The Books of Genesis, Moses, and Abraham

The Book of Genesis

The book of Genesis is the first of five books written by Moses. It covers roughly twenty-five hundred years of history—more than all the rest of the Bible, including the New Testament! Many of the most famous Bible stories come from Genesis, such as the Fall of Adam and Eve, Cain killing Abel, Noah and the Flood, the building of the Tower of Babel, Abraham nearly offering his son Isaac as a sacrifice, and Joseph being sold into Egypt. To learn more about the book, look up “Genesis” in the Bible Dictionary of the Latter-day Saint edition of the King James Version of the Bible (pp. 622–24).

The Book of Moses

Within a few months after the organization of the Church on 6 April 1830, the Lord commanded the Prophet Joseph Smith to make a “translation” of the Bible. From the Book of Mormon, the Prophet had learned that “many plain and precious things” were missing from the Bible (see 1 Nephi 13:23–28). His translation of the Bible involved restoring truths that were lost from the Bible because of the carelessness of those who copied the text or because wicked men took out truths they did not want people to know. A completed version of this translation of the Bible was never published in the Prophet Joseph Smith’s lifetime. Today, however, we can read the changes he made, the most important of which are found in the footnotes and following the Bible Dictionary in the Latter-day Saint edition of the King James Version of the Bible.

So many changes were made in the Joseph Smith Translation (JST) of Genesis 1–6 that they were printed separately in the Pearl of Great Price and called the book of Moses. In Moses there are eight chapters. Moses 1 is like a preface to what we normally consider the beginning of the Bible and contains information not found in Genesis.

Because the book of Moses is a more complete and accurate version of the teachings in Genesis 1–6, this study guide will help you read, understand, and learn from the book of Moses.

The Book of Abraham

Because the revelations in Abraham relate to the earlier parts of the Bible, they are studied with the first part of Genesis and the book of Moses. In 1835 the Prophet Joseph received some ancient Egyptian writings that were found by archaeologists in Egypt. These writings included some of the writings and teachings of the prophet Abraham, which the Prophet Joseph Smith translated. They are also included in the Pearl of Great Price and are called the book of Abraham. The first two chapters are specifically concerned with Abraham’s life and are discussed in this study guide with Genesis 11–12. The last three chapters of the book of Abraham contain revelations Abraham received concerning the premortal life and the creation of the earth. You will begin your study of the Old Testament by reading the account of premortal life found in Abraham 3.

The following chart should help you see how inspired additions from the books of Moses and Abraham relate to the book of Genesis.

[click for scalable version]

Abraham 3
The Premortal Life and Council in Heaven

After the Lord commanded Abraham to go to Egypt, He taught him truths about the planets, the sun, the moon, and the stars, all of which were important symbols in the Egyptian religion of the time. Abraham used these truths to teach the Egyptians the gospel by building upon what they already knew (notice the explanation of facsimile 3 on page 41 of the Pearl of Great Price). Through a discussion of heavenly bodies and their motions, Abraham taught the Egyptians that the God he worshiped is greater than all other things in creation, because He is the Creator.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A and then do two of the other three activities (B–D) as you study Abraham 3:22–28.

Scripture Mastery—Abraham 3:22–23

1. Write what Abraham learned about premortal life.

2. Read Doctrine and Covenants 138:53–56, which is part of a vision President Joseph F. Smith had of the spirit world. What information does the revelation in Doctrine and Covenants add to the revelation in Abraham 3:22–23? You may want to cross-reference these two scriptures to each other by highlighting the references in your footnotes or by writing the reference of one in the margin of the other.

3. In addition to what you read in Abraham 3 and Doctrine and Covenants 138, consider the statement from the Prophet Joseph Smith in the “Understanding the Scriptures” section, and describe how these doctrines of the premortal life affect you and how you feel knowing these things.

Look for Important Words

1. Identify the words in Abraham 3:22–23 that tell who God would choose to be leaders on earth and when they were chosen. Write the words in your notebook; you may also want to circle them in your scriptures.

2. Find the phrase that most likely describes Jesus Christ in Abraham 3:24. Write it in your notebook and tell why that phrase describes Him well.

Write a Question

Write an important question people may ask that you think can be answered by Abraham 3:24–26.

Apply the Doctrine

Choose one of the truths taught to Abraham in verses 22–28 and write about how it should, could, or will encourage you to live more righteously.

Moses 1
“This Is My Work and My Glory”

Although this is the first chapter of the Joseph Smith Translation, there is nothing like Moses 1 in Genesis. The teachings in Moses 1 belong at the beginning of Genesis because they tell how Moses learned the truths he wrote about in the book of Genesis. In addition, Moses 1 provides important information concerning Heavenly Father’s plan for His children. Note that the revelation to Moses in Moses 1 occurred after the revelation at the burning bush (see Moses 1:17) but before Moses returned to Egypt (see Moses 1:26). Consequently, this revelation would come at some point in Exodus 3 or 4 if it were found in the Old Testament.

At some time in our lives we may ask, “Who am I?” “Where did I come from?” “Why am I here?” “How was life created on this planet? and why?” Moses asked questions like these, and God revealed answers. As you read, think about these questions and look for the answers the Lord gave Moses in this revelation, which includes chapter 1 as well as the rest of the book of Moses.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do at least two of the following activities (A–D) as you study Moses 1.

Who Is God? Who Is Man?

1. Read Moses 1:1–11 and list what Moses learned about God.

2. List what Moses learned about himself in relation to God from those same verses. You may want to highlight these two lists in some way in your scriptures.

3. Explain how you think Moses felt about what he learned and why.

Why Does It Matter?

1. How did Moses use what he learned about himself and God (see Moses 1:1–11) to overcome Satan? (see Moses 1:12–22).

2. How might you use Moses’ example in Moses 1:12–22 to overcome temptation in your life?

Scripture Mastery—Moses 1:39

Moses 1:39 tells us the whole reason behind God’s works and creations. Note the definitions of immortality and eternal life found in “Understanding the Scriptures.”

1. Rewrite this verse in your notebook, putting your own name in the place of “man.”

2. Why is it important to know God’s purposes?

3. What “work” has God done to bring to pass your immortality and eternal life?

4. What are you doing, or what could you do, with what God has done for you?

Be a News Reporter

Pretend you are a reporter asked to interview Moses after his experiences in this chapter. Write down five questions you would ask him.

Genesis 1; Moses 2
The Creation

There are three accounts of the Creation in the scriptures: Genesis 1–2; Moses 2–3 (which is the Joseph Smith Translation of Genesis 1–2); and Abraham 4–5. This study guide provides help with studying the Joseph Smith Translation of Genesis but refers to Abraham for additional insight.

Some people believe that the earth was created by chance and that mankind came about by the accidental combining of the right elements over millions of years. In response, one writer said:

“When you can dump a load of bricks on a corner lot, and let me watch them arrange themselves into a house—when you can empty a handful of springs and wheels and screws on my desk, and let me see them gather themselves into a watch—it will [then] be easier for me to believe that all these thousands of worlds could have been created, balanced, and set in motion in their several orbits, all without any designing intelligence at all.

“Moreover, if there is no intelligence in the universe, then the universe created something greater than itself—for it created you and me” (Bruce Barton in E. Ernest Bramwell, comp. Old Testament Lessons [1934 seminary course], 4).

As you read, decide what you think Moses was trying to say in Moses 2 (Genesis 1) about the creation of man and all things on earth and in heaven.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A–C as you study Genesis 1 and Moses 2.

Make a Chart

Divide a page in your notebook into six parts and label each box like the one shown.

In each box, write about or draw pictures of the things God created on that day.

What It Is and What It Isn’t

Notice that Moses 2 does not tell much about how the earth was created. What does it tell us? (see Moses 1:31–33, 39).

Scripture Mastery—Genesis 1:26–27 (Moses 2:26–27)

1. Compare Genesis 1:26–27 with Moses 2:26–27. How does Moses 2:26 help you understand the word us in Genesis 1:26?

2. In what ways is man different from all the other creations described in Genesis 1 and Moses 2?

Genesis 2; Moses 3
The Creation of Eve

Genesis 2 (and Moses 3) completes the story of the Creation. In it we learn more about commandments God gave to Adam, about the relationship of Adam to all other creations, and about the creation of Eve, the first woman.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 2 and Moses 3.

Choose Important Words

Choose what you think are the four words in Moses 3:2–3 that help us best understand and appreciate the importance of the Sabbath day, and explain how they increase our understanding.

Say It in Your Own Words

1. What commandment did Adam receive in Moses 3:15–17?

2. What did God say would be the consequences of breaking this commandment?

Genesis 3; Moses 4
The Fall

What happens if you plant vegetable seeds or seeds for beautiful flowers in a piece of ground and never care for them? Do vegetables ever take over and crowd out weeds? If care is not taken, why do weeds crowd out things that are more beautiful or useful?

Why do so many people find it easier to choose the wrong instead of the right? Why is there so much wickedness on the earth? Why do seemingly innocent people have so many trials?

