The Salt Lake Temple Cloud Stones
Located on the top corners of the battlements on the East center tower of the Salt Lake Temple are two cascading carvings with lines coming down. These carvings represent clouds with rays of light beaming through. The original plans for the temple included additional cloud stones with more elaborate details. These plans were scrapped, however, when the decision was made to use granite for the outer walls. The hard stone doesn't allow for intricate carving.
The cloud stones have multiple symbolic meanings. First, the cloud stones pertain to the account in Exodus 40, which tells of the Cloud of the Lord that filled the tabernacle of Moses. Therefore, the carving of the cloud on the temple wall is a representation of the Holy Ghost being present within the temple.
The rays of light beaming down through the clouds characterize the light of truth piercing through the clouds of superstition, doubt and error.
And just as the Cloud of The Lord filled the tabernacle, the cloud stones represent the truth of the restored gospel of Christ filling the world.
The cloud stones with their depictions of rays of light were placed on the East center tower, and the tower is a representation of the priesthood. This is a symbolic reminder of the missionary responsibilities of the priesthood, and of our obligation to share the gospel with every nation, kindred, tongue and people.
