Description

The Earth Was Once A Garden Place

ADAM-ONDI-AHMAN

The dedication of the Kirtland House of the Lord on March 27, 1836, was a rich Pentecostal experience due to the tremendous outpouring of heavenly power and manifestations. On the day of dedication six hymns were sung during the service, one of which became most famous: “The Spirit of God Like A Fire Is Burning.” However, two other William W. Phelps hymn compositions were also sung: “Now Let Us Rejoice,” and “Adam-ondi-Ahman.”

The latter hymn, published in Emma Smith’s first hymnal and titled, “The Earth Was Once A Garden Place,” became immediately very popular among the Saints with the tune that Phelps likely borrowed from a southern Appalachian folk hymn.

Phelps first wrote the poem and published it in 1835—before the location of Adam-ondi-Ahman was even known. He wrote it while living with Joseph and Emma in their home just across from the Temple. Where and how did Phelps learn the precious truths that abound in the hymn? The most likely answer is that he learned it directly from the Prophet Joseph himself. The hymn itself is a revelation.

Do we sufficiently remember and appreciate the truths taught by this hymn? That the earth itself, as a whole, was a garden place after the Fall, and so righteous were men that the Savior was worshipped face to face in Adam-ondi-Ahman—the land of God where Adam dwelt. That Enoch’s Zion spread from Adam-ondi-Ahman and was famous from east to west. And—that when that millennial day comes, the earth will be returned to what once was Adam-ondi-Ahman.

The Saints sung with fervor the glories of Adam-ondi-Ahman before they even knew where it was or the full scope of what happened there. In May 1838, the Lord would reveal the location of Adam-ondi-Ahman in Doctrine and Covenants 116.

It is altogether fitting that this hymn was sung and celebrated at the dedication of the Kirtland House of the Lord because it is only by those keys bestowed in that Temple that the Latter-day promises and prophecies of Adam-ondi-Ahman can be fulfilled.

There is a holy and sacred presence that rests down upon the Kirtland Temple. Similarly, Adam-ondi-Ahman has a Spirit that can be aptly described as a “temple without a roof.” 

The Lord is in both places.

Source: https://rsc.byu.edu/foundations-restoration/history-doctrine-adam-ondi-ahman-revelation-dc-116