The Vision of Deseret: A Blueprint for a New Nation in Civil War 2
By Bobby Darvish
darvishintelligence.blogspot.com
As an Iranian-American ex-Muslim, now a Christian Latter-day Saint (LDS), I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of religious and political turmoil. The rise of Islamic extremism in my homeland led to the collapse of a once-great civilization. Today, as America stands on the brink of potential civil war, I cannot help but draw parallels between the experiences of my Iranian ancestors and the current state of our beloved United States. If America were to fracture in a Second Civil War, I believe that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its members are uniquely prepared to establish a new nation—the State of Deseret—in Zion.
The Historical Foundations of Deseret
The concept of Deseret is deeply rooted in the early history of the LDS Church. In 1849, under the leadership of Brigham Young, the pioneers of the LDS Church proposed the establishment of the State of Deseret. This vast territory encompassed parts of present-day Utah, Nevada, Arizona, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Wyoming. Though never officially recognized by the United States government, the provisional government of Deseret operated for nearly two years, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become the Utah Territory.
The name "Deseret" itself holds significant meaning within LDS theology. Derived from the word for "honeybee" in the Book of Mormon, Deseret symbolizes industry, unity, and the cooperative spirit that has always defined the LDS community. These qualities are not only essential for survival but are the bedrock upon which a new nation could be built.
The LDS Church’s Preparedness and Infrastructure
In the face of potential national division, the LDS Church and its members are exceptionally well-positioned to create a thriving and independent nation. The Church has long emphasized self-reliance, preparedness, and community building—principles that would be invaluable in the event of a national crisis.
Economic Self-Reliance: The LDS Church has a well-established welfare system, including food storage programs, employment services, and humanitarian aid. These programs could be expanded to support a larger population in a new nation. The Church’s financial resources, including its investment portfolio worth over $100 billion, provide a strong economic foundation for Deseret.
Education and Social Services: The Church operates a robust educational system, including Brigham Young University and other institutions that promote moral and intellectual development. These institutions could serve as the cornerstone of a new nation’s educational framework, ensuring that the values of hard work, faith, and family continue to be passed down through generations.
Community Organization: The hierarchical structure of the LDS Church, with its wards and stakes, creates a ready-made system of governance. This organization could easily be adapted to form the political structure of Deseret, ensuring stability and continuity in leadership.
Agriculture and Resource Management: The Church has extensive land holdings and expertise in agriculture, which would be crucial for sustaining a population in a newly established nation. The emphasis on food storage and sustainable practices would ensure that Deseret could provide for its people even in times of scarcity.
The Spiritual and Cultural Identity of Deseret
In addition to its material preparedness, the LDS Church and its members share a strong spiritual and cultural identity that would unite the people of Deseret. The belief in Zion—a place of peace, righteousness, and unity—would inspire and guide the new nation. The shared values of faith, family, and community would create a cohesive society, resilient against external and internal threats.
The cultural heritage of the LDS Church, including its history of persecution and pioneering spirit, would also play a crucial role in the formation of Deseret. Just as the early pioneers overcame adversity to establish a thriving community in the harsh conditions of the American West, so too could the members of the Church build a new nation in the face of national division.
Conclusion: A New Nation for a New Era
If America were to fracture in a Second Civil War, the LDS Church and its members would be uniquely positioned to create a new nation—the State of Deseret. With its strong economic foundation, established infrastructure, and cohesive spiritual and cultural identity, Deseret could serve as a beacon of hope and stability in a divided land. As an Iranian-American ex-Muslim Christian, I have seen the consequences of national division and religious extremism. I believe that the vision of Deseret offers a path forward—a path of peace, unity, and prosperity for all who seek refuge in Zion.
Citations
- Leonard J. Arrington, Great Basin Kingdom: An Economic History of the Latter-day Saints, 1830-1900, University of Utah Press, 1958.
- Richard L. Jensen, "The State of Deseret," BYU Studies Quarterly, vol. 29, no. 4, 1989.
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, "Deseret," Church History Topics, https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/history/topics/deseret?lang=eng.
This article is a testament to the resilience of the LDS Church and its members, and a call to prepare for whatever the future may hold.
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