A Theological and Cosmological Overview of Anthony E. Larson’s Prophecy Trilogy

Introduction

Anthony E. Larson’s Prophecy Trilogy presents a strikingly original reinterpretation of apocalyptic scripture, ancient myth, and Latter-day Saint theology. Across three volumes—_And the Moon Shall Turn to Blood_, _And the Earth Shall Reel To and Fro_, and _And There Shall Be a New Heaven and a New Earth_—Larson weaves a coherent narrative rooted in catastrophist cosmology, the restored gospel, and ancient prophetic traditions. His work proposes that scriptural accounts of destruction, deliverance, and divine judgment are not merely symbolic but are based on observable celestial events—particularly planetary alignments and catastrophic interactions involving Mars, Venus, and Saturn. This guide summarizes the key theological themes, symbolic motifs, and cosmological claims presented in the trilogy, with supporting analysis and commentary to aid scholars, seekers, and readers of spiritually infused fiction.

Volume I: And the Moon Shall Turn to Blood

Larson’s first volume sets the stage by establishing his core claim: the signs and wonders described in ancient prophecy—especially in the Bible and the Book of Mormon—refer to literal, catastrophic sky events seen by ancient peoples. He draws heavily from Immanuel Velikovsky, Electric Universe theory, and Latter-day Saint sources. Major themes include the misinterpretation of symbolism, the history of planetary chaos, and a call for modern Saints to recover the symbolic literacy of prophets. The tone is urgent and corrective.

Volume II: And the Earth Shall Reel To and Fro

The second volume focuses on destruction—especially apocalyptic imagery in the Book of Mormon, Isaiah, and the Doctrine and Covenants. Larson suggests that the darkness and upheaval at Christ’s crucifixion reflect a repeatable celestial pattern. He interprets pole shift, crustal displacement, and ancient upheavals as divinely orchestrated judgments. The writing is polemical yet reverent, calling for readiness among God’s covenant people.

Volume III: And There Shall Be a New Heaven and a New Earth

The final book completes the prophetic arc with hope. Larson envisions a renewed earth and cosmos aligned with divine geometry—an Edenic restoration including celestial harmonies once lost. The imagery of the heavenly council, the throne of God, and the polar alignment of planetary bodies converge to describe the Millennial Day. Zion is presented not only as a moral society but as an electromagnetically shielded place of divine safety.

Comparative Thematic Chart

This chart highlights the primary thematic focus of each volume across three major axes.

Theological Motifs and Symbols Index

– **Divine Judgment:** Interpreted through celestial trauma, not divine caprice.
– **Heavenly Council:** Reimagined as planetary bodies aligned in polar configuration.
– **Temple Imagery:** Celestial archetypes reflected in earthly ritual.
– **Prophetic Symbolism:** Literalization of metaphors (scrolls, trumpets, beasts).
– **Zion and Gathering:** Physical and spiritual refuge from plasma upheaval.
– **Renewal and Restoration:** Cosmic reset as fulfillment of millennial promises.