The answers to these questions have to do with what we call the Fall. The Fall occurred when Adam and Eve partook of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil and were cast out of the Garden of Eden and the presence of God. As Adam and Eve’s children, we inherit the consequences of their decision, which include living in a world outside of God’s presence that is full of sin, trials, difficulties, and death. You will learn, however, that if Adam did not fall, we would never have been born and could never progress to receive the fulness of joy Heavenly Father offers His children. We are blessed to have a more complete story of the Fall of Adam and Eve in Moses 4 than we can find in the Bible. We are even more blessed to have the Book of Mormon, which explains the doctrine of the Fall more completely than any other book.

Understanding the Scriptures

Moses 4 Redeem (v. 1)—Saved from sin and death Hearken (v. 4)—Listen and obey Subtle (v. 5)—Sly Beast (vv. 5, 20)—Animal Beguile (vv. 6, 19)—Deceive Thou beholdest (v. 9)—You see Put enmity between thee and the woman (v. 21)—Cause you and the woman to strongly dislike and work against each other Seed (v. 21)—Children Bruise (v. 21)—Hurt Conception (v. 22)—The process of beginning a pregnancy and giving birth to a child Sake (v. 23)—Benefit The sweat of thy face (v. 25)—Hard work Lest he (v. 28)—So he cannot Void (v. 30)—Without being fulfilled Cherubim (v. 31)—A kind of heavenly being Moses 4:4—Can Satan Deceive, Blind, and Make Captive? Moses 4:4 describes the only way Satan can get power over you. You may want to write the following explanation in the margin of your scriptures: “The devil has no power over us only as we permit him. The moment we revolt at anything which comes from God, the devil takes power” (Joseph Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1938], 181). Moses 4:12—The Choice It is important to know that Adam and Eve did not fully understand the impact of their choice until the events recorded in the first verses of Moses 5. In other words, the choice Adam made was based on his faith that it was the right thing to do. He had never been mortal or out of the presence of God and could not be certain what the consequence of his choice would be. [click for scalable version] Moses 4—The Fall We cannot completely understand the importance of the Fall in Heavenly Father’s plan unless we understand that because of the Fall, Adam and Eve would die both physically and spiritually (see Moses 3:17). Spiritual death means to be shut out of the presence of God (see Moses 5:4). Physical death is the separation of the spirit and the body. Although Adam and Eve did not immediately die physically when they ate the fruit, a change occurred in them that would cause them to eventually die. Eventually, they would die physically just as God said. Adam and Eve did not have the power to overcome physical or spiritual death. Knowing these truths helps us understand why they, and we as their children, need a Savior and the Atonement. Adam and Eve were taught about the Atonement after the Fall. We read some of those teachings in Moses 5.

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A–C as you study Genesis 3 and Moses 4.

Heavenly Father’s Plan

1. Make a two-column chart in your notebook. Label the first column “Heavenly Father” and the second column “Satan.”

Under each column, write specific words and phrases from Moses 4:1–4 that describe Heavenly Father or Satan. As you do this exercise it might be helpful to know that Heavenly Father presented His plan of salvation to His spirit children in the premortal world before the events that are described in these four verses occurred. Heavenly Father explained that we would be out of His presence and that a Savior would be provided for our redemption.



2. Write a paragraph that tells how Jesus and Satan differ. For example, what is different about their desires?

Write a Journal Entry

Imagine you are Eve in the events of Moses 4. Write a journal entry as if you were Eve. Share the thoughts and feelings you would have had as you considered eating the fruit and what your motivations would have been when you finally ate it. Then write about how you would have felt after eating the fruit and about what the Lord said concerning the consequences of your choices.

or

Imagine you are Adam in the events of Moses 4. Write the thoughts and feelings you would have had when you found out Eve had eaten the fruit (see Moses 2:27–28; 3:23–24). Explain why you would have decided to eat the fruit—knowing the consequences (see Moses 3:16–17; 4:9), and how you would have felt about what the Lord said concerning the consequences of your choices. The following quotation may help you as you write: “Adam . . . was not deceived; on the contrary he deliberately decided to do as Eve desired, that he might carry out the purposes of his Maker” (James E. Talmage, Articles of Faith [1960], 69–70).

Optional Activity

1. Briefly describe what happened to Adam and Eve as they were sent out of the Garden of Eden. Read Alma 12:21–37; 42:2–28 and find reasons the Lord said He kept Adam and Eve from eating the fruit of the tree of life shortly after eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

2. What do the reasons the Lord gave tell us about what things are important to do in this life?

Genesis 4; Moses 5
Sacrifice and the Family of Adam

Being cast out of Eden and the Lord’s presence must have been frightening for Adam and Eve. They had never experienced mortality. How could they return to the presence of God again?

Like Adam and Eve, we are cut off from the presence of God, so the same question applies to us.

Genesis tells the story of Adam and Eve being cast out of Eden and the presence of the Lord as if they had no hope of living in the Lord’s presence again.

Fortunately, the book of Moses contains inspired additions to Genesis that tell how Adam was taught about the plan that was prepared before the creation of the world so he and his posterity could be redeemed, or freed, from the sin and death the Fall brought into the world.

In addition to truths about redemption and the Atonement, Moses 5 contains an account of how Satan and his followers from the premortal life attempted to influence the family of Adam to reject the message of redemption through Christ. As you read, notice what happened to those who refused to listen to the counsel of the Lord and instead followed the counsel of Satan.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do at least three of the following activities (A–E) as you study Moses 5.

Finish These Sentences (See Moses 5:4–11.)

1. Adam offered sacrifices because . . .

2. Adam learned from the angel . . .

3. Adam and Eve realized . . .

Make a Comparison

In Moses 5:7–8, the angel explained to Adam what his sacrifices represented, and in Moses 5:9, the Holy Ghost explained the Savior’s role as the ultimate redeeming sacrifice. Answer the following questions in your notebook: (1) Although we don’t offer burnt sacrifices today, as Adam did, which ordinances do we participate in that serve the same purposes? (2) What do these ordinances have to do with redemption, doing all we do “in the name of the Son” (v. 8), and the sacrifice of the Only Begotten?

Gain Additional Understanding from the Book of Mormon

Moses 5:9–11 tells about some of the blessings Adam and Eve and their posterity received because of the Fall. Read 2 Nephi 2:19–27 and summarize what you learn from these two references about why the Fall of Adam and Eve was a necessary part of Heavenly Father’s plan and how the Fall is a blessing to us.

Answer Cain’s Questions

Cain asked two important questions (see Moses 5:16, 34) that people today still ask. Write a letter explaining the correct answers to his questions.

The Enticements of Satan

Read Moses 5:12–13 and consider Adam and Eve’s actions and Satan’s actions.

1. In what ways do you see Satan’s influence in a similar way today?

2. What did Satan not “advertise” in his enticements? (see Moses 5:41, 52–54; see also Alma 30:60).

Genesis 5; Moses 6
Enoch Teaches the First Principles of the Gospel

Adam and Eve fell because of disobedience to a law, and they were “shut out” from the presence of God (Moses 5:4). We read in Moses 5 how disobedience leads men even further away from God—as in the case of Cain, Lamech, and others. After Adam and Eve left the Garden of Eden, they were taught to understand and live doctrines and make and keep covenants. They also learned which saving ordinances were required for them to return and live in the presence of God. Many of these teachings are found in Moses 6. The prophet Enoch taught his people these truths in an attempt to inspire them to repent of their sins and wickedness so they could be redeemed and brought back into the presence of God.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do at least three of the following activities (A–E) as you study Moses 6.

Make a Table of Contents

Write what you think the table of contents would look like for the book described in Moses 6:5–25.

Write about or to Your Family

1. According to Moses 6:45–46, why did Enoch and his people know their ancestors (fathers)?

2. Write about one of your ancestors you “know” because of records that have been kept. Include something about them that inspires you to be a better person.

or

Write something you will want your posterity to know about you. Consider the following statement from President Spencer W. Kimball: “Get a notebook. . . . Begin today and write in it your goings and comings, your deepest thoughts, your achievements and your failures, your associations and your triumphs, your impressions and your testimonies” (“‘The Angels May Quote from It,’” New Era, Oct. 1975, 5).

What Do They Describe?

1. Find the following phrases in Moses 6:27–29 that describe the sins of the people in Enoch’s day: “hearts have waxed dull,” “ears are dull of hearing,” “eyes cannot see afar off,” “have denied me,” “sought their own counsel in the dark,” “devised murder,” “have not kept the commandments [given to] Adam,” and “foresworn themselves.” You might want to underline or highlight these phrases in your scriptures.

2. Describe what you think is meant by “hearts waxed dull,” “ears dull of hearing,” “eyes that cannot see afar off,” and what it means to “seek counsel in the dark.”

3. Give the opposite of each description above so that they describe righteous people. In other words, through the gospel hearts can be ___, eyes can become ___, and so on.

A Calling from the Lord

1. According to Moses 6:31, how did Enoch feel about his calling from the Lord?

2. Explain how you think Enoch felt after the things the Lord said and did in Moses 6:32–36.

3. Read Moses 7:13–19 and write about how the promises of the Lord to Enoch were fulfilled.

How Do We Receive Our Inheritance from Heavenly Father?

