Keter - The Crown

In Jewish Mysticism there is an idea that is symbolized by the word “Keter” or crown. Cabalistic Tree of Life imagery includes ten stations (Sephiroth) in ascending order, like rungs on a ladder. The top rung on the ladder is Keter, or exaltation.

However, we see in ancient Jewish literature that at each stage of sanctification the initiate receives a crown for that stage, meaning that he receives all the rights, responsibilities, privileges, and powers belonging or corresponding to that stage or rung. The top rung means you have received all the Father has. Keter is the crown over all.

When we receive a crown over a kingdom, or a rung, we are from then on associated with whoever else wears that same crown (Glory).

“[At the resurrection of the dead] …they shall come forth—yea, even the dead which died in me, to receive a crown of righteousness, and to be clothed upon, even as I am, to be with me, that we may be one.” (Doctrine and Covenants 29:13)

Hugh Nibley wrote:

“…[T]he crown of sanctification… is added (the round linen cap was to act as a cushion for a metal crown during a long ceremony). Later the cap alone would suffice, since it showed that the owner was qualified to wear the ‘crown of justification.’” (Hugh Nibley, Don E. Norton, Temple and Cosmos, Deseret Book, Pg#55)

Here are a few more:

James 1:12 1 Peter 5:4 Rev 3:11 D&C 20:14 D&C 66:12 D&C 78:15 D&C 81:6 D&C 88:19