The Zion Society


A Wonderful Ideal

I spent 20 years being an active Mormon during the years 1958-1978. Then the church discovered that I thought that the prophet was not infallible, as I disagreed with him on a point of doctrine, and they immediately threw me out. I was glad to go as the great repetition of simple ideas in church was becoming increasingly boring and a waste of time. My only regret was the effect it had on my family as my wife at the time stayed a true blue Mormon.

My membership though was not a waste of time as I took away from the church an important teaching emphasizing a beautiful ideal – that of Zion.

The concept of Zion did not originate with Mormonism, but was greatly enhanced by it. Among the Jews, Zion was synonymous with Jerusalem or Israel and prophecy speaks of a time that it will be reestablished with power and unity.

In Mormonism Zion is presented as a gathering of the pure in heart who will live together in unity, love and equality having “no poor among them.”

Since the days of Joseph Smith numerous attempts have been made by the church and breakoffs to create a Zion Society and each time they have failed.

And why have they failed?

Basically for the same reason pure communism has failed. It turns out that most individuals are motivated to seek for their self-interest, which creates unequal status which can only be countered by strong authority. Strong authority thus surfaces to enforce equality. This evolves into a situation that is less equal and a more pronounced class difference than laissez faire capitalism.

You wind up with a small authoritative class that controls and gives orders to the submissive class. Then when the authoritative class realizes that it has been given a blank check to do what they want they reward themselves with as much luxury and perks as the system can bear.

Thus the ideal of the classless society evolves into a great duality of class beyond anything envisioned.

In spite of failures many thinkers have contemplated how to create this ideal society that was envisioned. After all, there are indeed many who would like to live in a society where brotherly love and equality dominate, including myself. Many efforts to create such a society began with good intentions, but eventually turned into a tyranny.


Because human nature does not gravitate toward the equality of sameness, as they see themselves as distinct human beings. Even the greatest supporters of equality see themselves and their needs as being different from their neighbors.

Because of this basic human trait any flawed goal toward equality will evolve into the two classes I mentioned. The movement grows to the few at the top who control with tyrannical powers, and the rank and file who must obey or be punished.

Does this mean that the idea of equality, sharing and brotherly love is a flawed idea that needs to be discarded?

Indeed not, as in the end the good that is in humanity always prevails, but only after much pain and learning through trial and error.

To move humankind to their next step in societal evolution we must look at the next level to be achieved in realistic terms. Anyone who expects all participants to always be willing to work and share instinctively when they need benefits for themselves is living in illusion.

Any step toward a Zion Society has to factor in human weakness into the equation. Also the idea of equality needs to be defined. Are we talking about sameness, equal rights or something else?

Above all, we want to avoid a tyranny. How can we do this?



Problems with Utopia

Zion is basically a vision of a utopia, the ideal society, where all have their needs met and people live in unity, equality and brotherly love. The actual word though is traced back to, the original Jerusalem, the city of David, which was far from a utopia, often fighting wars of survival or conquest and far from an ideal unity, suffering from regular insurrections and hostility.

Its flawed beginnings did not hinder the prophets from dreaming of a time of a perfected Zion. For instance, Isaiah said:


Isaiah 52:7-9

Beautiful words indeed, especially the part of seeing eye to eye. Such unity and harmony has been the dream of many besides the LDS clear back to the days of Socrates. Since then, many have attempted utopia, some based on scripture and some on other ideas. There have been hundreds of experiments ranging from communist societies and states to hippie communes, to religious groups – all seeking equality, union and all things in common.

The communists expressed a catchy ideal that was thought to be workable:


The citizens embraced the “needs” part, but were not that cooperative with the “according to his ability” part. When one saw his neighbor not doing his share then the individual asked himself, “Why should I work extra hard to support that lazy guy?” The greatest communist enterprise, the Soviet Union, thus fell apart through lack of cooperation and incentive from the lowly citizen.

Communist China under Mao had similar problems with millions of people dying of starvation. Their salvation has been in making a switch to a more capitalistic approach. Now they have their own capitalistic billionaires and are in some ways more capitalistic than the United States. They have at least taken their people to a higher level of prosperity.

On the other hand, North Korea tried to stay true to the communist ideal and the result is that you have a nation with the people starving, often resorting to eating tree bark, grass or even dirt to survive.

The only thing close to the Zion ideal that has prospered over a substantial period of time are the Amish and related groups. They do not exactly have all things in common as each person is over his own business or enterprise, but they are expected to share so no one goes without. They have achieved the desirable goal of having no poor among them. Their survival can be attributed to the fact that each has a certain amount of freedom over his own stewardship, goods and money, but the rules and restrictions are so great that few from modern society would have any attraction to the limited living conditions.

Each member has to give up all modern technology (with a small handful of exceptions). Your home would have no electricity, no phone, no internet, no modern appliances. You would be told how to dress, when to grow a beard, and have to make all your own clothes according to specifications. Basically all the elements of your life would be rigidly controlled.

There are a number of communal groups, including some breakoffs from the Mormon Church, who have maintained their organization for a period of time, but all of them suffer from rigid control by strong authority and offer little hope for a happy life.

On the other hand, most who dream of Zion, do not visualize themselves living a life in the dark ages before electricity with every aspect of their lives controlled by excessive rules and regulations.

The question any visionary must ask is what are the principles that can be followed that will create a definite Zion society?

Before we answer that question maybe we should first look at what does not work. There is no example of any substance on the planet we can point to of a Zion society that one can join that does work, but there are plenty of examples in history of failures.

(1) The main reason for failure is that a strong outer authority controls the rank and file members. Such an authority often claims to be the voice of God on the earth and, if such is believed, the member will be extremely fearful of doing anything contrary to commandments given out.

Outer authority, which takes the place of God speaking to the individual, is the mark of the beast. The mark of the beast in the forehead is control of the mind and the mark in the right hand is control of the labor of the participants. Thus all but a few currently have the mark of the beast as most allow outer authority precedence over the inner.

(2) Leaving it up to God. Many just “wait upon the Lord” and if they do act it is because someone tells them that they speak for God or interpret the scriptures correctly and they must be followed. Because of such claims corrections are often not made because that would be admitting that God is fallible.

(3) Waiting for some perfect plan. A Zion society will not just manifest in perfection but must be ironed out in the process of fallible human endeavor. God is not going to come down and lay it out for us in black and white.


Because we learn by doing. If humanity uses their minds and intelligence to create Zion then it will become a permanent fixture, but if someone just gives it to us on a silver platter it will be a temporary thing no matter how perfect the blueprint is.

The scriptures give us some of the ideals that will compose a Zion society, but is lacking in supplying most of the details. The end is given, but not the means.


This scripture explains it well:



“For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward.” D&C 58:27-28

So, if strong outer authority that takes precedent over the inner voice of the Spirit to the individual is a prime cause of failure then how are we to proceed? Should we recognize no outer authorities then?

If too many rules suffocate should we have no rules?

If too much hierarchy interferes should we have no hierarchy and no recognized leaders?

Or is there a point of balance somewhere in between?



The Prime Directive

There is one decisive principle that, when applied, will make things work efficiently, and when not applied dooms a work to failure.

This is the Principle of Freedom.

The problem with this principle is that many have different ideas as to what freedom is, but they are basically divided into two camps which I will label the light and dark side.

The Dark Side:

A person in this group will see freedom from his individual perspective or at best freedom for the group to which he belongs. If the majority have to suffer a loss of freedom or even slavery so his minority will have what they want so be it. His idea of freedom is enhanced.

Example: The Southern States fought for the extra freedom a minority received from owning slaves and benefitting from slave labor. Abraham Lincoln contemplated this idea of freedom and was amazed that the whole Confederate nation could stand behind it.

The Light Side:

A person in this group will value the freedom of all individuals everywhere. JFK said it well: “The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened.”

The true principle of freedom can be summed up as follows:

“It is the removal of restrictions either imaginary or real, so the power of decision has complete freedom within the sphere of its plan. Thus the true principle of freedom lies in the idea that the spiritual energy to accomplish is released so its life can flow through the ideas and thoughts of the individual until all positive desires are fulfilled.”

The true principle of freedom is not created by anarchy where all are free to do whatever they want with no restrictions. Such anarchy is counter to freedom and creates mob rule where tyranny is the end result negating freedom. A certain amount of law is necessary to maintain maximum freedom, but excessive law and regulations suppresses freedom. Thus the quality of good judgment must come into play for too great of a shift to the right or the left takes freedom away.

For example: We do not want the burglar to have the freedom to enter our homes and take what he wants. In this case the burglar’s extra freedom greatly diminishes the freedom of others. The net effect is that the loss of freedom without appropriate law is much greater than the freedom granted to the burglar.

Thus the Principle of Freedom supports the idea of maximum freedom for the whole rather than total freedom without law, or a state of anarchy.

How does this apply to the creation of a Zion Society?

The Principle of Freedom must be the prime directive in the creation of any benevolent, productive society, especially anything claiming to be constructed on the principles of Zion.

Without maximum freedom the people will be denied a fullness of happiness and joy. With it all things are possible and the true pursuit of happiness becomes reality.

We conclude then that true freedom, which is a state of maximum freedom, is found at some point between the two extremes. That point cannot be found by any mathematical equation, but is only discovered through unbiased judgment followed by experimentation and then by fine-tuning corrections.

When someone with great authority proclaims an exact path that must be followed and allows for no correction, because of supposed infallibility, disaster is always the result. No great work is ever completed without many corrections being made. Just like you cannot even drive a city block without making many corrections with the steering wheel, neither can the laborers in the vineyard of the Lord create a work of beauty unless they are allowed to make corrections as they go.

As with the Principle of Freedom, even so with correction; judgment must be applied. The correction should not distract from the original inspired purpose but should steer the workers more correctly to the straight and narrow path.

Good judgment and common sense must be applied to building Zion just as it is in creating a work of art.

Both extremes, or a lack of freedom, will prevent the manifestation of the good, the beautiful and the true. Let us choose this day where we will stand.



Defining Zion Qualities

We have established that Zion must be built upon the Principle of Freedom. Unless maximum freedom for all is incorporated them maximum pursuit of happiness cannot be a reality. If there is not a goal of happiness and fullness of joy available then the society would not be Zion. Conditions in Zion must be conducive to happiness.

So, what do the scriptures tell us for sure about Zion, a condition where people will dwell together in peace and happiness? This scripture sums it up in a sentence:


In addition to this the scriptures stress equality and sharing as important ingredients:

“Nevertheless, in your temporal things you shall be equal, and this not grudgingly, otherwise the abundance of the manifestations of the Spirit shall be withheld.” D&C 70:14

“For if ye are not equal in earthly things ye cannot be equal in obtaining heavenly things.” D&C 78:6

The main ingredients composing Zion seem to be:

(1) There are no poor among them for they dwell in a state of equality.

(2) Being of one heart and mind, or seeing eye to eye.

(3) They dwell in righteousness.

(4) They will gather and build the New Jerusalem – the city of Zion.


(5) Just government. There has to be a competent government over the people. The exact form is not specified in the scriptures, but we can assume it must be fair and allow the principle of freedom to prevail while maintaining civil order.

Let us examine these five components starting with:

“There are no poor among them for they dwell in a state of equality.

There is a lot of discussion among thinkers about how far people of good will should go with the principle of equality. Some think having equal rights and opportunity under the law should be as far as we should go and others think we should go even further than the communists and have all people, small and great, yield up all their possessions for the people to have in common.

Then others think the point of truth is somewhere in between.

The scriptures stress equality, but do not give us much detail on exactly what this means or how it is to be accomplished. This is where our own thinking comes in to fill in the blanks since we should think for ourselves as much as possible and not have to be commanded in all things.

First let us look at what is agreed upon by most spiritual thinkers concerning equality.

(1) It is basically agreed that there should be equality of opportunity under the law. The law, government and authorities therein should not favor one class, group or race above that of another.

(2) The great gap in possessions between the rich and poor and management and labor is detrimental to the spiritual health of the whole.

(3) Leaders should not have special privileges that sets them apart from their followers as special beings deserving much more than the rank and file.

(4) Leaders need checks upon them so they do not turn into dictators or tyrants.

(5) No matter how great one’s accomplishments may be he or she should avoid an attitude of superiority, maintaining the realization that we all have unlimited potential.

In addition, there are several points generally agreed upon that spiritual equality is not:

(1) Equality does not mean sameness.

(2) We are all unique individuals, each one different from any other human alive. We are not equal in intelligence, talents and abilities.

(3) Each person is different in the amount of labor and intelligence he applies to his goals and will produce different results.

And what are the major points of disagreement?

(1) How far we go in pushing the idea of equality toward sameness.

(2) How much authority and force should be applied to see that participants conform to any established idea of equality?

(3) Lacking a unifying messianic figure as a leader how should we proceed toward establishing Zion principles? Or should not take any initiative?

In the end if we lack specific agreed upon revelation from on high we must proceed with the highest we know and all individuals involved must check with the Holy Spirit of Truth within them to gain assurance that we are headed the right general direction.



What is Equality?

