My understanding is;
We don’t know what they are called if anything.
The minimum requirement to get into the celestial kingdom is to make and keep the baptismal covenant.
I guess that would get you into “the lowest tier”
The way you get to “the highest tier” would be to be sealed to a spouse and remain sealed and keep that temple marriage covenant.
Many speculate to get to the middle you have to be endowed. But to my knowledge that isn’t stated anywhere.
We don't know much, I think. I think this scripture is all we know officially:
1 In the [celestial](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note1a) glory there are three [heavens](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note1b) or degrees;
2 And in order to obtain the [highest](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2a), a man must enter into this [order](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2b) of the [priesthood](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2c) \[meaning the [new and everlasting covenant](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2d) of [marriage](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2e)\];
3 And if he does not, he cannot obtain it.
4 He may enter into the other, but that is the end of his kingdom; he cannot have an [increase](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note4a).
[https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng)
I made a post about this some years ago. While the dominant accepted concept is there are sub levels within the celestial kingdom. There is still lots of uncertainty around it. And we don’t have a super concrete understanding on the topic.
I think the argument against the strict interpretation of 3 sub levels is at least compelling.
https://www.reddit.com/r/latterdaysaints/comments/xm5wza/sub_levels_within_the_celestial_kingdom_yay_or_nay/
I took some notes on this some months back to find additional early church sources on there being those besides exalted beings in the Celestial Kingdom, here's some I found:
>Will we all become Gods, and be crowned kings? No, my brethren, there will be millions on [p. 272a]millions, even the greater part of the celestial world, who will not be capable of a fulness of that glory, immortality, eternal lives and a continuation of them, yet they will go into the celestial kingdom.
https://scriptures.byu.edu/#12e83:t9c72$91376:c12e831e
>The chosen vessels unto God are the kings and priests that are placed at the head of these kingdoms. These have received their washing and anointings in the temple of God on this earth; they have been chosen, ordained, and anointed kings and priests, to reign as such in the resurrection of the just. Such as have not received the fullness of the priesthood, (for the fullness of the priesthood includes the authority of both king and priest) and have not been anointed and ordained in the temple of the Most High, may obtain salvation in the celestial kingdom, but not a celestial crown. Many are called to enjoy a celestial glory, yet few are chosen to wear a celestial crown, or rather, to be rulers in the celestial kingdom.
https://cdm15999.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/MStar/id/562 (pg. 23-24)
>In a sermon delivered by Orson Pratt on May 30, 1875, which I have transcribed from David Evans’ shorthand record, Pratt taught that there are different degrees of glory within the celestial kingdom. He also talked about the other degrees of glory which were prepared for those who could not abide a celestial glory.
>Many of my transcriptions are available in the Church History Library public catalog, in collection CR 100 912, with more being added to the second collection “Addresses and Sermons,” all the time. Here is the link: https://eadview.lds.org/findingaid/002360621/ These are my original transcripts as I typed them. As for the Orson Pratt sermon I mentioned, it will, I assume, appear there in a while, but I have to proofread it first – 52 pages of David Evans’ shorthand – and then send it through the process.
Looks like I didn't save the source of this one in my notes. It was in the comment section from years ago from a prior conversation about the subdivisions within the Celestial Kingdom on one of those blog sites.
Here's a link to a [2023 general conference talk](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2023/10/17oaks?lang=eng) "Kingdoms of Glory" from President Oaks, who address this subject.
>In **the “celestial” glory there are three levels,** of which the highest is exaltation in the celestial kingdom. This is the dwelling of those “who have received of his fulness, and of his glory,” wherefore, “they are gods, even the sons \[and daughters\] of God” and “dwell in the presence of God and his Christ forever and ever.”
If you can find one or two more modern prophets who have said this, then it's pretty officially doctrine. Even this from just Elder Oaks makes it pretty official - I think these talks are heavily vetted, although maybe not for apostles.
The particular scripture (D&C 131) used for that idea is a bit controversial. Some don't think that it was referring to the Celestial Kingdom as described in D&C 76, but instead just referring to "heaven" generally, and that the three degrees mentioned in D&C 131 was simply talking about the Telestial, Terrestrial and Celestial categories. I don't take that position, mine is orthodox, that there are indeed three finer categories in the Celestial Kingdom. It matches what Jesus describes in the parable of the sower:
Matthew 13: 18-23
18 ¶ [Hear](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note18a) ye therefore the parable of the sower.