As children of God, we are entitled to inherit all that He has. When we sin, however, we become unclean, and no unclean thing can inherit the kingdom of God. The Lord taught Adam how to become clean and thus qualify to inherit eternal life. Enoch taught these same principles to his people. Read Moses 6:48–68, and then make a chart like the one shown. List in the first column things that happened because of the Fall. List in the second column things that tell how to overcome the effects of the Fall.

Genesis 5; Moses 7
Zion Taken into Heaven

Have you ever wondered what God might be thinking and feeling as He watches the wickedness of His children on earth? Moses 7 helps us understand how God views His children, how He feels about their wickedness, and how wickedness will eventually be eliminated.

Understanding the Scriptures

Moses 7 Perished (v. 1)—Died Torment (v. 1)—Suffering Fiery indignation, fire of mine indignation (vv. 1, 34)—Intense punishment Wrath (v. 1)—Anger In battle array (v. 7)—Organized and prepared for fighting Divide themselves (v. 7)—Spread out and settle Land shall be barren, barrenness (vv. 7–8)—The land grows very little or nothing Despised (v. 8)—Disliked and looked down upon Flourish (v. 17)—Prosper Residue (vv. 20, 22, 28, 43)—Remaining number Abode (vv. 21, 64)—Place to live, house Veiled (vv. 26, 56)—Covered Particles (v. 30)—Smallest parts Curtains are stretched out still (v. 30)—Creations are still continuing Bosom (vv. 30–31, 63, 69)—Innermost parts, a symbol of being very close to something Naught (v. 31)—Nothing Is the habitation of thy throne (v. 31)—Is what lives in thy presence Affection (v. 33)—Love Mine eye can pierce them (v. 36)—My eyes can see right through to the very center of them That which I have chosen, my Chosen (v. 39)—Jesus Christ His bowels yearned (v. 41)—He felt very strong sorrowful emotions Temporal (v. 42)—Physical Meridian of time (v. 46)—High point or most important time (This phrase refers to the time when Jesus Christ would come and perform his atoning mission.) Stay (v. 51)—Stop Unalterable (v. 52)—Unchangeable Remnant (v. 52)—Part Gird up your loins (v. 62)—Prepare Tribulations (v. 66)—Trials and afflictions Moses 7:16–20—Building and Establishing Zion President Spencer W. Kimball spoke of establishing Zion in our day: “May I suggest three fundamental things we must do if we are to ‘bring again Zion.’ . . . “First, we must eliminate the individual tendency to selfishness that snares the soul, shrinks the heart, and darkens the mind. . . . “Second, we must cooperate completely and work in harmony one with the other. There must be unanimity in our decisions and unity in our actions. . . . “‘If the Spirit of the Lord is to magnify our labors, then this spirit of oneness and cooperation must be the prevailing spirit in all that we do’ . . . (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 1983.) . . . “Third, we must lay on the altar and sacrifice whatever is required by the Lord. We begin by offering a ‘broken heart and a contrite spirit.’ We follow this by giving our best effort in our assigned fields of labor and callings. We learn our duty and execute it fully. Finally we consecrate our time, talents and means as called upon by our file leaders and as prompted by the whisperings of the Spirit” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1978, 122–24; or Ensign, May 1978, 81). [click for scalable version]

Studying the Scriptures

Do at least two of the following activities (A–D) as you study Moses 7.

Scripture Mastery—Moses 7:18

Read Moses 7:4–27 and imagine what it would be like to have been part of Enoch’s community. Write a letter to an imaginary friend who lives somewhere else and wants to know how to create a place as wonderful as Zion. Using the information in Moses 7, especially verse 18, tell your friend what it takes to establish and live in Zion. Encourage your friend and give advice on what a person your age could do to “eliminate selfishness” or accomplish one of the other things President Kimball suggested. Especially focus on what your friend could do first in his or her family and then in the Church and community.

What Makes the Lord Weep?

1. In Moses 7:29–31, Enoch asked the Lord why He was weeping. Read verses 31–40 and write an answer to Enoch’s question.

2. According to Moses 7:41, what did Enoch do when he understood the Lord’s answer to his question?

3. What do you think the Lord and Enoch might weep about as they view the world today?

Answer Enoch’s Questions

Read Moses 7:42–67 and identify the questions Enoch asked the Lord. Write each question in your notebook, followed by a summary of the Lord’s answer.

Explain the Imagery

In Moses 7:62, Enoch was told about the Restoration of the gospel in the latter days. He was told of two important things that would happen to help gather the “elect” from the whole earth to prepare for the Second Coming: “Righteousness will I send down out of heaven; and truth will I send forth out of the earth.” Consider what you know about events that took place as part of the Restoration and explain what you think the Lord was referring to.

Genesis 6; Moses 8
Noah’s Preaching

The scriptures speak of two separate times when the Lord would cleanse the earth of wickedness. The first was at the time of Noah (see Genesis 6) and the second will be at the Second Coming. Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:41–43, in the Pearl of Great Price, tells ways those two time periods will be like each other. The biggest difference in the two periods is that the earth was cleansed by water in the days of Noah, and at the Second Coming it will be cleansed by fire. These two events are a type of how we are cleansed by the baptism of water and the baptism of fire—the cleansing of the soul that occurs when we truly receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Genesis 6–9 tells the story of Noah and the Flood. As you read, look for reasons the Lord destroyed the wicked and why destroying them was the best possible thing He could do for the salvation of all His children. Also consider how the days of Noah might be compared to our day—the time before the earth is cleansed by fire.

Moses 8 is the Joseph Smith Translation of Genesis 5:23–6:13, so you will want to read Moses 8 before reading Genesis 6:14–22. Notice that Moses 8 is the last chapter of Moses in the Pearl of Great Price. For the rest of the Old Testament, all references to the Joseph Smith Translation will be in your footnotes or at the back of your Bible (beginning on p. 777).

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do three of the following four activities (A–D) as you study Genesis 6; Moses 8.

A Pattern for Fulfilling Our Calling from the Lord

1. In Doctrine and Covenants 4:2–4 the Lord said that one way we become sanctified and bring salvation to our souls is to work with all our might, mind, and strength to bring others to salvation. Noah is an excellent example of this process. Make a diagram in your notebook like the one below and fill it in with information you find in Moses 8:14–27. As you do this activity, notice how Noah magnified his calling from the Lord. Also pay special attention to how he was blessed with strength and power and came to know the Lord was pleased with him and his efforts.

[click for scalable version]

2. After you fill in the box for Moses 8:27, look up “grace” in your Bible Dictionary (p. 697) so you can more fully understand what it was that Noah received as a result of his diligent labors. Write a brief statement about grace below your diagram.

What Is the Difference?

1. Read Moses 8:13–14, 21 and the definitions for “sons of God” and “sons of men” in the “Understanding the Scriptures” section. Explain the difference between sons and daughters of God and sons and daughters of men. Include in your explanation who these four groups of people might be today.

2. According to Moses 8:15–22, explain what the Lord said about the sons of God marrying the daughters of men or the sons of men marrying the daughters of God and why you think it was so important.

Explain to Someone Who Doesn’t Understand

Use the information in the “Understanding the Scriptures” section along with what you read in Moses 8 to answer the question “How could a loving God flood the world?”

Figure It Out

Read Genesis 6:14–22 and figure out how big the ark was, and then compare the ark to something you are familiar with. Explain the ark’s size in your notebook. (Hint: Look in your Bible Dictionary under “cubit,” p. 651, to help you make your calculations.)

Genesis 7
The Flood

Genesis 6 told about Noah before the Flood. Genesis 7 tells about Noah making final preparations before the Flood and what happened during the Flood.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 7.

Find Out What Happened

1. Read 1 Peter 3:18–20 and Doctrine and Covenants 138:6–11, 28–35 and describe what Jesus Christ did for the people destroyed in the Flood.

2. What does it teach you about the Savior to know He did the things described in 1 Peter and Doctrine and Covenants 138?

Genesis 8
The Rain Stops

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 8.

Apply the Story

Using what you read in Genesis 6–8, list ways Noah and his family were saved from the Flood. Then write about comparisons between their actions and what we must do today to spiritually survive in preparation for the Second Coming.

Genesis 9
A New Start

Genesis 9 tells the story of Noah and his family leaving the ark and helping Heavenly Father fulfill His purposes for His children. Because they were the only family on earth, they were a family in a similar situation as Adam and Eve. Noah’s family, however, had the benefit of knowing the temporal and spiritual history between Adam and the Flood. Considering what you know about why the Lord flooded the earth, what would you be very careful about doing in your life if you were in Noah’s family? What would you be sure to teach your children?

The opportunity for Noah and his family to start over in a world cleansed of wickedness is symbolic of the opportunity we receive when we are baptized—we get a chance to start over again and be more diligent in following Heavenly Father’s plan. Just like the rainbow became a reminder of God’s love and mercy to Noah’s family, the sacrament can be a frequent reminder of how the Lord has provided a way for us to gain eternal life through the Atonement.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 9.

What Is Your “Rainbow”?

