The path to the temple for men begins with the ordination to the office of elder and the reception of the Melchizedek priesthood. This sacred milestone is an essential step for men to fully engage in temple ordinances and fulfill their divine responsibilities. In the context of performing initiatories for the deceased, men first ordain the departed to the office of Elder before proceeding with the ordinances.
However, the journey is different for women: there is no prerequisite ordination to receive the temple ordinances. This practice underscores that priesthood ordination is not a part of the woman’s Covenant path. Instead, women embark on their spiritual journey following a unique but equally important role.
Equal Yoking of Men and Women
The distinction in priesthood roles for men and women represents a divine balance. Women are foreordained to fulfill their primary priesthood role by bringing God’s spiritual sons and daughters into this earthly realm and providing them a nurturing home environment. Men receive their ordinations on Earth, and their primary role is to bring God’s sons and daughters back to the presence of the Father. This profound interdependence between men and women is a testament to the beauty and wisdom of God’s plan.
The Misunderstanding of Motherhood
It is unfortunate that, in the world’s eyes, motherhood is often undervalued. Society sometimes wrongly interprets the divinely appointed role of motherhood as a means for men to control and subjugate women. In truth, it is through motherhood that women find their greatest potential, blessings, and self-discovery. The path to exaltation through motherhood is a sacred and divine calling, not a limitation.
Not every woman is able to bear children for various reasons. However, this does not forfeit their divinely appointed role as a mother. The restoration of the Gospel clarifies that women who do not bear children in this life are still entitled to the blessings and promises of motherhood.
In today’s world, women have more opportunities than ever before. They can pursue education and careers, exercising their agency fully. When a woman, despite having achieved an education or a career, chooses to fulfill her foreordination of motherhood, she is embracing her divine role against all opposition. This choice opens up the door to receive greater blessings, as she exercises her agency to fulfill her God-given calling.
The Beauty of Women’s Ordination
In the temple, women’s initiatory ordinance is powerfully different than men’s. Women are not told that they will be cleansed through their faithfulness; they receive the realization of that blessing. And their willingness to fulfill their foreordination of motherhood paves the way for them to qualify for the greatest blessings that the Father has in store for them. On the other hand, men must receive their ordination during their earthly lives and then be true and faithful to that calling to qualify for that blessing to be pronounced upon them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the balance between the roles of men and women within the LDS faith is a beautiful tapestry. Women are ordained to exercise their priesthood by bringing life into the world, while men fulfill their priesthood through their responsibilities to guide and magnify their offices. It’s a unique, divinely appointed balance that exemplifies the beauty and wisdom of God’s plan for His children.
In this ever-changing world, it’s essential to understand the deep spiritual significance of these roles and appreciate the strength that comes from fulfilling one’s divine calling. The restored gospel beautifully illustrates that men and women can work harmoniously in their respective roles, supporting one another on their journeys back to the presence of the Father.