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The Kolob Theorem: A Mormon's View of God's Starry Universe
God's Throne and the Celestial, Terrestrial and Telestial Kingdoms. The Kolob Theorem allows us to see more clearly the home we lived in before we were born and the home we will live in after we die. These places appear more real; they are made of matter, some of very fine and pure matter, and exist in time and space. It helps us anticipate the reality of the glories of our future home.
Lynn, as a man of faith, unites in a single theory, scientific evidence, together with LDS sources to account for the form and structure of all of God's worlds, planets and suns. Lynn advocates the theory that the great star Kolob(which is near unto God's throne) is located in the center of our Milky Way Galaxy. He examines several basic ideas which grow out of this hypothesis.
Lynn, as a man of faith, unites in a single theory, scientific evidence, together with LDS sources to account for the form and structure of all of God's worlds, planets and suns. Lynn advocates the theory that the great star Kolob(which is near unto God's throne) is located in the center of our Milky Way Galaxy. He examines several basic ideas which grow out of this hypothesis.
128 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
175 people are currently reading
392 people want to read
About the author
Lynn M. Hilton
20Ìýbooks5ÌýfollowersLynn M Hilton was born LDS in Arizona and raised in California. He was a B-24 bomber pilot in the US army for nearly three years during World War II. After the war he served, without purse or script, as a LDS missionary in the New England Mission, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
In 1952 he earned a PhD degree from the University of Chicago in Educational Administration and was appointed Professor of Education at BYU Provo. He served there for twelve years as Associate Dean of Continuing Education and founder and chairman of the BYU Salt Lake Adult Education Center.
He was later a successful businessman. He served a term as an elected member of the Utah House of Representatives.
Lynn and his first wife, Hope were called and set apart for a special mission to lead the original expedition to the Arab world to find the ancient trail of Lehi and Nephi and their family from Jerusalem to Bountiful where Nephi built his ocean going ship. They completed this assignment in 1976. Lynn's research was published in two long articles in the Ensign Magazine in 1976. The articles were entitled In Search of Lehi's Trail.
Lynn has lived twelve years in Arab countries and speaks Arabic. Lynn's first wife Hope, died in 1999. Two years later he met and married Nancy.
In 1952 he earned a PhD degree from the University of Chicago in Educational Administration and was appointed Professor of Education at BYU Provo. He served there for twelve years as Associate Dean of Continuing Education and founder and chairman of the BYU Salt Lake Adult Education Center.
He was later a successful businessman. He served a term as an elected member of the Utah House of Representatives.
Lynn and his first wife, Hope were called and set apart for a special mission to lead the original expedition to the Arab world to find the ancient trail of Lehi and Nephi and their family from Jerusalem to Bountiful where Nephi built his ocean going ship. They completed this assignment in 1976. Lynn's research was published in two long articles in the Ensign Magazine in 1976. The articles were entitled In Search of Lehi's Trail.
Lynn has lived twelve years in Arab countries and speaks Arabic. Lynn's first wife Hope, died in 1999. Two years later he met and married Nancy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
November 8, 2008
If I could give this book more stars, I would. This theory makes the whole Plan of Salvation and life before and after death seem more real. My mind has not stopped pondering since I started reading it. It's the perfect blend of scientific evidence combined with scripture and other LDS sources to account for the form and structure of all of God's worlds, planets and suns. It's definately a theory worth reading about.
April 29, 2008
My husband was right - this book is fascinating. In it, Hilton explains his theory that the Milky Way is God's realm and that other galaxies are the thrones of his relatives - other Gods. He explains his theory in great detail, siting many sources, both scriptural and scientific. It was like reading a piece in a collegiate journal. I enjoyed reading Hilton's theories, even if I don't necessarily believe them all. Much of what he said about our galaxy made sense and could very well be true. There were a few points that I wasn't on board with him, though. Still, I am glad to have this starting point to consider my own views on the subject. The bottom line to me is that, although it really is an interesting subject and fun to speculate on, it doesn't matter to my eternal salvation and could even possibly cause me to miss the mark if I get crazy about it. I would be better off reading books from the prophet and general authorities.
April 29, 2009
This book caught my eye while I was looking for another at the library. I was intrigued by the title and hoped by reading it I wouldn't be labeled a "sign seeker".
I was very awestruck by the ideas in this book and it opened my mind to many new thoughts and understandings. Although this book is just a theory of what might be, I appreciated all of the quotes by latter-day prophets that I have never heard before, specifically by Joseph Smith.