1. The Lord gave Noah a sign, or reminder, of the covenant He made. The sign helped Noah remember how merciful the Lord was to him. Write about something that reminds you how merciful the Lord is to you.

2. How can the sacrament be to us what the rainbow was to Noah?

Genesis 10
Noah’s Descendants

Genesis 10 names the descendants of Noah’s sons for several generations: Japheth (see vv. 2–6), Ham (see vv. 6–20), and Shem (see vv. 21–31). After this chapter, the Bible is mainly the story of some of Shem’s descendants. The term Semite—usually referring to the Jews—means “a descendant of Shem.”

Genesis 11
The Tower of Babel

Have you ever tried to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak the same language as you? How much work would get done if all the students at a school spoke different languages and could not communicate? Genesis 11 tells us how and why we have different languages on the earth.

Understanding the Scriptures

Genesis 11:1–9 Throughly (v. 3)—Completely Slime (v. 3)—Tar-like substance Restrained (v. 6)—Kept Confound (vv. 7, 9)—Confuse, mix up Left off (v. 8)—Quit Genesis 11:10–32—The Genealogy of Abraham [click for scalable version]

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Genesis 11:1–9.

Read and Compare

1. Read Genesis 11:1–4 and explain what the people of Shinar did in an attempt to reach heaven.

2. Read Acts 4:12; 2 Nephi 9:41–43; Mosiah 3:17; 5:10–15 and write about how we can get “a name” (Genesis 11:4) that will allow us into heaven.

Make a Connection to the Book of Mormon

Read Genesis 11:5–9 to find out how the Lord responded to the people’s attempt to make a name for themselves and a tower reaching to heaven. Then read Ether 1:33–43 and summarize in your notebook what happened to one group of people at the time spoken of in Genesis.

What Do You Think?

Explain how you think the Lord’s actions in Genesis 11:1–9 were a blessing to the people.

As was mentioned in the introduction to Genesis (see “The Books of Genesis, Moses, and Abraham” on p. 9), Joseph Smith received more of the writings and teachings of the prophet Abraham by translating some papyrus he obtained while living in Kirtland, Ohio. The book of Abraham is not considered part of the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible, but Abraham 1–2 does help us increase our understanding of events described in Genesis 12.

Abraham 1
Abraham Desires the Priesthood

Can people be righteous if they live in homes where righteousness is not encouraged or where they are persecuted by their own parents for being righteous? If so, what would those people have to do to overcome wicked influences? The great prophet Abraham, called the “Friend of God” (James 2:23), grew up in that very situation. During his lifetime he overcame the challenges he faced in his youth and was such a model of righteousness that God promised him that all who accept the true gospel would be called his children and that Jesus Christ would be born as one of his descendants. As you read about Abraham in the next few chapters of Abraham and Genesis, look for what he did to overcome his challenges and become one of the greatest prophets in history.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Abraham 1.

What Blessings Do You Seek?

1. Elder Neal A. Maxwell said, “What we insistently desire, over time, is what we will eventually become and what we will receive in eternity” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1996, 26; or Ensign, Nov. 1996, 21). Read Abraham 1:2–4 and list the blessings Abraham “sought for” and “desired.” You may also want to highlight them in your scriptures.

2. Choose something from this list that you also desire or seek, and explain why. You should notice that at the end of verse 2 we learn that Abraham did obtain what he sought. His life modeled how you can obtain the same blessings he sought.

Why Are the Righteous Persecuted?

1. Identify the reasons the three virgins and Abraham were persecuted, and compare those reasons to ways you think righteous people are sometimes persecuted.

2. Explain why you think it is worthwhile to live righteously even if you will be persecuted.

Write Verses in Your Own Words

Write Abraham 1:18–19 in your own words, identifying what the Lord promised Abraham as well as the responsibilities Abraham received.

Abraham 2
Abraham Receives Covenants from God

In Abraham 1 you read about Abraham’s desire to obtain certain blessings from the Lord and about how he began to receive some of those blessings (see especially vv. 18–19). In Abraham 2 the Lord promised Abraham additional blessings. As you read, look for the things Abraham did to show his faithfulness and worthiness to receive such promises from God.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Abraham 2.

Look for Evidence

1. Read Abraham 2:1–17 and find evidence that Abraham believed in and trusted God. List this evidence in your notebook.

2. Write about what you think someone else could find in your life that shows you follow God and believe and trust in Him. Record examples from your life that are similar to ways Abraham showed his faith in God, or note things in your life that you wish were similar to Abraham’s example of faith.

Use Every Word

Use all of the following words to write a sentence or two that summarize what the Lord promised to Abraham in Abraham 2:8–11: bless, seed, ministry, priesthood, gospel, father, families, salvation.

Genesis 12–13
Let There Be No Strife

Genesis 12 retells some of the same events you read about in Abraham 1–2. Genesis 12 adds the specific location where Abraham built an altar and worshiped the Lord (see Genesis 12:8) as well as details in the story of what happened when Abraham came into Egypt and told Pharaoh that Sarah was his sister (see Genesis 12:14–20).

You will notice that in the book of Genesis, Abraham is called “Abram” and Sarah is called “Sarai” until chapter 17. When you read Genesis 17 you will find out more about why their names were changed.

Abraham grew up in a family where his father persecuted him for being faithful to God. Lot’s father (Haran) died even before Lot’s grandfather (Terah). Both Abraham and Lot had trials. They spent much time together moving out of Ur, then to Egypt, and finally to the promised land of Canaan. Their lives turned out quite differently, however. We might wonder why Abraham’s and Lot’s lives were so different when they grew up in similar circumstances. As you read the next six to eight chapters of Genesis, look for choices that Abraham and Lot made and how those decisions affected them over time.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 12–13.

Help a Friend

Write about how you could use the story of Abraham and Lot in Genesis 13:5–13 to help a friend solve a problem he or she has in getting along with a parent or other family member.

Get Help from the New Testament

Read Hebrews 11:8, 10, 13–16 and tell what may have motivated Abraham to solve his problem the way he did in this chapter.

Genesis 14
Abraham Meets with Melchizedek

In Genesis 13:12 we read that Lot “pitched his tent toward Sodom.” By Genesis 14:12 we learn that he “dwelt in Sodom.” As a result, he became a prisoner in a battle between the various kings of the land at that time. Abraham was apparently not affected by the war until Lot was captured. Genesis 14:1–12 explains how the different kings formed military alliances in order to protect themselves and win battles. At this time, when one king did another king a favor, something was expected in return. As you read Genesis 14:13–24, notice what Abraham did to help Lot and how Abraham felt about receiving honor, power, money, or flattery from men with worldly power. Compare this reaction to how he received and honored a man with heavenly power and authority.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A and then do either activity B or C as you study Genesis 14:13–24.

Who Was Melchizedek?

Notice that footnote 24a has a reference to JST, Genesis 14:25–40 (pp. 797–98). Read JST, Genesis 14:25–40; Alma 13:14–19; Doctrine and Covenants 84:14; 107:1–4; 138:41. Describe who Melchizedek was and why you think Abraham paid tithes to and received blessings from him.

Make Your Own Conclusion

The city of Sodom was known for having wealth and many worldly pleasures and for its great wickedness. What did Abraham’s actions toward the king of Sodom teach us about his values and commitment to God? As you answer that question, consider what Abraham could have gained from the king of Sodom. Also consider the principle found in Moroni 10:30.

Draw

Draw something that represents or symbolizes the story of Abraham in Genesis 14:17–24.

Genesis 15
A Covenant Confirmed

Earlier in Abraham’s life, the Lord promised him many things concerning his posterity, including the promise that they would be as numerous as the “dust of the earth” (Genesis 13:16). By the time of the events in Genesis 15, Abraham and Sarah still did not have any children. In this chapter, the Lord helped Abraham know that his promises would still be fulfilled.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 15.

Explain the Symbolism

Highlight the words in Genesis 15:1 that describe what the Lord said he was for Abram. Write about how the Lord is those same things for those who make and keep covenants with him.

Finish These Sentences

1. Abraham was concerned that . . . (see vv. 3, 7–8)

2. The Lord reassured Abraham by . . . (see vv. 1, 17)

Genesis 16
Abraham Marries Hagar

In Genesis 15 we read about Abraham’s doubts and concerns. In Genesis 16 we learn a little of how Sarah might have felt. The Lord commanded Sarah to give Hagar to Abraham for his wife and commanded Abraham to take Hagar as his wife (see D&C 132:34–35). Although it might have been difficult, when Sarah did this for Abraham, it showed how desirous she was to obey the Lord and fulfill His covenants. As you read this chapter, think about how Hagar might have felt throughout this brief story.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 16.

Recognizing God’s Love

In the midst of a difficult trial, Hagar learned things that can help all of us endure trials. Write about what most impressed you in Genesis 16 that shows God’s love for Hagar and how Hagar accepted His love. Footnotes 11a and 14b should be helpful as you respond.

