A Host of Devils Will Be Needed
The Quote “Do you query why we give endowments to A., B., and C.? It is to make devils of those who will deny the faith, for that is also necessary, as a host of devils will be needed. It is for the exaltation of some and the downfall of others.” — Brigham Young, JoD 8:181-182 (September 9, 1860) Lyrics [Intro - Organ and Accordion, Minor Key Waltz] [Verse 1 - Quiet, Reverent] They tell you in the temple prep class About sacred covenants that'll help you pass Through the veil to exaltation's door Eternal families, celestial law White clothes and promises of glory But Brigham Young told another story September 1860, he explained The temple's darker purpose, plainly named [Pre-Chorus - Building] "Do you query why we give endowments To A., B., and C.?" Let the prophet tell you what they're really for Listen carefully... [Chorus - Explosive, Theatrical] "It is to make devils of those who will deny the faith For that is also necessary" (that's what Brigham says!) "As a host of devils will be needed" Sacred ordinances with a purpose dark and strange A host of devils will be needed And the temple will provide For the exaltation of some And the downfall of those who tried [Verse 2] Every active member knows someone Who went through the temple, then was done Walked away, left the faith behind Did the endowment seal their bind? Were those sacred ordinances given Not just for the path to heaven But to manufacture the enemy? "A host of devils will be needed" [Bridge - Spoken over sparse music] Modern temple preparation teaches: • Sacred covenants • Eternal families • Celestial glory It does not mention: • Making devils of the unfaithful • Manufacturing the enemy • "The downfall of others" [Final Chorus - Darkly triumphant] A host of devils will be needed The prophet told us plain The temple serves a double purpose Exaltation and the stain Of those who take the covenants Then walk a different road Were they always meant to fall? Did Brigham Young forebode? [Outro - Carnival organ, fading] A host of devils... will be needed... (Laughter fading into silence) Historical Context The Setting: September 9, 1860 — A regular Sunday sermon in Salt Lake City. ...