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Literary Patterns in Doctrine & Covenants 11
In last week’s lesson, we introduced several Hebraic literary devices seen in Section 6 of the Doctrine and Covenants—namely Pesher, Transpolation, and Charaz, along with Chiasmus, which is a form we have encountered multiple times in previous lessons. In Doctrine & Covenants 11, we observe some of these same patterns again as the Lord instructs Hyrum Smith on preparing to preach the gospel. Though this revelation is brief, it clearly showcases some of these literary styles. Joseph Smith himself may not have realized he was using these techniques; he may have simply recorded what the Lord revealed to him. However, his reliance on revelatory methods (such as the Urim & Thummim) might have naturally produced biblical and Hebraic modes of form and expression. Below are four literary patterns that appear in D&C 11.
1. Charaz— A “String of Pearls”: Short, Powerful Succession of Commands
Have you noticed how D&C 11 has quick, direct instructions, like:
“Keep my commandments” (vv. 6, 9)
“Seek not to declare but first obtain my word” (vv. 21–22)
“Pray always” (v. 5)
These brief teachings are like pearls on a string—each one is important, and together, these phrases form a broader message, even forming sermons within sermons. In biblical studies, in Hebrew, this is sometimes called charaz (which means “stringing pearls”). The Lord gives Hyrum important truths in short segmented statements that are easy to identify and remember.
2. Chiasmus— Outlined Repetitions and Small Parallel Patterns (Partial)
Chiasmus is a fancy term for a writing style where ideas repeat in a mirror pattern, often highlighting the main point in the middle, forming a symmetrical (A-B-C-D-C-B-A) menorah-type pattern. We can observe this form in D&C 11 as follows:
A – “Your desire to serve is good.” (See verse 1: Joseph recognizes Hyrum’s righteous wish to assist in the Lord’s work.)
B – “Keep my commandments”(See verse 6: Emphasizing obedience as a foundation for receiving blessings.)
C – “Seek the Holy Ghost, be patient, and do not rush”(See verses 12–13: The Lord warns Hyrum to wait upon the Spirit and not declare the word prematurely.)
D – “Obtain my word first”(See verse 21: The central pivot, urging Hyrum to learn and internalize God’s word before preaching.)
C′ – “Then your tongue shall be loosed”(See verse 22: Echoing C, but now the Lord promises power to speak once Hyrum has prepared.)
B′ – “Blessed are you if you keep my commandments”(See verse 25: Again highlighting the importance of obedience and the blessings that follow.)
A′ – “Go forth, trusting in me”(See verse 30: The revelation concludes with reassurance, circling back to Hyrum’s desire and reminding him to trust the Lord’s support.)
Why This Matters
Mirror Structure: Notice how the first and last points (A/A′) refer to desire and trust, while the second and second-to-last (B/B′) both stress obedience. This repetition “frames” the central idea (D) about first obtaining the Lord’s word.
Emphasizing the Center: By placing “Obtain my word first” in the middle (D), the text calls attention to the Lord’s priority that Hyrum (and we) learn divine truth before teaching others.
Spiritual Application: Reflecting on this pattern helps us remember these principles: maintain a righteous desire, follow God’s commandments, patiently seek the Spirit, learn His word, and then declare it with confidence and the Lord’s support.
3. Pesher— Borrowing from Scripture: Applying Bible Teachings
Pesher is an old way of reading and interpreting scripture (this is sometimes called Pesher exegesis), where you take a prophecy or teaching from ancient times and apply it to the present situation. Pesher (פֵּשֶׁר) is a Hebrew word meaning “interpretation” or “solution.” It appears most prominently in the Dead Sea Scrolls found at Qumran, where pesher texts quote or reference an earlier prophetic passage (often from the Old Testament) and then provide an interpretive commentary or solution that applies it to the community’s current events or leaders. The basic sense of the Hebrew term is that of explaining or solving a mystery or concern using scripture lessons and examples. In D&C 11, the Lord uses biblical ideas and connects them to Hyrum’s mission, such as:
“The field is white already to harvest” (John 4:35) → Telling Hyrum it’s time to help gather people to Christ.
