Ancient Traditions &
Hidden Histories
Sifting Wheat & Tares
The parable of the wheat and the tares offers many interpretations, but at Latter-Day Disciples, we often view it as a lesson in discerning truth from error. (Check out this episode of the Hidden Wisdom podcast on the Wheat and the Tares.)
Over the centuries, as scripture and traditions have been passed down, opportunities have arisen for ‘tares’—falsehoods and distortions—to be sown among the truths of the gospel. In our search for truth, we recognize that genuine truth is consistent at every level, from the smallest details to the grandest principles.
As we strive to separate truth from error, we sometimes discover that precious truths have been lost along the way. This is why we rely on the Holy Ghost to guide and teach us directly. Such a pursuit calls for personal revelation and a deeper relationship with God.
We invite you to join us as we explore timeless patterns and hidden truths—insights that can deepen your understanding of eternity and enrich your spiritual journey.
Understanding Our Christian & Jewish Roots
As Latter-Day Saints, we deeply value our Jewish and Christian heritage. However, we often lack the cultural insights that come with these rich traditions. For example, Jewish scripture and teachings are often understood through four distinct layers of meaning—P’shat, Remez, D’rash, and Sod—each offering deeper insights and understanding.
Our goal is to help you connect more fully with the gospel by exploring traditions, holidays, rituals, and practices from Jewish and Christian cultures. These insights can enrich your life, strengthen your testimony, and reveal how God blesses and inspires all Their children, regardless of heritage or background.
Roles of Women in Ancient Israel & Christianity
One of the significant changes throughout history has been the evolving role and status of women in society. By examining cultural shifts and religious reformations, we can better understand how God intended for all Their children to be valued, honored, and uplifted—and how we can more fully embody that ideal today.
Scholar Margaret Barker’s research highlights how ancient Israelite worship once included reverence for Heavenly Mother, a divine presence recognized in temple practices. Over time, these sacred traditions were altered or lost. However, modern archaeology and scholarship are uncovering traces of Her presence, revealing a deeper understanding of early religious beliefs.
As part of the ongoing Restoration, we rejoice in the opportunity to reclaim this lost wisdom—recognizing Heavenly Mother’s place in divine worship—and to prepare for the Savior’s return and the fullness of the gospel.
Finding Truth in Ancient Civilizations
In addition to embracing Jewish and Christian traditions, we also seek to honor and embody truth found in cultures across the world. We believe that our Heavenly Parents have inspired people throughout time and in every corner of the earth, planting seeds of wisdom in diverse traditions.
From the symbolic rituals of ancient Egyptian temples to the meditative practices of Eastern spirituality, we recognize that truth is woven into many paths of faith and understanding. We find meaning in the signs written in the heavens, from celestial cycles to cosmic alignments, which testify of divine order. We embrace the stillness and awareness fostered by mindfulness, seeing it as a way to connect more deeply with the Spirit.
Sacred geometry, with its patterns and structures found in nature and design, further reveals the hand of God—a reflection of eternal truths manifest in creation itself. By seeking truth wherever it may be found, we strive to gather pieces of divine wisdom that enrich our understanding of the gospel and draw us closer to our Heavenly Parents.