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Review of Fathers and Sons in the Book of Mormon (1991), by E. Douglas Clark and Robert S. Clark.
Review of Fathers and Sons in the Book of Mormon (1991), by E. Douglas Clark and Robert S. Clark.
Review of The Lands of Zarahemla (1993), by E. L. Peay.
The study of the interpretations of the Book of Mormon text in the early days of the Church is helped by three documents called “reference guides” One is thought to have been printed in Kirtland in 1835, another in 1841 as part of the first European edition of the Book of Mormon, and the third a year later in Philadelphia, about which little is known.
A photographic essay of Mesoamerica and the narrow coastal region and highlands of the Middle Andes, which includes Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia.
Through the employment of quotes from authorities of the Church, scientiic data, and photographic presentations of Polynesia, the author discusses the possibilities that the Polynesians were descendants of Lehi.
New details on archaeology of the area around Guatemala City in Book of Mormon times are given. Some features can be compared with the ancient Near East.
A study of textual changes made in the Book of Mormon.
Classifies and discusses the main types of textual changes in the 2nd (1837, Kirtland) and 3rd (1840, Nauvoo) editions of the Book of Mormon, including corrections of typos from the 1st (1830, Palmyra) edition, revisions by Joseph Smith for the 2nd edition, corrections in the 3rd edition by reference to the original manuscript, and accidental errors in both editions.
The most extensive collection of writings about the Book of Mormon published between 1829 and 1844 has been made available as an online database. The collection, 19th-Century Publications about the Book of Mormon (1829–1844), includes nearly 600 publications and close to one million words of text. It is intended to comprise, insofar as possible, everything published during Joseph Smith’s lifetime relating to the Book of Mormon. Under the auspices of Digital Collections at Brigham Young University’s Harold B. Lee Library, this ambitious project can be accessed at lib.byu.edu/dlib/bompublications.
RSC Topics > A — C > Apostasy
This book takes a fresh look at the apostasy of the early Christian church. Most Latter-day Saint scholars and leaders previously based their understanding of the Christian apostasy on the findings of Protestant scholars who provided a seemingly endless array of evidences of apostasy in Christian history. Since the classic treatments of this topic were written, many newly discovered manuscripts written during the first Christian centuries have come to light, giving a clearer picture of what the early Christian experience was like. Drawing on this material, LDS scholars today are able to shift the focus of study to the causes of the apostasy rather than the effects. This volume of essays reports new research by several LDS scholars in different fields. They identify common myths and misconceptions about the apostasy and promote better understanding of when and why the apostasy occurred.
This article discusses the history of the Hill Cumorah pageant, a dramatic production that depicts the people of the Book of Mormon who peopled America many years ago.
A tendentious and sardonic but highly imaginative recounting of Joseph Smith’s life, including the events leading to the coming forth and publishing of the Book of Mormon. Entertaining mixture of fiction with fact.
An historical and polemical work directed against Mormonism. The author advances the Spaulding theory to account for the Book of Mormon’s origin.
A polemical article against Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. The author discusses Joseph’s use of the seerstone, Book of Mormon witnesses, Shakespeare and the Book of Mormon, the condemnation of polygamy in the Book of Mormon, Spaulding theory, and other related items.
Includes the LDS account of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon but accepts the Solomon Spaulding theory for its origin. Also speaks concerning the attempts by mobs to steal the gold plates, the mode of translation, and Joseph Smith’s literary aptitude.
Uses archaeological evidence, legends, traditions, and myths of the native inhabitants, as well as historical accounts to show that the Book of Mormon coincides with ancient evidence and thus it must surely be the record of the ancient inhabitants of the Americas. Ties Book of Mormon migrations with specific locations and civilizations according to Book of Mormon texts.
Discusses the publication and printing process of the Book of Mormon, the present location of the original manuscript of the book, and the statement of the Three Witnesses regarding the authenticity of the Book of Mormon.
In 1875, a few days before the first missionaries to Mexico were to depart, Brigham Young changed his mind: rather than have them travel to California where they would take a steamer down the coast and then go by foot or horseback inland to Mexico City, Brigham asked if they would mind making the trip by horseback, going neither to California nor Mexico City, but through Arizona to the northern Mexican state of Sonora—a round trip of 3,000 miles! He instructed them to look along the way for places to settle and to determine whether the Lamanites were ready to receive the gospel. But Brigham Young had other things in mind: the Saints might need another place of refuge, and advanced exploration was a logical course to pursue, should that need ever arise. The most promising site for such a refuge lay to the south, perhaps Mexico.
