always agree with Young's teachings, complained about the infrequency of spiritual gifts, observing, "The reason why we have not enjoyed these more fully is, because we have not sought for them as diligently as we ought."
[Journal of Discourses, 25:145] (5)
-- 5 February 1878
[Zebedee Coltrin] Thomas Matley, Wark Clerk, recorded the following address made at a meeting of the High Priests in Spanish Fork, Utah, February 5, 1878
"At Kirtland we were called to the school of the prophets, and at one time when Joseph was in the translating room, myself and others were talking about the gift of tongues, when the spirit of tongues fell upon me and I spoke under its influence. joseph came into the room and said, `God bless you Brother Zebedee, that is the spirit of God.' He told me to continue, and the gift of tongues and prophecy rested upon the greater part of the brethren present and we continued speaking in tongues and prophesying through that day and the greater part of the following night. ....
"In the Kirtland Temple I have seen the power of God as it was in the day of Pentecost and cloven tongues as of fire have rested on the brethren and they have spoked with other tongues as the spirit gave them utterance. I say the Lord high and lifted up, and frequently through the solemn assemblies. The angeles of God rested upon the Temple and we heard their voices singing heavenly music. At another time while consecrating a bottle of oil, we saw visibly the finger of God enter the mouth of the bottle. (15)
-- July 17, 1880
Meeting held on July 17, 1880:
“Sister Whitney then sang one of her sweet songs of Zion in the language which was spoken and sung (the Prophet Joseph said) by our first parents in the Garden of Eden. Sister Snow explained that Joseph Smith told Mother Whitney ‘If she would use the gift with wisdom it should remain with her as long as she lived.’ Sister Zina then gave the interpretation. The theme of which was rejoicing and praise to the Great Author and Giver of good.” (55)
-- Thursday, January [February] 2, 1882
[Ora Charles Card] I attend fast meeting this forenoon at 10 O.C. Where the Spirit of God was made manifest. One of the Sisters Spoke in tongues Interpreted By Mother Crocket Wife of David Crockett12 deceased which was to the effect great calamities that were Shortly to come upon the nations exhorting the Sts. to not set their Hearts upon the things of the world & prepare themselves for the work of the Lord. A Synopsis of the above was given to me & I was filled So with the Spirit that I could not but give utterance only Briefly. (56)
-- Saturday, September 2, 1882
[Ora Charles Card] Sister Snow gave Some instructions to the Sisters in one unknown tongue and Blessed the children in another which was interpreted by Sister Zina Young.7 They both gave good instructions in our own Language. (56)
-- February 1, 1883
[Oliver B. Huntington] Being fast day Feb, 1st I went to meeting Considerable prophecying. Bro. L< N. Scovill was told in tongues that he should be promoted by the spirit to call his children together and bless them as the patriarchs of old; and tell them what should come to them if they would listen to his council. (57)
-- March 1, 1883
[Oliver B. Huntington] was Thursday and fast day. I went to the meeting, Had tongues and prophecy. Bro, Erastus F. Clark told a dream, which was, that he saw a terrible pestilence in Springville; the doctors could not find anything that would stop it or do it any good. It was a disease that they had never seen nor heard of. There were some persons that escaped the disease and a voice said to him, "Behold they upon /whom" the plague has no power are they that keep the word of wisdom," (57)
-- April 1, 1883
[Oliver B. Huntington] My wife, Jane and I went to fast meeting.... At the meeting the gift of tongues was used wherein the Lord said that when the destroyer should leave the realms above upon his work to lay waste the earth, it will be communicated and made known to him that stands at the head of the church - (57)
-- Sunday May 18, 1884
[Ora Charles Card] Just 7 yrs ago to day at 12 M the ground was dedicated & broken for this temple. This morning at 9 O.C. I went to the Temple& prepared to receive the audience for the 2nd dedicatory Service and the Same Opening him was Sang& Same pray repeated. Choir Sang Apostle Erastus Snow Who related the Kind of Ordinances administered that was the anointing of heads & washing of feet by Quorims Spoke of the 3 Golden Keys presented in token of the Keys of the Priesthood. Spoke of an angel being Seated by the of father. Fred G. Williams during the offering of the prayer the Same place that Pres Taylor ocupies. Many Spoke in tongues and the congregation was filled with the Holy Ghost. (56)
-- July 28, 1884
[James Henry Martineau] [Blessing by Wm J. Smith of wife Susan] You shall do a great work in bringing souls to Christ, and shall do a mighty work among the Lamanites, and shall have power to learn tongues and languages, and shall be preserved from every evil.... (54)
-- During 1884
(Heber J. Grant) When Heber was fifteen, Eliza R. Snow prophesied in tongues and Zina D. H. Young interpreted: eventually Heber would be one of the leading men in the Church.... (34)
-- Thursday, Apr 1, 1886
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
I attended fast meeting and heard the speaking in tongues. (58)
-- November 1899
Ezra C. Robinson said in 1899 that although he had been "born and reared in the Church," he had "never had the privilege of hearing the gift of tongues manifested" before being called on his mission.