I realize after pondering the thoughts in this book that I have no idea the span of God's creations and if nothing else, my faith and love for an Almighty, Omniscient, Omnipotent God had been expanded; the very thought alone that I have the potential to become like him is almost too much to bear considering the state that I am in today but knowing that God is my creator and knows my potential I feel inspired to become better.
I was very awestruck by the ideas in this book and it opened my mind to many new thoughts and understandings. Although this book is just a theory of what might be, I appreciated all of the quotes by latter-day prophets that I have never heard before, specifically by Joseph Smith.
I realize after pondering the thoughts in this book that I have no idea the span of God's creations and if nothing else, my faith and love for an Almighty, Omniscient, Omnipotent God had been expanded; the very thought alone that I have the potential to become like him is almost too much to bear considering the state that I am in today but knowing that God is my creator and knows my potential I feel inspired to become better.
August 13, 2008
Wow, did this book blow my mind. There is really no way to prove his theory other than through direct revelation, but his evidence is compelling AND it caused me many days of reflection. This book changed the way I think about the universe.
December 17, 2019
I have had this book for many years, and have browsed it occasionally. I finally took the time to go through it properly. First, I appreciate the author's ambitions in attempting to square the scriptural record with the findings of modern science. However, I believe the only real valuable contribution that this book makes is its treatment of early Mormon historical documents (particularly the Kirtland Egyptian Grammar and Alphabet documents) and how their contents might be relevant to the model of the universe discussed in scripture.
Aside from this, I am afraid this book does little more than promote bad science and worse theology.
The biggest problem, in my view, is the postulation that our God's creation is limited to the Milky Way. The basis of the concept is that the author saw a photo of the Andromeda galaxy in the 50s, and based on its concentric design, concluded that there was a celestial core with concentric terrestrial and telestial rings. He surmised that this Galaxy was some other god’s domain.
But to accommodate this, we are compelled to redefine very fundamental concepts like the scope of “all things� (D&C 19:2; 88:6) as well as the apparent limits of an “infinite� atonement. (2 Ne. 9:7; Alma 34:12) . Designating galaxies as the limits of divine realms forces us to consider something of a tiny speck in the universe and declare that comprises “all things� and the atonement of Christ, while “infinite� was a raindrop in the ocean. I'm going to give a stern squinty-eyed glare.
I wonder what the author would think of, say NGC 6052 in the constellation Hercules, which is two galaxies in the process of colliding! Are we to understand that two exalted deities are getting into an intergalactic fender bender while the realms banished to the “outer darknesses� (outer boundaries) of the galaxy are hitching a celestial ride on the other galaxy?
The other problem was the reduction of the celestial, terrestrial, and telestial glories to physical locations in space. Any careful examination of ascension theology—of which the scripture are replete—reveals that the fall and atonement guide the flow from creation (celestial) to Eden (terrestrial) to fall (terrestrial) to redemption/Zion (terrestrial) to exaltation (celestial). This is a transfer of state and relationships related to governing laws, and reducing it to transgalactic relocation seems to miss the point.
I understand the impulse to map gospel principles to real time and space. But in my opinion, a multiverse model—in which each deity governs an entire, infinite expanse of both time and space is far more workable than a discrete galaxy allocation. But here I go straining at a gnat....
Aside from this, I am afraid this book does little more than promote bad science and worse theology.
The biggest problem, in my view, is the postulation that our God's creation is limited to the Milky Way. The basis of the concept is that the author saw a photo of the Andromeda galaxy in the 50s, and based on its concentric design, concluded that there was a celestial core with concentric terrestrial and telestial rings. He surmised that this Galaxy was some other god’s domain.
But to accommodate this, we are compelled to redefine very fundamental concepts like the scope of “all things� (D&C 19:2; 88:6) as well as the apparent limits of an “infinite� atonement. (2 Ne. 9:7; Alma 34:12) . Designating galaxies as the limits of divine realms forces us to consider something of a tiny speck in the universe and declare that comprises “all things� and the atonement of Christ, while “infinite� was a raindrop in the ocean. I'm going to give a stern squinty-eyed glare.
I wonder what the author would think of, say NGC 6052 in the constellation Hercules, which is two galaxies in the process of colliding! Are we to understand that two exalted deities are getting into an intergalactic fender bender while the realms banished to the “outer darknesses� (outer boundaries) of the galaxy are hitching a celestial ride on the other galaxy?