Genesis 17
The Abrahamic Covenant

In Genesis 17, God blessed Abraham once again and gave him further promises concerning the blessings he and his posterity would receive. Like He does with us, the Lord gave Abraham promises and blessings step by step, a little more each time. All of the promises, blessings, and covenants given to Abraham, grouped together, are called the “Abrahamic covenant.” In summarizing the promises of the Abrahamic covenant, Elder Russell M. Nelson said:

“The covenant . . . is of transcendent significance. It contained several promises:

“Abraham’s posterity would be numerous, entitled to eternal increase and to bear the priesthood;

“He would become a father of many nations;

“Christ and kings would come through Abraham’s lineage;

“Certain lands would be inherited;

“All nations of the earth would be blessed by his seed;

“That covenant would be everlasting—even through ‘a thousand generations’” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1995, 42; or Ensign, May 1995, 33).

Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained how blessings were added upon Abraham:

“Abraham first received the gospel by baptism (which is the covenant of salvation); then he had conferred upon him the higher priesthood, and he entered into celestial marriage (which is the covenant of exaltation), gaining assurance thereby that he would have eternal increase; finally he received a promise that all of these blessings would be offered to all of his mortal posterity. (Abra. 2:6–11; D. & C. 132:29–50.) . . .

“. . . Those portions of it which pertain to personal exaltation and eternal increase are renewed with each member of the house of Israel who enters the order of celestial marriage” (Mormon Doctrine, 13).

Because all Church members are the posterity of Abraham through the covenant, we should carefully consider the covenants the Lord made with Abraham and see how they apply to us.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A–C as you study Genesis 17.

Identify the Elements of the Covenant

A covenant is an agreement between two parties where both parties promise to do certain things. In a gospel covenant, God always sets the terms, or what must be done and received as part of the covenant, and man agrees to obey those terms.

1. What did the Lord ask Abraham to do in receiving this covenant? (see vv. 1, 10).

2. What did the Lord promise Abraham? (see vv. 2–8, 15–19). Make sure you read all of the Joseph Smith Translation references for these verses in your footnotes or in the appendix in your Bible, and include them as part of the list.

3. Read Genesis 12:1–3; 13:14–16; 15:1–7; Abraham 1:18–19; 2:9–11. Add the promises given to the list you began above.

Organize the Elements

There are four basic categories of blessings in the Abrahamic covenant: land, posterity, priesthood and gospel, and salvation. Take the list you made in activity A and organize the promises by category. If you feel a blessing applies to more than one category, list it under all applicable categories.

What’s in a Name?

Notice that Abraham’s and Sarah’s names were changed as part of the covenant (see Genesis 17:4–8, 15–16).

1. How would you feel receiving a name like the one Sarah received? Why? (see footnote 15a).

2. In what way was Sarah’s name an additional testimony of the promises of God? Whom is she a princess to, and what does that teach us about what she can become?

3. Because members of the Church are the children of Abraham and Sarah, what can we learn about ourselves from the names God gave to this great couple?

4. In what ways does receiving a name have a part in the covenants we enter into today with the Lord to become His people? (see 2 Nephi 31:13, 17–20; Mosiah 18:8–10; Moroni 4:1–3).

5. What is the new name we receive when we are baptized and partake of the sacrament? What do you think is the significance of taking that name upon us?

Genesis 18
“Is Anything Too Hard for the Lord?”

In Genesis 17, the Lord promised Abraham that Sarah would bear a son. We read how Abraham reacted to that promise. In Genesis 18 we find out how Sarah reacted when she learned of this same promise.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 18.

Answer the Lord’s Question

1. Notice that the question in Genesis 18:14 is not answered. Look in Luke 1:37 for an answer, and then explain the answer.

2. Write about an experience that you or someone you know has had that shows “nothing is too hard for the Lord” (v. 14).

Choose the Best Words

After reading Genesis 18:16–33, consider what you learn about the character of Abraham and the character of God. Choose from this passage two words you think best describe Abraham and two words you think best describe the nature of God.

Genesis 19
Sodom and Gomorrah

Genesis 14:12 states that Lot “dwelt in Sodom.” In Genesis 18, messengers from God stayed with Abraham on their way to Sodom and Gomorrah, and Abraham learned about God’s plan to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Genesis 19 tells the story of what happened when the messengers arrived to help Lot and his family leave Sodom and Gomorrah before its destruction.

Although Lot was able to escape before Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed, some of his family members had become accustomed to the wicked ways of those cities. They were destroyed because they would not follow the counsel to leave.

Genesis 20–21
A Promise Fulfilled

In Genesis 20, God again told Abraham to save his life by saying Sarah was his sister. As a result, the Lord was able to help a man, Abimelech, and his family understand that Abraham was a prophet. The members of Abimelech’s family were blessed because he believed that Abraham was a man of God and a prophet.

Sometimes our patience and faith are tested as we seek for the Lord’s promises to be fulfilled. Genesis 21 contains the story of how God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah that she would bear a son was fulfilled. The events in Genesis 21 occurred when Abraham was one hundred years old and Sarah was ninety. Could there be any question that the birth of their son was anything but a miracle and blessing from God?

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 20–21.

Write a Letter

Imagine yourself in either Abraham’s or Sarah’s situation and write a letter to a friend, telling the story of Isaac’s birth. Include details of the story back to the time when Sarah thought she could never bear children and describe how you would have felt during each part of the story. Include also the meaning of Isaac’s name and how it relates to what happened (see Genesis 21, footnote 6a).

Genesis 22
The Sacrifice of Isaac

If the Lord asked you to give something up, what would be the one thing hardest for you to let go of? Would you do it? Why? Genesis 22 tells the story of one of the greatest tests God has ever given to anyone. Before reading chapter 22, read what the Lord said to Church members in Doctrine and Covenants 101:4–5. While you read Genesis 22, put yourself in either Abraham’s or Isaac’s place and consider what you would have been thinking at each point in the story.

Understanding the Scriptures

Genesis 22 Clave (v. 3)—Cut Yonder (v. 5)—To another place Fearest (v. 12)—Reverence, love, and respect Thicket (v. 13)—Bush, bushes Stead (v. 13)—Place Possess the gate of (v. 17)—Have power over Genesis 22—Why Did the Lord Ask Abraham to Sacrifice Isaac? “Why did the Lord ask such things of Abraham? Because, knowing what his future would be and that he would be the father of an innumerable posterity, he was determined to test him. God did not do this for His own sake; for He knew by His foreknowledge what Abraham would do; but the purpose was to impress upon Abraham a lesson, and to enable him to attain unto knowledge that he could not obtain in any other way. That is why God tries all of us. It is not for His own knowledge; for He knows all things beforehand. He knows all your lives and everything you will do. But He tries us for our own good, that we may know ourselves. . . . He required Abraham to submit to this trial because He intended to give him glory, exaltation and honor; He intended to make him a king and a priest, to share with Himself the glory, power and dominion which He exercised” (George Q. Cannon, in Conference Report, Apr. 1899, 66). Elder Neal A. Maxwell applied these truths to us when he said our lives “cannot be both faith-filled and stress-free. . . . “Therefore, how can you and I really expect to glide naively through life, as if to say, Lord, give me experience, but not grief, not sorrow, not pain, not opposition, not betrayal, and certainly not to be forsaken. Keep from me, Lord, all those experiences which made Thee what Thou art! Then let me come and dwell with Thee and fully share Thy joy!” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1991, 117; or Ensign, May 1991, 88). The Prophet Joseph Smith suggested that sacrifice is one of the ways we obtain greater faith. For example, how do you think your faith in God would have grown if you had experienced what Abraham had? He would not have grown in faith if he had refused to offer the sacrifice God commanded. Joseph Smith said, “A religion that does not require the sacrifice of all things never has power sufficient to produce the faith necessary unto life and salvation” (Lectures on Faith [1985], 69). [click for scalable version] Genesis 22:14—Where Was Jehovah-jireh and What Does Its Name Mean? Abraham called the place where he built the sacrificial altar “Jehovah-jireh,” which was a prophecy that the Lord would later be seen on this same mountain. Commonly called Mount Moriah (see Genesis 22:2), this same group of hills was the site of Solomon’s Temple and the Savior’s Crucifixion.

Studying the Scriptures

Do three of the following activities (A–E) as you study Genesis 22.

A Type of Christ

1. Read Jacob 4:3–5 and explain what we learn about the story of Abraham and Isaac.




Abraham and Isaac	The Sacrifice of the Son of God

2. List as many details as you can about the story of Abraham and Isaac that teach us something about the Atonement of Jesus Christ. You may want to organize the information in a chart like the one shown.

Find and Note Examples

1. Make a list of all the evidence you can find in Genesis 22:1–14 that demonstrates Abraham’s obedience, faithfulness, and dedication to God.

2. Choose one item from your list that especially impresses you and write about how you could apply it in your life.

Ponder and Write about Sacrifice

1. Why do you think Abraham was willing to offer his son as a sacrifice?

2. What does the Lord ask you to offer as a sacrifice? (see 3 Nephi 9:19–20).

3. Why would a person be willing to offer sacrifices to God?

As you consider your answers to these questions, consider the following teaching of the Prophet Joseph Smith: “For a man to lay down his all, his character and reputation, his honor, and applause, his good name among men, his houses, his lands, his brothers and sisters, his wife and children, and even his own life also . . . requires more than mere belief . . . that he is doing the will of God; but actual knowledge, realizing that, when these sufferings are ended, he will enter into eternal rest, and be a partaker of the glory of God” (Lectures on Faith, 68; see also Paul’s teaching in Hebrews 11:17–19).