[Ezra C. Robinson, "Evil Spirits Rebuked-The Gift of Tongues and Prophecy," Improvement Era 3 (November 1899): 31] (5)
-- Apr 19, 1894
[Apostle Heber J. Grant Diary] [Meeting of Apostles and Presidency] Prest. Woodruff spoke of the first time he had ever been in a meeting witht the Prophet Joseph and said that Joseph had said to the few men in the room at the time that they had no more idea of the magnitude of the work of God than babes. Among other things Joseph had said that there would yet be tens of thousands of saints in the Rocky Mountains. Referred to hearing a large number speak in tongues in the Kirtland Temple and that a sister Hman Hyde interpreted most of what was said and there was more in the talk about the Rocky Mountains than any other subject. He did not then understand that the saints were to be located in these valleys. (59)
-- Mon., May 22, 1894
[Apostle Abraham H. Cannon Journal] The Elsinore choir furnished the singing, and during the services yesterday they sang a piece to the words, "O My Father," which Bro. Durrans; of Parowan received in a dream. H dreamed that he saw a Navajo blanket floating down a river, and as he watched it, he suddenly saw several Indians appear on it. They came to the shore where he stood, and one of them placed an instrument to his mouth something like a clarionet, on which he played the tune which was rendered, with the exception of one high note which he could not reach. Bro. Durrans arose and wrote out the piece, Some time thereafter a birthday party was given at his house when one of the brethren spoke in tongues. In the course of his remarks he said that this tune was the one used by the ancient Nephites, just before the last remnant was slain at the hill Cumorah about the year 421 A.D. It was a kind of lamentation. (60)
-- 7 May 1896
At a Relief Society meeting in Woodruff, Arizona, Hannah Savage "received the gift of tongues and the interpretation. . . . Medora Gardner testifyed that it was the tongue of Adam that had been given."
[Hannah Adeline (Hatch) Savage, Journal, May 1896] (5)
-- Sunday, Apr 2, 1899
[Apostle John Henry Smith Diary] Salt Lake City
I attended fast meeting in the Temple and heard speaking in tongues by [?] Y. Dougall. Interpreted by Zina D. H. Young.
D. L. Moody, the Methodist Evangelist, spoke at the Tabernacle today. (58)
-- Apr 2, 1899
Lorenzo Snow presides at Salt Lake temple monthly fast meeting: "Sister Maria Y Dougall bore her testimony and wound up by speaking in tongues which struck me as the finest expression of that beautiful gift to which I had ever listened and when Aunt Zina (H. Young) interpreted it[.] it was sweet in deed."