The other problem was the reduction of the celestial, terrestrial, and telestial glories to physical locations in space. Any careful examination of ascension theology—of which the scripture are replete—reveals that the fall and atonement guide the flow from creation (celestial) to Eden (terrestrial) to fall (terrestrial) to redemption/Zion (terrestrial) to exaltation (celestial). This is a transfer of state and relationships related to governing laws, and reducing it to transgalactic relocation seems to miss the point.
I understand the impulse to map gospel principles to real time and space. But in my opinion, a multiverse model—in which each deity governs an entire, infinite expanse of both time and space is far more workable than a discrete galaxy allocation. But here I go straining at a gnat....
January 19, 2011
This one is a game-changer. Hilton has done a superb job of laying out, in a very methodical way, a cohesive collection of ideas about Mormon cosmology. It is a satisfying read and makes good sense from a broad array of sources. Where is God's abode? Where are the kingdoms of glory that will be our reward? Where is hell? If God had predecessors, where did they go? Who else shares this universe with us? What will become of our home planet? Questions like these have rattled around in my head all my life, and it is comforting to find answers coallescing around a nicely stated core of ideas. It's just a theory, but I like its premise and its promise.
January 1, 2013
I really enjoyed this read for a new perspective on old principles. I'm really drawn toward scientific explanations for faith based beliefs. Although I know that there are things we need to take on faith, I also know that all things spiritual could be explained scientifically if we had the proper knowledge and understanding. I enjoy getting scientific takes on spirituals things and find my faith renewed by it.
The theories in this book are based on actual scientific data, so some of the ideas in this book may be difficult to understand and follow if you aren't academically inclined. Good luck!
The theories in this book are based on actual scientific data, so some of the ideas in this book may be difficult to understand and follow if you aren't academically inclined. Good luck!
June 12, 2016
Before my granddad died, he told me about this book. He was so enthusiastic about it, and told me the basic principles of the Kolob Theorem. I was about 21 years old when this happened, and didn't read much back then and thought it was cool, but probably wouldn't read it. 6 years later, my curiosity was piqued when I saw good reviews about it online (out of nowhere). I suddenly remembered my granddad's high regard for it. I wonder if Granddad was urging me to take a look at it from the "other side of the veil!" :D So I bought a copy, and am glad I did. Even though it is a theory, something feels right about it. Most of the concepts rang true to me, if not all of them. Lately I am on a spiritual journey, to learn as much as I can. This book was unique, but didn't try to disprove what I already know to be true from my personal scripture and gospel study, as well as knowledge from the astronomy class I have taken. Although it is not written to entertain, and speaks in a very scholarly voice, I enjoyed the read.
September 3, 2008
A very scientific read tied into modern revelation concerning earth and heaven. He makes very compelling arguments towards his theory - but makes it clear that it is theory and not sanctioned LDS doctrine. Interesting, thought provoking, but left me with lingering questions regarding what might or might not be truth in his theory.
January 11, 2010
4 stars because it made me think. It'll be funny when everything in this theorem turns out to be dead wrong, but I liked it.
August 24, 2014
As a member of the LDS church my entire life, I have often considered some of our doctrine and have been unable to reconcile them in my head. This book answered a lot of those questions, and was extremely though provoking.
While I'm certainly not advocating what Brother Hilton has written as doctrine, it does show a more complete understanding of a slew of LDS doctrines that otherwise don't make sense. My personal favorite is that our God is only the God of this galaxy. I never was able to figure out how to reconcile the idea of many gods with one universe. Many gods with an ever expanding universe however, is definite food for thought.
The insight into Facsimile 2 was refreshing. Too many people shie away from it like it's cursed or something. I loved that he drew so much out of D&C 76, 88, 130, Moses, and Abraham. I think so much of the latter-day revelation came to us because we have more access to the stars and heavens than ever before.
This book is doctrinally sound, well backed up by scriptural evidence and scientific theory. I immensely enjoyed it, but I would definitely not recommend it to a non-Mormon as the majority of it requires a pretty deep familiarity with both our doctrine and our scriptures. Even inside of the church, this may be something that goes under "Let them with ears to hear, hear." It's not light stuff. It unabashedly goes after the most ambitious claims of our theology. I adore this man for being so bold as to put these thoughts out into the world.