“If you ask, you shall receive” (Matthew 7:7, James 1:5) → Reminding Hyrum to pray and expect answers (”Seek and Expect Miracles,” The Power of Spiritual Momentum)
Even though Joseph Smith isn’t quoting these segments word-for-word in a long passage, the Lord is using familiar Bible verses and applying them to a new situation in 1829—much like pesher.
4. Transpolation— Mixing Explanation and Instructions
What Is Transpolation?
Transpolation is a writing or revelatory style where explanatory commentary is woven into or between the main storyline or message. Rather than simply giving a direct, linear answer—like “Yes, do X, then Y”—the text keeps slipping into deeper explanations and principles. It’s similar to when a teacher, answering a question in class, adds context or examples mid-sentence, turning a simple answer into a fuller learning moment.
How It Works in Doctrine & Covenants 11
1. Layering Hyrum’s Question with Broader Lessons
Initial Prompt: Hyrum Smith wants to know how he can best help in the Lord’s work.
The Lord’s Response: Instead of a short “You can preach,” we see multiple “interruptions” that expand on:
Repentance
Humility
Patience
Learning God’s word thoroughly
Relying on the Holy Ghost
This layering means the text moves back and forth between:
Immediate concern (Hyrum’s desire to serve), and
General principles of discipleship and spiritual growth.
2. Interspersing Commentary Within a Short Revelation
No Linear Q&A: Section 11 could have been just “Here’s your next step, Hyrum.” Instead, the Lord places side teachings in the middle of advising Hyrum. For example:
Right after acknowledging Hyrum’s good desire (v. 1), the Lord suddenly reminds him about relying on God’s power rather than man’s understanding (vv. 2–5).
Then He shifts to commandment-keeping (vv. 6–10), offering broad counsel applicable to anyone seeking spiritual gifts, not just Hyrum.
Only afterward does the text circle back to how Hyrum can actively help (vv. 20–30).
3. Seamless Mixing of Context and Instruction
Context: Hyrum’s readiness and question.
Explanations Inserted: Teaching about prayer, obedience, avoiding haste, and “obtaining the word first.”
Return to Context: The final verses reaffirm Hyrum’s call, now with a deeper spiritual perspective.
Because the Lord does not present all of Hyrum’s questions up front and then address them in one block, the revelation feels layered and multifaceted. These “interruptions” or inserted explanations help the text function as both practical advice for Hyrum and a universal guide for anyone desiring to serve God.
The Role of the Urim & Thummim
Joseph Smith used seer stones called the Urim & Thummim for many early revelations, including D&C 11. At the same time, he was translating the Book of Mormon, which has Hebrew-style writing (like we see in the Bible). Because of this, these revelations often sound like ancient scripture—sometimes repeating ideas, building patterns, or quoting biblical phrases. It appears that God guided Joseph’s language to match timeless scriptural forms so they’d feel familiar and powerful to readers.
Why Does This Matter?
Reading D&C 11 with an eye for these literary patterns can help us:
Remember important commands more easily.
Notice that God often repeats and layers His messages—just like in the Bible—to make them stick in our minds.
Realize that the Lord speaks to us in ways that connect His ancient word to our present circumstances.
Appreciate the deep, scriptural feel of modern revelation, linking us to believers from ancient times.
Ultimately, Doctrine & Covenants 11 shows that if we listen to the Lord, prepare ourselves (by reading and obeying His word), and wait for the right time, we can share His gospel with real power. And that message—just like these literary patterns—ties our day back to the rich heritage of scripture.
D&C STUDY GUIDE
Some Ways You Can Use This Study Guide
Personal Study: Read each verse (or group of verses) in D&C 10, then refer to the chart’s central themes, description, and biblical/Hebrew/Greek insights.
Copy and paste desired sections and links into your Scripture notes using your LDS Tools. Add any additional insights and incorporate these into your personal collection, keeping the things you want to have easily accessible in one place.
Teaching Settings: Present each row as an opportunity for discussion points. Invite learners to visit CFMCorner.com so they can come to class prepared to share things they discovered while exploring the available resources and cross-references. Encourage them to share their insights.
