Introduction

The scriptures contain the mind and will of God as revealed to His servants. The core message of all scripture is to testify of Jesus Christ and invite all people to receive salvation through Him.

While the scriptures contain divine truth, sometimes these truths can be obscured by unclear translations, idioms, difficult wording, archaic literary styles, and unfamiliar cultures. This resource is designed to help learners better understand the scriptures. It will provide the following helps:

Background information. Historical, cultural, and geographic insights that provide context to stories, teachings, and doctrine of the scriptures
Explanations of language. Clarifications of difficult wordings, archaic expressions, and confusing translations
Help with difficult or confusing passages. Scriptures of the Restoration, the words of modern prophets and apostles, and reliable scholarship to help clarify the meaning of difficult passages
Talks and articles. A “Learn More” section with messages from Church leaders and Church-produced articles that relate to stories and teachings found in the scriptures
Media. Images and videos that can help readers visualize and understand the setting, objects, symbolism, and stories of the scriptures

This resource is a tool to help learners identify truth and learn about the Savior as they study the scriptures. It is intended to assist with scripture study and not replace it.

The citation of a source not published by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not imply that it or its author is endorsed by the Church or represents the official position of the Church.

As you seek to better understand the scriptures, remember the importance of also studying what the Savior’s living prophets and apostles are teaching. As you study, seek to learn how the Lord’s servants interpret, explain, and apply the scriptures (see Scripture Study Skills, “Using Teachings of Church Leaders to Understand the Scriptures”).

Begin your study of the scriptures with prayer. Ask for the guidance of the Holy Ghost. He is indispensable in your search for truth. As a member of the Godhead, the Holy Ghost testifies of the Father and the Son, teaches truth, and sanctifies us. He brings things to our remembrance, provides comfort, fills us with hope, and shows us how to apply what we are learning.