Some have argued that Mormonism began with a book, the Book of Mormon. This printed beginning quickly spawned a prolific amount of published material both expounding and defending early doctrines of the Latter-day Saints. Between 1836 and 1860 about ninety Church members authored a variety of written works. Although many publications were based on the writings of Parley P. Pratt and Orson Pratt, some represented original ideas. Most pamphlets grew from missionary efforts, but others countered anti-Mormon literature then in circulation. In promoting truth, Mormons found the press to be a powerful weapon. These early pamphlets developed from the interactions of Church members with themselves, their message, and their neighbors. As Mormonism grew, David Whittaker explains, the press became a key element in providing the institutional glue for helping to hold together this dynamic social and religious movement. Whittaker’s dissertation explores the rise and development of pamphlet literature during the Church’s formative years. Whittaker’s dissertation explores the rise and development of pamphlet literature during the Church’s formative years.
Believes that the Book of Mormon came forth out of a religio-magical backdrop. The author discusses the event of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon with commentary to help the reader look at the book in the appropriate setting, consistent with the “magical” beliefs of the 19th century. This work is reviewed in W.365, W 286, and in R.418.
A polemical article that attempts to enumerate numerous modern environmental factors that influenced the Book of Mormon such as anti-Masonic influences, theories regarding Indian origins, and money digging. The 1826 trial of Joseph Smith, Anthon episode, Book of Mormon witnesses, lack of archaeological evidence, and plagiarisms from the Bible are also discussed.
How the Book of Mormon fit in the early years of the Church and important doctrine that was introduced with the publication the Book.
Articles from early newspapers and other publications give rare insights into the way in which the original audience of the Book of Mormon, both believers and critics, viewed the document. A large-scale collection of these documents was not initiated until the 1930s by Francis Kirkham, with encouragement from President George Albert Smith. Kirkham later published his collection in two volumes. His work, while extensive, was not exhaustive. The 19th-Century Publications about the Book of Mormon (1829–1844), a project partnered by the Maxwell Institute and the Harold B. Lee Library, builds off of Kirkham’s original research and seeks to preserve every extant published text discussing the Book of Mormon. The collection includes more than six hundred publications related to the Book of Mormon—almost one million words of text.
This article speaks of Joseph Smith’s visions of Moroni, the last battles of the Jaredites, and of the Nephites on the hill Cumorah.
Reviews various theories held between the 16th and 19th centuries regarding the descent of the American Indian from biblical peoples, including theories regarding Cain, Ham, Magog, the Hebrews, and others. Believes that the idea of a Hebrew origin for the American Indian was readily accessible to Joseph Smith, and thus favors an environmentalist explanation for the Book of Mormon’s origin.
Heavenly Father is intimately interested in hearing from us and that He is omnipresent and available to listen at all times.
Review of Recent Book of Mormon Developments: Articles from the Zarahemla Record, vol. 2 (1992), edited by Raymond C. Treat.
Argues that the scriptures, including the Book of Mormon, refer to places inside the earth. Makes reference to the parable of the olive tree and to the habitation of the lost tribes of Israel.
Responds to the objection that the Book of Mormon was originally inscribed on metal plates. Numerous examples in the Old Testament demonstrate the working of metal from early ages, including Tubal-Cain’s work with brass and iron (Genesis 4:22), the brass gates of Babylon (Isaiah 45:1-2), the use of steel in Job’s day (Job 20:24), the golden calf made in the wilderness, and all the gold of Moses’ tabernacle (Exodus 25:17-36).
An anti-Mormon piece that argues that LDS scholars have changed the location of “the narrow neck of land” from the Isthmus of Panama to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, creating a problem with the “sea east” and the “sea west”
Refers to the prophecy of Samuel the Lamanite about Christ’s birth and the prophecy’s subsequent fulfillment (3 Nephi 8-11). The Easter event in the western world was “established by ocular and auditory evidence”
The amazing achievements of the last hundred years in technology and science are paralleled by significant strides in Book of Mormon studies. Echoes and Evidences of the Book of Mormon takes inventory of some of the most fascinating ancient elements of the Book of Mormon. For many years now, Latter-day Saint scholars have called attention to significant parallels in the Book of Mormon with the ancient world that in many cases were unknowable in the world of Joseph Smith. The sheer number of these “bull’s-eyes” alone is impressive. In this volume, scholars trained in biblical studies, archaeology, classics, history, law, linguistics, anthropology, political science, philosophy, Near East studies, literature, and other relevant fields present some of their favorite evidences that support the Book of Mormon’s claim to ancient origins. Their findings illuminate points present in ancient sources, details that are not obvious, intricate patterns, unusual or distinctive features, and information that was little or not known in the 1820s.