Just like the spiritual principle of freedom does not give absolute freedom, neither does the spiritual principle of equality insist on absolute equality. For instance, the desired goal of maximum freedom for all does not allow anyone the freedom to rape, pillage and plunder fellow men and women.

The same principle applies to equality. We do not seek absolute sameness. Instead, the goal is maximum possible equality for all while applying the prime directive of maximum freedom.

It is said that the War in Heaven was fought over free will. The adversary wanted to reach the ideal by forcing us to do right, which was rejected by God in favor of a plan offering free will, even though that would result in numerous mistakes along the way.

This war over free will continues to this day and thus the Principle of Freedom is the prime directive for the forces of Light and Love and must be taken into consideration in any step toward the creation of Zion.

We see the results of these two ideas manifesting on the earth. The side against free will operates through tyrannies, cults and authoritarian groups controlled by strong leaders who insist all thinking and decisions be made by an elite group who know what is best for the rank and file.

On the other side, we have countries with at least a degree of freedom that allow their citizens some freedom of choice in reaching goals. At present, the Principle of Freedom is not dominating, but this must be changed so when Zion is established the free will of humanity will reign supreme and demonstrate the power of freedom over slavery of the human mind.

So then, taking into consideration the Prime Directive of maximum freedom and equality let us define the Principle of Equality.

True spiritual equality is not sameness for sameness can only be the result of tyranny that negates the Principle of Freedom. True equality consists of the following.

(1) Equal opportunity under the law. There should be no restriction under law or authoritarian decree that limits access or achievement of any individual, group or class of people.

This will not result in sameness of opportunity because those governed by the Principle of Freedom will differ in circumstances and mental state which will result in advantages or disadvantages creating different outcomes.

(2) Acquire the mindset that supports abundance for all and sharing rather than forcing the rich to give their wealth away.

Every time wealth has been taken by force with the idea of redistribution disaster has been the result.

One of the prime examples of this failure occurred when Pol Pot took over Cambodia in the Seventies. He was a big believer in equality by sameness and mandated that all people have all things in common including property, dress, communal meals with all capitalism forbidden. He even tried to eliminate cash and killed those who even smelled like an upper class.

As a result millions died through starvation and extermination.

Thus one of the most aggressive attempts at forced equality was also one of the greatest failures in history.

Instead of attempting to force the rich to share the key is to teach the principle of free will sharing while providing opportunity for the poor to achieve abundance.

Studies show that an increase in money does result in an increase in happiness until the point is reached where basic needs are met. After this point additional wealth makes little difference to happiness.

Therefore, if the inhabitants of Zion through free will create a situation where the basic needs of all are met the foundation will be laid to establish a society where maximum happiness becomes possible.

A huge problem created by inequality of the deprived poor compared to the rich is that many of the poor who are going without or having difficulty paying their bills focus on the differences in outcome. On the other hand, the focus of one who has his needs met tend to be away from the material differences and other goals in mind. Creating a situation where basic needs are met will take us more than halfway to the goal of seeing ourselves as equal participants rather than on the outside looking in.

(3) Teach correct principles so equality can manifest through free will sharing. Many who are rich are presently willing to donate to a hospital, library or college if they are willing to put their name on a building or room. In Zion we do not want to feed the ego, but what if the rich were to realize an even greater feeling of worth through using their wealth to assist in the building of Zion or just in helping others there. People tune into the public consciousness and if our values change the motive for sharing will also shift.

So, what would equality look like in the ideal Zion society? There would not be sameness. Jones may figure he needs a storage shed in his back yard and Smith does not. Jones builds a shed and thus has a possession that Smith does not have.

The bottom line is that Smith could have built a shed if he wanted one so he does not feel neglected because of an unequal possession.

In the ideal society basic needs would be met and if someone feels they need something beyond that he would have freedom to acquire it.

We’ll go into more detail as this treatise continues.




We re told that the people of Zion must be of one heart and one mind. “for they shall see eye to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion.” Isa 52:8

Unfortunately, we are a long way from this goal for it is rare to find two people, even in a marriage or close friendship, who fit this criteria.

There are two types of oneness which can manifest in this mortal situation.

(1) Oneness that conforms to strong outer authority. This is limited to the circumference of such authority.

(2) Oneness through the eyes of The Spirit. Since Spirit does not disagree with Itself two seeing through Its eyes will see eye to eye on all essential principles with no limiting circumference.

Let’s talk about oneness through authority first. This is created when a group of people attach themselves to a strong authoritative leader or system.

A number of churches are examples of this. The evangelical churches do not have a strong central leader, but they have a system with several strong doctrinal points accepted with the strong authority of a group mindset about Jesus and salvation.

On the other hand. the LDS achieve significant oneness in their flock through strong authority in the form of their leaders with the prophet being the central character. When he says something concrete it is accepted without question by most members.

This oneness by authority is even more pervasive in some political states. For instance, in North Korea, Kim Jung-Un is the supreme leader and any lack of acceptance will put a citizen’s life in danger. Thus we have what appears to be oneness under strong authority.

What do all these states of oneness have in common?

They all adhere to an outer authority with fear of punishment attached if one questions or thinks outside of the accepted mode. In religion the punishment is hell and in political systems it is loss of possessions, freedom or life.

This oneness through strong authority is artificial, and not true oneness, for as soon as the authority is removed from two or more who seem to be one, and they start thinking for themselves, they will no longer be one.

Why is it that true oneness is so rare with those centered in the material world?

The feeling or emotional nature accounts for much of the difficulty with oneness as the emotional nature distorts reality. Two people with different bias can see the same event and offer two totally different interpretations or descriptions of it. The emotionally polarized person may hear words spoken and repeat them according to how it made him feel rather than stating the actual words.

The lower mind can also be an enemy to oneness as it often interprets according to a belief system and the belief system may have many errors and run contrary to that of a partner or associate, keeping them from being united.

True oneness comes not from reliance on strong authority filtered through lower mind and emotions, but from the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is one as the Father and Son are one and does not disagree with Itself.

The Spirit, however, is not focused on details of our everyday living, but on principles for the language of Spirit is the language of principles. A true principle may reveal a thousand facts, but it may take a thousand facts to cause a mortal to see one principle.

When two or more see true principles through the eyes of the Spirit then any disagreement on data will be inconsequential. No group of Spirit infused people will have the same favorite color or song, but they can all agree on the principles behind color and music.

The path to spiritual oneness is simple, yet there are few who are willing to take the step which is this.

When a fundamental difference occurs they must spell out the two sides and articulate where they think the true principle lies. Then they must seek a revelation through the Spirit in prayer, meditation and contemplation. If the two are in harmony with Spirit they will both receive the same answer.

If this does not happen then one or both of them have misdirected focus and are not ready to participate in a Zion Society.

Zion will eventually consist of a united and tested core that is sensitive to the mind of God, who see eye to eye through free will, and will be able to guide those in the outer court of the temple toward the inner Holy of Holies.



Dwelling in Righteousness

The next thing we are told about the inhabitants of Zion is that they will “dwell in righteousness.”

The trouble with this injunction is it is subject to a wide interpretation. That which is righteous to one may be seen as evil to another. For instance, the works of Jesus were seen as the work of the devil by the Jewish authorities and that which they thought of as righteous was strict obedience to law and was seen as misplaced focus by Jesus.

Perhaps it will help if we break the word down to its core parts, RIGHT-USE-NESS.

To be righteous is to make RIGHT USE of all the powers, opportunities and talents that are available to us. Looking at it this way we can easily discern that Jesus was on the righteous path rather than his critics.


Because he made right use of all that was available to him in the loving service of others.

On the other hand, the Pharisees, Sadducees and scribes directed their attention to being seen as strictly obeying the law to be “seen of men” and for serving self rather than serving others. Right use of what we have manifests love whereas misplaced attention centers on the elevation of self at the expense of love.

Therefore, when we are told that the inhabitants of Zion dwell in righteousness we can assume that these are people motivated by love for their fellow men and women and take joy in serving and benefitting them.

Because of right use of resources there will be no poor among them and because of right use of intelligence they will live in harmony seeing eye to eye on basic principles.

So, what are other examples of a people dwelling in righteousness? Of the many, here are a few.

(1) They would live in harmony with nature and avoid poisoning the soil, water and air.

(2) They would stress a healthy lifestyle and diet.

(3) They would support the Principle of Freedom as mentioned earlier. They will not seek to benefit themselves at the expense of another.

(4) They will value the inner authority of the Spirit over the outer authority of one claiming to speak for God. An outer authority will only be accepted if what he says is verified from within.

(5) They would teach the people correct principles.

(6) They would emphasize goodwill and brotherly love.

(7) Harmlessness would be emphasized.

(8) Inclusiveness would be emphasized toward all people of goodwill who support Zion ideals.

(9) Law, regulation and control over the people would be minimal.

(10) The Law of Christ would dominate over the Law of Moses. In other words, instead of being strictly ruled by hundreds of black and white commandments the guiding principle would be the love itself.

Jesus talked about this principle when he was asked what was the greatest commandment:


There we have that which was the directive of the great life lived by Jesus. It was not a black and white adherence to all the law and words of the prophets, as was attempted by those who crucified him. Instead he taught that the truth behind all the law and the prophets is manifest through applying the higher law of love in your life.

For instance, if you naturally love your neighbor you will not steal, nor murder, nor betray your spouse or do harm to any other human. If you love God you will naturally do all in your power to follow that which comes to you from the Inner Voice.

Concerning this Zion situation where this higher law is followed it is written:


In other words, the people of Zion will follow the example of Christ and have the law of God written in their hearts. Instead of trying to follow black and white words from stone tablets all they need to do to fulfill the law is to check with the Christ within their own hearts.

Everyone shall know the Lord because all will be in contact with the Lord of Love within their own hearts.



The Gathering

The Tenth Article of Faith in the LDS church proclaims that they “believe in the literal gathering of Israel.”

The strange part about this is that even though this is put forward as a foundational belief they are making no effort to gather their people.

They say they are gathering the members by making converts that mingle with the members and gather together on Sundays in church. But isn’t this what all religions do? The people of all churches gather together in meetings, yet they do not claim that it is a literal gathering of Israel.

Is the church missing something?

Indeed they are, for the understanding of the gathering is a mystery that goes over the head of most of the flock. Take note of this scripture:

“Therefore I will unfold unto them this GREAT MYSTERY; For behold I will gather them as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, if they will not harden their hearts.” D&C 10:64-65

Here we are told that the gathering is a “great mystery.” So, what is so mysterious about it? Isn’t the basic idea that the saints should gather together a pretty simple concept?

Yes and no. No because if it were simple the church would be obeying their own commandment and creating gatherings as specified in their scriptures. Take this one, for instance:

“Those who call themselves by my name and are essaying to be my saints, if they will do my will and keep my commandments concerning them, let them GATHER THEMSELVES TOGETHER unto the places which I shall appoint unto them by my servant Joseph (or another servant), AND BUILD UP CITIES UNTO MY NAME, that they may be prepared for that which is in store for a time to come.” D&C 125:2

The founder, Joseph Smith, correctly attempted to implement the gathering principle by gathering the members into communities and near the end of his life building the city of Nauvoo as a gathering destination.

After Joseph’s death the church continued to follow this commandment for a season. They created Salt Lake and other cities as gathering places, but as time passed and the world moved in with them they saw no necessity for any literal gathering and dropped the idea, but still dangle a possible future gathering before the members.

What is overlooked is a major purpose of a literal gathering that was stated in the scripture just noted:


A literal gathering of Saints into communities of like-minded thinkers is essential to the protection of the pure in heart so they can be prepared for possible calamities to come. There are a number of potential events that could create chaos among the population centers of the world and the people of the United States would be particularly vulnerable. Here are several:

(1) A nuclear war. This is the most feared possibility and if it happened mob rule would occur and there would be no safe place to go.

(2) Just a couple nuclear devices exploded in our atmosphere by a rogue state creating a magnetic pulse that could take down the electrical grid. Again, we would have mob rule within days, over half the nation would die and there would be no safe place to go.

(3) A solar flare would create a pulse that could also take out the grid. In 1859, a massive geomagnetic super-storm, known as the Carrington event, sent powerful coronal mass ejections toward Earth taking out telegraph lines, even starting them of fire. We are overdue for another such event and totally unprepared. We are extremely dependent on our grid and if taken out the world would be in chaos with nowhere for people to go for safety. Again millions, perhaps billions of people, would suffer and die.

(4) A drastic economic collapse. There have been many predictions made of such an event and again such an event would produce mob rule and there would be no safe place for any average person.

Now the LDS church seems to think that because a few have some food storage that there would be safety for the members, they would share the food and all would be well.

This thinking is pure fantasy. Once the masses start starving within a week or so of the collapse there would be little sharing and each person and mob will be out for themselves. It is a well-known fact that Mormons store food so this will make members targets above any other people. Mobs would search out Mormons and attempt to steal their food.

In tough times food storage will benefit members, but in a total collapse they would become targets.

On the other hand, a successful gathered community would be prepared as a gathered unit to weather any storm, be self sufficient, and protect itself from mobs.

