Celestial Marriage. In the 19th century this was a specific reference to polygamy. Today, this term means marriages performed in Mormon temples, which are not only binding in this life but also in the next, and lead to “forever families.” It is something to be strived for in Mormonism.

Apostle Richard G. Scott wrote, 

“If you are single and haven’t identified a solid prospect for celestial marriage, live for it. Pray for it. Expect it in the timetable of the Lord. Do not compromise your standards in any way that would rule out that blessing on this or the other side of the veil. The Lord knows the intent of your heart. His prophets have stated that you will have that blessing as you consistently live to qualify for it. We do not know whether it will be on this or the other side of the veil. But live for it. Pray for it” (“Receive the Temple Blessings,” Ensign (Conference Edition), May 1999, p. 27).

However, as one church manual warns,

“Be sure to emphasize that temple marriage is not a guarantee of exaltation in the celestial kingdom” (Preparing for Exaltation Teacher’s Manual, 1998, p. 40).

For more information on celestial marriage, see here.

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