The Holy Ghost, also referred to by various synonymous terms such as the Spirit of the Lord, the Holy Spirit, and the Spirit of God, is a personage of spirit and the third member of the Godhead according to doctrines outlined in the Book of Mormon. Unlike the Father and the Son, who have physical bodies of flesh and bones, the Holy Ghost is a personage of spirit, allowing Him to dwell within individuals and communicate the will of God to their hearts and minds (1 Nephi 11:11).
The influence of the Holy Ghost is key to spiritual enlightenment and guidance, manifesting in diverse ways such as feelings of peace, comfort, and joy, as well as through spiritual gifts including prophecy, revelation, and the ability to speak and interpret diverse languages. It plays an essential role in the process of conversion and sanctification, guiding individuals to the truth of all things (Moroni 10:4-5), confirming the reality of Christ and the Father (3 Nephi 28:11), and providing strength and protection to the servants of God (Alma 43:2; Helaman 16:2).
The Book of Mormon emphasizes the necessity of receiving the Holy Ghost for a full spiritual conversion, often following the ordinance of baptism. It is described as the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost (2 Nephi 31:13-14; 3 Nephi 12:1-2), signifying the cleansing of the soul and the constant companionship of the Holy Spirit, as long as an individual remains worthy. Through such baptism, individuals may become purified and enter into the rest of the Lord (Alma 13:12).
The Holy Ghost also bears witness of the Father and the Son and is seen as an integral part of receiving personal revelation and inspiration, providing comfort and the assurance of God’s love (Mormon 5:9; Moroni 8:26). As one God with the Father and the Son (2 Nephi 31:21), the Holy Ghost participates indivisibly in the divine mission of salvation and revelation to mankind, continuing to work miracles and impart gifts to the faithful throughout the Book of Mormon narrative (Moroni 10:7-8).