As time permits, some Hebrew/Greek terms are provided as cross-references to deepen understanding of linguistic or cultural context. However, this represents only a tiny sampling of what is available and waiting to be discovered. Dive in and enjoy the resources that are available.
D&C 11
Section Outline
Overview:
Doctrine & Covenants 11 is a revelation given through Joseph Smith to his older brother Hyrum Smith. It was received through the Urim & Thummim in May 1829, shortly after the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood (see D&C 13) and while Joseph and Oliver were actively translating the Book of Mormon. In this section, the Lord counsels Hyrum to seek God’s word first and prepare himself before embarking on the work of proclaiming the gospel. Themes of personal revelation, preparation, and spiritual readiness are prominent.
Timeframe and Setting:
Date: May 1829 (shortly after the restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood on May 15, 1829)
Location: Harmony, Pennsylvania
Occasion: Hyrum Smith was eager to assist in the Lord’s work and sought counsel from Joseph regarding what he should do.
Key Circumstances:
The Book of Mormon translation was underway; Hyrum wanted to know how to help.
The Aaronic Priesthood had just been conferred upon Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery by John the Baptist (D&C 13), and interest in the unfolding Restoration was growing.
Hyrum, like many close to Joseph, sensed the importance of the work but needed personal revelation on his role.
Purpose of the Revelation:
Direct Hyrum to “obtain [God’s] word” first, emphasizing preparation before preaching.
Promise divine guidance and blessings if Hyrum keeps the commandments and seeks the Spirit.
Encourage Hyrum (and all disciples) to rely on God’s wisdom and timing rather than rushing forward unprepared.
Significance:
Emphasizes the principle that one must be spiritually nourished before effectively sharing the gospel.
Reaffirms the doctrine of personal revelation: each individual can receive knowledge and instruction from God for their own mission.
Invites believers to “seek first to obtain my word” (verse 21), a timeless principle for all who desire to serve in the Lord’s work.
Main Topics and Themes from D&C 11
Main Topic & Theme | Resources & Links |
Verses 1–5 – Divine Counsel and Readiness Theme: Desire to Serve, Humility, Preparation Description: The Lord acknowledges Hyrum’s desire to assist in the work (v. 1). He underscores the need to be humble and rely on divine counsel rather than personal wisdom. Before rushing into preaching, Hyrum is encouraged to keep the commandments and keep in remembrance that all power and gifts come from God. These verses mirror the call in D&C 4:3—if we have desires to serve God, we are called. However, the Lord stresses that desire alone isn’t sufficient; one must be prepared spiritually and walk uprightly. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Desire can tie to Hebrew ḥēp̱eṣ (חֵפֶץ), meaning “delight” or “pleasure,” but also implying a strong inclination that motivates action. Reflection Questions: 1. How can a genuine desire to serve the Lord be refined into effective discipleship? 2. When have you felt prompted to act quickly but realized you first needed to grow in knowledge or spiritual strength? 3. In what ways does humility help us keep in mind that all power ultimately comes from God and not from ourselves? |
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VVerses 6–10 – Obedience & Personal Righteousness Theme: Keep the Commandments, God’s Will Description: The Lord repeatedly emphasizes keeping His commandments (v. 6) and seeking His will in all things. Hyrum is reminded that God’s blessings are often conditional on our obedience. Much like D&C 82:10 states, “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say...” He also encourages Hyrum to “seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word” (similar counsel in upcoming verses). A foundation of righteousness is the gateway to receiving further light. Hebrew/Greek Insight: Obedience (Hebrew “šāmaʿ” שָׁמַע): More than just hearing— it implies heeding or acting upon God’s instructions. Reflection Questions: 1. How do you see obedience functioning as a spiritual foundation for further light and knowledge? 2. Why is it crucial that “commandment-keeping” precede the call to preach or declare God’s word? 3. In your own life, what conditional blessings have you observed that hinge upon faithful obedience? | |