Articles
A discussion of evidence of the Book of Mormon’s authenticity.
“In recent years Mormon apologists have begun to challenge what many researchers, myself included, long regarded as obvious: the Book of Mormon’s reflection of the cultural milieu of early nineteenth-century America, particularly the anti-Masonic controversy that pervaded westen New York during the late 1820s. If the similarities between Masonry and the secret societies described in the book are not apparent to some modern readers, they were to its first readers, Mormon and non-Mormon, who almost immediately associated its warnings of latter-day ’secret combinations’ with the dreaded Masons. Despite the book’s use of the term ’secret combinations’--a favorite anti-Masonic epithet--several scholars now, for various reasons, object to the connection and, in some instances, offer alternative interpretations. In particular, I will examine and respond to the arguments put forth by Richard L. Bushman, Blake T. Ostler, D. Michael Quinn, and Daniel C. Peterson.” [From author’s introduction]
Also available for free at BYU ScholarsArchive.
A review of Lehi in the Desert, The World of the Jaredites, There Were Jaredites, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 5.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Hugh Nibley > Scholarship, Footnotes, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley, CWHN, Editing > Book of Mormon
Economic systems are distinguished by their emphasis on equity and efficiency. Market controls are justified because of the need for equity. Free markets are justified because of the need for private incentives and efficiency. Most countries of the world today have adopted a combination of controls and free-market incentives. The Book of Mormon teaches that only through caring can equity and efficiency be simultaneously achieved.
From 1830 to the present those who find it difficult to accept “angelic visitations in the age of railroads” have searched Joseph Smith’s nineteenth-century environment for sources of the subject matter of the Book of Mormon. For example, in 1990 Susan Curtis explains the economic subthemes of the book as Joseph Smith’s commentary on “market capitalism.” But the economic conditions of Joseph Smith’s time and place are not reflected in the Book of Mormon. Its economic descriptions are consistent with our vast knowledge of the economic conditions of the ancient Middle East and not inconsistent with the little known of the economics of Mesoamerica of the relevant time period. Those more comfortable with Joseph Smith as universal commentator on the issues of his day would be well advised to ignore economics or limit that topic to the Doctrine and Covenants. Those who accept him as translator of ancient scriptural documents can gain additional reassurance from the economics of the Book of Mormon.
This article contains an account of the first vision received by Joseph Smith and the importance of other visions leading up to the publication of the Book of Mormon and the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
A report on a visit to the Isle of Man where Pratt and others gave lectures on the divine authenticity of the Book of Mormon. They quoted from Isaiah 29 and explained how these verses apply to the Book of Mormon.
Heber J. Grant writes about reading the Book of Mormon as a boy. Melvin J. Ballard speaks about the book’s purpose of being carried to “all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples.”
Comments on recent negative publicity given the Book of Mormon when Jefferey Lundgren convinced his followers that chiasmus was the only way God speaks in scripture.
Various verses from Isaiah 29 are applied to the Book of Mormon. Refers to the work as a “record of the house of Joseph”
A didactic editorial lauding Nephi’s obedience and recommending imitation by the youth of the Church.
A didactic editorial lauding Nephi’s obedience and recommending imitation by the youth of the Church.
A didactic editorial lauding Nephi’s obedience and recommending imitation by the youth of the Church.
Asserts that the inhabitants discovered by the Europeans in America are descendants of Laman and Lemuel. The Book of Mormon peoples lived principally in Central and South America. LDS church members should recognize the important role of the Indians among the Gentiles.
Asserts that the inhabitants discovered by the Europeans in America are descendants of Laman and Lemuel. The Book of Mormon peoples lived principally in Central and South America. LDS church members should recognize the important role of the Indians among the Gentiles.
Asserts that the inhabitants discovered by the Europeans in America are descendants of Laman and Lemuel. The Book of Mormon peoples lived principally in Central and South America. LDS church members should recognize the important role of the Indians among the Gentiles.
