Mormonism Explained
Kings and Priests: Connections Between Mormon Garments and Revelation
Mormon sacred garments connect Eden, Christ's atonement, and Revelation's apocalyptic symbolism within Latter-day Saint theology.
Coats of Skins and a Fallen World
Latter-day Saints understand temple garments as symbolically connected to the “coats of skins” God provided Adam and Eve after expulsion from Eden (Genesis 3:21). This divine act signified continued protection in a mortal world characterized by hardship and separation from God’s presence. The garment reminds wearers of God’s nearness and promises despite human weakness.
Mormon Garments and the Atonement of Jesus Christ
Scripture frequently uses clothing imagery for spiritual purification. Revelation 7 describes the faithful “clothed with white robes” made white “in the blood of the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9, 14). Elder Lynn A. Mickelsen taught that Christ “will cleanse our garments,” emphasizing personal transformation. Sacred garments serve as reminders of Christ’s covering grace.
Revelation and Latter-day Saint Temples
Revelation 1:5–6 declares Christ “hath made us kings and priests unto God.” Revelation 5:9–10 similarly teaches the faithful are prepared to reign with Him. Elder Bruce R. McConkie explained that temple ordinances anticipate these promises. Becoming a “king and priest” reflects covenant relationship and divine inheritance, not earthly power. President Joseph F. Smith taught that mortal life aims toward becoming heirs inheriting “glory, dominion, exaltation, thrones and every power.”
White Robes, Purity, and Patience
Revelation 6:9–11 describes martyrs given white robes while awaiting divine justice. These robes symbolize purity, victory, and rest during periods of waiting. This resonates with Latter-day Saint understanding of mortal life as temporary trial. Sacred garments signify commitment and trust in God’s timing rather than perfection or final reward.
The Church of the Firstborn and Eternal Destiny
Revelation 12 describes a faithful community preserved during apostasy and persecution. Latter-day Saints connect this to the “Church of the Firstborn” taught by Joseph Smith. Doctrine and Covenants 76 teaches those inheriting the highest Heaven degree are “priests and kings” ordained after the holy order of the Son of God. Access requires faith, repentance, baptism, the Holy Ghost, and continued faithfulness through temple worship.
The Biblical, Multi-Layered Symbolism of Mormon Garments
Mormon garments embody rich biblical imagery: coats of skins pointing to God’s care, white robes symbolizing purification through Christ’s blood, and promises to “kings and priests” reflecting covenantal identity. For Latter-day Saints, these symbols are daily reminders of Christ’s atonement, God’s protection, and promised redemption for the faithful.
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