Scripture predicts that the authorities would stray from the gathering concept:

God compared the gathering Of Israel to a tower and after He commanded its construction, “They began to say among themselves: And what need hath my Lord of this tower? And consulted for a long time saying among themselves: What need hath my Lord of this tower, seeing this is a time of peace? (That is persecution has subsided so why gather. It is no longer necessary) Might not this money be given to the exchangers? For there is no need of these things. (After all it costs money to gather together and build cities) And while they were at variance one with another they became very slothful, and they hearkened not to the commandments of the Lord. And the enemy came by night and broke down the hedge; and the servants of the nobleman arose and were afrightened and fled; and the enemy destroyed their works, and broke down the olive trees. Now behold, the nobleman, the Lord of the vineyard called upon his servants, and said unto them, Why! what is the cause of this great evil? Ought YE NOT TO HAVE DONE EVEN AS I COMMANDED YOU, and after ye had planted the vineyard, and built the hedge round about, and set watchmen upon the walls thereof – built the tower also, and set a watchman upon the tower, and watched for my vineyard, AND NOT FALLEN ASLEEP, lest the enemy should come upon you? And behold, the watchman upon the tower would have seen the enemy While HE WAS YET FAR OFF; and then ye could have made ready and kept the enemy from breaking down the hedge thereof, and saved my vineyard from the hands of the destroyer.” D&C 101:47-54 Then the Lord tells us he will call a faithful servant to fulfill his will which would be accomplished “after many days.” Verse 62 Then He speaks clearly a few verses later and said: “They shall continue to gather together unto the places which I have appointed.” Verse 7.

One might ask how would the gathering enable us to “have seen the enemy while he was yet afar off?” Verse 54 The reason he would have been seen while he was yet afar off is because the gathering always draws opposition and the enemy would have continued to show himself while he was yet weak or afar off. If the gathering had continued then the Church would be prepared for the enemy today. As it is, with the dissolution of the gathering, the Church does not draw the evil men to oppose them. They appear as friends and the saints eat and drink with the drunken and cannot see the enemy afar off; yea, they cannot see him until it is too late.




The Great Mystery

The scripture said that the gathering is a “great mystery.” A mystery is something that goes over the heads of the majority. It is interesting that the gathering principle is taught throughout the Bible as well as the the LDS scriptures yet understanding is sadly lacking.

Here are some of the reasons for a literal gathering that you will not hear in church.

(1) A gathering can create a place of refuge in times of great trouble.

(2) A gathering of lights creates an ensign, a standard of light and love that will attract the lights of the earth as well as reveal works of darkness.

(3) A gathering of lights will stimulate the intelligence and creativity of the group. It will cause new productive ideas to manifest and flourish.

(4) It will be a center of peace. Since Zion, or the New Jerusalem, is the gathering of the pure in heart and such people are good natured and peaceful, they can set an example of peaceful living and cooperation. After all, the name Jerusalem comes from the Hebrew YeRUWSHALAYIM which means “to instruct or show the way to peace.”

(5) It will prepare a place where Christ can manifest and be accepted. He will finally have a place on earth “to lay his head.”

(6) The gathering will create communities of people willing to share of their wealth so all will have abundance, not only of material goods, but of spiritual and educational.

(7) The greatest mystery behind the gathering is the principle itself. It is the principle is behind all progress toward higher states of living.

The Gathering principle is basically this:

All evolution in the universe is driven forward through gathering. Small units gather together and create greater units more complex with greater powers than themselves alone.

Subatomic particles gathered together and created atoms. Atoms gathered together and created molecules. Molecules gathered and created all kinds of beautiful geometric forms and compounds. These particles gathered and created living cells. Cells gather and created all kinds of living things..

Humans, being the most advanced lives known to us, gathered into families. The families gathered and created tribes that offered more advantages to secure survival. Later tribes gathered and created kingdoms which offered more advanced civilization. More recently, we have had a gathering of freedom loving people throughout the world to America which created a government more advanced than one ruled by an authoritarian king. A new system of representative democracy was created that greatly advanced free market competitive enterprise, freedom of speech and freedom in general.

Now we are approaching the next step forward in spiritual and social progress by a gathering of lights and people of goodwill who will create a Zion society where cooperation rather than competition will be the keynote. The new creation will be an advance over the government we have now comparable to the advance that a democratic government is over a land ruled by an absolute king or dictator.

There are a lot of people looking forward to a future gathering, but not seeing any steps now that can be taken, except maybe being a good person so he will be chosen of God when the time comes.

What is not realized is that a true Zion Society will demand an enormous change in people and huge change in human behavior takes time. It does not come overnight.

Seekers through their own initiative can gather in different ways to prepare for a greater gathering that will involve the building of actual cities.

The main avenue of preparation now is the internet which itself seems to be a fulfillment of prophecy concerning the gathering.

Perhaps Jesus saw the internet age when he said:


Indeed – in this age of technology that which was before kept secret is broadcast to the housetops for the whole world to access.

In addition to this he said that

“The kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, (the Internet) that was cast into the sea (the peoples of the earth – See Rev 17:15), and gathered of every kind” Matt 13:47-50

A name synonymous with the internet is the “super highway”. Isaiah talks of a highway for the remnant of his people that will take the people through a great deep similar to the highway that took the Israelites through the Red Sea.


This highway shall evidently be “cast up” in the midst of a future red sea, or ocean:

“Go through, go through the gates; prepare ye the way of the people; cast up, cast up the highway; gather out the stones; lift up a standard for the people.” (Isa 62:10)

So we see that even the ancient scriptures are harmonious with the idea that the internet will play a huge part in the great gathering to come.

The gathering of minds will precede the gathering of bodies.



Attempts at Zion

So, what kind of government can we expect to have in Zion?

Before we answer that we perhaps should look at the governmental attempts in the past of those who have tried to create the sharing and equality aspects dreamed of by those desiring such a society.

In a nutshell what has happened is basically this. The idealists had good intensions but did not realize that few humans would diligently apply their labor and their means only motivated for the good of the whole. It is human nature to need some type of personal motivation. The dreamers discovered that even the most dedicated become enraged when they see their neighbors taking it easy while expecting others to make up for their deficits. The question which always arises is this. “Why should I have to work twice as hard to support those who are just plain lazy?”

Thus you will often have groups who start out with a relaxed attitude turning into a tyranny before the group finally winds up self-destructing. This happens because they conclude that people are just too lazy on their own and need to be forced to do their part. Then when force is applied minimal results are produced because human nature needs some personal incentive and such incentive always produces more results than force. When force is applied the people use their wits to outsmart the authorities and beat the system rather than working hard to contribute to it.

That being said, what kind of government should a group have that desires to create a Zion society? Fortunately we can learn from past failures. After examining them we can at least determine what not to do. The failed groups reveal to us that neither extreme works.

The first extreme is where a powerful authority rules the group and strict rules are incorporated where the individual has little room to exercise his own initiative, or even speak his mind if it disagrees with the group mindset.

The other extreme occurs when the group has the idealist mindset that everyone is equal and no hierarchy or leadership is needed. This occurs when a conclusion is reached that either people can instinctively govern themselves or that each has a personal connection with God and God or Jesus will tell them all to do the right thing so efficiently that self government will just automatically happen.

This approach also fails, for if anarchy does not result it devolves into an “every man for himself” situation where the situation became chaotic. After this occurs the group either dissolves or a handful take control, assume authoritarian leadership, and the individuals lose their agency as did the authoritarian group that they at first despised.

The early Mormons under Joseph Smith, before the creation of the city of Nauvoo, tried to establish an order where the members had all things in common, but individual self-interest ruled and the effort was not successful.



By the time hey moved to Nauvoo Joseph seemed to come to a realization that the way they had gone about living the Law of Consecration just did not work.

It was observed that Joseph in Nauvoo “was determined that no man should be brought before the Council in Nauvoo till that time, etc., etc. The law of consecration could not be kept here, and that it was the will of the Lord that we should desist from trying to keep it; and if persisted in, it would produce a perfect defeat of its object, and that he assumed the whole responsibility of not keeping it until proposed by himself.” DHC 4:93

Latter he said this:

“I preached on the stand about one hour on the 2nd chapter of Acts, designing to show the folly of common stock. In Nauvoo every one is steward over his own.” DHC 6:37

Concerning this, Richard Bushman wrote this in his biography of Joseph Smith:

“He (Joseph Smith) was interested enough in schemes of economic reform to invite John Finch to lecture in Nauvoo while visiting the city. Finch was associated with Robert Owen, the Scottish industrialist-turned-socialist who had founded a utopian community at New Harmony, Indiana. Prevailed on to stay two extra days, September 13 and 14, 1843, Finch talked on “the present wretched condition of the working classes, and the causes of their misery” to an audience of nearly two thousand people. On the second day, discussion went on for five hours. Though Joseph listened to Finch, the Prophet said he “did not believe the doctrine.” A few weeks later Joseph preached on “the folly of common stock,” the idea of the communal sharing of property, much discussed in that decade.

“Joseph accepted the economy of private property and individual enterprise. Even under the consecration of properties, individual stewards operated independently in a market economy, though they were obligated to return their “surplus” to the bishop.

Joseph Smith, Rough Stone Rolling, Richard Lyman Bushman, Page 502

So, Joseph seemed to learn from experience, but this did not stop Mormons under Brigham Young from experimenting with united orders where the group had all things in common. Predictably none of them succeeded and fell apart after a short time.

That said the question remains, which is this.

What kind of government or organization can be created that will be workable? What kind of government will allow for individual freedom, yet avoid breakdown from lack of structure?

This has been on the minds of many who have contemplated Zion.



Inspired Government

We have discussed elements of government that are undesirable in Zion or anywhere else. The question remains as to what is desirable, workable and in harmony with the will of God?

Now some say that hierarchy needs to be eliminated that people in Zion will be so enlightened and in communication with God that all citizens will just know their place and what to do at any given moment.

The problem with this idea is that it runs contrary to common sense, scripture and recorded history. Never in history has there been a successful city, state or nation that has not had a hierarchy.

Now the rebellion against the idea of hierarchy is understandable because it is the tendency of almost all governments in history to gravitate toward authoritarianism or totalitarianism.

On the other hand, rejecting hierarchy because of past abuse is like rejecting the use of money because it has been used for many destructive purposes in our history. Money is a neutral power that can be used for good or evil and many us it for good purposes from building libraries, feeding and housing our families, spreading goodwill etc.

The same can be said for hierarchy. The power behind it can be used for good or evil. Hierarchy in government and the military enabled us to defeat Hitler as well as establish the free nation of the United States with Washington in charge.

The Book of Revelations makes it clear that there is hierarchy in heaven with God in charge and Christ under him. Under them are the twenty-four elders and numerous angels.

Jesus acknowledged, “my Father is greater than I.” John 14:28 The fact that Jesus was subject to one higher than him is evident from many scriptures:

“Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” John 4:34

This famous scripture foresees a future government or hierarchy with Christ in charge:


Now some may agree that eventually Christ will be our governor, but in the meantime we should not concern ourselves with any organized effort, but just wait on the Lord.

But those waiting for a new Moses to come off a mountain with great signs of fire and lightenings will be waiting in this world and the next. They will be equated with the man who buried his talent in the earth.

These people forget that we “should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.” D&C 58:27

Yes, there are plenty out there that claim revelations telling us about the order of Zion, with them in charge, but none that make enough sense to bring people of goodwill together.

On the other hand, we should be able to agree on governing principles taught by the prophets, with gaps supplemented by some logic and common sense.

One thing solidly taught in LDS scriptures is that the Constitution was inspired and the government based on the United States Constitution was a step in the right direction. The revelation says:


“Therefore, it is not right that any man should be in bondage one to another. And for this purpose have I established the Constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I have raised up unto this very purpose, and redeemed the land by the shedding of blood.” D&C 101:77-80

It is interesting that the principles of the Constitution were not created just for The United States, but to maintain “the rights and protection of all flesh.”

Further we are told:


“Therefore, I, the Lord, justify you, and your brethren of my church, in befriending that law which is the constitutional law of the land.” D&C 98:4-6

Thus we see that the rights and privileges of the Constitution “belongs to all mankind, and is justifiable…”

Joseph added this:

“Hence we say, that the Constitution of the United States is a glorious standard; it is founded in the wisdom of God. It is a heavenly banner; it is to all those who are privileged with the sweets of liberty, like the cooling shades and refreshing waters of a great rock in a thirsty and weary land. It is like a great tree under whose branches men from every clime can be shielded from the burning rays of the sun. … We say that God is true; that the Constitution of the United States is true; DHC 3:304

Then we are given this:


The prayer here is that the principles of the Constitution should “be established forever.”