The scriptures, (Bible included), are repleat with prophecies about the Second Coming and the Kolob theory makes a lot of those make more sense. How could a celestial orb reside in the same solar system of un-celestialized orbs? Could even our sun withstand it? Missing parts of the earth like Enoch's city, the lost 10 tribes, and in my opinion, the Nephite/Lamanite regions, could explain much.
Again, I'm not saying it's doctrine, but this book is the closest thing to "right" I've read. I felt the spirit and the truth of many of the points in this book, and I'll let that statement speak for itself.
While I'm certainly not advocating what Brother Hilton has written as doctrine, it does show a more complete understanding of a slew of LDS doctrines that otherwise don't make sense. My personal favorite is that our God is only the God of this galaxy. I never was able to figure out how to reconcile the idea of many gods with one universe. Many gods with an ever expanding universe however, is definite food for thought.
The insight into Facsimile 2 was refreshing. Too many people shie away from it like it's cursed or something. I loved that he drew so much out of D&C 76, 88, 130, Moses, and Abraham. I think so much of the latter-day revelation came to us because we have more access to the stars and heavens than ever before.
This book is doctrinally sound, well backed up by scriptural evidence and scientific theory. I immensely enjoyed it, but I would definitely not recommend it to a non-Mormon as the majority of it requires a pretty deep familiarity with both our doctrine and our scriptures. Even inside of the church, this may be something that goes under "Let them with ears to hear, hear." It's not light stuff. It unabashedly goes after the most ambitious claims of our theology. I adore this man for being so bold as to put these thoughts out into the world.
The scriptures, (Bible included), are repleat with prophecies about the Second Coming and the Kolob theory makes a lot of those make more sense. How could a celestial orb reside in the same solar system of un-celestialized orbs? Could even our sun withstand it? Missing parts of the earth like Enoch's city, the lost 10 tribes, and in my opinion, the Nephite/Lamanite regions, could explain much.
Again, I'm not saying it's doctrine, but this book is the closest thing to "right" I've read. I felt the spirit and the truth of many of the points in this book, and I'll let that statement speak for itself.
June 4, 2017
Although not promoted as official Church doctrine - it is presented as a "theorem"--I enjoyed this book immensely, and it really helped me to understand better the Plan of Salvation and how I fit into it, as well as earth and the overall layout of the universe in general from a uniquely Mormon perspective. I really enjoyed the references to scripture, and the words of both ancient and modern prophets. The author provides scientific evidence in harmony with what the scriptures stated and leaves the reader to draw his or her own conclusions. As others have stated in other reviews, I wouldn't recommend this for an investigator or new convert to the Church (although I am a new convert and borrowed it from a close friend; my curiosity about all things Kobol and a prayerful desire to learn more led me to this). I have a strong testimony already that the things I've read in scripture and that the Church is true, so this book served to remind that we are all part of something much bigger, and it didn't waver, but actually strengthened my faith in my Heavenly Father. I especially enjoyed the section on Earth's development, and the quotes from Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, Elder James Talmage, and others which added insight to the description of earth's journey through the galaxy. Again, I remind myself that much of what is presented is theoretical - it can't be taken as fact until proven; for me, that's where faith comes in, and although we don't know for sure (and some of the items presented could be way off), it's one way to view matters and I appreciate how it has helped me to rethink my place in the universe, and bear with the day to day struggles realizing that God is in full control, and we have something much better to look forward to. The research is authoritative, presents some pretty interesting ideas, and has allowed me to look at the heavens with a renewed interest and awe.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2017
Answers My Life Long Questions!
While In high school I had the question "What does it all mean?" I pictured the universe when asking this question. After graduating high school I found the Mormon Church, received a testimony and my question began to be answered. I study the mysteries of God in the scriptures, I took astronomy in college, and I keep up with the pictures of the Hubble telescope. This book does a wonderful job of bringing the scriptures, the quotes from past prophets, and modern day astronomy together in a way that exceeded all my expectations in finding the answers to my life long question...What does it all mean?
While In high school I had the question "What does it all mean?" I pictured the universe when asking this question. After graduating high school I found the Mormon Church, received a testimony and my question began to be answered. I study the mysteries of God in the scriptures, I took astronomy in college, and I keep up with the pictures of the Hubble telescope. This book does a wonderful job of bringing the scriptures, the quotes from past prophets, and modern day astronomy together in a way that exceeded all my expectations in finding the answers to my life long question...What does it all mean?
