What is the “Gift of Aaron?”

Question

What is “the gift of Aaron” referred to in D&C 8:6-8?

Tim

Answer

Tim,

The Doctrine and Covenants serves as a foundational scripture for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (The Church). It comprises revelations given to Joseph Smith, the church’s founder, and guides on doctrinal matters, church organization, and personal conduct. Unlike the Bible, which is considered a collection of sacred texts from various authors, the Doctrine & Covenants (D&C) is unique to The Church, containing modern revelations deemed essential for its members.

Revelations within the D&C address a wide array of topics, from theological doctrines to practical instructions for church governance. They are considered to be direct communications from God, intended to guide and instruct believers in their spiritual journey. The dynamic nature of revelation means that some sections, including D&C 8:6-8, have undergone revisions to clarify their meanings and applications for church members.

D&C 8:6-8 introduces the “gift of Aaron,” a term that has intrigued scholars and church members alike. To comprehend its significance, it’s essential to examine the context and the specific language used in these verses. The passage discusses various spiritual gifts and their applications within the church, emphasizing the importance of divine assistance in ministerial work.

Originally, the revelation referred to the “gift of working with the sprout,” a metaphor that conjures images of growth, renewal, and the nurturing of spiritual life. However, this phrase was later edited to “working with the rod.” This change in terminology is not merely a linguistic adjustment but reflects a deeper theological and practical shift in understanding the nature of the gift.

The “gift of Aaron” as presented in these verses underscores the role of divine guidance and the tools provided to church leaders to fulfill their duties effectively. It highlights the necessity of both spiritual and practical instruments in the administration and expansion of the church’s mission.

The alteration from “sprout” to “rod” in the revelation’s text signifies a move from a purely metaphorical representation to a more tangible and functional tool. This transition mirrors the practical needs of The Church as it navigated the challenges of growth and establishment in its early days.

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