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The Three Degrees of Glory in Latter-day Saint Theology

An explanation of the three kingdoms of glory—Celestial, Terrestrial, and Telestial—taught in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as potential eternal destinations.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 3, 2026
Branched from Eternal Increase in Latter-day Saint Doctrine
Quick take
  • Latter-day Saint theology teaches three main kingdoms of glory: Celestial, Terrestrial, and Telestial.
  • These kingdoms represent different levels of eternal exaltation or salvation, based on obedience and righteousness.
  • The Celestial Kingdom is the highest, where individuals live with God and Jesus Christ, and includes eternal marriage and family.
  • The Terrestrial and Telestial Kingdoms offer different forms of salvation, but without the full blessings of the Celestial.

The Three Degrees of Glory are foundational to the Latter-day Saint understanding of the afterlife. They describe three distinct kingdoms or levels of eternal reward and glory that individuals may inherit after resurrection and judgment, based on their faithfulness to God's commandments and acceptance of Christ's Atonement during their mortal lives. This doctrine emphasizes God's mercy and justice, allowing for a wide range of eternal destinations.

The Celestial Kingdom: Dwelling with God

The Celestial Kingdom is the highest of the three degrees of glory. It is reserved for those who have accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ, made sacred covenants (like baptism and temple ordinances), and faithfully striven to live according to God's laws, including eternal marriage. Those who inherit the Celestial Kingdom will live in the presence of God the Father and Jesus Christ, enjoy eternal families, and continue to progress and experience "eternal increase." This kingdom is described as a place of ultimate joy, light, and glory.

The Terrestrial Kingdom: A Place of Honor

The Terrestrial Kingdom is the middle degree of glory. It is for those who lived honorable lives but "were not valiant in the testimony of Jesus" or who rejected the full gospel while on earth but accepted it in the spirit world. They will receive glory beyond mortal comprehension but will not dwell in the immediate presence of God the Father, though they may be visited by Jesus Christ. While a wonderful place, it lacks the fullness of joy and eternal family blessings found in the Celestial Kingdom.

The Telestial Kingdom: Innumerable as the Stars

The Telestial Kingdom is the lowest of the three kingdoms of glory. It is for those who were generally wicked, rebellious, or unrepentant in mortality, and who rejected the gospel and Christ's atonement, but who are still worthy of some degree of salvation due to Christ's infinite sacrifice. They will experience a glory far surpassing earthly understanding, but it is a lesser glory compared to the Terrestrial and Celestial. Individuals in the Telestial Kingdom will not live in the presence of God or Christ. This kingdom is said to contain the vast majority of humanity.

This doctrine provides Latter-day Saints with a profound understanding of God's justice and mercy, offering hope for all of humanity while still emphasizing the importance of making righteous choices. It motivates members to strive for the highest degree of glory by living a life of faith, obedience, and service, with the ultimate goal of returning to live with God and their families eternally. It also clarifies that salvation is broad, but exaltation (the highest degree) requires specific covenants and commitment.

A Note on "Hell" in LDS Theology
  • Latter-day Saint doctrine does not teach a traditional "hell" of eternal torment for the vast majority.
  • The "outer darkness" is a separate, very rare state reserved for those who actively rebel against God after receiving a full knowledge of Him.
  • Almost all individuals will inherit one of the three degrees of glory, representing different levels of salvation and happiness.
Can people move between kingdoms after judgment?
No. Once individuals are assigned to a kingdom of glory after resurrection and judgment, their eternal destination is fixed. The opportunity for repentance and progression to a higher kingdom is available in the spirit world before judgment, but not after.
What about those who never heard of Jesus Christ?
Latter-day Saint theology teaches that everyone will have an opportunity to hear and accept the gospel, either in this life or in the spirit world after death. Those who die without knowledge of Christ will be taught the gospel there and can accept ordinances performed by proxy in temples on their behalf.
Is the Telestial Kingdom a bad place?
No. While it's the lowest of the three degrees of glory, it's still a glorious and happy place, far exceeding any earthly comfort or joy. It is a kingdom of salvation, but it lacks the ultimate blessings and presence of God found in the higher kingdoms.
How do these degrees relate to "eternal increase"?
"Eternal increase" is specifically tied to the Celestial Kingdom, particularly for those who enter into and keep the covenant of eternal marriage. It refers to the ability to continue to grow, progress, and have spirit children eternally, becoming like God in capacity and creative power. This blessing is not available in the lower kingdoms.
Explore further
Understanding the Plan of Salvation in Latter-day Saint BeliefsThe Role of Temple Ordinances in Latter-day Saint Eternal ProgressionWhat is Eternal Marriage in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?The Latter-day Saint View of the Spirit World and Post-Mortal LifeThe Atonement of Jesus Christ and Its Role in Latter-day Saint SalvationWhat is Exaltation in Latter-day Saint Theology?

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