-- Jun 8, 1899
... Salt Lake Temple, 11 A.M. Present: Presidents Lorenzo Snow, Joseph F. Smith and Franklin D. Richards; Apostles Brigham Young [Jr.], George Teasdale, Anthon H. Lund, Matthias F. Cowley and Rudger Clawson. Also, Apostles J[ohn]. H[enry]. Smith and A[braham]. O[wen]. Woodruff.
... Brother John Henry Smith briefly reported the visit of Brother Cowley and himself to Tennessee. They found the Elders in that region industrious and feeling encouraged. The winter had been exceedingly severe for that part, and the spring season had opened very hot, resulting in the taking down of many of the Elders with malaria. In a fast meeting which they attended with the Elders and Saints the gifts of the Spirit were exercised, such as speaking in tongues and prophesying. ... (61)
-- Feb 25, 1900
Returned missionary from Southern States Mission speaks in tongues at Salt Lake tabernacle and gives "the interpretation which was very beautiful" This may not be first time, but is probably the last, that someone speaks in "unknown tongue" (glossolalia) in Tabernacle.
-- April 1900
Joseph F. Smith told the Church in general conference in 1900 that "where two men or women exercise the gift of tongues by inspiration of the Spirit of God, there are a dozen perhaps who do it by the inspiration of the devil. . . . I do not want the gift of tongues except when I need it."
[Report of the Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, April 1900 (Salt Lake City: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, semi-annual), 41] (5)
-- Thursday, Jan 10, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] Salt Lake City. Clear and cold, freezing weather. 10 a.m. Continuation of quarterly conference of the Twelve. Present: full quorum.
... Apostle Reed Smoot dwelt briefly upon the law of tithing. Said the spirit of indifference prevailed more or less among the saints in the various stakes. Referred to some of the fast meetings in Provo last Sunday and said the spirit and power of testimony rested upon the people and the gifts of the gospel were manifested. One brother spoke in tongues to the effect that the impressions given to Pres. Snow of late regarding the redemption of the center stake of Zion and the building of the great temple were from the Lord and such event would transpire much sooner than many supposed.... (62)
-- Monday, Feb 11, 1901
[Apostle Rudger Clawson Diary] ... 7 p.m. I arrived at Idaho Falls and put up at Bp. [James] Thomas'. Before going to meeting Bp. Thomas informed [me] that a peculiar and somewhat serious condition prevailed in the ward and he wanted counsel regarding it. He said that one of the sisters had been speaking in tongues at their fast meetings and he feared that it was not done by the Spirit of the Lord. A very unpleasant and unsatisfactory feeling prevailed in the meeting whenever she spoke or sang in tongues. And not only so but the interpretation was not given of the Spirit of God. As a further evidence that the tongue was not from the Lord, one of the sisters in the congregation immediately upon hearing the tongue was visibly affected and went into spasms.
Upon one occasion the bishopric administered to her and rebuked the spirit that was afflicting her, but the administration was without effect. The afflicted sister, contrary to the order of the church, called upon one of her sisters to rebuke the spirit, which was done and it left her. The bishop took occasion to point out to the saints the evil resulting from the exercise of this strange tongue and warned them against it. This greatly angered a young man, who was related to the sister who had spoken in tongues, and who had just returned from a mission to the world, and he arose in the meeting and cursed the bishop in the name of the Lord.
I was very much shocked at the bishop's statement and said that it now became his solemn duty to forbid the sister alluded to from further exercising the strange tongue; and that the young man who had so grievously offended, should be called to answer before the bishop's court, and that if he did not make ample and humble reparation for his fault, he should be disfellowshipped, and the case sent to the high council for further action.
8 p.m. Meeting at the ward house, Bp. J. Thomas presiding. I was speaker of the evening. Topics treated. The excellent conference held at Lewisville. The authority pertaining to the bishopric and his right to the spirit of discernment. (62)
-- 8 June 1901
Susa Young Gates wrote to Elmina S. Taylor describing a meeting in which she interpreted tongues.
