I'll give you the best answer I can, but the aquisition of knowledge is an ever-evolving thing, and there are certain to be some things I don't know, that may change or broaden my perspective in future.
There are a few different definitions for the term "Zion" that Latter-day Saints use. The Zion in this reference is talking of the city that Christ will inhabit as the King and High Priest, during the Millennium of Peace.
The reason we believe that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent is because the prophet of the Lord has revealed this to us. I don't believe there is any other reasoning behind it than that.
As far as I know, the restoration of the Ten Tribes refers to the gathering of the "lost tribes" into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It doesn't mean that they will all migrate to America, where the church was first established.
To me personally, "the promised land" is what God promises to each of us as a land of inheritance for our children... it is not really saying that one land is more favourable than another.
I view my little block of land in Australia as "the promised land" and my children's "land of inheritance." The American continent was "the promised land" to Lehi and his family, who are described in the Book of Mormon, and also to all who "were moved upon" by the Spirit of the Lord, to settle on that continent.
I'm not sure who exactly has God's sanction to claim Israel as the "promised land" and an inheritance for their children... The descendants of Judah and the descendants of Ishmael are still hotly disputing it.
Rest assured, though, that LDS revere the Holy Land as much as any other Christian (or Jew or Muslim). It was the birthplace of Christ, and has been a spiritual nexus for thousands of years.
There is so much we don't know about the history and future of the world that we can barely even begin to guess the Lord's reasoning for what he does. That is why we follow the prophets.
Our belief in the authenticity of the prophets of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the reason why we believe that Zion will be built upon the American continent.
God bless you, and thank-you for asking such a polite question. xo
2007-05-16 15:28:20
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answer #1
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answered by MumOf5 6
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America is the promised land to the tribe of Joseph and Israel is the promised land to the tribe of Judah.
Why America?: Because America is a completely seperate land mass. It was provided so the sins in Isreal could be kept away from the tribe of Joseph for a time.
Why not Isreal?: Zion the Old Jerusalem will be restored in Isreal. Zion the New Jerusalem will be on the American continent.
There's more than this... if you want more add details...
2007-05-16 15:00:02
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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Well, if you think about it, God gave Israel a chance already. He sent Christ there, and they killed him.
Not only that, but America was given to the tribe of Joseph, and his lineage. It was set aside for them. Most of the Christian faiths are set up in America.
It does say in the scriptures that Israel will see Christ again, but it will be after His visit here. He will come to the place that holds the most faithful- the ones that believe in Christ the most. It isn't just for us LDS people, but for everyone that believes in Christ.
There is more to it then that, but I would have to check into it and find out. If anyone knows, feel free to let me know too!!!!!
2007-05-16 15:15:02
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answer #3
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answered by odd duck 6
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Why America? Because the Lord revealed that to us--that's why. The Promised Land has long been the Americas since the Book of Mormon peoples came here.
If you truly want to know why the Lord chose America over the Middle East consider getting on your knees and ask Him.
2007-05-16 15:00:04
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answer #4
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answered by Guitarpicker 7
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cos everything is about America , to some americans. babylon is gonna be america. the land of free is gonna be america. the promised land is gonna be america.
its the pride gone wrong.
2007-05-16 14:47:06
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answer #5
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answered by sylll 3
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