Compare the Promises

Read the promises of God to Abraham in Genesis 12:2–3; 13:14–16; 15:5; 17:2, 4, 7. Compare them to what God promised Abraham in Genesis 22:15–18. In what ways are they the same or different?

Ponder and Write about How Testing and Trying Experiences Strengthen Our Faith

How do trials like this one of Abraham and Isaac strengthen our faith in Christ? Some of the insights in the “Understanding the Scriptures” section may help you answer.

Genesis 23
Sarah Dies

In Genesis 23 we read that Sarah died. Sarah was the first of Abraham’s family to be buried in the land God promised him.

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 23.

Introduce Abraham

Imagine that you are conducting a meeting and Abraham is the featured speaker. Write how you would introduce him, and include what you think are the most important and impressive details about his life.

Genesis 24
A Wife for Isaac

What do you think are the most important qualities to consider in choosing someone to marry? Whom would you trust to choose a marriage partner for you?

President Spencer W. Kimball said: “The greatest single factor affecting what you are going to be tomorrow, your activity, your attitudes, your eventual destiny . . . is the one decision you make . . . when you ask that individual to be your companion for life. That’s the most important decision of your entire life! It isn’t where you are going to school, or what lessons you are going to study, or what your major is, or how you are going to make your living. These, though important, are incidental and nothing compared with the important decision that you make when you ask someone to be your companion for eternity” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, Edward L. Kimball, ed. [1982], 301).

Choosing a marriage partner is important for everyone, but especially for those who desire the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant, which includes the promise of an eternal family. If a husband and wife both accept and keep the Abrahamic covenant, which is fully received in the temple, they can have the blessing of an eternal family. As you read, notice the efforts made to enable Isaac to marry in the covenant and how the Lord helped in the process. Consider what effort you are willing to make to marry in the covenant and how the Lord might help you.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 24.

What Kind of Person Do You Want to Marry?

1. Make a list of what you learned about Rebekah from Genesis 24 that you think made her a good wife for Isaac.

2. Write about one item on your list that you would most like your spouse to have or be, and explain why.

Genesis 25
What Is the Value of the Covenant?

Genesis 25 tells us that after Sarah died, Abraham took another wife and had more children. This chapter also tells about his death and burial. A brief list of Ishmael’s descendants is given, and then the chapter focuses on the story of the birth of Esau and Jacob, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. The story of Esau and Jacob raises important questions that each of us should ask ourselves: How do I feel about being born with the Abrahamic covenant as my inheritance? How much do I value that covenant?

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 25.

How Does It Happen Today?

Esau traded away something that would be of great value to him in the future (his birthright) for something of little value that could be obtained right away and satisfied an immediate appetite (hunger). Write about ways you see people today trading eternal opportunities and blessings for something worldly or something that satisfies an appetite.

Genesis 26–27
Jacob Received Covenant Blessings

In Genesis 26 we read about how the Lord prospered Isaac and renewed the Abrahamic covenant with him (see vv. 3–5, 23–25). Chapter 26 also tells of other experiences Isaac had that were like what happened to his father, Abraham (see vv. 6–11, 19–22, 26–31). The concluding verses of the chapter tell how Esau decided to marry out of the covenant and how that decision saddened Isaac and Rebekah.

Some people think they can receive blessings without obeying the commandments relating to those blessings. They are mistaken (see D&C 130:20–21). In Genesis 25:29–34 we read how Esau cared more about satisfying his immediate personal appetites than about the responsibilities and blessings of being the firstborn son in the covenant. In Genesis 26:34–35, Esau again showed how little he valued the covenant when he chose a wife outside of the covenant. Knowing these two things about Esau is helpful in understanding what happened in Genesis 27. We must realize that Esau had not qualified for the blessings Isaac desired to give him.

You should also note that the blessings promised to Jacob in Genesis 27 were conditional—meaning they were only promised to Jacob if he lived faithful to the covenant. The blessings were not automatic. As you continue to read Genesis 28–35, look for what Jacob did to see that the promised blessings were fulfilled.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 26–27.

Give Counsel to Esau

Imagine that you are Esau’s friend and have the opportunity to speak with him after the events of Genesis 27. Considering what you’ve learned from Genesis 25–27, help Esau understand why Jacob received the covenant blessings and suggest what Esau should do.

Genesis 28
Jacob’s Sacred Experience

In Genesis 27, Isaac blessed Jacob that he would have prosperity and would rule over his older brother, Esau. The greatest blessings Jacob could obtain, however, were the blessings of the covenant given to his grandfather Abraham and his father, Isaac. In Genesis 28, the Lord taught Jacob more about the covenant and its blessings.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do one of the following activities (A–B) as you study Genesis 28.

Identify the Promises

In Genesis 28, Isaac promised Jacob certain blessings, the Lord promised Jacob certain blessings, and Jacob promised the Lord he would do certain things. Identify the promises in this chapter and put them in a chart similar to the one shown.

Draw Your Ladder to Heaven

1. Draw a ladder in your notebook. Label the rungs or steps with ordinances you must receive and covenants you must make with God in order to obtain eternal life.

2. Show your drawing to your parents or Church leaders to see if you have left anything out.

3. Write about what you are doing in your life right now to obtain these covenants or what you are doing to be worthy of the blessings of the covenants you have already entered into.

Genesis 29
The Children of Jacob, Part 1

In Genesis 32 you will read how the Lord changed Jacob’s name to Israel. We often speak in the Church of the “twelve tribes of Israel,” which refers to the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel) and their descendants. Genesis 29–30 tells the story of Jacob’s marriages and the birth of eleven of his twelve sons.

Understanding the Scriptures

Genesis 29 High day (v. 7)—The sun is high in the sky, midday Kept (v. 9)—Watched over Tidings (v. 13)—News Abode (v. 14)—Lived Nought (v. 15)—Nothing Tender eyed (v. 17)—Eyes that are delicate and lovely Beautiful and well favoured (v. 17)—Attractive in every way Go in unto her (v. 21)—Be her husband (literally, to go into her tent and live with her) Wherefore (v. 25)—Why Beguiled (v. 25)—Deceived Fulfil her week (vv. 27–28)—Stay married to her and wait until the week-long marriage celebration ends before doing anything else Opened her womb (v. 31)—Blessed her to have children Barren (v. 31)—Could have no children Left bearing (v. 35)—Stopped having children [click for scalable version]

Studying the Scriptures

Do either activity A or B as you study Genesis 29.

Put Yourself in Their Place

Imagine you are Jacob, Leah, or Rachel. Write to a close friend or family member living in another place and describe the story from Genesis 29 as if you were that person.

What Is the Price of a Good Marriage?

1. Anciently, a man paid a woman’s father for the right to marry his daughter. Because Jacob had little or nothing, what did he do to pay for the right to marry Leah and Rachel?

2. Explain why you would or would not be willing to do what Jacob did in order to have a certain spouse.

3. Write about what you think the “price” of a good, eternal marriage is today.

Genesis 30
The Children of Jacob, Part 2

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 30.

The Children of Jacob

Make a chart of the sons of Jacob that looks like the one below. You will also need to look at Genesis 29:31–35 to complete the chart. Jacob’s last son, Benjamin, was not born until later in Jacob’s life; the story of Benjamin’s birth is in Genesis 35. You may want to leave room on your chart and write him in later. Put the sons in the order they were born according to the scriptures. Your footnotes will be very helpful in completing the chart. You may also want to highlight or underline each son when his name first appears in the verses, and also underline the meaning of his name in the footnotes. If you mark your scriptures this way, you can see each name quickly the next time you read.

Genesis 31
Jacob Leaves Padan-aram

In Genesis 31, the Lord commanded Jacob to return to the land of his birth, which was promised to him by covenant. When Jacob left for home, Laban and his sons and servants were upset. They felt Jacob took possessions with him that belonged to Laban, and they were jealous of the way God had prospered Jacob. Laban was also angry because Jacob took away his daughters. We also read, however, that Laban treated Jacob and his own daughters unfairly during the twenty years Jacob lived among them. In fact, he even denied his daughters their rightful inheritance of property. In an attempt to claim her inheritance, Rachel left the land of her father with his small images, which contained a legal description of her property. Laban chased after Jacob and his family, and they discussed how Laban treated Jacob and why he decided to return home. Finally, Laban and Jacob made a promise that they would not hurt each other and that Jacob would treat kindly Laban’s daughters and grandchildren.

Genesis 32
Jacob Travels toward Home

What was the relationship between Jacob and Esau when Jacob left to find a wife? (see Genesis 27:41–45). If you were Jacob, how would you feel about going home? What would you do about your situation?

Genesis 32–33 tells the story of Jacob’s return and what he did to prepare to meet Esau. As you read, consider what you can learn from this story about how to repair a relationship that has gone bad.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 32.