Describes a disease called epizootic, which killed many horses in the Eastern states. The Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:14) “foretells a time when, if the people would not repent, the Lord would destroy their horses.” Author the asks “who can say that the epizootic has no connection with that threat of divine displeasure?”
Describes a disease called epizootic, which killed many horses in the Eastern states. The Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:14) “foretells a time when, if the people would not repent, the Lord would destroy their horses” Author the asks “who can say that the epizootic has no connection with that threat of divine displeasure?”
Describes a disease called epizootic, which killed many horses in the Eastern states. The Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:14) “foretells a time when, if the people would not repent, the Lord would destroy their horses.” Author the asks “who can say that the epizootic has no connection with that threat of divine displeasure?”
Discusses Korihor and refutes his anti-Christ methods and doctrines. Relates and compares anti-Christ teachings to American popular opinion, concluding that Satan has not changed his tactics through the centuries.
Discusses Korihor and refutes his anti-Christ methods and doctrines. Relates and compares anti-Christ teachings to American popular opinion, concluding that Satan has not changed his tactics through the centuries.
Discusses Korihor and refutes his anti-Christ methods and doctrines. Relates and compares anti-Christ teachings to American popular opinion, concluding that Satan has not changed his tactics through the centuries.
Didactic essay, showing how the Ammonite striplings or sons of Helaman are examples of childhood training that might well be exempliied in LDS homes.
Didactic essay, showing how the Ammonite striplings or sons of Helaman are examples of childhood training that might well be exemplified in LDS homes.
Didactic essay, showing how the Ammonite striplings or sons of Helaman are examples of childhood training that might well be exemplified in LDS homes.
Editorial reflections on the Book of Mormon concepts of America as the choicest of lands and the necessity for righteousness for its inhabitants. Discusses secret combinations.
Editorial reflections on the Book of Mormon concepts of America as the choicest of lands and the necessity for righteousness for its inhabitants. Discusses secret combinations.
Editorial reflections on the Book of Mormon concepts of America as the choicest of lands and the necessity for righteousness for its inhabitants. Discusses secret combinations.
The hostile attitude of the Americans towards the Indians is a remarkable fulillment of Book of Mormon prophecy. LDS chruch members should consider the glorious future of the Lamanites.
Refers to the dangerous and unstable secret societies that are located throughout Europe and America and relates them to the secret combinations spoken of by Moroni.
Refers to the dangerous and unstable secret societies that are located throughout Europe and America and relates them to the secret combinations spoken of by Moroni.
Refers to the dangerous and unstable secret societies that are located throughout Europe and America and relates them to the secret combinations spoken of by Moroni.
Cannon reports that a German scholar, Professor Rudolph, noted striking resemblances between the leading Semitic languages (Arabic and Hebrew) and the Aymara language, belonging to the Incas in Peru. Cannon suggests that a reading of the Book of Mormon would enlighten the professor.
Cannon reports that a German scholar, Professor Rudolph, noted striking resemblances between the leading Semitic languages (Arabic and Hebrew) and the Aymara language, belonging to the Incas in Peru. Cannon suggests that a reading of the Book of Mormon would enlighten the professor.
Cannon reports that a German scholar, Professor Rudolph, noted striking resemblances between the leading Semitic languages (Arabic and Hebrew) and the Aymara language, belonging to the Incas in Peru. Cannon suggests that a reading of the Book of Mormon would enlighten the professor.
Civilized manners were not taught to the Lamanaites by Laman and Lemuel, and the Lamanites existed in a degenerate condition. On the other hand, due to the instructions of Nephi, the Nephites existed in a more civilized condition.
Civilized manners were not taught to the Lamanites by Laman and Lemuel, and the Lamanites existed in a degenerate condition. On the other hand, due to the instructions of Nephi, the Nephites existed in a more civilized condition.
Civilized manners were not taught to the Lamanites by Laman and Lemuel, and the Lamanites existed in a degenerate condition. On the other hand, due to the instructions of Nephi, the Nephites existed in a more civilized condition.
All churches except the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are part of the great and abominable church that was prophesied by Nephi. They will ight against the true church and will fall into the pit that they prepared for the people of the Lord.
All churches except the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are part of the great and abominable church that was prophesied by Nephi. They will fight against the true church and will fall into the pit that they prepared for the people of the Lord.