Verses 11–15 – Seek Counsel & the Holy Ghost Theme: Divine Guidance, Avoiding Haste Description: Hyrum is counseled to be patient, seek the Spirit, and wait upon further command before preaching (v. 15). Echoing D&C 9:7–9, the Lord expects active but patient diligence in acquiring spiritual knowledge. These verses highlight the importance of preparation, gaining God’s word thoroughly—through prayer, study, and the Holy Ghost—before stepping forward publicly. Hyrum (and we) are likewise reminded not to “run faster than [we] have strength” (Mosiah 4:27). Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Counsel (Hebrew “ʿēṣāh” עֵצָה): Suggests advice or purposeful guidance from God, requiring a humble heart to receive it. Reflection Questions: 1. Why might the Lord sometimes instruct us to wait before engaging in certain callings or assignments? 2. What experiences have shown you the importance of the Holy Ghost’s guidance over haste or self-driven urgency? 3. How can we balance the righteous desire to serve with patience and readiness for the right moment? | |
Verses 16–20 – Obtain God’s Word, Then Teach Theme: Search the Scriptures, Prepared Speech Description: These verses reinforce the principle: “First seek to obtain my word… then shall your tongue be loosed” (v. 21 in parallel passage). While specifically not quoted here, the concept is repeated throughout D&C 11, stressing thorough scriptural and spiritual knowledge before public ministry. The counsel is especially relevant in a Restoration context: as future missionaries, teachers, or leaders, we must be immersed in God’s truth. Only then do we teach with power and authority. Hebrew/Greek Insight:- Word (Greek “logos” λόγος): In a biblical sense, “divine utterance” or “message.” Internalizing the “logos” equips us to speak by the Spirit. Reflection Questions: 1. How do you see obedience functioning as a spiritual foundation for further light and knowledge? 2. Why is it crucial that “commandment-keeping” precede the call to preach or declare God’s word? 3. In your own life, what conditional blessings have you observed that hinge upon faithful obedience? | |
Verses 21–25 – The Field Is White, But Prepare First Theme: Missionary Labor, Trusting Divine Timing Description: These verses echo the well-known image of the field being white already to harvest (D&C 4:4; John 4:35). Hyrum is reassured that there is abundant work to do, but he must not jump in unprepared. By combining the metaphor of harvest with caution to wait on the Lord’s timing, the revelation teaches that urgency must be coupled with spiritual preparedness.The Lord’s repeated counsel about readiness, both in D&C 4 and D&C 11, shows how essential it is to cultivate the attributes of faith, hope, charity, and knowledge. Hebrew/Greek Insight:- Harvest (Greek “therismos” θερισμός, קצר qṣr ): In scripture, harvest frequently symbolizes gathering souls into the kingdom of God. Reflection Questions: 1. How do you see the balance of urgency (the field is white) and patient preparation at work in your own calling or assignments? 2. In what ways can we cultivate the divine attributes mentioned in scripture to become better “harvesters” of souls? 3. When have you experienced an outpouring of spiritual power only after a season of methodical, prayerful preparation? |
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Verses 26–30 – Concluding Counsel & Promise Theme: The Lord’s Sustaining Power, Assurance of Success Description: The Lord concludes by reiterating that as Hyrum (and all faithful disciples) trusts divine wisdom, success in sharing the gospel is assured—though it may not always come in the form or timing we expect. Emphasizing that the work is the Lord’s, He promises that obedience, humility, and reliance on the Spirit will yield eternal fruit. The final verses remind us that we each have a personal calling from God, but we must fulfill it with proper preparation, faith, and patience—the same counsel given to Hyrum. Hebrew/Greek Insight: - Sustain/Support (Hebrew “tāmakh” תָּמַךְ): literally “to uphold, grasp, or keep secure.” God’s promise to uphold the faithful underscores that we are never alone in His work. Reflection Questions: 1. Why is it comforting to know the Lord ultimately grants success to our sincere efforts, even if immediate results aren’t always visible? 2. In what ways does God’s sustaining power give you confidence to move forward in your individual calling or responsibilities? 3. How can Hyrum’s example—seeking knowledge first, then proceeding with faith—inform your approach to new opportunities or challenging tasks? |
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