Does this mean that the Constitution is perfect as written? No. It was created through fallible men, but according to the scriptures the basic principles in it are inspired. Joseph Smith did indicate one flaw. He said:

“Although it provides that ail men shall enjoy religious freedom, yet it does not provide the manner by which that freedom can be preserved, nor for the punishment of Government officers who refuse to protect the people in their religious rights, or punish those mobs, states, or communities who interfere with the rights of the people on account of their religion. Its sentiments are good, but it provides no means of enforcing them. It has but this one fault. Under its provision, a man or a people who are able to protect themselves can get along well enough; but those who have the misfortune to be weak or unpopular are left to the merciless rage of popular fury.” DHC 6:57

What Joseph is saying here is that the Constitution is inspired and the principles are just, but corrupt leaders can abuse their power and negate the freedoms we are supposed to have. When this happens we have little power to correct the situation.

Within the United States we see that our leaders and judges often defy the Constitution. We also see even more egregious examples in some third world countries that have many principles of the Constitution incorporated in their own documents, yet rule as if it were a lawless dictatorship.

So how can more power of correction be applied to a government to insure that Zion will not suffer corruption? In addition, how can we use these principles to insure that any gathering of the pure in heart will be free to live Zion principles? That is the next subject of contemplation.



Ingredients of Zion

We’ve talked about what will and will not work within a Zion society. Now let us concentrate on the positive. What are guidelines that should be incorporated into a Zion society?

The prophets have emphasized a number principles upon which we can build.

Perhaps the most important of all was sounded by Paul who said, “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” II Cor 3:17

Joseph Smith, who suffered tremendous persecution, increasingly stressed this principle for his life experience taught him of its great value.

Secondly, the principles of the Constitution are endorsed by the scriptures, especially those that protect our freedoms.

Thirdly, a Zion society should provide maximum free will incentive to take us toward oneness, spiritual consciousness, brotherly love, equality and abundance for all. Jesus expressed the goal, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

Using these guidelines, along with the scriptures, let us present some essential ingredients that must exist as we take steps toward Zion.

(1) The seeker must realize that Zion will not be created in one giant step. Any great ideal that requires change in human thinking takes time to incorporate. The various steps must be adapted to the capacity of the people to assimilate.

For instance, it took the civilized world thousands of years to arrive at the consciousness that would allow a group of people to develop and be governed by the free principles of the Constitution.

Our next giant step is to move from a competitive society to a cooperative one. We must realize that effective cooperation takes time to establish.

(2) Maximum freedom would require the right balance of hierarchy, leadership and government. Leaders will do their part in freeing the citizens from being involved in too many details yet the people will have their say on important issues and who will lead them.

(3) The basic freedoms of the Bill of Rights need to be embraced with emphasis on free speech, freedom of the press and freedom of assembly.

(4) The principles of Zion must be presented to the world so that like-minded thinkers will be attracted to gather under its banner. Those attracted to Zion will come from many different spiritual backgrounds.

(5) Instead of relying on taxes Zion will operate from free will offerings and donated labor. A10% tithe would be expected, but other free will offerings will be encouraged.

(6) The poor will be assisted but they are not entitled to a free lunch. This principle is laid out in the scriptures:

“Thou shalt not be idle; for he that is idle shall not eat the bread nor wear the garments of the laborer.” D&C 42:42


“Even while we were with you, we gave you this command: ‘Those unwilling to work will not get to eat.’ Yet we hear that some of you are living idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people’s business. We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living.” II Thess 3:7-12 New Living Translation

Those who are in need can expect help as long as they are willing to give back as they are able.

(7) Like attracts like. A core group of people who are sensitive to the Spirit and willing to follow it must be gathered. Joseph spoke well when he gave this advice:


If we start with a good core group that is a living link between heaven and earth then the desired end will become possible.

For ideas concerning a step toward Zion check out this link:


For information on creating a core group to link heaven and earth read The Molecular Relationship. Here is the link for the free book.




Unique Creations

There is one thing that most planned social or spiritual communities have in common that cause great repulsion to many high quality individuals.

And what is that?

It is sameness.

Take a look at the Amish, breakoffs from the LDS, such as Warren Jeff’s FLDS bunch and other fundamentalists, cults such as the Branch Davidians that went up in flames and various new age compounds.

Many of them have such similar dress and hairstyles that it is difficult to tell them apart.

Many are indoctrinated with the same material and discouraged or prohibited from learning anything from the outside evil world.

Many are forced to eat the same food and are restricted as to what they can drink.

Many insist on eating together in a common area.

Many restrict access to entertainment and only that which is approved by authorities is allowed.

There are an excessive number of rules to create uniform behavior patterns.

Many of them are against using modern technology and its advances.

Most of them have an authority figure at their head that must be obeyed or members will be shunned or excommunicated.

This extreme drift toward sameness occurring in planned experiments in equality and sharing is abhorrent to most spiritual or intelligent people – the type that is needed to build the real Zion.

It is no wonder that those close to the Spirit, though they may seek spiritual unity, embrace the uniqueness of each individual and feel encouraged to explore it.

And is it any surprise that this is the case? To understand all we have to do is look at the creations of God. Did the Supreme Power create sameness or diversity?

Creation is full of wonderful and beautiful diversity. Just as each snowflake is different so is each person, each flower, each animal, each planet, solar system and galaxy. If sameness was the goal of the Creator then all the planets and stars would be the same.

Just look at the difference between the earth and the moon as an obvious example. Or look through a telescope and see the difference between Saturn and the Earth.

When considering the virtues of individual and diverse interest and expression the question which arises is this. Can we have a society which allows the freedom of the individual to pursue his destiny, yet still attain the necessary unity and equality needed for a Zion society?

The answer is a resounding yes for unity is a much different thing than sameness.

My wife and I are a good example. We are united on accepting spiritual principles, yet as people we are very different. We accept and often enjoy those differences and do not let them interfere with the important aspects of spiritual unity.

In our spare time she loves to devour health related books whereas I concentrate on alternative spiritual ones. This lack of sameness does nothing to interfere with unity as sharing diverse knowledge is beneficial to both of us.

Just take a look at the solar system for a great example of unity, wherein also is expressed great diversity and uniqueness.

Each planet, asteroid, comet and moon is very different from each other yet the system as a whole has a unity that hums away through the ages.

Taking this into consideration what will a Zion society look like that has a unity, yet allows for tolerance.

The most important quality that will exist in such a society will be the realization that there will be a minimal number of rules and regulations. The reason is expressed in this scripture: “I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts” Jer 31:33

Those with a degree of enlightenment know what is the appropriate behavior and do not need a large list of rules to govern their lives. They do not need to be told what to wear, what to eat, which movies to see or music that is acceptable.

Joseph Smith seemed to realize this near the end of his life for he said:

“I also spoke at length for the repeal of the ordinance of the city licensing merchants, hawkers, taverns, and ordinaries, desiring that this might be a free people, and enjoy equal rights and privileges, and the ordinances were repealed.” DHC 5:8

Behavior will be narrowed down to one thing: Practice harmlessness. Avoid those things which will harm yourself and others and focus on those that are beneficial to all.

Participants will avoid as much as possible the development of lists of what is harmful and what is not.

Of course, the citizens of Zion will not be perfect, and as it is in the process of creation there will be obvious harmful infractions that may have to be dealt with, but these will be things universally acknowledged to be harmful such as robbery or physical attack. Minor things such as difference in dress wlll not require laws and regulations.

Joseph commented on how to deal with harmful infractions:

“Advise your legislators, when they make laws for larceny, burglary, or any felony, to make the penalty applicable to work upon roads, public works, or any place where the culprit can be taught more wisdom and more virtue, and become more enlightened. Rigor and seclusion will never do as much to reform the propensities of men as reason and friendship. Murder only can claim confinement or death. Let the penitentiaries be turned into seminaries of learning, where intelligence, like the angels of heaven, would banish such fragments of barbarism.” DHC 6:205

If Zion can have a successful beginning where it creates an ensign of unity, yet allowing maximum individual freedom of activity and expression, then many who have been repelled by the numerous cult-like gathered groups would be attracted to this one.



The Laborers in Zion

Many dream of Zion wonder what they can do to further its cause. Others figure they just need to sit back and wait for God or some prophet to tell them what to do as do the people in the LDS church, for example.

The church is gathering people into churches, similar to other religions, but it is not building communities and cities where Zion principles can be applied.

Joseph Smith said that, “We ought to have the building up of Zion as our greatest object.” DHC 3:390 and “without Zion, and a place of deliverance, we must fall.” DHC 2:52

Unfortunately, there is no place of deliverance at this time. If we had a major calamity there would be no place of refuge for a deserving people.

Revelation tells us to seek the cause of Zion:

“Now, as you have asked, behold, I say unto you, keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion.” D&C 6:6

Nephi warns us to not let the laborer in Zion perish:

“Wherefore, if they should have charity they would not suffer the laborer in Zion to perish. But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish. II Nephi 26:30-31

Where are the laborers for Zion? We find none in the churches and the few claiming to be building Zion are in the cults merely seeking for power.

Indeed, in this time of world tension the need is here to remind the pure in heart that the call to build Zion has never been rescinded.

Since the call has never been rescinded and those believers who cease to labor for Zion are condemned (D&C 101:47-54 previously quoted) then all those who accept the concept as being in harmony with the will of God are under an obligation to continue to labor for Zion.

The question arises which is “What can we do?” After all, there is no recognized living prophet saying, “Thus saith the Lord,” telling us what to do next.

The simple answer is this. If you do not have new instructions take a look at the old instructions. Maybe seekers cannot find new instructions because they have been slack on fulfilling that which has already been given.

Taking all this into consideration what then can the sincere seeker after Zion do to re-establish himself as a laborer in Zion?

The laborer today is somewhat limited. Here is what is not readily available.

  • There is no land readily available on which to gather and build a city.
  • There are no Zion conscious people physically gathered that could provide a place of refuge for people of goodwill.
  • There is no significantly recognized ensign or standard lifted up under which the pure in heart can unite to create Zion.

The laborer in the vineyard must consider the limitations he is under and move forward to the best of his ability. After all, this is what Joseph had to do.

All the revelations concerning the building of Zion were given a few years after the church was formed. When the saints were driven to Illinois Joseph received confirmation that Nauvoo was a gathering place, but no new instructions on the creation of Zion. He had to go by what was already given and used his highest intelligence to more forward. He realized that the minds of the people were not prepared for the type of equality previously tried where attempts were made to have all things in common. Concerning this in Nauvoo he said:


DHC 6:37

There may be an ideal of common stock which could be lived if all people were perfect, but Joseph realized they were not and needed individual incentive. He therefore created a stewardship principle with responsibilities of private ownership. The people were much more compatible with this plan.

In addition to this he bought 20,000 acres of land in Iowa for a continuation of the gathering. This required no revelation; instead, Joseph used his own judgment in this expansion.

He also seemed to realize that there were many non Mormons who could make good citizens of Zion for concerning these new lands for gathering he said:

“I desire all the Saints, AS WELL AS ALL LOVERS OF TRUTH and correct principles, to come to this place as fast as possible, or [as rapidly as] their circumstances will permit,” DHC 4:178

He thus invited “all lovers of truth” Mormons and non-Mormons to gather to build Zion.

Today the laborers in Zion must follow in the footsteps of Joseph, take what was given in the past as a guide but take steps adapted to the capacity of people of goodwill with the realization that this is a step. If the laborers in the vineyard follow the highest they know and create a first step, then a second step will be given followed by a third until Zion will manifest in all its glory.



What We Can Do

Since the commandment to build Zion has not been rescinded and is still in full force this question become paramount in the mind of a supporter of the principles therein: Exactly what is it that the voluntary laborers in the vineyard are supposed to do that heads in the direction of Zion?

First, let us look at what we cannot do because of limitations of the present world.

(1) We cannot invite all the world to gather to a certain place to build a city that can also be a refuge because no place of significance exists in the present world.

(2) Supporters of Zion cannot have their own civil government for all lands on the planet are ruled under some kind of external government.

Now some say this is just cause for doing nothing today and just wait for all governments to collapse. Then Zion will be built.

On the other hand, Joseph initiated the creation of Zion under a more abusive government than we have today. Governments today are worthy of criticism, but no state or national government in the United States have given an extermination order to eliminate an entire religion as did governor Boggs of Missouri.

In addition, Joseph taught that one of the purposes of the gathering to build Zion was to create refuge to protect the people in the event of a collapse, or the fall of Babylon, and if we did not do this we would fail in our purpose.

(3) There is no group of people who are united on what a laborer in Zion is supposed to do in present time. The current LDS church says the time is not ripe for any new gathering and the break-offs wander in the darkness of tyrannical rule, only accepting those who submit to the arm of flesh.

Some non-LDS gatherings are closer to Zion than anything related to the church, but lack the vision to implement its ideals. They are also very limited in the numbers they can assimilate.

(4) There is supposed to be an “ensign” lifted up that will attract the lights from all nations and there is nothing like this available. Just like the U. S. Constitution and a free government was an ensign that caught the attention of the world and attracted freedom-loving people, Zion will need a similar ensign that will attract the pure in heart. At present, no such ensign exists.

Considering these limitations the sincere seeker after Zion is still left wondering what he can do. One thing we do know for sure is that the principle of gathering is the core ingredient in establishing Zion. Without it, Zion cannot manifest.