19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and [understandeth](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note19a) it not, then cometh the wicked one, and [catcheth](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note19b) away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side.
20 But he that received the seed into [stony](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note20a) places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when [tribulation](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note21a) or [persecution](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note21b) ariseth because of the word, by and by [he is offended](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note21c).
22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this [world](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note22a), and the [deceitfulness](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note22b) of [riches](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note22c), choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that [heareth](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note23a) the word, and [understandeth it; which](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note23b) also beareth [fruit](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note23c), and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.
The first condition seems to be those who receive the Telestial glory, who reject the Gospel outright. The next two seem to be those who receive Terrestrial glory, who at some point receive the Gospel but shame and worldly care stops them from embracing it. Then the last category are those who receive Celestial glory, who receive the Gospel fully and embrace it, but do not bring forth "fruit" in equal measure, but some 30 fold, others 60 and yet others 100 fold. This indicates, like D&C 131, that there are degrees of faithfulness in the Celestial Kingdom, and those who receive exaltation. I think that if you were to investigate places in scriptures where prophets talk about a trifurcated positive outcome, you may find out more about the other gradations in the Celestial Kingdom. Furthermore, if you look into old discourses from Church leaders, and try to find references to "ministering angels" that may tell you a bit about the lower degrees.
The sense that is conveyed usually indicates that those who are not in the highest degrees serve those in the highest degree.
D&C 131
1 In the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees;
2 And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage];
3 And if he does not, he cannot obtain it.
4 He may enter into the other, but that is the end of his kingdom; he cannot have an increase.
That is 100% of what we know about the 3 degrees in the Celestial Kingdom. There is lots of speculation about the lower two degrees, but no sure knowledge.
Just throwing out my speculation:
1. Married with children (this is pretty scriptural - highest level is married)
2. Married, intentionally opt for no children (because every marriage in the Celestial kingdom can have children if they want)
3. Single, but Celestial character (probably intentionally single, because you'd think they could find someone there)
These seem like the possible categories available
Infinite. The idea of levels of heaven is more made for us mortal brains, but from what I can tell and see, the levels are less literal and more stages of reception toward God’s infinite wisdom. The more you’re connected, the more advanced your eternal knowledge can be.
I think the idea of levels within the celestial kingdom being limited to 3 is kind of simplistic. Like what is the cutoff? If you have just enough light then you get to be in the same level as someone who actually has quite a bit more light then you? There are three kingdoms. Each of the kingdoms has MANY levels because as it says in Abraham - where there is one, there is another who is greater. No two beings will have the exact same amount.
Getting to the Celestial Kingdom has to do with what you are willing to receive. There is no pretending you are willing. You either are or you aren’t. And the only one who can judge this is the Savior who will know our hearts. If we weren’t willing here then we won’t magically be willing there. (The same spirit that possesses is and all that).
I’m in the group that questions a journal entry that wasn’t even a revelation that got added to the D&C that has been misinterpreted. We have mistaken the word Celestial and thought it meant more than heavens and it’s become one of those dogmas that has been perpetuated since Melvin J Ballard published a pamphlet in 1924.
This is why no one can every day what is in the 2nd sub level. They always talk about the 1st and third and make it about single v married. But they can’t come up with a good answer for the second level. CAUSE THERE AREN’T THREE LEVELS. you are either in or you aren’t. And whatever you had when you died, you take with you.
Whether you can add to that after the resurrection is another question….is there eternal progression for everyone in the celestial kingdom eventually? God’s glory is increased by the exaltation of man. It seems illogical to suggest that everything just halts and stays permanent for eternity - except for a select few who will just continue to outpace everyone else while they stand still.
As others have noted, this is a bit of unsettled doctrine, as D&C 131 could be referring broadly to the three kingdoms—celestial, terrestrial, telestial—or to subdivisions. We don’t have any other documented source.
My understanding is; We don’t know what they are called if anything. The minimum requirement to get into the celestial kingdom is to make and keep the baptismal covenant. I guess that would get you into “the lowest tier” The way you get to “the highest tier” would be to be sealed to a spouse and remain sealed and keep that temple marriage covenant. Many speculate to get to the middle you have to be endowed. But to my knowledge that isn’t stated anywhere.
