We are eternal beings. We lived as intelligent spirits before this mortal life. We are now living part of eternity. Our mortal birth was not the beginning; death, which faces all of us, is not the end.

The quote "We are eternal beings. We lived as intelligent spirits before this mortal life. We are now living part of eternity. Our mortal birth was not the beginning; death, which faces all of us, is not the end" by Ezra Taft Benson, a prominent leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), emphasizes a spiritual and eternal view of human existence. Benson is conveying the belief that life is not limited to the mortal experience we have on Earth, but is part of a larger eternal journey. This view suggests that our intelligence or spiritual essence existed before our physical birth and will continue after our death, affirming the idea of an eternal soul.

Benson's statement reflects the LDS Church's teachings about the pre-mortal existence of souls and the eternal nature of life. He emphasizes that our mortal birth is just one stage in a much larger eternal progression, and that death is not the end but a transition to another phase of existence. This concept of eternal life, in which life on Earth is just one part of a continuous journey, offers comfort and hope to believers, as it highlights the importance of spiritual development and the eternal significance of life.

The origin of this quote comes from Benson’s teachings as an influential church leader, particularly during his time as a member of the LDS Church’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. His views on eternal life, the pre-mortal and post-mortal existence, and the nature of the soul reflect core doctrines of the LDS faith, which teaches that life has a divine, eternal purpose. His message encourages individuals to view life through a broader lens, understanding that earthly challenges and death are not the final chapters of existence.

Ultimately, this quote invites reflection on the nature of life, death, and eternity, encouraging individuals to look beyond the transient nature of mortal existence and recognize the eternal journey of the soul. Benson’s perspective provides a spiritual framework for understanding the challenges of life and the significance of death as a part of a much larger, divine plan. This belief in eternity offers comfort and perspective, emphasizing that life’s meaning extends far beyond our earthly experiences.