Therefore, the first item the seeker needs to consider is exactly what he can do to assist in the gathering of those who have Zion in their hearts.

We already discussed a step that is available now and was actually predicted by the scriptures and that is the Internet. It is that great “net” predicted by Jesus and the superhighway predicted by Isaiah. On the Internet, in many places, are people gathered into groups to discuss every topic you can imagine. Fortunately, there are numerous spiritual groups composed of people of goodwill seeking to share ideas compatible with a Zion society.

Therefore, one definite step the laborer in Zion can take is to join some of these positive groups, share ideas and find others whose thinking is in reasonable harmony with his own. If he cannot find any then he can start his own group and send out his own “ensign” as a signal to which like minds can gather.

As it stands today there and many thousands of prospective inhabitants of Zion gathered together on the internet sharing ideas and ideals. The only thing that is lacking among them is a unifying ensign put forward which will pierce their hearts, brighten their hopes and excite their spirits to a degree that many will want to participate.

What could possible happen to attract the pure in heart to a new gathering?

To answer this question we can look at the past. What was the most successful gathering of all time and what caused it to happen.

Mormons would say that it was the gathering related to the teachings of Joseph Smith, but there was one before that which paved the way for the idea of Zion to even manifest.

And what was that?

It was the gathering of people from all nations of the world to the new land of America. Consider these questions:

What was it about America that drew others to gather there?

What was the ensign?

We have all heard the idea that history repeats itself. In the past we have had first a general gathering to America that was followed by a more specific gathering that was an attempt to build Zion.

If this cycle repeats then how do you suppose the corresponding events will manifest?



To Save Rather Than Destroy

As noted in Part fifteen, the most successful gathering of all time was that which resulted in the drawing of people throughout the world coming to America, particularly, the United States. What then was the ensign that drew the people?

In the beginning, before the creation of the United States, the great draw was opportunity and greater freedom. There was a new land discovered offering people an opportunity to improve their physical lives, and there were also fewer restrictions giving a chance for more freedom which would improve the spiritual life.

After the Revolutionary War and the creation of the United States that ensign became emblazoned in the words of the Constitution forging a country offering such heretofore opportunity that the saying went abroad that “the streets were paved with gold.”

People from all over the world sold all they had and left friends and family in hope for a better life. We thus saw the lifting up of an ensign never before seen in the known history of the world.

Is it possible that we could have a repetition of such a significant event? If so, how could it happen?

The problem is that every square foot of inhabitable earth is claimed by some government of the world so there is no known new land to be colonized. The only new lands would be in outer space such as the moon or Mars. One of the best possibilities would be hollowing out an asteroid and creating an artificial world within it. Another possibility is building cities that orbit the earth. I am sure that different types of colonies will exist in different parts of the Solar System, but it will be some time before technology can make such things available, so we will put that one on the table for now.

Any gathering that is under the dominion of an existing government can have some spiritual value, but will not create the excitement that a new land could offer.

Is the possibility of a new land an impossible dream then?

No there are a number of possibilities.

There could be a great apocalypse, caused by nuclear war or some natural calamity that would destroy existing governments. If this happened survivors could gather and create a new system.

Believers in numerous religions have been waiting for this “fall of Babylon” for hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of years.

There are several problems with waiting for this prophecy to materialize before doing anything.

First, the prophecy was made 2000 years ago and still it has not occurred. Even if it is literally accurate it may be another thousand yeas before it may happen.

Secondly, the prediction may be interpreted incorrectly. Perhaps the fall of Babylon will be on a spiritual level rather than physical.

Thirdly, predictions can be reversed if the people change. The most notable example in the scriptures is the story of Jonah prophesying to Nineveh.

Jonah was told to go preach to Nineveh but he didn’t want to go there because the Nineveh people skinned people alive and they were really terrible people. So Jonah was terrified about the people in Nineveh that he tried to escape the mission. Then the Bible says that God caused a big fish to swallow Jonah and spit him on the shores of Nineveh. At that time he saw there was no way out so he decided to give the message very quickly and get out of there.

So he goes into Nineveh and says, “Forty days will not pass that fire will come down out of heaven and burn you all up. You guys are going to get what you deserve.” Then Jonah goes up on this mountain top where he could look down on Nineveh and wait for the forty days to pass because God told him that they had forty days.

The people in Nineveh got together and wondered if what he had said was true. “Maybe we ought to change our ways. We don’t want to be swept up by fire.” They actually believed him and asked God to forgive them. After the forty days passed the scriptures tell us that God decided to forgive them.

On the fortieth day Jonah was waiting and no fire came down out of heaven and he grumbled about it and said, “What’s the big idea God? You made me out to be a false prophet. I told these people that they would die in forty days but they aren’t dying!”

During the forty days a big gourd had grown up then died next to Jonah. God said, “Do you realize that you’re more concerned with that big plant that gave you shade than you are about these several hundred thousand people whose souls have been saved? Where are your priorities Jonah? You should be happy to be a false prophet.”

Obviously, God only wants to use destruction as a last resort and is willing to delay or reverse such directions. This is illustrated in the response of Jesus to a question from James and John.

A certain city refused entrance to Jesus and his disciples. James and John were somewhat irritated and said to their Master: “Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of Spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.” Luke 9:54-56

Numerous Christians do not realize what manner of Spirit they are for in their prayers many of them are praying for the day of fire when many of their neighbors would be destroyed. If they really want to follow Jesus they should seek to save rather than destroy those with differing beliefs.

Is it not obvious that God would much rather save his children rather than destroy them? Assuming this is true, what then could be in store for the laborers in Zion?


THE ZION SOCIETY, Part Seventeen

The New Gatherings

It is a fact that everything goes in cycles including history. A cycle has a beginning, an end and then an interlude. After the interlude another cycle begins that has both similarities and differences.

In the recent past there have been two gatherings that point the people toward Zion.

The first was the gathering from throughout the world to the United States. The great draw or ensign was freedom and opportunity. Few came here with the idea of being closer to the Spirit but what was not realized is that those who are close to it have a great desire for freedom and making the best of opportunities offered.

Thus the United States became a net that drew in people of every kind, some of the best along with some of the worst.

Then came the second gathering initiated by Joseph Smith where they looked at the fish gathered by the great net and attempted to gather from it the good ones in harmony with the Spirit. The ensign there was enhanced spiritual life and new knowledge and revelation.

Both gatherings fulfilled a step, but the desired end result was not achieved in either one.

The United States is no longer an ensign for the freedom of the human spirit as too many laws, regulations, controls, drift from the Constitution, taxes and struggles for political power suffocate the original beacon of liberty.

Similarly, the LDS have completely abandoned the gathering principle, telling the people it will not happen until God speaks from another Mt. Sinai and tells them what to do.

For some time then we have been in the interlude, between cycles. We are fortunate that the time of a new cycle has already begun.

Like last time, this time there will be a general gathering for the sake of freedom and opportunity. Then from that net will be gathered those who are in harmony with Spirit.

The initial step of the first gathering has already occurred and that is the creation of the internet, the net which allows individuals of the same mind to gather in groups and communicate.

So, what is the next step? How can a new ensign of freedom be set up when every particle of inhabitable land is claimed by some restrictive government?

There are three possibilities.

(1) Gather within a current country, like the United States, where there is some freedom. Create communities with desirable living conditions occupied by good people that will attract others to join.

That which can be created here will be limited by the outside government which is in control, but such an effort is better than no effort at all.

The other two possibilities will require a significant investment by likeminded people. Correspondingly, those who laid the foundation of America made great investments and many obtained financial backing of investors who stayed behind.

(2) Buy large tracks of land in third world countries. If the investment were significant the group could make an arrangement with the government in charge to grant them autonomy so they could govern themselves.

And why would they do this?

They would do it if the benefit to them was significant which would be:

  • More prosperous people would be coming to their country and spending money there.
  • The gathering would be a tourist attraction bringing more visitors to the country who would spend money.
  • In addition, the group could offer a one time monetary amount for a guarantee of independence. If the one time deal doesn’t work a reasonable offer could be extended over a decade or two.
  • The group could offer to assist the native citizens in improving their lives.

The question which may arise is, What if the government doesn’t keep its agreement and decides it wants to confiscate the lands?

This is always a possibility, but the chances are that a betrayal would not happen for the first few years. Such an agreement would only be made when it was seen that there was sincerity on both sides.

Then, after a significant gathering takes place the inhabitants would be strong enough to defend themselves if some type of invasion occurred.

There are a lot of people thinking in the direction of an independent gathering, but do not have the strength in numbers to pull it off. On the other hand, if such an event did happen a new ensign would be lifted that would attract many in the scattered little groups who desire a better country and more freedom.

Once this gathering is accomplished by one group, others will follow. If the country involved benefits, then other third world countries will volunteer to be next in line.

Next we will look at the third option which is marvelous indeed.



Zion Upon the Waters

As pointed out earlier there is not a square foot of inhabitable land that is not claimed by some country. No matter where prospective gatherers buy land they will be subject to some external government, unless they make a deal with a third world government.

The scripture says: “ye shall have no laws but my laws when I come…”

If this is true then the Zion that will be built just before the Second Coming will not be subject to any laws, but those that exist in Zion.

Now many believe Zion will have its own laws because there will be some type of world wide collapse and the willing will be able to start anew. However, believers have been waiting 2000 years for such an event and it has not happened. If we have to wait another thousand years then should we do nothing but wait for the day when the wicked shall burn as stubble?

The answer is no.


Because the command to build Zion is still in force just as much as the command to not steal. Why pick one commandment to obey and disregard another?

So, then, outside of colonizing space is there a third way to create communities with their own laws?

There is one that has been greatly overlooked. We forget that over two-thirds of the planet is covered by water and no nation has control of the high seas. Presently, the international waters are open to all.

Is it possible that part of the reason the planet is covered by so many international waters so that gathering places can be created in our time?

So, how will we gather upon the waters?

The answer is quite simple. We will build floating cities upon the seas. This came to me around thirty yeas ago and I couldn’t find anyone else who was thinking this direction. Since then I see many have picked it up and have placed significant funds into research and development of floating cities. Some designs are said to be hurricane proof and others are capable of moving to desirable new locations when needed.

The enterprise of building cities on the seas that will have their own governments even has a name. It is called “Seasteading.” Google the word and you will find much interesting information available.

Just like the first gathering of the last cycle to America was composed of a great variety of people so will the gathering on the seas. The first ones will not create Zion but will pave the way for “Zion upon the waters.”

Where have we heard that phrase before?

Here it is: “And it shall be said in days to come that none is able to go up to THE LAND OF ZION UPON THE WATERS, but he that is upright in heart.” D&C 61:16

The fact that Zion upon the waters must be built before Christ comes is foreshadowed in this scripture:

“Wherefore, prepare ye for the coming of the Bridegroom; go ye, go ye out to meet him. For behold, he shall stand upon the mount of Olivet, AND UPON THE MIGHTY OCEAN, EVEN THE GREAT DEEP and upon the islands of the sea, and upon the land of Zion.” D&C 133:19-20

When Christ comes we will go “out to meet him.” And where will we go? We will go to “the mighty ocean, even the great deep.”

And how will we do this? We will build cities on the sea in preparation for him and there we will have a place for him to stand upon the mighty ocean and teach his people.

So, then, in the coming cycle many will gather and build cities on the land and the sea. This will later be followed by cities under the sea and those that float in the air.

This new gathering will be like the net spoken of by Jesus that will draw in people of all sorts.

Then will come a gathering from the gathered to build the cities of Zion. This will not happen very quickly as hoped for by many believers.

Consider that we are over 2000 years away from the gatherings predicted in the Bible and it’s been almost 200 years since first taught by Joseph Smith and yet we do not have one established Zion society. Even so, many keep deluding themselves that all will happen within the next few years – its always just around the corner.

Seekers of Zion must start thinking of the long term, instead of expecting instant change engineered by God Himself.

We have been given the basic instructions concerning what Zion is supposed to be and God does not like to keep repeating Himself. It is up to us to take the ball and run with what we have before we can expect more.



Linking Heaven and Earth

There is one more possibility for a new land on which to build a new Zion society free of external control.

Within the next 150-200 years we can expect some fairly dramatic earth changes causing some major disruptions. Some existing lands will be submerged and others will rise. If, in the midst of such chaos, the Zion societies are prepared then they may be the only people ready to move to the new land ready to create a government there. I would suggest they call it “New America” since this would create gathering opportunity similar to the first America.

And why would the cities of Zion not be destroyed by the disruptions?

“And the earth helped the woman (Zion) , and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood (opposition) which the dragon (enemies of Zion) cast out of his mouth.” Rev 12:16

The earth is a living entity and decides to cleanse itself every now and then. When it does it preserves benevolent souls who are gathered and destroys those who are harmful to its life as mentioned in the scriptures:


Periodically, the earth destroys them that cause destruction upon it, but will help and preserve those who are harmless as it is written:


It will be a difficult yet rewarding path to the building of Zion and will take longer than most believers think. We must do more on our own of our own individual initiative than has been generally thought. God will not do for us what we can do for ourselves. When we do all we can on our own then we become deserving of divine assistance and not before.