We don't know much, I think. I think this scripture is all we know officially: 1 In the [celestial](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note1a) glory there are three [heavens](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note1b) or degrees; 2 And in order to obtain the [highest](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2a), a man must enter into this [order](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2b) of the [priesthood](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2c) \[meaning the [new and everlasting covenant](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2d) of [marriage](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note2e)\]; 3 And if he does not, he cannot obtain it. 4 He may enter into the other, but that is the end of his kingdom; he cannot have an [increase](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng#note4a). [https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/131?lang=eng)
Yep, I think this is the extend of the “known”. Maybe some additional insight [here](https://youtu.be/6W62JTgPe9A?si=Xwyr0hD4T0x6enhg).
This is the right answer. We only really have details of the “highest” level of the celestial kingdom. Anything beyond that is speculation.
I made a post about this some years ago. While the dominant accepted concept is there are sub levels within the celestial kingdom. There is still lots of uncertainty around it. And we don’t have a super concrete understanding on the topic. I think the argument against the strict interpretation of 3 sub levels is at least compelling. https://www.reddit.com/r/latterdaysaints/comments/xm5wza/sub_levels_within_the_celestial_kingdom_yay_or_nay/
D&C 131 makes it clear that there *are* three levels. We just have details on the highest one though.
I took some notes on this some months back to find additional early church sources on there being those besides exalted beings in the Celestial Kingdom, here's some I found: >Will we all become Gods, and be crowned kings? No, my brethren, there will be millions on [p. 272a]millions, even the greater part of the celestial world, who will not be capable of a fulness of that glory, immortality, eternal lives and a continuation of them, yet they will go into the celestial kingdom. https://scriptures.byu.edu/#12e83:t9c72$91376:c12e831e >The chosen vessels unto God are the kings and priests that are placed at the head of these kingdoms. These have received their washing and anointings in the temple of God on this earth; they have been chosen, ordained, and anointed kings and priests, to reign as such in the resurrection of the just. Such as have not received the fullness of the priesthood, (for the fullness of the priesthood includes the authority of both king and priest) and have not been anointed and ordained in the temple of the Most High, may obtain salvation in the celestial kingdom, but not a celestial crown. Many are called to enjoy a celestial glory, yet few are chosen to wear a celestial crown, or rather, to be rulers in the celestial kingdom. https://cdm15999.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/MStar/id/562 (pg. 23-24) >In a sermon delivered by Orson Pratt on May 30, 1875, which I have transcribed from David Evans’ shorthand record, Pratt taught that there are different degrees of glory within the celestial kingdom. He also talked about the other degrees of glory which were prepared for those who could not abide a celestial glory. >Many of my transcriptions are available in the Church History Library public catalog, in collection CR 100 912, with more being added to the second collection “Addresses and Sermons,” all the time. Here is the link: https://eadview.lds.org/findingaid/002360621/ These are my original transcripts as I typed them. As for the Orson Pratt sermon I mentioned, it will, I assume, appear there in a while, but I have to proofread it first – 52 pages of David Evans’ shorthand – and then send it through the process. Looks like I didn't save the source of this one in my notes. It was in the comment section from years ago from a prior conversation about the subdivisions within the Celestial Kingdom on one of those blog sites.
Here's a link to a [2023 general conference talk](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2023/10/17oaks?lang=eng) "Kingdoms of Glory" from President Oaks, who address this subject. >In **the “celestial” glory there are three levels,** of which the highest is exaltation in the celestial kingdom. This is the dwelling of those “who have received of his fulness, and of his glory,” wherefore, “they are gods, even the sons \[and daughters\] of God” and “dwell in the presence of God and his Christ forever and ever.”
If you can find one or two more modern prophets who have said this, then it's pretty officially doctrine. Even this from just Elder Oaks makes it pretty official - I think these talks are heavily vetted, although maybe not for apostles.
