The Prophet Joseph Smith received, as early as January second, 1831, some instructions concerning the united order of community life. This was only about nine months after the organization of the Church. "Wherefore," says the Lord in a revelation given then, "for this cause I gave unto you the commandment that ye should go to the Ohio; and there I will give unto you my law."[E] By the "law" is meant undoubtedly the law of consecration, which is the basic principle of the United Order. Accordingly, only one month later, on February 9th, 1831, the Lord gave to Joseph Smith, at Kirtland, Ohio, another revelation, explaining this law of the Church. Twelve of the elders of the Church were present when this revelation was received. In it the members of the Church were instructed to consecrate of their properties for the support of the poor, and for the purchasing of lands, the building of temples and houses of worship, and the establishing of the New Jerusalem. The method of consecration is outlined in a general way.[F] [Footnote E: Doc. and Cov. 38:32.] [Footnote F: Doc. and Cov. 42:30-39; read the whole revelation.] After this, the prophet received several revelations on the subject of the United Order, or the Order of Enoch, explaining the principle more fully. He was instructed to organize the Saints "by a bond or everlasting covenant that cannot be broken," "for the benefit of the Church of the living God, that every man may improve upon his talent, that every man may gain other talents, yea, even an hundred fold, to be cast into the Lord's storehouse, to become the common property of the whole Church."[G] He was given by revelation the rules governing the assigning of stewardships.[H] Twice he received specific commandments and directions for organizing the principal communities of the Church into suitable orders for the care of the poor; for establishing equality among the rich and the poor; and for securing the independence of the Church upon the earth.[I] He was told what provision should be made for widows and orphans.[J] He was directed to appoint clerks and treasurers, and have their duties specifically defined.[K] He received special revelations on the subject for the enlightenment of certain persons.[L] He was told what should be the punishment of those not enrolled in the book of remembrance.[M] And in frequent inspired communications he received instructions that the commandments which had been given concerning Zion and her law should be executed and fulfilled.[N] [Footnote G: Doc. and Cov. secs. 78, 82.] [Footnote H: Doc. and Cov. 51:1-20.] [Footnote I: Doc. and Cov. secs. 78, 82.] [Footnote J: Doc. and Cov. 83:1-6.] [Footnote K: Doc. and Cov. 85:1-5; 104:1-86.] [Footnote L: Doc. and Cov. 92:1-2; 96:9.] [Footnote M: Doc. and Cov. 85:9-12.] [Footnote N: Doc. and Cov. 105:34.]