June 13, 2019
Fascinating and thought-provoking. Plausible and logical conclusions from revelation and scripture are nearly spot-on, I believe. Unfortunately, it was poorly edited. Typos abound. It was also badly written and organized. Several times the author would explain the same point with the same words he had used previously, sometimes a few pages beforehand. All in all, however, I enjoyed it, though it was a chore to read. For a more comprehensive and well-organized book on Earth’s creation and destiny, read “Earth in the Beginning� by Skousen.
May 22, 2009
I'm not much into sketchy Mormon theories, but this was loaned to me by a friend (my principal) and so I read it. I wouldn't really recommend it, however if you like exploring sketch Mormon theories, it may be the book for you. It's a theory about where God's home is located relative to our galaxy. There are some interesting photos of galaxies that appear to back up his postulations.
August 27, 2021
It’s an interesting idea with no possible way to test or prove it one way or the other. It does give a person a lot to think about though. But the truth of it matters little to my life here on earth, in fact, it matters not at all. I guess we will all just have to wait and see what the truth is, as I’m sure when we need to know, we will know.
October 11, 2008
This book made me feel so small! It tells the many theories of the Kolab culture, and their view of life.
January 16, 2024
Super interesting book. Highly recommend if you are capable of maintaining balance in your thinking, and if you are a "dig deep" kind of person who "does their homework." Otherwise, don't read it. I say that because, as the author states, the vast majority of this book is his personal thoughts and possible conclusions.
That being said - wow! He quotes scripture and prophets and brought some stuff to light that I had never supposed. Example: When Christ said I am the Light - he means that in more than one way. And in a very real, scientific way, he IS the light at the center of the Milky Way galaxy. Kind of a stretch, right? Well, think again as you listen to prophets' descriptions and comments on such things.
When I began reading this book, it was with my normal skepticism. I am one of those that like to know and learn and grow, and I'm not affected much by "far out there" ideas, and am able to keep the solid doctrine separate from "far out there" theories. But this book challenged me on that. It's got my brain wheels turning and I want to listen to this again, take copious notes and do more homework to see what I can learn about all this.
In the end: it makes a lot of sense, and there are many things the Lord, the scriptures, and the prophets have stated that make it so.
However, the bottom line is this: It's all for fun. None of this book is necessary for us to work out our salvation, to have faith, and to learn the doctrine of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which IS necessary for our salvation and exaltation. But it'll sure be fun when we finally make it to the other side and all things become known to us after Final Judgement, and we can then see how close to fact this author came!
I recommend it if you have a curious mind, and you can keep doctrine separate from assumption. Recommend for ages 18+.
Note: I do not have a high regard for the vocabulary nor reading comprehension of today's high school (nor college) graduates. Writing, Grammar, Spelling, Vocabulary, all of it, has been so dumbed down, that we see the end result in today's journalists who can't spell nor write worth beans. Therefore, when a book is lengthy on some topic, and delves deep into it, and does so in a slower fashion, I tend to think these young people will find it "boring", because they have never known/learned how to appreciate true wisdom, true deep English language communication (especially in written form) and don't have the vocabulary to understand it. Today's fast-paced movies, videos, games, etc. all have dumbed down our brains, and unless something is those things (fast paced etc) people tend to not be able to maintain interest. They no longer know how to think deep and profoundly. So, when I say a person should be 18+ to read this and enjoy it, I'm thinking more like 25 or 30 + yrs old. lol.
That being said - wow! He quotes scripture and prophets and brought some stuff to light that I had never supposed. Example: When Christ said I am the Light - he means that in more than one way. And in a very real, scientific way, he IS the light at the center of the Milky Way galaxy. Kind of a stretch, right? Well, think again as you listen to prophets' descriptions and comments on such things.
When I began reading this book, it was with my normal skepticism. I am one of those that like to know and learn and grow, and I'm not affected much by "far out there" ideas, and am able to keep the solid doctrine separate from "far out there" theories. But this book challenged me on that. It's got my brain wheels turning and I want to listen to this again, take copious notes and do more homework to see what I can learn about all this.
In the end: it makes a lot of sense, and there are many things the Lord, the scriptures, and the prophets have stated that make it so.