[Susa Young Gates, Letter to Elmina S. Taylor, 8 June 1901] (5)
-- Jul 7, 1901
Lorenzo Snow presides at Salt Lake Temple's monthly fast meeting, "and Sister Lillie T. Freeze sang in tongues."
-- November 19, 1904
[James Henry Martineau] Blessed Bishop John Neff and his daughters Frances and Eugenia, the latter about to go on a mission. Sister Mary A. Hyde White also blessed the two girls in tongues. We had a delightful time. (54)
-- December 1904
James X. Allen reported in 1904 that "he had never in his life heard anyone speak in tongues," although he had been reared in Utah.
[James X. Allen, "Passing of the Gift of Tongues," Improvement Era 8 (December 1904): 109] (5)
-- January 4, 1905
[James Henry Martineau] With Sister Mary Hyde White visited her Sister Zina Virginia Hyde Bull, widowed recently, who has cataract growing over her eyes and is losing her sight. She wished me to rebuke blindness and to bless her, which I did. Her sister Mary also blessed her in tongues, with the interpretation. I know Zina may be healed, through faith. She felt very happy. I enjoyed my visit very much, as I always do in visiting and blessing the sick. (54)
-- April 13, 1906
[James Henry Martineau] Lyman Sherman joined the church in 1831, Was the first who ever spoke in tongues in this dispensation. Prest Kimball told me that L. R. S. was the sweetest singer in tongues in the church, and was Joseph’s “right hand man.” in Missouri. (54)
-- Aug 1, 1906
"Fast meeting in 1st Ward. . . .Sister Jarrett speaks in tongues and prophesies." DER STERN reports Joseph F. Smith's statement to conference at Bern, Switzerland: "The time will come when this land [Europe] will be dotted with temples . . ."
-- Aug 30, 1906
At testimony meeting of general board of Young Ladies Mutual Improvement Association invited guests Lillie T. Freeze and Maria Young Dougall speak in tongues and interpret. Sisters Freeze and Dougall are general board members in other auxiliaries and speak in tongues and interpret at such meetings until they die in 1937. By then glossolalia no longer occurs in LDS meetings, since all Mormons with this gift have died without successors. After 1930s LDS leaders redefine "gift of tongues" to be ability to learn unfamiliar language (such as Japanese), rather than spontaneous speaking of "unknown tongues" which correspond to no recognized language.
-- October 16, 1908
[James Henry Martineau] Attended a reunion of Temple workers, at which the wid. of W. W. Phelps was present and spoke in tongues. (54)
-- Apr 09, 1909
[U.S. Religious History] The first recorded instances in America of groups speaking in tongues occurred in Los Angeles under the leadership of black evangelist William J. Seymour. This event marked the beginning of the three-year-long "Azusa Street Revival," key in the development of Pentecostalism. (63)
-- September 29, 1909
[James Henry Martineau] Attended a reunion in 19th ward in honor of the widow of W. W. Phelps, a veteran of Missouri persecution times. She spoke in tongues, interpreted by a daughter of Orson Hyde, Sis M. White. (54)
-- Oct 5, 1913
Heber J. Grant preaches: "I seldom hear a hymn written by Sister Eliza R. Snow sung in any of our meetings, or sing one myself, that I do not thank God for the gift of tongues to that noble woman. She gave to me a blessing when I was a child, predicting incidents in my life, promising me that I should grow to manhood and become one of the leaders in the Church of Christ, Sister Zina D. Young giving the interpretation."
