"Very little is known by the world concerning the prophet Enoch," noted Elder Joseph Fielding Smith in Church History and Modern Revelation.
The Bible mentions Enoch only in Genesis 4 and 5, Luke 3:37, Hebrews 11:5, and Jude 1:14. Both Old Testament and New Testament writers indicate that Enoch was so righteous he was translated or transfigured. Modern scriptures and revelations provide much additional information on Enoch."His life and teachings are of particular importance to Latter-day Saints, because Enoch was able to prepare a people who became so righteous they were actually taken off the telestial earth so they could live a terrestrial order," said Elder Smith.
"In somewhat similar manner, a people must be prepared in these latter days to be worthy to live at least a terrestrial order so they will be able to live with Jesus Christ when He comes on earth to rule in power and great glory.
"In this day of wickedness it is difficult to understand how an entire people could become so righteous that it was no longer expedient that they should remain on the earth, and, therefore, were translated and taken away to await the time when righteousness should come.
"The people of the city of Enoch, because of their integrity and faithfulness were as pilgrims and strangers on the earth. This is due to the fact that they were living the celestial law in a telestial world, and all were of one mind, perfectly obedient to all commandments of the Lord."
(ADDITIONAL INFORMATION)
Articles on this page may be used in conjunction with the Gospel Doctrine course of study.
Information compiled by Gerry Avant
Sources: Church History and Modern Revelation, by Joseph Fielding Smith; and October and April 1981 general conference reports.
