Zion, within the context of the Book of Mormon, holds significant spiritual and eschatological symbolism, often embodying the ideal of a holy and unified congregation of the faithful. Reflecting its biblical roots, the term Zion acquires a layered significance throughout the text, resembling its usage in Isaiah’s writings where it is frequently synonymous with Jerusalem, the city of God, and the location of the temple. In the Book of Mormon, however, Zion extends beyond the physical confines of location to represent the righteous and the establishment of God’s kingdom on earth, especially in the latter days.
Nephi, quoting Isaiah, refers to Zion as the object of the Lord’s affections, a community that the Lord will comfort, defend, and purify from iniquity (2 Nephi 8:3). Those who strive to establish Zion are considered blessed and imbued with the gift and power of the Holy Ghost (1 Nephi 13:37). Conversely, those who combat Zion are predetermined for destruction, highlighting the divine protection afforded to Zion and its inhabitants (2 Nephi 26:30-31; 2 Nephi 27:3).
In prophetic anticipation, the Book of Mormon speaks of a restored Zion in the latter days, a gathering of God’s covenant people signifying a new epoch of righteousness and divine favor. This restoration is linked to the coming forth of a “choice seer” in the last days who would perform a “great and marvelous work,” leading to the Lord reestablishing His church among His people (3 Nephi 21:1). Zion is thus envisaged as both a future New Jerusalem to be built in the western hemisphere and a paradisiacal assembly of the faithful, living in unity and righteousness (3 Nephi 20:22).
The Book of Mormon narrative represents this ideal in the post-Christ visitation period where the society of the Nephites and Lamanites exhibited the qualities of Zion—unity, peace, and a lack of contention—mirroring the sacred community’s aspirations (4 Nephi 1:3). However, as the text reveals, maintaining the sanctity and unity of Zion requires continual adherence to the principles of the gospel. The downfall of the Nephite Zion stands as a cautionary tale of the fragility of such a blessed state amidst the encroaching influences of pride, envy, and sin (4 Nephi 1:24-26). In sum, the concept of Zion in the Book of Mormon extends beyond geographical boundaries, serving as a metaphor for divine communion, collective sanctification, and an ultimate celestial haven.