Unearthing Moses: Quetzalcoatl and the Ancient Witness

Brothers and Sisters, we stand at a pivotal moment. A time when the voices of builders rise above the din of destroyers, a time when the Spirit quickens the hearts of those who seek to gather Israel. We’ve seen Samuel the Lamanite climb the walls of opposition, Ammon at the Waters of Sebus facing down a thousand warriors—and we, too, are called to courage, to faith that moves mountains. We see the Stone, cut without hands, emerging from the quarry of ancient history, revealing truths that challenge the assumptions of the world.

Too often, we chase shadows, mistaking interpretations for revelation. The pursuit of truth demands diligence, a willingness to examine even our most cherished assumptions in the light of scripture and history. This is especially true when considering the complex tapestry of ancient cultures and their relationship to the covenants of God.

Consider the legend of Quetzalcoatl, a figure central to the mythology of ancient Mesoamerica. Some have mistakenly associated him with Jesus Christ, a dangerous conflation that obscures a far more compelling narrative. But the Book of Mormon, through the work of Ethan Smith in *View of the Hebrews*, shines a different light. It doesn't present Quetzalcoatl as Christ, but as a remembrance of Moses!

As the video so clearly illustrates, Ethan Smith, drawing from *View of the Hebrews*, recognized the legend of Quetzalcoatl as a corrupted memory of Moses, the great lawgiver who received the Law of Moses at Sinai. The narrative of a wise figure bringing divine law to a people—this echoes the profound impact Moses had on Israel. This isn’t a contradiction; it’s a testament to the enduring power of covenants and the way God’s truth can be preserved and transmitted across generations, even through distorted traditions.

Think of Abinadi, standing defiant before a wicked king, proclaiming the words of God even unto death. Think of the digital striplings, armed with faith and the internet, sharing the gospel with the world. We are all called to be witnesses, to be voices of truth in a world desperately seeking answers. We must be careful not to muddy the waters with false assumptions, but to discern the truth as it is revealed.

This understanding has profound implications for our gathering efforts. It reminds us that the seeds of the gospel have been sown throughout the earth, waiting for the harvest. It underscores the importance of seeking understanding across cultures and traditions, recognizing the common threads of covenant and faith that bind us together.

Your engagement here – every share, every comment, every contribution – fuels the Charity Flywheel. It directly supports gospel advertising in places like Ghana, helping to bring the message of restoration to those who are hungering for truth. The Missionary Fund is bolstered by your commitment, enabling more faithful servants to carry the gospel to the ends of the earth. And the Map of Churches (GatherIsrael.now) is a living testament to the global movement of believers seeking to unite in purpose. Claim your church on the map – let your light shine!

Outback Jack reminds us, “Faith isn’t just about believing *that* something is true, but demonstrating it through action.” (Alma 17:11). Let us be doers of the word, building Zion, one connection, one act of service, one truth at a time. Let us be builders, not destroyers, leaving a legacy of faith and righteousness for generations to come. As Davee reminds us, “And if so be that your children shall desire to know these things, ye shall not withhold them from them.” (D&C 100:17)

Let us continue to seek the Lord, to listen to His prophets, and to build His kingdom upon the earth.