Birth Quote by Harold B. Lee
![“The spirit, if it could be seen with mortal eyes, would appear in bodily shape like a full-grown person with individual endowments that make it a counter-part of the body in which it [resides,] "that which is temporal in the likeness of that which is spiritual." (D&C 77:2.) It was that which came…” quote by Harold B. Lee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b72/harold-b-lee-7452_birth_the-spirit-if-it-could-be-seen-with-mort_3050563.jpg)
“The spirit, if it could be seen with mortal eyes, would appear in bodily shape like a full-grown person with individual endowments that make it a counter-part of the body in which it [resides,] "that which is temporal in the likeness of that which is spiritual." (D&C 77:2.) It was that which came from God and entered at birth into the infant body prepared by its mortal parents. The spirit was of the "Lord from heaven." The physical body was "of the earth, earthy," (2 Cor. 15:47) or in other words, composed of the elements of which the things in the physical world are composed.”
About This Quote
Source Scripture: Doctrine and Covenants 77:2, 19th century LDS text
The spirit is a divine, personal counterpart to the mortal body, created by God and entering at birth.
In simple terms: The spirit is a God‑created companion to the body.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the spiritual nature of life.
Themes
spirituality
theology
human nature
Mood
reflective
reverent
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- parenting
- birth rituals
- personal identity
- faith practice
Key Concepts
divine counterpart
embodiment
temporal vs spiritual
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect your sense of purpose?
- What responsibilities arise from seeing the spirit as a partner?
A Different Perspective
The concept may conflict with materialist views of consciousness.
![“[W]e declare it is a grievous sin before God to adopt restrictive measures in disobedience to God's divine command from the beginning of time to 'multiply and replenish the earth.' Surely those who project such measures to prevent life or to destroy life before or after birth will reap the…” quote by Harold B. Lee](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0e0/harold-b-lee-7452_birth_w-e-declare-it-is-a-grievous-sin-before_93464.jpg)