Apply the Words of Modern Prophets

Consider the following statement from President Spencer W. Kimball, and then write about how it might apply to some of the things that Jacob did in Genesis 32:1–23.

“If we will sue for peace, taking the initiative in settling differences—if we can forgive and forget with all our hearts—if we can cleanse our own souls of sin, accusations, bitterness, and guilt before we cast a stone at others—if we forgive all real or fancied offenses before we ask forgiveness for our own sins—if we pay our own debts, large or small, before we press our debtors—if we manage to clear our own eyes of the blinding beams before we magnify the motes in the eyes of others—what a glorious world this would be!” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1949, 133).

What Does It Mean?

1. Read Enos 1:1–5 in the Book of Mormon and tell what you think it means to “wrestle” before the Lord.

2. Why do you think Jacob was wrestling before the Lord? (You can find help in verses 9–12.)

3. What does Jacob’s name tell you about his wrestle before God? (Make sure you read footnote 36a of Genesis 27 for the meaning of his name.)

Genesis 33
Jacob Meets Esau

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 33.

Esau’s Point of View

Write the story found in Genesis 32–33 as if you were Esau. Include your feelings about Jacob twenty years ago and your feelings about him at the time of the story. Use information in Genesis 33 to keep the story as accurate as possible.

Genesis 34
Vengeful Acts of Jacob’s Sons

The last part of Genesis 33 says that Jacob settled for a time in an area called Shechem. Genesis 34 tells the story of how a man named Shechem forced Dinah, Jacob’s daughter, to have sexual relations with him. This angered Dinah’s brothers. Two of them, Simeon and Levi, carried out a plan that resulted in the death of Shechem and other men of his city. Jacob was very upset about their vengeful actions.

Genesis 35
Jacob Returns to Bethel

In Genesis 28, Jacob had a very important spiritual experience at a place he named Bethel. At that time, the Lord promised to be with Jacob so that he could return and worship the Lord again in his homeland. Twelve children and over twenty years later, he returned to that sacred spot where he had another important spiritual experience. As you read, think about all you’ve learned about Jacob, all that had happened since his last visit to Bethel, and how Jacob’s experiences might affect the way he felt about what God promised him this time at Bethel.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 35.

Prepare to Go to the House of the Lord

In Hebrew, Beth-el means “House of God” (see Genesis 28, footnote 19a). Bethel was to Jacob what temples are to us today. Knowing that, what can Genesis 35:1–5 teach us about going to the temple?

Compare What the Lord Said to Jacob to What He Has Said to Others

Read what the Lord said to Abraham in Genesis 12:1–3; 15:17–21; 17:1–8; 22:15–18. How do those words compare to what the Lord said to Jacob in Genesis 35:9–12?

Genesis 36–37
Joseph and the Coat of Many Colors

Genesis 36 lists the names of many of Esau’s descendants (Esau is also called “Edom” in verses 1, 43). Esau’s posterity were neighbors to Jacob (Israel) throughout the history of the Bible and were called “Edomites.”

The birthright son became the leader of the family upon his father’s death. He also assumed responsibility for caring for other family members. In order to fulfill his responsibilities, he was given a double amount of land and goods in his inheritance. Because of the covenant God made with Abraham, the birthright son also had spiritual responsibilities. (For more information, see the Bible Dictionary, “birthright,” p. 625.)

Usually the firstborn son received the birthright. Reuben, however, made himself unworthy of this honor (see Genesis 35:22; 1 Chronicles 5:1). As the firstborn son of Rachel, Jacob’s second wife, Joseph was given the birthright. The “coat of many colors” Jacob gave to Joseph (see Genesis 37:3) is thought to represent the fact that Joseph received the birthright (see William Wilson, Old Testament Word Studies [1978], “colour,” p. 82).

Remember that although Joseph was the firstborn son of Rachel, he was the eleventh son born. Even though he was worthy, we can imagine how the ten older brothers must have felt about him receiving the birthright blessings. As you read each part of Genesis 37, think about how you would have felt if you were Joseph at that time.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Genesis 37.

Choose a Title for a Biography

If you were writing a biography of Joseph’s life up to the end of Genesis 37, what would you title it? Explain why.

Joseph’s Trials

1. List the challenges in Genesis 37 that Joseph faced.

2. How do you think Joseph felt about his challenges?

3. How are Joseph’s challenges like the ones young people face today?

Gain Insight from the Book of Mormon

1. Explain why you think Jacob “refused to be comforted” (v. 35).

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2. Jacob kept a piece of Joseph’s coat that his sons brought to him. Later, when he learned that Joseph was still alive, he prophesied about Joseph’s descendants. Read this prophecy in Alma 46:24–25 and explain it in your own words. This prophecy not only refers to the people of the Book of Mormon but also to you if you are from the tribes of Ephraim or Manasseh (Joseph’s sons).

Genesis 38–39
Joseph’s Righteousness

Genesis 38 tells the story of Judah, the fourth son of Jacob (Israel), and his example of wickedness. We read that he married out of the covenant and did not care for his family as he should have. We also read that he broke the law of chastity with his daughter-in-law, although he didn’t know that it was her at the time.

In contrast, Genesis 39 tells us how Joseph sought to do good. Even though Joseph was a faithful young man, he experienced great trials. It was possible that he would never see his family again. How would you feel in a similar situation? Far away from anyone of your faith, what would you do about your religious beliefs and practices?

On one occasion, the Prophet Joseph Smith told Elder George A. Smith: “Never be discouraged. . . [I]f I were sunk in the lowest pit of Nova Scotia, with the Rocky Mountains piled on me, I would hang on, exercise faith, and keep up good courage, and I would come out on top” (in John Henry Evans, Joseph Smith: An American Prophet [1933], 9). As you read Genesis 39, look for how Joseph was an example of the Prophet Joseph’s statement.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 38–39.

Find a Repeated Idea

1. Read Genesis 39:2–3, 21, 23 and find a phrase that is similar in all four verses. (You may want to underline the phrase in your scriptures.) Why do you think it was important for Joseph to know this to be true?

2. What did Joseph do in Genesis 39 that allowed the phrase in verses 2–3 to still be true in verses 21, 23?

Scripture Mastery—Genesis 39:9

1. What reasons did Joseph give for resisting Potiphar’s wife’s invitation to be immoral?

2. What impresses you most about Joseph’s statement and actions? How could you use the same ideas to resist temptation in your own life?

Genesis 40
Joseph in Prison

As you read Genesis 40–41, look for more ways that “the Lord was with Joseph” (Genesis 39:21). Consider that none of Joseph’s successes would have happened if Joseph had given in to the temptation of Potiphar’s wife. Notice as you read how the Lord turned what seemed to be a bad situation into a good one.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 40.

Dreams and Interpretations

Make a chart like the one below and write in it the dreams of the butler and baker and the interpretations Joseph gave.

Give Your Opinion

Based on what you know about Joseph’s life so far, explain why you think he was able to interpret the dreams in this chapter.

Genesis 41
Joseph and the Pharaoh

How would you feel if you were called to appear before the leader of your country and give him advice? What would you be thinking and what would you say? What would you do if you became a leader of your country, second only to the president, king, queen, or prime minister? As you read Genesis 41, see what Joseph did in these situations and compare his actions to what you would do.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Genesis 41.

Describe or Draw

Describe or draw a picture of Pharaoh’s two dreams and tell what they meant, according to Joseph.

Finish These Sentences in Your Own Words

1. After Pharaoh told Joseph his dream, Joseph . . .

2. Joseph suggested . . .

3. Pharaoh made Joseph . . .

4. Joseph had two sons . . .

What Do You Suppose He Was Thinking?

1. Describe what you believe Joseph might have been thinking and feeling about his life at the end of chapter 41 considering the ways the Lord blessed him since the time he was with his family in Canaan.

2. What advice do you think Joseph would give to others about their trials?

3. How would things be different if Joseph had given in to Potiphar’s wife?

Genesis 42
Joseph’s Brothers Go to Egypt

Suppose someone betrayed you and caused you great financial problems where you lost nearly all your possessions. You later recovered and became quite wealthy. After becoming wealthy, you learned that the person who had earlier harmed you was now very poor and nearly starving. How would you feel? What would you do? Why?

Joseph’s story in Genesis 42–45 is much like the situation just described. His story should cause us to think about how we deal with those who have wronged us. As we read, we might also look at the story from the point of view of those who did wrong. How were they given the opportunity to change, and how does the Lord give us similar opportunities? Look for these ideas as you read chapters 42–45.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 42.

What Was Happening to Joseph’s Brothers?

“Remorse and deep sorrow then are preliminary to repentance. . . .

“. . . Suffering is a very important part of repentance. One has not begun to repent until he has suffered intensely for his sins” (Spencer W. Kimball, The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, 87–88).

Considering President Spencer W. Kimball’s statement above on repentance, find and write about things in Genesis 42 that show how Joseph’s brothers were beginning the process of repentance for what they did to him. Continue to look for these as you read Genesis 43–44.

