The House of Israel refers to the descendants of Jacob, whose name was changed by the Lord to Israel (1 Nephi 19:16). Jacob begat twelve sons, who became the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. Throughout the Book of Mormon, the House of Israel is mentioned as a covenant people—those who have entered into solemn agreements with the Lord, marked by sacred ordinances and pledges (1 Nephi 14:14).
The Book of Mormon narrative explains that after the House of Israel would be scattered, they would eventually be gathered again in fulfillment of the Lord’s promises to his covenant people (1 Nephi 15:18; 22:9). This gathering is often associated with the coming to the knowledge of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, and is seen as a pivotal event in the lasting covenant between God and His chosen people, cemented through the acceptance of His teachings and ordinances (1 Nephi 10:14).
Gentiles who accept the gospel are granted the privilege of being “numbered with” the House of Israel, implying their adoption into the covenant and the blessings associated with it (2 Nephi 10:18; 3 Nephi 30:2). This principle underscores the universal appeal and applicability of the Lord’s work and glory, which encompasses all who believe and follow Him, regardless of their lineage. Those of the House of Israel in the last days, including remnants of the once great nation, are reassured that they will enjoy the blessings promised to their ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
For Latter-day Saints, the concept of the House of Israel is also expanded to mean the gathering of Israel, which includes bringing people into the Church of Jesus Christ and inviting them to make covenants with God. It is an ongoing aspect of the Church’s mission, and through patriarchal blessings, individuals can be declared to belong to a specific tribe of Israel, symbolizing their part in the larger family of the Lord’s covenant people (1 Nephi 13:23; 3 Nephi 21:22–23). Notwithstanding, simple membership in the House of Israel is insufficient without faithfulness to the covenants made, which alone can secure one’s place in the Lord’s eternal kingdom (3 Nephi 20:46).