In the meantime, what can one do who desires to be a laborer for Zion?

(1) He can study the various efforts being made, where free will is preserved, to gather and create a people of one mind.

(2) The believer needs to assess himself and ask himself if he feels a personal call to assist in the creation of Zion. If so, he must check with the Spirit to see what he should be doing in the immediate future.

(3) All who have Zion in their hearts need to be currently make an effort to communicate with others of a like mind to themselves and form relationships. In addition to doing this in the flesh, we now have the Internet to assist us in this endeavor. Then, when an obvious ensign is lifted, those who are ready will recognize it and respond.

To pave the way for a gathering of the pure in heart who are of one mind and heart a number of things must take place.

Outwardly, much of it will be done by freedom loving people who are not on any particular spiritual path. They will help pave the way for gatherings on the internet, on land and on the seas.

On a more spiritual level something that must take place will be the creation of a seed, or seed group that is capable of sprouting and growing into Zion. This seed group will correspond on a later turn of the spiral to the Twelve who were selected by Jesus, who on the day of Pentecost were so in tune to the Spirit that they were one mind and became linked to the Christ and the powers of heaven.

The seed group today will consist of not just twelve men, but twelve males and twelve females which correspond to the twelve ancient ones before the throne. (Rev 4:4) When such a seed group can be gathered and all see through the eyes of the Spirit and become of one mind and heart then a new Pentecost can happen and heaven and earth can be linked and Zion can have its true beginning in this cycle.

I have written an entire book explaining the principles that will enable a seed group to make this happen. It is called The Molecular Relationship and is available free HERE

“When the LORD shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his

glory.” Psalms102:16

Copyright by J J Dewey

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The Great White Chief Part 2

This entry is part 6 of 34 in the series 2010B

Posted May 11, 2010
The Golden Library

Prior to our leaving the Quiche country, Chi Chi Sum a made mention of the Golden Library that was located somewhere up in Yucatan country, and told us a group of Indian people was in possession of the knowledge of the Golden Library. He also informed us that if we were seeking knowledge of the Golden Library, we were to relate to their leader, whose name was Itzla Chelan, and we were to tell him of our having been accepted and adopted by the Chigaraguan people and about our being accepted and adopted by Chi Chi Suma, and the part we had in the Fire Dance and also to take a message of good will to Itzla Chelan and his people from Chi Chi Suma and the Quiche people.

After leaving the ruins of Tical, we treked into Guatemala and worked at the City of Coban. Since the area around Coban had been gone over with a fine tooth comb by other explorers, we found very few artifacts. All other data found by us had been previously reported by those who had preceded us to the spot.

Traveling north by east, we went through Mestiquea country where we found very few ruins, and those few we did find were so badly deteriorated that no artifacts were found there. We touched near the border of British Honduras, and from the Indian people there heard many stories in regard to a group who inhabited the Campeche, Quintana Roo country.

Being much interested in the stories we heard regarding the Golden Library that was in the possession of these Indian people known as the Tzichallas, and whose leader is known as Itzla Chelan, we entertained 20

ideas of visiting them. These people live within no specified boundary or reservation, but are just on the move, truly a nomadic race. They move at their pleasure and leisure, staying two or three or even five or more days at one place before moving on. During the rainy season, they may remain at one spot at least two months, and sometimes longer, perhaps three months. Game, fruits, and vegetables are abundant, as well as fish and fowl. Therefore they are not tied down to farming nor to any specific form of livelihood that would keep them in one place.

The more tales we heard in regard to this group of people, the more we became interested. Finally, it was decided to penetrate into their country and to get as much data as possible on this tribe, but our main interest was the Golden Library.

Not long after our departure from the Honduras border, we encamped near the city of San Felipe. Here we gathered as much information as we possibly could regarding the whereabouts of the Tzichalla people. Getting no information as to their whereabouts, we penetrated deeper into the jungle country, coming at length to Lake Aguada Corina, not far from which we contacted a small group of Otopec Indians, who told us the location of Itzla Chelan and his people. The two hours spent with the Otopecs were pleasant and informative as the group was very friendly.

The route to Tzichalla country brought us into the most uninhabited part of the jungle we had ever been through. Animal life was abundant making this a perfect hunters’ paradise. The spot where Itzla Chelan and his group were then encamped was surrounded by deep swamps and such thick underbrush that the difficulty with which it was reached made it seem more isolated than any other part of the country. The entire strip of highland was surrounded by almost impenetrable entwining vines and vine-like trees. 21

As the entire trip had to be made on foot, one could not expect to cover very much ground in a day’s trek, so the small hunting party we came upon a few days later was warmly welcomed. In a very short time they became quite friendly, inviting us to join their group, sharing with us their game, and exchanging sign-talk with us. Their invitation to accompany them to their leader, Itzla Chelan, was accepted without any hesitation.

Although many of the hunters were laden with the fruits of their hunt, they offered to assist us with our traveling equipment. Traversing the few miles from the hunters’ camp, we came upon a large clearing within which were a number of huts crudely constructed of jungle growth, vines, leaves, and grasses woven into mat-like material.

Immediately upon our arrival there, the women took charge of the game brought in by the hunters, and set to work to prepare it for a feast. The pride of the individual at once made itself manifest in the cleanliness and modesty of dress, and the orderly cleanliness of their surroundings. There were no piles of debris visible, and the ground about the huts was swept clean leaving a brick hardness to the earth.

All the people seemed friendly, none appeared to be suspicious of our group being there. As soon as the hunters were relieved of their burdens, the leader of the party invited us to come with him to the largest hut. When we arrived at the door, the hunter asked us to remain outside while he entered. He was in the hut only a very few minutes before he reappeared followed by Itz la Chelan, who, after greeting us cordially, invited us to enter into his hut. Paul and I entered the hut, leaving the other members of the expedition on the outside with the hunting party. 22

For a short time we conversed with the chief in the sign language because neither Paul nor I had yet mastered their language enough to speak it fluently. The chief was a large man of very striking appearance, with intelligence and wisdom far superior to that of other leaders with whom we had come in contact.

Remaining in the village for a short period, becoming accustomed to their habits and ways of living Paul and I finally broached the subject of the Golden Library. Two of his advisers were present when we spoke to Itzla Chelan of this subject, and we immediately noticed the change of attitude of all three of them. The conversation carried on among all three of them was switched from their own native tongue to one that was strictly foreign to Paul and me. During the course of the conversation, the leader would question us in the sign language. We would answer and our reply in turn, would be spoken to the two advisers in the foreign language.

After a while the two advisers went out, leaving Paul and me alone with the leader. Be conversed further with Paul and me for a little while, then informed us that we would have to remain there for some time before he would speak of the Golden Library any more. He neither encouraged nor discouraged our hope of hearing about the library. We readily accepted his invitation to remain. Taking our leave of him, we hurried to inform the others of his decision and our plans.

During the following ten days that we were their guests while they were camped at this spot, the leader and T never mentioned the Golden Library. On the eleventh day he informed us that they were about to move, and for us to make preparations for the move if we cared to remain with them. We informed the rest of our party of the invitation, and the following morning we accompanied them to the next camp site, arriving after four days on the move. 23

The eight days spent at this site were devoted to bunting, resting, playing games, just as at the last camp site. But not once during the eight days did Itzla Chelan make any mention of’ the Golden Library. We were again invited to accompany them to the next camp site, which we readily accepted, for we knew that they were going through worse jungle country than we had previously been through.

We were on the move five days before we reached the next place, where we remained for twenty-seven days. After A couple of days of much needed rest, we resumed our daily routine with them as we had at the other two camps.

On the ninth day, Itzla Chelan asked us into his hut. When we arrived there he immediately started the conversation and was soon on the subject we had waited so long to discuss -the Golden Library. The trend of the conversation was toward Paul and me in regard to the Golden Library, but not once did he refer to other members of our party. He asked us many questions about ourselves as well as about the people from our Indian country.

We gave him a brief sketch of our lives, which he enjoyed immensely, especially of our exploration and research work. He was very deeply interested in the ways of living of other Indian people, which we minutely described to him. Toward the late evening be called a halt to our conversation and informed us that he would send for Us later on that night. Paul and I had explained to the other members of our expedition what had taken place, which seemed to bring a ray of encouragement to all of them.

We had about given up hope of his sending for us that night, when there came a call from the outside of our hut, informing Us that Itzla Chelan wished to speak with us. We were greeted cordially by him and 24 25

his two advisers. The conversation was resumed with much the same trend as it had been earlier that night.

Paul and I mentioned Echa Tah Echa Nah in connection with our exploration, and a greater interest was at once perceived. He questioned us in minute detail about the Chigaraguan people. In the course of our description of the White Indian people and how we had been accepted by them we told him of our adoption into the tribe and our invitation to return to the Chigaraguan people any time we so desired.

It was then be agreed to explain about the Golden Library in minute detail. Giving us his promise to return the next night and tell us his story, we all retired. Paul and I were so highly elated that we had to awaken the other members of the expedition. We gleefully related the degree of success we had attained that night. We slept soundly, but awoke the next morning earlier than usual with a song in our hearts and happiness in our minds. A few hours hence we would know whether or not what we had been seeking was only , a legendary myth, or the truth and a fact.

Late in the afternoon we became impatient, wishing for the night to fall, as we were eager to hear Itzla Chelan’s story. After what seemed an eternity, night settled over the jungle and Itzla Chelan’s messenger stood silhouetted against the high tropical moon, delivering his request for us to join him in his hut. Paul and I were seated facing Itzla Chelan and his two council members, and the story began. As the significance of the story unfolded, Paul and I became so deeply engrossed that the thin streaks of dawn were coloring the sky before we realized the passage of time.

The same description of the Golden Library that he gave to us will not be attempted, but to the best ability of the writer, all that possibly can be told without breaking a sacred trust, will be passed on.

Itzla Chelan started off by extracting from us a vow that we would never divulge to any one all of the information that we had received from him. He described to us that this vast library contained all the history of the world from the beginning of time up to the present day, and also into the future.

Knowing that Paul and I were of Indian blood, he talked more freely about many of the recordings that had actually happened during his lifetime as leader of the people. Be even reached farther back into the past to the first book that was written at the beginning of time. All great and notable events that had happened were mentioned.

Paul and I were very much interested when he told us that the vast library had been brought to the western world from the old world. These records contained all the history of the old world from the beginning up to the time the records were brought to the new world. From that time hence, a record of all important events have been added as they occurred up to the present time. These books contain all the data and history of Peru, Ecuador, Columbia and some parts of Brazil. From what he described to us, we were under the impression that there was also a story pertaining to Central America, their advancement and progress up to the time of the Spanish invasion.

What information we received from ltzla Chelan indicated that these records were in possession of the Inca people at one time During the time of the Spanish invasion, they were smuggled out of Peru prior to the fall of the Inca civilization. For some time the records were in Peru, also in Columbia, but they were guarded with the utmost secrecy and kept on a continual move, always ahead of the Spanish Conquistadores. They were brought up into Central America, and at one time were in the care of the Maya, and later on were in care of the Toltecs, finally coming into possession of the Aztecs. 26

During the time of Cortez’s invasion, they were smuggled out of what is now Mexico City, taken by day and by night by a group who vowed to always see that these records were safely kept. and to guard them with their lives. About the time of the fall of the Aztec nation, they were taken to a place of secrecy, known only to but a very choice few. where they have been hidden and guarded, and where they are now located. The exact hiding place of this priceless library is known to only a handful of the highest and most elect leaders of the Indian people of the Western Hemisphere.

Many things that Itzla Chelan mentioned during this conversation with us, will have to be omitted for as Itzla Chelan had at the beginning of his story sworn us to absolute secrecy, we again at the close of his talk took our vow, and this sealed our lips forever about certain portions of his talk to us.


We Are Witnesses

After receiving our pledge, Itzla Chelan agreed to take us to a spot where we could have the great honor and privilege of seeing one of the books of the Golden Library. We were very happy over his promise. Dismissing the two council members, Itzla Chelan told Paul and me that we would start on our journey the following afternoon. He bade us goodnight with his blessings and asked us to make preparations to leave toward sundown.

Leaving Itzla Chelan, Paul and I went directly to the other members of our party who were very much disappointed when they learned that only we two would have the privilege of seeing this one book of the Golden Library. Paul and I slept, the others talked among themselves about the prospective trip. At noon we awoke and made the necessary preparations to accompany Itzla Chelan and his party, meanwhile becoming quite restless as the afternoon wore on toward evening.

As the sun was setting, we left our camp site traveling on very unfamiliar pathways through the jungle, but the other members of the party seemed to know this particular trail very well. We traveled through the biggest part of the night, making camp just at daybreak where we rested until mid-morning.

The other members of ltzla Chelan’s party were ready to eat again when he called us out of a very deep sleep. Everyone ate heartily of our second hastily prepared cold breakfast. After traveling that way for five days and nights, on the sixth morning, Itzla Chelan notified us that we were getting very near the end of our journey. By this time we had 29 28

come out of the swamp lands and jungle growth onto higher terrain, which was more like desert land in many places. Surrounding this desert land was a small area of what appeared to be lava rock, or some sort of volcanic substance.