All churches except the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are part of the great and abominable church that was prophesied by Nephi. They will fight against the true church and will fall into the pit that they prepared for the people of the Lord.
When the Book of Mormon was published it was assumed that the American Indians were headed for extinction, but the Book of Mormon predicted that they would become a mighty people. This prophecy will yet be fulilled.
When the Book of Mormon was published it was assumed that the American Indians were headed for extinction, but the Book of Mormon predicted that they would become a mighty people. This prophecy will yet be fulfilled.
When the Book of Mormon was published it was assumed that the American Indians were headed for extinction, but the Book of Mormon predicted that they would become a mighty people. This prophecy will yet be fulfilled.
The hostile attitude of the Americans towards the Indians is a remarkable fulfillment of Book of Mormon prophecy. LDS church members should consider the glorious future of the Lamanites.
Contention over Book of Mormon geography is detrimental to the cause of truth. The reason for this contention is due to the fact that the Book of Mormon is not a geographical primer meant to teach geographical truths. The drawing of Book of Mormon maps is discouraged.
Offers an explanation why eight of the eleven witnesses were members of two families.
Harrison argues that it is impossible that the Book of Mormon be even remotely related to the Manuscript Found by Solomon Spaulding. The Manuscript Found is a fictitious account of the lost ten tribes and the Book of Mormon is an account of one family of the tribe of Joseph.
Introduction to the first issue of the Journal of Book of Mormon Studies.
Introduction to this special issue of Sidney B. Sperry’s Book of Mormon writings.
Introduction to the current issue, including editor’s picks. Recent research supporting the authenticity of the Book of Mormon includes evidence that the book was, as witnesses claimed, orally dictated; that its opening chapters accurately depict the ancient Near East in details unknown in Joseph Smith’s day; and that many of its expressions and word meanings had disappeared from English before 1700. Such evi-dence argues against claims that the Book of Mormon was memorized or otherwise cribbed from another document.
Introduction to the current issue, including editor’s picks. Midgley explores such topics as Tertullian’s distinction between human wisdom and the “wisdom of God”; Augustinian traditions; evangelical and Roman Catholic views of God; Calvinism; freedom; and Book of Mormon teachings on redemption.
Peterson explains that disbelief in the religious does not leave a person who believes in nothing; it leaves a person who is willing to believe in anything except God. Peterson also mentions that from an academic standpoint he cannot explain the coming forth of the Book of Mormon in any way other than that which is presented by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Introduction to the current issue, including editor’s picks. Peterson surmises what the assumptions of the forthcoming book American Apocrypha will be. The statements of the Book of Mormon witnesses must be taken seriously, and the work of Royal Skousen reveals a stunningly consistent, systematic, and complex book. Keith Norman’s dissertation on deification and Jordan Vajda’s master’s thesis on divinization note parallels with early doctrines of theosis. Joseph Smith’s mission consisted of making clear that which was formerly hidden.
Peterson discusses the growth of the Mormon religion and scholarly indifference toward that growth. He discusses the power of presuppositions and the variance of opinions, using the Qur’an as a case study. The originality, literary merit, and intrinsic merit of the Book of Mormon increase our appreciation for that book.
Introduction to the current issue, including editor’s picks. Peterson discusses brief items having to do with the appearance of the phrase and it came to pass in books of scripture and with the “newspaper” handed out at the dedication of the Bountiful Temple that discusses doctrines Mormons must believe if they are to be deemed Christian.
Peterson and others defend the Church and the Book of Mormon against critics although they would prefer to write affirmatively about “the endlessly fascinating, rich, profound, and glorious” gospel.
Introduction to the current issue, including editor’s picks. Peterson discusses the so-called Galileo event that some Book of Mormon critics believe will soon occur, thus expanding the separation between reli-gion and science until religion subsides to science. He also addresses the lack of Near Eastern culture among Native Americans, a common argument against the authenticity of the Book of Mormon
Introduction to the current issue, including editor’s picks. So-called biblical scholarship is supposed to be able to differentiate between authors of various texts. A test devised by students for their professor showed some of the flaws of those methods. Though critics complain about the lack of archaeological evidence supporting the Book of Mormon, even the Bible has few archaeological supports.
Introduction to the current issue, as well as editor’s picks. Peterson discusses two incorrect “traditions of men”—that Latter-day Saints believe the atonement of Jesus Christ covers only the transgression of Adam but not our sins and that Latter-day Saints are forbidden to think for themselves. Early statements from eyewitnesses confirm the Book of Mormon.