However, the bottom line is this: It's all for fun. None of this book is necessary for us to work out our salvation, to have faith, and to learn the doctrine of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which IS necessary for our salvation and exaltation. But it'll sure be fun when we finally make it to the other side and all things become known to us after Final Judgement, and we can then see how close to fact this author came!
I recommend it if you have a curious mind, and you can keep doctrine separate from assumption. Recommend for ages 18+.
Note: I do not have a high regard for the vocabulary nor reading comprehension of today's high school (nor college) graduates. Writing, Grammar, Spelling, Vocabulary, all of it, has been so dumbed down, that we see the end result in today's journalists who can't spell nor write worth beans. Therefore, when a book is lengthy on some topic, and delves deep into it, and does so in a slower fashion, I tend to think these young people will find it "boring", because they have never known/learned how to appreciate true wisdom, true deep English language communication (especially in written form) and don't have the vocabulary to understand it. Today's fast-paced movies, videos, games, etc. all have dumbed down our brains, and unless something is those things (fast paced etc) people tend to not be able to maintain interest. They no longer know how to think deep and profoundly. So, when I say a person should be 18+ to read this and enjoy it, I'm thinking more like 25 or 30 + yrs old. lol.
April 1, 2025
The author provides a fascinating perspective on our relationship to our God and the universe. The author limits our God’s universe to our own Milky Way galaxy. Recognizing that there are other worlds within or galaxy that we do not know about, and additional worlds that exist in other galaxies. This book examines the construct of the Milky Way galaxy, observing that there are three distinctly different colors and areas within the galaxy. The center is white in color representing the celestial kingdom where Kolob lies and is the oldest part of the galaxy. The second or middle area is red in color and represents the Terrestrial kingdom, it is younger that the center area but older than the other section. The outer section represents the spiral arms of our galaxy, it is blue is color, is the youngest part of the galaxy and where our solar system and earth are located. It is the telestial kingdom.
The author provides an understanding of the reason behind the destruction and turmoil that will come to the earth in preparation for the Second Coming. Identifying the transition of the earth from a telestial kingdom into a terrestrial kingdom. The earth will physically move away from our solar system and move into the terrestrial kingdom center orbit within the Milky Way galaxy.
He then predicts that as part of the preparation for the Second Coming of Christ, is the transition where our earth moves out of our current solar system, and places it within the middle or terrestrial kingdom. In this phase of the earth’s development, it will be renewed and receive it paradisical glory. An enlightening book that tickles one’s imagination about our future.
The author provides an understanding of the reason behind the destruction and turmoil that will come to the earth in preparation for the Second Coming. Identifying the transition of the earth from a telestial kingdom into a terrestrial kingdom. The earth will physically move away from our solar system and move into the terrestrial kingdom center orbit within the Milky Way galaxy.
He then predicts that as part of the preparation for the Second Coming of Christ, is the transition where our earth moves out of our current solar system, and places it within the middle or terrestrial kingdom. In this phase of the earth’s development, it will be renewed and receive it paradisical glory. An enlightening book that tickles one’s imagination about our future.
June 29, 2015
I had hoped reading this book would be a good exercise in objectively evaluating an idea that seemed on the onset to be bonkers: The Milky-Way galaxy marks the extent of God’s domain and, itself, is divided into three concentric compartments that are separated by opaque clouds of dust. The author claims these three compartments correspond to the Celestial, Terrestrial, and Telestial realms of Mormon theology.
It is a very creative idea and must have been very fun to consider and think through. But, other than the initial conception of the idea, there is not much here to support the author’s hypotheses. Hilton could improve his theory by doing the following:
1. Connect the logic. The book is filled with statements that place something that is true (The galaxy is BIG!) with something that is not proven (Thus God as enough room within a single galaxy to make all of his creations). The author expects you to believe the second statement on account of the truthfulness of the first. But, in fact, the two statements are totally unconnected. Maybe the galaxy is way, way too small? The author provides no estimate for how fast God can create something, or how much room each thing needs, or any other measure for whether there is enough room for God in a single galaxy. This kind of trick is on nearly every page. Hilton’s theory would be greatly strengthened if he could provide some reason why his interpretations are more likely to be correct than other interpretations.
