Zion

The word Zion has various meanings in the scriptures. The most general definition of the word is “the pure in heart” (D&C 97:21). Zion is often used in this way to refer to the Lord's people or to the Church and its stakes (see D&C 82:14). It has also been used to refer to specific geographical locations.

Additional Information

The word Zion appears repeatedly in all the books of scripture of the Church. In latter-day revelation, Zion is defined as “the pure in heart” (D&C 97:21).

In the early days of this dispensation, Church leaders counseled members to build up Zion by emigrating to a central location. Today our leaders counsel us to build up Zion wherever we live. Members of the Church are asked to remain in their native lands and help establish the Church there. Many temples are being built so Latter-day Saints throughout the world can receive temple blessings.

The word Zion can also refer to specific geographic locations, as follows:

The city of Enoch (see Moses 7:18-21).

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Scripture References

Isaiah 2:2-3
 
1 Nephi 13:37
 
Doctrine and Covenants 35:24; 39:13; 45:68-71; 59:3-4; 64:41-43; 90:36-37; 97:18-28; 101:16-18; 105:5; 115:5-6; 136:31
 

Church Magazine Articles

  • “Come to Zion! Come to Zion!”

    Principles of love, work, self-reliance, and consecration are God given. Those who embrace them and govern themselves accordingly become pure in heart.

  • ““Strengthen Thy Stakes””

    From an address given by President Ezra Taft Benson to the stakes of the Church.

  • “Becoming the Pure in Heart”

    This important address was delivered at the April 1978 general conference. At the direction of the President, it is reprinted for renewed individual and family study.

  • “Come: Let Israel Build Zion”

    The following sermon was given by Elder McConkie on 27 February 1977 in Lima, Peru. President Spencer W. Kimball was desirous that it be printed for the membership of the Church.

Additional Study Materials