A slightly different version of this essay was first presented at the 2002 conference of the Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research (FAIR; see www.fair-lds.org), in Provo, Utah. It represents a sketch for what I hope will eventually become a more detailed study of the varying counterexplanations that have been offered for the Book of Mormon.
The introduction to this issue is a discussion of the emphasis of the Journal of Book of Mormon Studies as defined by the editors.
A combination of five articles from the Improvement Era series There Were Jaredites (February–June 1956).
An exploration into the book of Ether and its ties to Egypt told via a fictional account.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Peoples > Jaredites
Part 1 of 5.
An exploration into the book of Ether and its ties to Egypt told via a fictional account.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Peoples > Jaredites
Part 2 of 5.
An exploration into the book of Ether and its ties to Egypt told via a fictional account.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Peoples > Jaredites
Part 3 of 5.
An exploration into the book of Ether and its ties to Egypt told via a fictional account.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Peoples > Jaredites
Part 4 of 5.
An exploration into the book of Ether and its ties to Egypt told via a fictional account.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Peoples > Jaredites
Part 5 of 5.
An exploration into the book of Ether and its ties to Egypt told via a fictional account.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Peoples > Jaredites
It is most remarkable that “modern scientists” could overlook the Book of Mormon while so much of their research in the Americas and Egypt adds evidences to the divinity of the work. The London Magazine reports that there is a connection between the hieroglyphs of the Mayas and those of the Egyptians. Could these hieroglyphs have originated with Adam and Eve, or was it Lehi’s company who brought them?
There are several names in the Book of Mormon—such as Zenephi, Zenos, and Zenock—that look as though they are composed of scriptural names (Nephi, Enos, Enoch, and so forth) with different forms of a z-prefix that might mean “son of ” or “descendant of.” This article proposes that the names Zenephi Zenos, Zenock, and Cezoram incorporate the names of other Book of Mormon or biblical individuals and the Egyptian pin-tail duck hieroglyph, represented by the morpheme se-/ze-, which denotes filiation with these ancestors. If this hypothesis is accurate, it could provide insight into some aspects of the structure of the language of the Book of Mormon and could also reveal information about Book of Mormon naming practices and genealogical lineages of the people who received these names.
A recent issue of a popular journal on ancient Egypt discusses a number of sheets of gold foil incised with Egyptian writing. These artifacts provide some interesting parallels to the Book of Mormon.
Three studies of the Book of Mormon: (1) Detailed analysis of the Egyptian characteristics of the Book of Mormon, (2) editorial markers in the Book of Mormon, and (3) a broad look at the realia of the Book of Mormon as evidences of historical authenticity.
This series proposes that the characters on the gold plates were derived from Hieratic or Demotic Egyptian (Mormon 9:32-33). Analysis of other major written languages available ca. 600 B. C.—i.e. Phoenician-Hebrew, Egyptian hieroglyphs, cuneiform—reveals that they do not meet the writing requirements outlined in the Book of Mormon itself. The nature of the gold plates as an alloy is also discussed. The first part covers Phoenician-Hebrew and Egyptian hieroglyphs.
This series proposes that the characters on the gold plates were derived from Hieratic or Demotic Egyptian (Mormon 9:32-33). Analysis of other major written languages available ca. 600 B. C.—i.e. Phoenician-Hebrew, Egyptian hieroglyphs, cuneiform—reveals that they do not meet the writing requirements outlined in the Book of Mormon itself. The nature of the gold plates as an alloy is also discussed. The second part covers cuneiform and the alloy of the plates.
This series proposes that the characters on the gold plates were derived from Hieratic or Demotic Egyptian (Mormon 9:32-33). Analysis of other major written languages available ca. 600 B. C.—i.e. Phoenician-Hebrew, Egyptian hieroglyphs, cuneiform—reveals that they do not meet the writing requirements outlined in the Book of Mormon itself. The nature of the gold plates as an alloy is also discussed. The third and final part covers the Anthon Transcript.
Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris desired the privilege and responsibility of being the Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon. This article contains Joseph Smith’s words concerning this event, the testimony of the Three Witnesses and a lengthy history of each.
A biographical sketch of each of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon (with the exception of Hyrum Smith, and Joseph Smith Sr.). Underscores the fact that the witnesses never denied their experience of handling the plates. Mary Musselman Whitmer, the mother of the five Whitmer sons who were witnesses, is also identified.