One of the council members broke the news to Paul and me that the rest of the way we were to be blindfolded, regretting that this would make that part of the journey very difficult for us. dust before we stumbled blindly along on the last leg of our journey, we asked of the whereabouts of Itzla Chelan, and we were informed by one of the council members that he had gone ahead, leaving the two councilmen and two of the safari to assist Paul and me along the path.

After explaining the necessity for the blindfold, the council member bade us close our eyes. He then placed large folded papaya leaves over our eyes, and placed on top of the leaves a heavily woven band, securing it in a fashion that it was impossible for any light to penetrate.

Soon we were on the march, one of the councilmen and one of the safari assisting me and one of the councilmen and one of the safari assisting Paul. Our assistants were very thoughtful, when there was an unusually high step, one of them would tell us to be ready for the next step, and so eased the jolting considerably. On going down the sharp inclines, one of them would step in front of us, place our hands on his shoulders, and the other would step behind us, with his hands on our shoulders, guiding us as we kept in step.

After stopping to rest many times, we came to the end of what seemed to be an endless chain of high mountains, low valleys, mucky swamp lands, and desert land. For five hours we had walked through the disturbing terrain before being informed that our journey had come to a close. This was, indeed, welcome news.

We were assisted into a sitting position where our blindfolds were removed making us much more comfortable. As soon as our eyes became accustomed to the light, Itzla Chelan warmly welcomed us and motioned for us to follow him, lie led us a short distance through thick jungle growth to a small clearing. On the far side of the clearing two white blankets were suspended from the low branches of the trees. Immediately in front of these blankets was an altar-like pedestal covered with another white blanket upon which rested, unopened, one of the books of the Golden Library!

Opposite Paul and me, and on the other side of the pedestal, took Itzla Chelan with his two councilmen. The two members of the safari who had assisted Paul and me along the trail, were nowhere to be seen. Itzla Chelan invited Paul and me to examine the book, which we did with very great reverence.

The top and bottom covers of the book were of a white marble-like stone about a quarter of an inch thick. These pieces of stone measured about ten inches long. Between these two thin slabs of stone were the leaves, which were about nine and one-half inches wide and thirteen inches in length. The leaves of this book were composed of metal, which Paul and I took to be brass or copper of a very light hue.

As we lifted the book we knew immediately by its weight that its leaves were not made of gold. These leaves were about the thickness of three or four sheets of ordinary bond typing paper. The book was held together by three small metal rings spaced equally apart at the back of the book. At the center top, and center bottom, as well as the center front, were placed additional rings like those in the back of the book, holding it closed together.

We were permitted to open the book and examine its contents. By unlocking and lifting out the rings 30 31

in the center front, top and bottom, the exquisitely polished stone cover was turned back, exposing the very finely hammered metal plates. Delicately chiseled into the metal sheets were characters which Paul and I, during any part of our career, had never seen anything exactly like it.

Turning page after page, we saw these curious characters and questioned Itzla about them. He casually shrugged his shoulders, smiled and said, “That is the written Voice that spoke sometime close to the beginning.

When asked if there were any other books that resembled this one, he very readily answered that there are many others from whence this one came; many of them larger, but none smaller than this one. There are many different tongues that are used in the remaining ones. Wishing to press him no farther, we refrained from questioning him about the others, for we were highly elated over being privileged to see this one book.

Near sundown Paul and I were still deeply engrossed in the book but Itzla Chelan told us that we :should make ready for the night as we would remain at this spot until morning. We obediently went about the task of making ourselves comfortable for the night, then went over to look upon this book again. Soon darkness overtook us and we settled down to sleep. Prior to our retiring, we both distinctly remember seeing the book on the blanket, and the other two blankets hanging from the trees which we spoke of before going to sleep.

Upon awakening the next morning, we were greeted by Itzla Chelan and the other members of our party. Looking at once to the spot where the Golden Library book had rested the night before, we saw no trace of its having been there. Seeing our wistful glance, Itzla Chelan told us that during the night he had re- turned it to its place among the other books of the Golden Library which remained hidden somewhere in that country.

After a rather leisurely breakfast, we made preparations to return to Itzla Chelon’s people and the other members of the expedition. The blindfolds were again placed over our eyes before departure for our return trip, and we were informed by one of the councilmen that we would return over the same route that we had taken to bring us to our present whereabouts.

Our having traversed this trail made it no easier to travel under the same conditions. After numerous rests and traveling all day, our blindfolds were removed by Itzla Chelan in the late afternoon. Making camp here the first night, we traveled unblindfolded for the next few days and nights, resting for a short time at long intervals, and after an uneventful trip found ourselves back in Itzla Chelan’s country with our friends.

The success of our trip greatly excited our expedition party. We had been gone fifteen days and they were becoming concerned about our safety. Putting their fears at rest, we described our adventure through the biggest part of the night. We told them all that has been told here, and after they seemed well satisfied at hearing our experiences, we all retired for a much needed sleep.

The following morning we went about our daily routine as we had done before with Itzla Chelan’s people. Three days later we were informed that we were to prepare to move again the following day. Upon arising the following day, we were called before Itzla Chelan. After our usual opening greetings that lasted about thirty minutes, he informed Paul and me that he would send an escort to take us back to the point from which we started prior to our coming into Itzla Chelan’s country. 32

We prepared at once to depart. He gave us all a very fine send off, and invited Paul and me to visit him again at a later date. After twelve days of uneventful travel, our escort told us that their part of the journey was ended awl they were to return to Itzla Chelan. After a brief farewell, they were going back to their people and we were returning to the “civilized world” again. Our mission had been successfully completed.


Back to Echa Tah Echa Nah

(“Wherefore, I will that all men shall repent for all are under sin, except those which I have reserved unto myself, holy men ye know not of. ” (See Doctrine and Covenants, 498. ) These are they -NCP.

After completing Five expeditions with the various organizations mentioned heretofore, Paul and I decided to freelance. We obtained a two year permit to do research and archaeological work in Old Mexico. After freelancing in Mitla, Monte Alban, Ticul, Pugil, Tecas, Uxmal and Palenque, we decided to abandon our trip and return to the land of the Chigaraguans.

Fifteen days later found us with this charming group quietly celebrating our return. Within a few days we had accustomed ourselves and settled down to the quiet, peaceful living of this people. Daily we would assist the various craftsmen such as the weavers, pottery makers, leather workers and herdsmen, and visit the farmers and other people in nearby communities.

Our work with the weavers consisted of either Paul and I carding or spinning wool, setting up looms or bleaching and washing the wool. Many times we would weave the sides, arms, or backs of the robes worn by all the tribe. 34 35

Pottery work consisted of our mixing clay. Often we patterned and made in our very crude way, bowls, VASQS, and other useful articles. The pottery workers themselves are highly skilled craftsmen in their art; therefore Paul and I offered no serious competition. Their blending of clay and lire baking is without any parallel. All of their products are made to near perfection of modern fire baking, even though they use the primitive methods which they have followed from the beginning.

Plates are a trifle larger than our ordinary dinner plates. Instead of using saucers with the cups they have little bowls the cups sit in. The contents of the cups are poured into the little bowl and sipped. Beautiful and intricate designs, both geometrical, and plant, bird and animal life are used in decorating these priceless artifacts. Three predominating colors are used -blue, shell pink, and golden yellow; these being blended into soft pastel shades against a white background.

Before baking the pottery ware, and while the clay is still wet, the designs are cut into the clay with a sharp instrument, the color desired pressed into the grooves with the fingertips, and finished with a fine wooden instrument to prevent spreading while making. The finished product is an exquisite example of intricate inlay work.

During the periods when there is no immediate need of pottery by the people, the designers plan and make various pieces of pottery to be used for ornamental purposes. Wall plaques are of a more elaborate design than that used on the dinnerware. As an example of some of the beautiful designs carried out on these plaques, the bird pattern is average.

After the colors have been baked into the clay, feathers from the bird depicted in the design, are glued onto the plaque making the pattern appear lifelike. However, before the feathers are attached to the plaque, they are bleached and dyed in one of the three colors. No other colors are used. Dark brown or black are strictly taboo. Harsh colors are never seen. Other designs are carried out in the same way. By the exactness and precision of their geometrical patterns, one would think they have all the modern facilities of exacting measurements. However, all is done in their crude, simple way.

Leather working is of quite simple methods. The tanning of the leather is done under the same method as Indians of old have followed. All leather is bleached white that is used for making their pack-boots. All other leather that is used for making harness and other articles is left in its natural color. No leather work has any kind of design on it.

The farmers and herdsmen are really one and the same, as the herding is done in rotation by each farmer for his neighbor as it comes his turn. All goats are tended by one person, horses by another, turkeys by still another, sheep and all others likewise. Each herdsman leaves his farm work on the day he is to tend the herd. During his absence from the farm, his next door neighbor tends to the herdsman’s place, doing his chores for that one day. Paul and I took our turns along with the others in all these things. 1

During the nine months and sixteen days that we lived with the Chigaraguan people, Paul and I were

1) These people have a perfect United Order and do not use money as they have no need for it. Natoni Nexbah related that when he offered Echa Tah Echa Nah some Mexican pesos for some moccasins that he admired, they were rejected with this soft reproach. “My son, our hills are full of that metal. We find it useful only for tools and ornaments. ” –NCP. 36 37

given a small home by Echa Tah Echa Nah. It was crude and simple and very comfortable, but lacking the modern conveniences and facilities we had known in our world. Radios and electricity, are unknown, as well as many of the comfort giving luxuries that are to be had in the so-called civilized world. The cooking was done en a very crude clay stove in the yard, and all other houses are so arranged. Foods are cooked outside to eliminate the heat and odors of food remaining in the houses.

At the close of the day, after all the chores and work are completed, it has been the custom from the beginning of the Chigaraguan people for each community to gather around a huge fire. After the fires have been lit, discussions of the events of the day are followed by the muffled tones of the tom toms, accompanied by the people singing and chanting their native songs. The grownups who feel quite gay and the children dance and sing to the music of the reed-blowers and the tom toms.

As the fires die out, the deep-throated crooning of lullabies drifts on the soft, blossom-scented night breezes. As the children drop off to sleep and are carried to their homes, quietude settles over the moon-bathed village. The firelighter is the last to leave. He chats softly with those who linger near the last glowing embers of the bonfire. When he has completed his task of extinguishing the last glowing embers, each bids the other pleasant dreams and turns homeward with a singing heart.

The reed-blowers as well as the tom tom drummers have no written music, yet the pattern of harmony and timing is very enthralling. Their music is sweet and plaintive and truly beautiful. To the writer, the high notes of the reeds seemed only a whisper, yet were quite clear, and are most touching and lovely. The memories of each night that Paul and I shared with these people around the huge fires are held very dear and reverently in our hearts.

Those serene and trusting people welcomed Paul and me, not only into their social life, but also expected us to enter into their religious activities with as much dignity and grace. On various parts of their homeland we found their temples of worship, and we were permitted to enter them at any time we desired.

Upon entering the temple, the seating arrangement of the congregation differs greatly from ours. All the men are seated on one side of the building, and the ladies on the opposite side, while the children are seated in the center section. These meetings are held in deep reverence, and the services last from one and a half hours to two hours. No one, not even the children shows the least bit of restlessness.

The meetings are usually presided over by one of the council members, who opens with prayer, followed by a short, simple prayer by each child, who gives a gentle tap on his chair as the signal to the next child that it is his turn to pray. Upon completion of prayer by the children, the ladies pray, tapping their signals as the children did. When the ladies’ prayers are completed the men pray in the same manner.

When prayer services are finished, many things are discussed, both religious and social, among the people with their leader. All their problems are solved at this one great place of meeting. For deeper and more sacred religious rituals, all the people gather at the Most Sacred Temple, which is used for religious purposes only.

In this Temple the most sacred rites are administered, such as marriages, baptisms, blessings, and the last rites for the dead. Every thirteenth and twenty-sixth day is set aside for the gathering of the people

into this Most Sacred Temple. Always present at the meetings is Echa Tah Echa Nah, their leader, Yin Nah Sha, his first counselor; Aban liar, his second counselor; his twelve council members, and the tribal historian.

A complete record is made of all the activities that take place during these meetings. These records are written on doe skin and painstakingly preserved by the tribal historian for future reference in all time to come. Later on I will go into intricate detail of other religious activities in which Paul and I had the honor and pleasure of participating.


Echa Tah Echa Nah, The Man


“. . and he shall be magnified over all the world. “

(The Testament of Levi. )


A small room adjoining the Most Sacred Temple has been set aside for the library where all the records of both sacred and historical nature are kept. These are records pertaining to the Chigaraguan people from the beginning of their history up to the present time. They date back prior to 480 B. C. , and have been written on parchment and skins, some upon metal plates. Records are there in many of the old world languages of ancient times, such as Sumerian, Cuthic, Aryan, Chaldean, Sanskrit, Hittite, First and Second Hebrew, Assyrian; First, Second and Third Egyptian, as well as Moabite. Many are written in hieroglyphics, pictographs, and petroglyphs, as well as those written at later dates, or in modified versions of these languages. Many times Paul and I went there with Echa Tah Echa Nah who read to us and described to us many events of the long, dead past.