2. Correct internal inconsistencies. Hilton’s theory contradicts itself in a few places. For example, Hilton claims that the dust lanes in the Galaxy act as a veil to both protect the Earth from the intense heat of the celestial kingdom located at the core of the galaxy and also to block the earth from visual contact with God. His evidence? Radio, infrared, and X-ray observations of the galactic core that can see through these dust clouds and thus put man in visual contact with the center of the galaxy. Further, if the dust clouds are so important, why can we use visual bands of light to see straight into the core of other galaxies where dust clouds do not obscure the view? Or, if dust clouds are able to block intense radiation, why should the earth worry with its protective atmosphere and magnetic field?
3. Address astronomical findings that do not jive with the theory. The author provides just a few astronomical findings as support for this hypothesis. Most of these are from pop-science publications written between 1975 and 1985 (despite the 2006 copyright date of the book). He does nothing to address evidence that may contradict his theory. Ex: The Big Bang, the death of stars in the center of the galaxy.
4. Defend the interpretation. In this book, when science and scripture oppose each other, scripture wins every time. Hilton is a man of faith and it is understandable that, in his view, scientific arguments must either match with doctrine of they must be wrong. The problem with this approach is that Hilton is shielded from having to consider the nuances of interpretation. The scriptures may say X, but it doesn’t always follow that they mean X. This book would be much improved if it could address alternative scriptural interpretations. This would keep the book from having to force some of the square pegs of science to fit the round holes of literal interpretations of scripture. Galileo won this fight. He will win again.
In conclusion, all good ideas start out sounding a little bonkers. I applaud Hilton for taking the radical and creative step of asking “what if.� His theory would be greatly improved with stricter criteria for acceptable evidence and a treatment of of alternative hypotheses.
It is a very creative idea and must have been very fun to consider and think through. But, other than the initial conception of the idea, there is not much here to support the author’s hypotheses. Hilton could improve his theory by doing the following:
1. Connect the logic. The book is filled with statements that place something that is true (The galaxy is BIG!) with something that is not proven (Thus God as enough room within a single galaxy to make all of his creations). The author expects you to believe the second statement on account of the truthfulness of the first. But, in fact, the two statements are totally unconnected. Maybe the galaxy is way, way too small? The author provides no estimate for how fast God can create something, or how much room each thing needs, or any other measure for whether there is enough room for God in a single galaxy. This kind of trick is on nearly every page. Hilton’s theory would be greatly strengthened if he could provide some reason why his interpretations are more likely to be correct than other interpretations.
2. Correct internal inconsistencies. Hilton’s theory contradicts itself in a few places. For example, Hilton claims that the dust lanes in the Galaxy act as a veil to both protect the Earth from the intense heat of the celestial kingdom located at the core of the galaxy and also to block the earth from visual contact with God. His evidence? Radio, infrared, and X-ray observations of the galactic core that can see through these dust clouds and thus put man in visual contact with the center of the galaxy. Further, if the dust clouds are so important, why can we use visual bands of light to see straight into the core of other galaxies where dust clouds do not obscure the view? Or, if dust clouds are able to block intense radiation, why should the earth worry with its protective atmosphere and magnetic field?
3. Address astronomical findings that do not jive with the theory. The author provides just a few astronomical findings as support for this hypothesis. Most of these are from pop-science publications written between 1975 and 1985 (despite the 2006 copyright date of the book). He does nothing to address evidence that may contradict his theory. Ex: The Big Bang, the death of stars in the center of the galaxy.
4. Defend the interpretation. In this book, when science and scripture oppose each other, scripture wins every time. Hilton is a man of faith and it is understandable that, in his view, scientific arguments must either match with doctrine of they must be wrong. The problem with this approach is that Hilton is shielded from having to consider the nuances of interpretation. The scriptures may say X, but it doesn’t always follow that they mean X. This book would be much improved if it could address alternative scriptural interpretations. This would keep the book from having to force some of the square pegs of science to fit the round holes of literal interpretations of scripture. Galileo won this fight. He will win again.
In conclusion, all good ideas start out sounding a little bonkers. I applaud Hilton for taking the radical and creative step of asking “what if.� His theory would be greatly improved with stricter criteria for acceptable evidence and a treatment of of alternative hypotheses.
June 24, 2009
I was approached by a friend who asked me to appraise this book from a doctrinal view. It is the perfect example of four scriptures:
2 Timothy 4:4
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
2 Peter 1:16
For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
1 Timothy 4:7
But refuse profane and old wives� fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
1 Timothy 1:4
Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
Why do people waste their time and money on opinion when there is so much doctrine in the scriptures?
2 Timothy 4:4
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
2 Peter 1:16
For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.