-- Mar. 15, Tues. [1920]
[James E. Talmage Journal] ... Upon my arrival at Springville this morning I was met by one of the Bishops, who requested that I meet the four Bishops of Springville together with certain relatives of the parties who have recently been dealt with in the Tintic Stake, and to this I assented. I was taken to the home of Bishop Bringhurst of the Springville 2nd Ward, where I found assembled the other Bishops and several women who were related to the unfortunate brethren and sisters with whom we have had to deal. They assured me that they sustained the action of the High Council, and of the direction given by the Church, and that in view of the facts they could not well see how the Church could do otherwise than disfellowship or excommunicate the offenders. But they wished to know whether those who had incited the West Tintic movement, and who had in some degree induced people to go out upon the land and live in the strange order thereon established, were to go free. They informed me of conditions that have long existed in Springville, this consisting essentially in the holding of meetings by women, and participated in by a few men, at which meetings messages were asked for. They told of alleged inspiration and revelation coming through women, and particularly of the frequency with which the gift of tongues was indulged in; and averred that by these means directions were sought as to individual and other affairs. Thus, they say, that business enterprises, land purchases, change of residence, mating in marriage, etc., were determined by this clique, as through prayer and fasting some “message” had been given directing them what to do.
I counseled with the Bishops on the matter, and urged them to greater diligence in the regulation of the affairs of their respective wards, particularly with regard to people holding meetings of a professedly religious character, and the encouragement of publications supplications for “manifestations” out of the ordinary.
In all these alleged proceedings, many of which were conducted with semi-secrecy, the dominant thought seems to have been that individual inspiration, direction through speaking in tongues, and particularly dreams, were superior to all counsel or direction through the ordinary Church channels.
It seems to me that the evil one is particularly busy in thus trying to undermine the faith of the people, that is of the few who are willing to be thus led, and in planting the germs of spiritual disease, generally in a soil of excessive piety.... (64)
-- March 28, 1923
In an Idaho Relief Society meeting, a Sister Nelsen, the mother of the Relief Society president, spoke in tongues after which her daughter interpreted, saying that the "Presidency of the Relief Society were chosen and set apart before they came into mortal life." The First Presidency instructed the stake president to inform Sister Nelsen that "the gift of tongues was given to the Church for . . . the purpose of preaching among peoples whose language is not understood. . . . This being the case, the sisters of Relief Society will readily perceive that it was entirely unnecessary for Sister Nelsen to resort to speaking in tongues on the occasion referred to, as all present spoke the same language. . . . It would be well to advise Sister Nelsen to let speaking in tongues alone and to confine her speech to her own language, and then she will be responsible for what she says."
[First Presidency, Letter to Heber Q. Hall of Boise Stake, 28 March 1923, First Presidency Letterpress Copybook, LDS Church Archives.] (5)
-- Sep 9, 1935
... I send you, herewith, a copy of a letter from Heber Crook of Argentina, South America, together with a carbon copy of my reply ... He says that he has relatives and friends who speak in tongues and prophesy, and wants to know if we agree with the Elders who say that these people receive their information from the Evil One. It is our belief that only members of the true Church are entitled to speak in tongues by the inspiration of the Lord. I am sending you, herewith, extracts from one of my sermons in which I relate two experiences in my own life dealing with the gift of tongues.... (65)
-- Oct 23, 1946
BYU campus newspaper reports that professor of religion Richard Thomson, announced in a class that "during a vision last night, it was made known to me that 'you bet' is the anglicization of "hubet," the pure Adamic word for "you're welcome." Either the word has survived relatively intact for many millennia, or else it was revealed to the true Saints in the nineteenth century as part of the restoration of all things. Personally, I support the latter view." This announcement leads to the creation of the "Hubet Society of BYU" (HSBYU), which in turn leads to an attempt to create an Adamic 101 course. The entire movement is crushed when Jesse Wright, Provo Central Stake president, speaks at a BYU fireside and calls Professor Thomson, who lived in the stake, "insane," "an apostate and a heretic." Professor Thomson soon disappears from BYU. (66)
-- 1955
The ability of some Maori saints to understand David O. McKay's address without interpreter has also been cited as a modern occurrence of tongues.
[Clare Middlemiss, comp., Cherished Experiences (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1955), 73-74] (5)
-- March 1975
[Ensign article] "Do people still speak in tongues today?"
Answer/Brother John E. Carr
The simple answer is yes they do.