Since Echa Tah Echa Nah has not been described previously, this opportunity will be taken to introduce him to our readers so you will understand and know why all Indian people hold him in such great reverence like they do. He is not a giant of a man, however, he stands at a height of about six feet three inches. His weight is approximately two hundred and thirty pounds. He has a very beautiful carriage, very straight and erect, moving along with such grace that he seems to glide rather than walk. It would he hard to believe that he has reached the advanced age of ninety, which he was at the time that we were visiting him. (1936).

A lion head rests upon massive shoulders, his hair is abundant and snow white, worn similar to the Navajo with a large bob bound with wool yarn at the back of his head. The characteristics of his face show calmness and serenity, and very great kindness yet one can readily know that he has the ability to be very stern, firm and hard. His eyes are the most commanding feature, changing in color from dark blue to black, brown, or hazel, depending upon the depth of emotion brought about by the subject under discussion. 4o

It is at once apparent that he is a man of divine inspiration and wisdom. Paul and I were amazed when we learned of his vast knowledge of the various ancient languages, his ability to translate fluently and at random any one of the long dead tongues found in the mammoth library. Regardless of the ancient manuscript from which he was reading, he could translate into the Aztecaza language. He also speaks numerous modern languages, conversing with me in all those known to me and others that I did not know.

He discussed with us many things pertaining to the Chigaraguan people, their mode of living, their laws, religion and beliefs in the past as well as the present. He dwelt at length upon great events that had occurred from the beginning up to the present, and far into the distant future. The longer we stayed and became more acquainted with their beliefs and customs, the deeper he delved into the past, even hack to the Ancient of Ancients.


Christ’s Visit To America

Our visits to the quiet, mellow library became more frequent. At these times he would describe the most sacred events that had occurred to the people. His description of Christ’s visitation was the most thrilling of all those he related to us. The night before he started to describe this visit to us, we met in the library, and he said at the rising of the sun we would meet and go into the Most Sacred Temple for prayer. Just at sunrise the following morning we met at the designated place, having arising earlier and eaten a hearty breakfast. We entered into the Temple and prayed. After praying we remained in the Temple for meditation, then returned to the library.

While Paul and I seated ourselves, he brought from a small receptacle a large white doeskin, which he unrolled and spread on the table before him. The tribal historian joined us almost at once, and while he was seating himself, Ecba Tah Echa Nah, touching lightly the top corners of the doeskin, looked steadily out of the window with the most wistful expression, as though he were waiting for the answer to a silent prayer. By a slight change of expression we could tell that the answer had come. Than he began to read from the doeskin. I will not attempt to pass on to you word for word the contents of the manuscript that he read to us, but to the best of my ability, I will explain all that I can remember as Echa Tah Echa Nah told it to us.


There were three days and nights of total darkness, great storms of wind and rain arose. Earthquakes raged until the morning of the fourth day. During this horrible catastrophe, the Chigaraguans of that time gathered into the temple, remaining there until the morning of the fourth day, when the sun rose as usual, the earthquakes and storms having subsided. The people left the temples and went about repairing the damages done by this disaster.

Just before noontime, the people became greatly distressed due to a light in the sky. It was of much greater brilliance than the sun, and directing its progress slowly earthward, coming straight to the Chigaraguan city. Again the people rushed to the temples, many of them prostrating themselves upon the ground, believing that after three days and nights of darkness and destruction, followed by this unusual light, this was truly the end of their existence.

A few people, braver than the others who were prostrate upon the earth, watched the approach of this light as it came toward them. As it drew nearer, they could discern the outline of the body of a heavenly personage. Around this personage, (many of the Chigaraguans believe to this day), was a robe made of quetzal bird feathers. (The author believes, however, that in the confusion they mistook the halo of light around Christ for what they believed to be a feathered robe around Him. )

As this personage touched the earth and walked among the prostrate upon the ground, the Echa Tah Echa Nah of that time, came forth from the temple to greet Him, inviting him into the temple. The wise-men were assembled and as many people as could get into the temple remained there to listen to this great spiritual being. He showed them His pierced hands and feet, and the wound in His side, and told them of His crucifixion and resurrection, and how He must visit other people of other places.

During His five day visit with the Chigaraguan people, He taught them of all the laws and commandments of His Father in Heaven, Whom they should worship. promising them that if they would live and abide by His laws and commandments, someday He would return and live with them again. He also instructed the wise men to have the laws and commandments that He had given them, written upon that which would never wear away, and that they should be given to the people nearby the Chigaraguans, that they also might follow the same teachings and commandments.

On the morning of the sixth day, they assembled in the temple where He reminded them again of His laws and commandments, which He had given them. He prayed to His Father in Heaven, and in the name of the Father, blessed all the Chigaraguan people, and told them He could remain with them no longer, but had to visit other people of the earth. Then, in a blinding flash of light, He ascended into the sky from whence He had come.

Immediately after Christ’s departure, the Echa Tah Echa Nah of that time commanded that the laws and commandments be written upon metal plates and be given to the others nearby, that they also could abide by and follow them as He had commanded. From that day to the present time the Chigaraguan people have abided by these laws, isolating themselves from the rest of the world, wanting no contact with the outside to deter them from their purpose and their beliefs, always keeping themselves as near perfect as possible, as they expect Him again to visit them at any time, and wish to be always ready to meet Him.

The other tribes to whom the plates were given, lived and abided by them very faithfully for a space of about three-hundred years. At the height of their civilization, becoming vastly wealthy and powerful. The evil forces soon began to grow among the people causing them to become drunken with success and falling away from the commandments that had been given to them.

Soon there became two factions, the good and the evil. The evil forces made war upon the good. The Chigaraguan people call this the Great War, the beginning of which is not known, but probably between 300 A. D. and 350 A. D. Prior to the height of the battles in the Great War, many of the people fled to the north-east, and to the south. Those who managed to escape, especially those going south, married into other tribes whose language differed from the former language of the refugees.

There is no recording of how long the Great War lasted, which no doubt continued over a period of a great many years. At any rate, it lasted long enough for the people to forget their native tongue and when they returned to their abandoned cities after the close of the war, none could speak his former tongue. Over a period of time the survivors created a new language which became universally used among the people. A new key of hieroglyphics, pictographs and petroglyphs was introduced at the same time, which now still survives among this people. The old key of languages and writings used prior to the Great War was completely lost, and to this day less than twenty percent of these writings have been successfully interpreted.

Many Indian tribes surrounding the Chigaraguans have jealously guarded and preserved their original language and writings, using the same now as they did in the beginning of their inhabiting Mexico, which was approximately 480 B. C. The Great War is seldom spoken of by other Indian people, as it is only legendary among them, however, the Chigaraguans are the only ones who have a written record of the momentous event. –Thus ended the words of Echa Tah Echa Nah at this time.


Many of the laws and customs, as well as the rituals of the Chigaraguans differ from those of other Indian people. They are deeply sincere in their religious rituals and ceremonies, especially those pertaining to marriage. They follow these laws and customs more rigidly, with more sincerity and reverence than any other known group of Indian people.

It is their practice to pray six to eight times a day. Upon arising, they face the east and give a short prayer of thanks for the night’s rest, the privilege of being alive and in good health. At breakfast-time another prayer of thanksgiving is offered. During the mid-morning, as people go about their duties, a prayer is voiced in thankfulness for the condition of their crops, livestock, and other things they possess. A thanksgiving prayer is said at noontime for the abundance of food that is placed before them. When the evening meal is served, some member of the family again offers thanks. The smallest child may be the one to voice the prayer for the family.

While the groups are assembled around the huge evening fires, someone offers prayer for the welfare and happiness of everyone in the group. Upon retiring each individual prays. The custom upon offering grayer is that the individual bows his head, folds his hands, and humbly voices the opening of the prayer as follows:

“Almighty Creator of all the earth people and of all living things, ‘speak to Thee. ” He then lifts his 46

hands, palms upward toward the sky, as he continues with his prayer. Men, women and children all offer prayer in the same manner.


In the early hours of the morning, the people go about their work, but during the hottest part of the day it is customary for them to retire indoors until the heat has subsided. It is like the Mexican siesta. Then they complete their chores for the day around sundown. As the lengthening shadows fade into darkness, and the families begin to group around the evening fires, the young men go calling on girls of their choice to escort them to the gatherings, along with their family. There is no hesitancy or shyness connected with the association of the young men and women. Everyone considers their interest a natural thing and welcomes the opportunity to encourage and cultivate this mutual attraction into courtship and marriage.

Marriage at a young or tender age is strictly taboo, and is unheard of. A young man or young lady is around twenty-one or twenty-two before serious courtship begins. Courtships usually last from four to seven months at least. When the young couple sets the data for their wedding, all the people in the community know about it. Good wishes and congratulations are sent by runner from one community to the other for the couple.

On the day designated, everyone gathers into the Temple to witness this most sacred of all ceremonies. No gifts are brought on this occasion, but everything has been made ready for the couple to set up housekeeping as soon as the ceremony is completed.

As soon as the community in which the young people are to live, learn of the date of their marriage everyone in the community get together to make ready the home of the newlyweds, The men and boys build the house, setup fences and get together the working tools, stock, feedstuff, and all the things the husband will need. The women gather to make the wool into blankets, coverlets, and all manner of things for the young wife to-be to keep house with, storing the cupboards with every kind of food in the community. The various craftsmen contribute whatever is desired to complete the comfort and necessities of the future. Neither the bride nor groom has a hand in these preparations whatsoever.

The actual wedding ceremony is solemnized by one of the high council members. These ceremonies are a very sacred event, and all things that are done and said are not to be spoken of outside of the people who know of the sacredness of it. Therefore, the writer refrains from going into minute detail. However, the most beautiful and significant part of the ceremony is the final vow that the couple takes. In the presence of all those assembled as witnesses, and the council members, the couple is escorted by their parents to the baptismal font, where they are submerged with arms and hands locked, by the three highest council members. 1 This completes the Temple Ceremony.

1) It used to be mandatory for LDS couples to be re-baptized at the time of their temple marriage. In-fact, this writer’s parents as well as his wife’s parents were re-baptized at the time of their marriage. Re-baptism for many special reasons was very commonplace among the early LDS, and is also reflected in the Book of Mormon in several places such as Alma and his 450 souls who fled from King Noah were all re-baptized at the Waters of Mormon. At the coming of the Messiah, all the survivors were re-baptized, and in Moroni, 6:1, we read of elders, priests and teachers being re-baptized. Infect, Christ told them that if anyone partook unworthily of the sacrament, they must not be cast out, but should repent and be baptized. See Ogden Kraut’s documented booklet on Re-baptism. 4. 8

Divorce among these people is unknown. They have never heard of such a thing. They know that marriage is not just for this life, but continues throughout all eternity.

When the young couple is settled in the routine of home-making, they go to great lengths to keep their minds and bodies fit to bring a child into the world. The child is planned for and the plans are discussed with the sages of the tribe, for the best good of all concerned. After the first child is born, it is the law of the people that only once every seven years should a mother bear a child, and this law is adhered to rigidly.


In connection with the first visit of the writer to the Chigaraguan people, it was mentioned that there are no known vices, such as liquor in any form tobacco, or any habit forming concoctions that would be detrimental to the mind and body. Over-indulgence In anything is not known there. There wants and needs are few and simple.

1) Obviously this law was necessary to achieve population control for the limited space in their hidden valley, where they had to maintain complete isolation from the world. They may possibly accomplish birth control through use of contraceptive herbs well known to other Indian tribes. Their real mission was to be the custodians of the sacred records that will be a special witness in the last days; and they are also to live as “holy men without sin that ye know not of, ” referred to in D&C, 49:8. Also they were to receive and hold the Keys of the Kingdom which were lost to us through our having rejected the fullness of the Gospel in 1890, when we officially ceased the practice of United Order and Plural Marriage, and discontinued other vital doctrines.


As the bonds between this people and Paul and me strengthened, the writer was adopted by the leader Echa Tah Echa Nah, as his son through the blood ritual. It was after this adoption that we were privileged to visit the library where Echa Tah Echa Nah read to us of the many catastrophes that had occurred, not only on the western hemisphere, but in till parts of the world during all ages.

He also read to us numerous things that were to transpire in the future. One of the most astounding predictions that be read to us at this time was in regard to World War II, with the tragedies left in its wake, oven up to the present time. Other things he spoke of regarding the future will be mentioned further on in this book.

The invasion of the Spaniards was discussed at great length. He told us of the destruction that was wrought upon the mighty Aztec nation at the height of its civilization; which bears out the truth of the story known to the world of how Cortez conquered Mexico. To hear the story coming from the lips of one who had the original records before him, was awe inspiring and tremendously interesting. The dullness of school day history books flitted momentarily in my mind as insignificant.

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