Testator

From The Encyclopedia of Mormonism

See this page in the original 1992 publication.

Author: Marrott, Robert L.

A testator is one who at death leaves a valid will or testament. In certain usages, the word is synonymous with witness. The term appears twice in scripture, retaining the strictly legal sense in Hebrews 9:16-17,where the death of Jesus Christ makes valid the new testament, or covenant. In Doctrine and Covenants 135:5-6,testator includes the additional connotation of "martyr" when referring to the deaths of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum. The outline of Joseph Smith's accomplishments in verse 3 underscores why Latter-day Saints regard him as a valid testator. ROBERT L. MARROTT

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