But I am sure you want some evidences. Perhaps these are so numerous that you do not recognize them. Because of the very nature of this subject you may be inclined to look for the spectacular or something so out of the ordinary that only then would you believe you have seen evidence of the gift. ...
Hundreds of testimonies have been given by missionaries and some remarkable experiences are recorded in Church history evidencing this gift in the lives of such recent church leaders as President David O. McKay, (Gospel Ideals, p. 552.) Elder Alonzo A. Hinckley, (Answers to Gospel Questions 2:32–33.), and others.
As one of this dispensation’s great leaders and a devout missionary in his middle teens, President Joseph F. Smith was so blessed with this gift that he taught the Hawaiians in their own language. On one occasion he said, “So far as I am concerned, if the Lord will give me ability to teach the people in my native tongue or in their own language to the understanding of those who hear me, that will be sufficient gift of tongues to me.” (Gospel Doctrine, p. 201.)
But consider another evidence that is very prominent today. In 32 languages throughout the world the work of translating the scriptures and other publications of the Church is being carried forward. Many translators who can scarcely claim a complete knowledge of English read and study the gospel in the English language and translate their understanding into their native tongue. By persistent effort and practice they develop the gift they have received and become proficient in the work. ...
Missionaries are being prepared in language training missions for the work of teaching the gospel in a foreign tongue, and all of this that the scriptures may be fulfilled. ...
[John E. Carr, "Do People Still Speak in Tongues Today?" New Era (March 1975): 48-49.] (5)
-- During 1990
[Temple] Following surveys of Church members' feelings about the endowment, major revisions are made:
... syllables purported to having meaning in the Adamic language are omitted. ... (67)
Endnotes:
1 - Wikipedia: Glossolalia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossolalia
2 - Brooke, John L. The Refiner's Fire: The Making of Mormon Cosmology, 1644-1844. Cambridge: Cambridge UP, 1994
3 - Referenced in Grunder, Rick, Mormon Parallels: A Bibliographic Source
4 - Book of Mormon
5 - Reference in Dan Vogel and Scott C. Dunn, '"The Tongue of Angels": Glossolalia among Mormonism's Founders,' Journal of Mormon History Vol. 19, No. 2, 1993
6 - Pearl of Great Price: Book of Moses
7 - Book of Commandments and Revelations (Revelation Book 1)
8 - Ezra Booth, The Ohio Star - October 27, 1831, MORMONISM -- No. III., Nelson, Portage Co.
9 - Time Sequence of the New Translation, Robert I Matthews. 'A Plainer Translation': Joseph Smith's Translation of the Bible, A History and Commentary
10 - Whitney, Helen Mar, Jeni Broberg Holzapfel, and Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, A Woman's View: Helen Mar Whitney's Reminiscences of Early Church History, Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1997
11 - Manuscript History of Brigham Young, 1801-1844, ed. Elden Jay Watson (Salt Lake City: Smith Secretarial Service, 1968).
