A Series of Dissertations on Spiritual, Historical
and Philosophic Themes
BY ORSON F. WHITNEY
Of the Council of the Twelve, Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH:
THE DESERET NEWS
1921
Most of the contents of this volume appeared originally as a seriesof articles in Saturday issues of the Deseret Evening News, beginningOctober 26, 1918, and ending May 31, 1919. As stated by the News,these articles "were designed to fill in some degree a spiritual voidand meet a special need of those who were in the habit of attendingSunday services, but were denied that privilege by the prevalence ofthe influenza epidemic." That epidemic caused a suspension of publicgatherings for several months, and even made necessary the postponementof one General Conference of the Church.
It was during this period of suspension that these contributions to theChurch organ began. They were given place on the editorial page, andsubsequently the News said of them: "These 'Thoughts' have subserved afar more than temporary and passing purpose—they have stimulated studyand deep reflection, and they have been greatly enjoyed and prized bythe thoughtful reader everywhere."
Among those who uttered similar sentiments was President George H.Brimhall, of the Brigham Young University, who, in a letter to theauthor, expressed the hope that provision would be made for publicationof the essays in book form, "thus adding one more choice volume toLatter-day Saint literature, especially suited to the needs of studentsat home and missionaries abroad." Like expressions came from PresidentHeber J. Grant, Senator Reed Smoot, President John A. Widtsoe, of theUniversity of Utah, and many other prominent people.
In response to this cordial, widespread sentiment of appreciation,and under the sanction of the General Authorities of the Church, the"Saturday Night Thoughts" were compiled for republication, and theresult is here presented.
May, 1921
THE AUTHOR.
Part One—Our Place In History
Article One: The Saturday Evening of Time
Article Two: The Watch On The Tower
Article Three: Concerning Names and Vocations
Article Five: The Land of Zion
Part Two—Seership and Prophecy
Article Six: What Joseph Beheld
Article Seven: What Joseph Foretold
Article Eight: Looking Westward
Article Nine: The Place of Safety
Part Three.—A Marvel and a Wonder
Article Ten: The Wisdom That Perishes
Article Twelve: The Great Vicissitudes
Article Thirteen: The Gospel Dispensations