Genesis 43
Joseph’s Brothers Return to Egypt

At the end of Genesis 42, Jacob (Israel) was determined not to send Benjamin to Egypt even though Simeon was still being held there. As you read Genesis 43, look for what changed Jacob’s mind. What do you think happened when Joseph saw his younger brother?

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 43.

Find the Fulfillment of Prophecy

Read again the dreams of Joseph found in Genesis 37:5–10. Write about specific ways these dreams were fulfilled in Genesis 42–43, including specific verses you believe fulfilled these dreams.

Genesis 44
Joseph Tests His Brothers

Early in the story of Joseph and his brothers, it did not seem that the older brothers cared much about what happened to their younger brothers, nor did it seem like they worried much about the feelings of their father. As you read, notice how those feelings changed.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Genesis 44.

How Is This Story a Symbol?

President Brigham Young taught that “Joseph was foreordained to be the temporal saviour of his father’s house, and the seed of Joseph are ordained to be the spiritual and temporal saviours of all the house of Israel in the latter days” (in Journal of Discourses, 7:290). The Prophet Joseph Smith was a direct descendant of Joseph, son of Jacob; most members of the Church are of the lineage of either Ephraim or Manasseh, Joseph’s two sons. How are Joseph’s modern descendants (the Church) spiritually doing for the house of Israel what he temporally did for his family anciently?

How Is Judah a Type of Christ?

Describe how Judah’s actions in Genesis 44:18–34 were like the future actions of his descendant Jesus Christ.

Genesis 45
Joseph Reveals Himself to His Brothers

In Genesis 45, Joseph finally made himself known to his brothers. Before you read, predict how his brothers, the Egyptians, and Joseph’s father, Jacob (Israel), will react. Read and see what actually happened.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do either activity A or B as you study Genesis 45.

Write a Journal Entry

Write an imaginary journal entry for Joseph at the end of the day he revealed himself to his brothers. Include what you think he realized about his life twenty years after being sold into Egypt, including the difficult trials he experienced.

What Do You Think They Said?

In Genesis 45:25–27, Joseph’s brothers told Jacob the story of what happened when they were in Egypt. They certainly needed to fill in some parts of the story, however, like what really happened to Joseph when Jacob thought he had died. Imagine you are Judah and write what you would have said to Jacob on this occasion. Include the following information in what you write: how your feelings have changed over the years (for example, compare Genesis 37:23–34 with Genesis 43:3–10; 44:14–34), which events changed your feelings, how you feel about things in the past, and how you feel about what happened on your trips to Egypt, especially the final time when Joseph revealed himself.

Genesis 46
Father and Son Reunited!

Jacob thought his son was dead. After twenty years he learned that Joseph was alive and that he would get the opportunity to see this beloved son again. We can only imagine what the reunion was like (read about it in Genesis 46:28–30). Genesis 46 also includes a list of the names of all of Jacob’s (Israel’s) descendants who went and lived in Egypt (see vv. 8–27).

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Genesis 46.

Joseph: A Type of Christ

One special way some ancient prophets bore witness of Christ was by the way they lived or by the things that happened to them. By carefully looking at the lives of the prophets we see patterns, or types, of what would happen to the Savior or what the Savior would do or say. Joseph’s life in Egypt had many of these types.

Review the story of Joseph (see Genesis 37–46). List as many details as you can about Joseph’s life that either are like what happened to Jesus Christ or that teach us something about the Savior. You may want to discuss this activity with others to create a large list. Some students have found as many as fifteen to twenty different things in the scriptures about Joseph that are a type of Christ.

Genesis 47–48
Jacob Adopts Joseph’s Sons

Genesis 47 tells about what occurred during the last five years of the famine. The famine got so bad that people traded their personal property and land for food. Because of this trading, Pharaoh gradually became the owner of nearly everything in the country.

By the end of Genesis 47, Jacob was ready to die. He had just one request: to be buried in the land God promised him, his fathers, and his posterity.

Before he died, Jacob needed to assign birthright responsibilities. Generally, the firstborn son received the birthright blessing and responsibilities. Isaac, however, was not actually the first child of Abraham. Jacob was not the firstborn of Isaac. Joseph was nearly the last son born to Jacob. Yet all three of these men received the birthright blessings. In Genesis 48, Ephraim received the birthright instead of his older brother, Manasseh. There is no account of why Ephraim was selected. We know that God chooses according to His laws and purposes (see D&C 130:20–21). Although Ephraim received the birthright, the blessings of Manasseh are also great because of what was promised to all the posterity of Joseph (see Genesis 49:22–26; Deuteronomy 33:13–17). In addition, both of these sons were “adopted” by Jacob (see Genesis 48:5). Because of the birthright, Joseph was entitled to a double portion of the inheritance from his father, Jacob. Ephraim was assigned to preside, or lead, the family of Israel. Ephraim and Manasseh were each given one part of the double portion of inheritance and became two of the “tribes of Israel.”

Genesis 49
Patriarchal Blessings for Israel’s Sons

Genesis 49 contains the blessings given by the prophet and patriarch Jacob (Israel) to his twelve sons before he died. Especially notice the blessings given to Judah, whose descendants include Jesus Christ, and the blessings given to Joseph, whose descendants are the people of the Book of Mormon and most Church members since the Restoration.

To better understand this chapter, it is helpful to know that it was written in poetry in the original Hebrew. The poetic form most often used in the scriptures, especially in the Old Testament, is called “parallelism.” In this form, the writer, or speaker, says something and then repeats it using different words. Note the two phrases at the end of verse 11:

• “He washed his garments in wine.”

• “[He washed] his clothes in the blood of grapes.”

Understanding the Scriptures

Genesis 49 Befall (v. 1)—Happen to The excellency of (v. 3)—The highest in Dignity (v. 3)—Honor Unstable (v. 4)—Reckless Excel (v. 4)—Be great Defiledst (v. 4)—Made unclean (see Genesis 35:22) Couch (v. 4)—Bed Instruments of cruelty (v. 5)—Weapons of violence Habitations (v. 5)—Place where one lives Selfwill (v. 6)—Selfishness, lack of control of one’s emotions Whelp (v. 9)—Offspring Prey (vv. 9, 27)—Victim, conquered and taken by force to be eaten Couched (vv. 9, 14)—Laid down Rouse him up (v. 9)—Awake him Sceptre (v. 10)—Right or authority to rule Binding (v. 11)—Tying Foal (v. 11)—Young donkey Haven (v. 13)—Harbor, safe place Bear (v. 15)—Carry Tribute (v. 15)—Forced labor Adder (v. 17)—Snake Royal dainties (v. 20)—Rare things given to kings Hind (v. 21)—Female deer Bough (v. 22)—Large branch Sorely grieved (v. 23)—Greatly humbled Abode in strength (v. 24)—Stayed strong Have prevailed (v. 26)—Are greater Progenitors (v. 26)—Ancestors Utmost (v. 26)—Farthest Ravin (v. 27)—Eat greedily, take food by violence and force Devour (v. 27)—Eat up Spoil (v. 27)—Things taken by force Charged (v. 29)—Commanded Yielded up the ghost (v. 33)—Died [click for scalable version]

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Genesis 49.

Identify the Blessings

Underline the names of the twelve sons of Israel in your scriptures so that you can quickly see where to find each son’s blessing. Write about the special things promised to Judah and Joseph; two blessings seem to stand out above the others.

Patriarchal Blessings

The blessings given in Genesis 49 are like patriarchal blessings. Explain what your patriarchal blessing means to you.

or

Explain why we receive a patriarchal blessing and what the requirements are to receive one.

How Was This Prophecy Fulfilled?

Explain what verse 22 in Genesis 49 means. To help you, read 1 Nephi 5:14–16 and Jacob 2:25, which tell which tribe the Book of Mormon people are from. Also keep in mind that Elder LeGrand Richards said that the “everlasting hills” in Genesis 49:26 refer to the Americas (see Conference Report, Apr. 1967, 20).

Genesis 50
Jacob and Joseph Die

The Bible is a record of the house of Israel. Genesis means “beginnings.” Genesis is the book of beginnings where we read of the beginning of the world and the beginning of the house of Israel. Genesis 50 is the final chapter of Genesis and tells of Israel’s (Jacob’s) death; in this way, Genesis 50 is the end of the beginning.

A large part of Genesis 50 is not in the Bible, but the part not included was revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith and is found in JST, Genesis 50:24–38. This account prepares us to better understand Exodus because it mentions Moses and his work.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–D) as you study Genesis 50, including the Joseph Smith Translation.

Why Were They Worried?

1. Why do you think Joseph’s brothers did what they did in Genesis 50:14–21?

2. What Christlike example did Joseph set?

Identify the Elements of Joseph’s Prophecy

List things from JST, Genesis 50:24–38 that Joseph prophesied would happen to the family of Israel.

Find the Phrases

1. JST, Genesis 50:31 speaks of the Bible and the Book of Mormon. What term refers to the Bible and what term refers to the Book of Mormon?

2. What did Joseph say the Book of Mormon would (and will) do?

Who Is This Seer?

Identify the seer referred to in JST, Genesis 50:30–33, and explain what Joseph prophesied this seer would do.