On 27-28 December 1832, ten high priests assembled in the upstairs of the Kirtland, Ohio, store owned by Bishop Newel K. Whitney. JS’s practice at the time was to meet in conference with gatherings of high priests to conduct church business. According to the meeting’s minutes, those in attendance united in praying that the Lord would “reveal his will unto us concerning the upbuilding of Zion, & for the benefit of the saints and for the duty and employment of the Elders”. JS subsequently dictated a lengthy revelation designated as the “Olive Leaf.” The expansive revelation dealt with such topics as the Godhead, the nature and destiny of man, the return of Christ, the purpose of the earth, and the universe. It also instructed priesthood members to purify themselves, organize a “school of the prophets,” and construct a house of God. An addition to the text recorded 3 January 1833 elaborated on themes of the school, fellowship, and preparations for a House of the Lord.

Frederick G. Williams recorded this text in Revelation Book 2 perhaps as early as January 1833 and designated it “A Revelation given to the first Elders of this Church of Christ in the last days Dec 27th 1832.” A closing notation indicates that it was “Given by Joseph the seer, and writen by F. G. Williams assistan[t] scribe and councellor to s[ai]d. Joseph.” Sidney Gilbert included a copy in his revelation notebook as early as February or March 1833. John Whitmer recorded the text in Revelation Book 1, where it is identified as “A Revelation given to the first Elders of this church of Christ, organized in these last days: Given December 27 1832.” Other manuscript copies are extant. The 1835 Doctrine and Covenants included this revelation with a date of 27 December 1833 but no location.