12 - Tidd, N. R., "Mormon Chronology"
13 - The Complete Discourses of Brigham Young, Ed. Richard S. Van Wagoner, Smith-Pettit Foundation, Salt Lake City (2009)
14 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Appendix 7: Selected Chronology of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1830-47
15 - Zebedee Coltrin Journal
16 - Joseph Smith Diary: 1832-34
17 - Clark, James R., Messages of the First Presidency (6 volumes)
18 - Hyrum Smith Journals 1832-1833, Hyrum Smith Papers, L. Tom Perry Special Collections, Harold B. Lee Library, Preliminary Transcription by H. Michael Marquardt
19 - Jenson, Andrew, Church Chronology
20 - Anderson, Lavina Fielding, Editor, Lucy's Book: A Critical Edition of Lucy Mack Smith's Family Memoir, 2001, Signature Books
21 - Kirtland Revelations Book, 48-49, handwriting of Frederick G. Williams
22 - Conkling, Christopher J., Joseph Smith Chronology
23 - Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1832-34
24 - Mormonism Unvailed (available November 28, 1834)
25 - Greene, Evan Melbourne, 1814–1882. Diaries, 1833–1852
26 - The Woodland Institute, http://www.woodlandinstitute.com
27 - BYU Studies Journal, volume 46, no. 4: A Chronology of the Life of Joseph Smith, http://byustudies.byu.edu
28 - Kirtland Council Minute Book
29 - Elizabeth Ann Whitney, "A Leaf From an Autobiography" Woman's Exponent 7 (1878): 83
30 - Wilford Woodruff's Journal: 1833-1898 Typescript, Volumes 1-9, Edited by Scott G. Kenney, Signature Books 1993
31 - Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: Minutes of Meetings and Other Documents--Excerpts, 1835-1896, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009
32 - Early Patriarchal Blessings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Joseph Smith Sr. (Author), H. Michael Marquardt (Editor)
33 - Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1835-36
34 - Van Wagoner, Richard and Walker, Steven C., A Book of Mormons
35 - Oliver Cowdery Sketch Book
36 - Selected LDS Patriarchal Blessings, New Mormon Studies CD ROM, Signature Book, 2009
37 - http://www.boap.org/LDS/Early-Saints/OPratt.html
38 - Patriarchal Blessing, typescript, Marquardt Papers
39 - Willard Richards Journal
40 - Mary Fielding to Mercy Fielding Thompson, 8 July 1837, Mary Fielding Smith Collection, LDS archives
41 - Journal of Samuel D. Tyler
42 - Journal of Lorenzo Brown: 1823-1900
43 - Autobiography of Benjamin F. Johnson
44 - The Words of Joseph Smith by Joseph Smith by Andrew F. Ehat and Lyndon W. Cook
45 - Journal of Joseph Lee Robinson
46 - George D. Smith, An Intimate Chronicle; The Journals of William Clayton, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1995
47 - The Parallel Joseph, http://www.boap.org/LDS/Parallel/
48 - Nauvoo Relief Society Minute Book, http://josephsmithpapers.org/paperDetails/nauvoo-relief-society-minute-book
49 - Faulring, Scott (ed.), An American Prophet's Record: The Diaries and Journals of Joseph Smith: Joseph Smith Diary, 1842-43
50 - Heber Kimball, in Helen Mar Kimball Whitney, "Life Incidents," Woman's Exponent 9 (1880)
51 - Kimball, Stanley B. ed, On the Potter's Wheel: The Diaries of Heber C. Kimball
52 - Anderson, Devery; The Development of LDS Temple Worship, 1846-2000: A Documentary History
53 - Diaries of Hosea Stout
54 - An Uncommon Common Pioneer: The Journals of James Henry Martineau 1828-1918, edited by Donald G. Godfrey XXX Rebecca S. Martineau-McCarty
55 - R[elief], S[ociety]. Reports,” Woman’s Exponent 9 (September 1, 1880):54
56 - Diaries of Ora Charles Card: The Utah Years 1871-1886 Edited by Donald G. Godfrey and Kenneth W. Godfrey
57 - History of the Life of Oliver B, Huntington Written by Himself 1878 -1900, typescript
58 - Jean Bickmore White (editor), Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City, 1990
59 - Diary of Heber J. Grant
60 - Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts
61 - Journal History
62 - Stan Larson (editor), A Ministry of Meetings: The Apostolic diaries of Rudger Clawson, Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, Salt Lake City
63 - Cline, Austin, History of American Religion: Timeline
64 - James E. Talmage Journal, Transcription reproduced by Trevor Antley, Special Collections, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University
65 - Heber J. Grant, Letter to W. Ernest Young; Heber J. Grant, Letter to Zelda A. Merritt
66 - Quinn, D. Michael, The Mormon Hierarchy: Extensions of Power
67 - Duffy, John Charles, http://www.ldsendowment.org/timeline.html
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