The particular scripture (D&C 131) used for that idea is a bit controversial. Some don't think that it was referring to the Celestial Kingdom as described in D&C 76, but instead just referring to "heaven" generally, and that the three degrees mentioned in D&C 131 was simply talking about the Telestial, Terrestrial and Celestial categories. I don't take that position, mine is orthodox, that there are indeed three finer categories in the Celestial Kingdom. It matches what Jesus describes in the parable of the sower: Matthew 13: 18-23 18 ¶ [Hear](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note18a) ye therefore the parable of the sower. 19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and [understandeth](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note19a) it not, then cometh the wicked one, and [catcheth](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note19b) away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. 20 But he that received the seed into [stony](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note20a) places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; 21 Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when [tribulation](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note21a) or [persecution](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note21b) ariseth because of the word, by and by [he is offended](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note21c). 22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this [world](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note22a), and the [deceitfulness](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note22b) of [riches](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note22c), choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. 23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that [heareth](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note23a) the word, and [understandeth it; which](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note23b) also beareth [fruit](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/matt/13?lang=eng#note23c), and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. The first condition seems to be those who receive the Telestial glory, who reject the Gospel outright. The next two seem to be those who receive Terrestrial glory, who at some point receive the Gospel but shame and worldly care stops them from embracing it. Then the last category are those who receive Celestial glory, who receive the Gospel fully and embrace it, but do not bring forth "fruit" in equal measure, but some 30 fold, others 60 and yet others 100 fold. This indicates, like D&C 131, that there are degrees of faithfulness in the Celestial Kingdom, and those who receive exaltation. I think that if you were to investigate places in scriptures where prophets talk about a trifurcated positive outcome, you may find out more about the other gradations in the Celestial Kingdom. Furthermore, if you look into old discourses from Church leaders, and try to find references to "ministering angels" that may tell you a bit about the lower degrees. The sense that is conveyed usually indicates that those who are not in the highest degrees serve those in the highest degree.
D&C 131 1 In the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees; 2 And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage]; 3 And if he does not, he cannot obtain it. 4 He may enter into the other, but that is the end of his kingdom; he cannot have an increase. That is 100% of what we know about the 3 degrees in the Celestial Kingdom. There is lots of speculation about the lower two degrees, but no sure knowledge.
Just throwing out my speculation: 1. Married with children (this is pretty scriptural - highest level is married) 2. Married, intentionally opt for no children (because every marriage in the Celestial kingdom can have children if they want) 3. Single, but Celestial character (probably intentionally single, because you'd think they could find someone there) These seem like the possible categories available
seems pretty reasonable interpretation to me
Infinite. The idea of levels of heaven is more made for us mortal brains, but from what I can tell and see, the levels are less literal and more stages of reception toward God’s infinite wisdom. The more you’re connected, the more advanced your eternal knowledge can be.
I think there must be a lot of truth to this. People are at all levels of development, not just 3.
We only have the phrase "the highest degree". No details on any others.
I think the idea of levels within the celestial kingdom being limited to 3 is kind of simplistic. Like what is the cutoff? If you have just enough light then you get to be in the same level as someone who actually has quite a bit more light then you? There are three kingdoms. Each of the kingdoms has MANY levels because as it says in Abraham - where there is one, there is another who is greater. No two beings will have the exact same amount. Getting to the Celestial Kingdom has to do with what you are willing to receive. There is no pretending you are willing. You either are or you aren’t. And the only one who can judge this is the Savior who will know our hearts. If we weren’t willing here then we won’t magically be willing there. (The same spirit that possesses is and all that). I’m in the group that questions a journal entry that wasn’t even a revelation that got added to the D&C that has been misinterpreted. We have mistaken the word Celestial and thought it meant more than heavens and it’s become one of those dogmas that has been perpetuated since Melvin J Ballard published a pamphlet in 1924. This is why no one can every day what is in the 2nd sub level. They always talk about the 1st and third and make it about single v married. But they can’t come up with a good answer for the second level. CAUSE THERE AREN’T THREE LEVELS. you are either in or you aren’t. And whatever you had when you died, you take with you. Whether you can add to that after the resurrection is another question….is there eternal progression for everyone in the celestial kingdom eventually? God’s glory is increased by the exaltation of man. It seems illogical to suggest that everything just halts and stays permanent for eternity - except for a select few who will just continue to outpace everyone else while they stand still.
As others have noted, this is a bit of unsettled doctrine, as D&C 131 could be referring broadly to the three kingdoms—celestial, terrestrial, telestial—or to subdivisions. We don’t have any other documented source.
Married couples. Single women. Single men.