1 Timothy 4:7
But refuse profane and old wives� fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
1 Timothy 1:4
Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.
Why do people waste their time and money on opinion when there is so much doctrine in the scriptures?
June 12, 2008
First few chapters were interesting, about the milky way being the realm of our god, and the nucleus of the universe being the celestial kingdom. About half way through I got a little annoyed with the quasi-scientific evidence, and skimmed through the rest.
One thing that I've heard before, and I can't seem to make sense of is the idea of Jesus Christ only coming to our world, out of the countless worlds God has created. It strikes me as the equivalent of winning the celestial lottery (only much less likely), and seems like an awfully self centered view of the universe. Can anybody else make sense of this?
One thing that I've heard before, and I can't seem to make sense of is the idea of Jesus Christ only coming to our world, out of the countless worlds God has created. It strikes me as the equivalent of winning the celestial lottery (only much less likely), and seems like an awfully self centered view of the universe. Can anybody else make sense of this?
November 4, 2014
Since I am still working on some of the first principles of the gospel, namely faith, repentance, and enduring to the end, this book is probably irrelevant for my growth. The author makes very clear that the contents of the book belong to him alone, although he does a good job using scriptural and latter-day general authority references to support his views. It is an interesting take on our universe and how the gospel plan relates, but I will not spend a great deal of time wondering where Kolob is until I am further along in my own personal growth. Maybe then the book will get a higher rating from me.
March 28, 2015
I espoused a lot of the same beliefs as the author. He did fill me in in a few details that I was lacking. The interesting thing is that I believed this way long before I became a Latter Day Saint.
You will look at life and will see that a lot of things we deal with are very insignificant compared with our place in the Cosmos. My understanding of God as the Creator and Architect of the galaxy has become crystallized in my mind. It all makes sense and it's very orderly. God is a god of order, and it shows.
You will look at life and will see that a lot of things we deal with are very insignificant compared with our place in the Cosmos. My understanding of God as the Creator and Architect of the galaxy has become crystallized in my mind. It all makes sense and it's very orderly. God is a god of order, and it shows.
January 21, 2009
This book was right down my alley. I love science books, I love religion books, and this was both of those put together in one extremely interesting read. Backed up by scriptures as well as research done by NASA, this book is one man's theory of where we came from, where God lives, and where we will dwell after we die. I loved every page and the pictures of different galaxies, including our own, were an added bonus.
December 20, 2008
Simply put...This was one of the worst books I have ever listened to. I got it on via audio book from my library and gave it a listen. It was only about 4-5 hours long and it was 4-5 hours too long. If this author really has does have a Ph-D, the college should ask for the diploma back. This book is a despicable disgrace to anything related to REAL science. The ONLY thing good about this book is that it isn't very long. I am embarrassed that I actually listened to this pile.
August 19, 2013
This book gave me a lot to think about. I have been raised in the LDS church but have never thought along these lines. It has put things in a perspective I understand and can picture. I don't know if this is how the whole church sees things or if it is just the theory of the author but it does make sense to me. I will have to think about it much more in the future and do more research on the subject.
February 18, 2014
I love discussions like this and a fascinating idea he had come with. You can believe or not believe in the idea of The Kolob Theorem. This is a very controversial discussion to some and for Lynn M. Hilton to express his opinion and give it to the world to read I give him great props for that. You have to be strong willed and thick skinned. Great idea in my opinion. Do I believe it? Not yet, but I am open to the idea and would love to delve into the subject more!!!
August 16, 2015
I've spent days pondering as I've read this book. While it is not doctrine, I appreciated Hilton's analysis of scripture and words of Latter-day leaders. I gained a whole new perspective on God's power. I am particularly humbled at the thought of Jesus, our Lord, coming to earth and letting evil men take His life to give us the gift of eternal life. God has so much power, and He uses it to help us become like Him.
February 14, 2016
This was the most original thinking on a gospel topic that I have read in a very long time. I find myself wanting to share it in detail with anyone who will listen. The idea that prophets were invited into the cosmos through urim and thummim is extremely engaging., leaving me jealous.
February, 2016,
I continue to mull the message of this book and it has permanently fixed my thinking on the organization of the universe. All I lack is to be invited into the "inner circle" of those in the know.
February, 2016,
I continue to mull the message of this book and it has permanently fixed my thinking on the organization of the universe. All I lack is to be invited into the "inner circle" of those in the know.
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