Tree of Life Vision - Synopsis

Synopsis

According to the Book of Mormon, the prophet Lehi received this vision in a dream during his exile in the wilderness. He awoke and recounted it to his children as described in the 8th chapter of the First Book of Nephi. According to the Book of Mormon chronology, this vision occurred between 600 and 592 B.C. Lehi's son Nephi, recorded the vision on the golden plates, and later had the same vision, albeit a more detailed version, which he records later in the same book. Nephi's vision also included an interpretation of the vision.

In the vision, Lehi related that he saw several objects, including the following:

1. A tree with white fruit, symbolizing the Love of God, and by extension, the Atonement of Jesus.
2. A strait and narrow path, symbolizing the path to salvation.
3. A rod of iron, which runs along the path, symbolizing the "word of God". Holding onto the iron rod refers to holding tightly to the gospel of Jesus Christ, which enable a person to avoid the temptations of the world or to stray from the straight and narrow path.
4. A mist of darkness, symbolizing the temptations of the Devil.
5. A great and spacious building, symbolizing the pride of the world.

Lehi sees in the vision that his sons Sam and Nephi, and his wife Sariah partake of the white fruit, indicating that they will be saved. He sees that his sons Laman and Lemuel do not partake of the fruit.