Introduction to the Pearl of Great Price

In his preface to the first edition of the Pearl of Great Price in 1851, Elder Franklin D. Richards, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and President of the British Mission, wrote:
"Altogether it is presumed, that true believers in the Divine mission of the Prophet JOSEPH SMITH will appreciate this little collection of precious truths as a Pearl of Great Price that will increase their ability to maintain and to defend the holy faith by becoming possessors of it.... It will commend itself to all careful students of the scriptures, as detailing many important facts which are therein only alluded to, or entirely unmentioned [in other scriptures]...."

A century later, Elder Mark E. Peterson testified that the Pearl of Great Price "contains some of the greatest revelations of God to man." (CR, Apr. 1952, 107) This "Pearl" is by far the shortest of our standard works, and the last to be accepted as canon - but how aptly named it is! Brought to light in the midst of the great persecution surrounding the restoration of the gospel in the latter days, a thing of rare beauty, this treasure can only be discovered by one who seeks it diligently with effort, sacrifice and skill. Once found, the pure in heart will gladly sell all they have to possess it.

In our study this year, we will seek together the treasures of this inspired work of scripture. Your individual prayer and study will open up personal pearls of revelation, their beauty and value beyond measure. Be willing to sacrifice time to cherish each key of wisdom, each jewel of promise and priceless truth. Your life and the lives of all who are close to you will be blessed by the richness and wonder of God's love as you uncover pearls sealed up for your exaltation.

Elder Milton R. Hunter of the Seventy explained the uniqueness of these sacred writings: "The Pearl of Great Price... contains revelations on certain subjects superior to any other scriptures or writings on those subjects found in the world; for example, Abraham’s vision of pre-mortal life in which he learned of the eternal nature of things; of the grand council in heaven; and of the plan of salvation as presented there constitutes one of the greatest of God’s revelations to his holy prophets. And the knowledge obtained by Moses in his vision of Lucifer and the part he played at the grand council, added to Abraham’s vision, gives us the most complete understanding found in any literature regarding man’s pre-mortal life and God’s purposes for the good of man. (CR, Oct. 1955, 67)

This website has been created in an effort to share tools and insights in guiding the gospel student through a study of this marvelous scripture. The text of the Pearl of Great Price can be found here. Other quick links that may be helpful are listed to the right, including a link to the CES Pearl of Great Price Student manual, BYU broadcasts on the Pearl of Great Price, and other articles relating to our study. But one of the best parts of class is the sharing of insights gained as we seek and pray for the Spirit to reveal the things of eternity. Please join us and share in this journey of discovery.