was equivalent to a
declaration that the imploring but neglectful ones, who had been found
unready and unprepared, did not know Him.[1166]

The application of the parable and its wealth of splendid suggestion are
summarized in a masterly manner by the Lord's impressive adjuration:
"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the
Son of man cometh." The fulfilment of the predictions enshrined in this
precious parable is yet future, but near. In 1831 the Lord Jesus Christ
revealed anew the indications by which the imminence of His glorious
advent may be perceived. Through the mouth of His prophet Joseph Smith
He thus spake: "And at that day, when I shall come in my glory, shall
the parable be fulfilled which I spake concerning the ten virgins: for
they that are wise and have received the truth, and have taken the Holy
Spirit for their guide, and have not been deceived; verily I say unto
you, they shall not be hewn down and cast into the fire, but shall abide
the day, and the earth shall be given unto them for an inheritance; and
they shall multiply and wax strong, and their children shall grow up
without sin unto salvation, for the Lord shall be in their midst, and
his glory shall be upon them, and he will be their King and their
Lawgiver."[1167]

Still discoursing in solemn earnestness to the apostles as the evening
shadows gathered about the Mount of Olives, the Lord delivered the last
of His recorded parables. We call it the _Parable of the Entrusted
Talents_.[1168]

"For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country,
who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto
one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every
man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.
Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the
same, and made them other five talents. And likewise he that had
received two, he also gained other two. But he that had received one
went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. After a long
time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. And so
he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents,
saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have
gained beside them five talents more. His lord said unto him, Well done,
thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few
things, I will make thee ruler over m