A biographical sketch of each of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon (with the exception of Hyrum Smith, and Joseph Smith Sr.). Underscores the fact that the witnesses never denied their experience of handling the plates. Mary Musselman Whitmer, the mother of the five Whitmer sons who were witnesses, is also identified.
A biographical sketch of each of the Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon (with the exception of Hyrum Smith, and Joseph Smith Sr.). Underscores the fact that the witnesses never denied their experience of handling the plates. Mary Musselman Whitmer, the mother of the five Whitmer sons who were witnesses, is also identified.
Review of Stan Larson. Quest for the Gold Plates: Thomas Stuart Ferguson’s Archaeological Search for the Book of Mormon.
English title Guide to the Study of the Book of Mormon
A missionary tract that provides a brief overview of the contents of the Book of Mormon.
A tract inviting people to read about the “other sheep” spoken of by Jesus in John 10:16, having reference to the Nephites of the Book of Mormon.
Sets forth an overview of the Book of Mormon while arguing that the Book of Mormon account is not based upon historical reality.
Contains essays on the Book of Mormon including José Sánchez, “Las Traducciones y Ediciones del Libro de Mormón al Espa–ol”; José Sánchez, “MuŽstrenme a un ‘Lamanita’ “; José Sánchez, “Bibliograf’a Selecta del Libro de Mormón”; José Sánchez, “El Libro de Mormón y Yo”; Mark L. Grover, “Bibliograf’a de la Iglesia Mormona en LatinoamŽrica”; and a small “Encuesta S—bre el art’culo MuŽstrenme a un ‘Lamanita,’ ” compiled by Sánchez.
A pamphlet describing the advent and contents of the Book of Mormon, explaining the existence of inhabitants in America before Columbus.
A description of Milton R. Hunter’s trip to South America. Archaeological support for the Book of Mormon includes: gold artifacts, line cloth, stone work, a horse carving, and what appears to be an ancient baptismal font.
Review of The Book of Mormon, Current Broadway Musical. ”…And so here is this noisy, heartfelt, touching, gawdy and weirdly illuminating patchwork of tenderness and blasphemy that dares to go by the name of that most Mormon book, The Book of Mormon. In that regard, this musical is to Mormonism what Bernstein’s Mass was to Catholicism, a wildly exploitative trope on the faith’s core liturgy—though, in this case, without the brilliance of Bernstein.” [from the text]
Review of Book of Mormon: Wide-Margin Edition (1987), by Eldin Ricks.
Review of Eldin Ricks's Thorough Concordance of LDS Standard Works (1995), by Eldin Ricks.
Review of David F. Holland, Moroni: A Brief Theological Introduction (Provo, UT: The Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship, 2021). 147 pages. $9.95 (paperback).
Abstract: David Holland, the youngest son of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, is the John Bartlett Professor of New England Church History at Harvard Divinity School. Consistent with his training and focus, Holland has approached Moroni as an historian. Hence, despite the subtitle to this series about books in the Book of Mormon, Holland has done neither systematic nor dogmatic theology in his contribution.
Review of Grant Hardy, ed. The Book of Mormon: A Reader’s Edition.
Radiocarbon dating indicates early culture in Arizona was contemporaneous with mastodons in the vicinity of 4000 b.c. This may be the first serious evidence supporting the survival of this animal as late as the Jaredites. The book of Ether has “elephants” less than two millennia later.
Eleven of the seventy-five pages that the Church owns of the original manuscript of the Book of Mormon have been successfully laminated in plastic in Richmond, VA. The process of restoration and preservation of the pages is described.
Lists the birthdates of the eleven witnesses and mentions the fact that none of the witnesses denied their testimonies and all were baptized as a result of viewing the plates.
Argues against the reliability of the witnesses of the Book of Mormon and expresses concern over textual changes in the book.
Contents:
Our Faith is Centered in the Living Christ / David B. Haight
Misleading Translations of Paul / Richard L. Anderson
From Tanach to Talmud: The Emerging Rabbinic Judaism Which Jesus Knew / Albert W. Hoffman
The Four Gospels as Testimonies / S. Kent Brown
Spiritual Death, Temporal Death, and the Atonement of Christ / LaMar E. Garrard
The Necessity of the Book of Mormon in Teaching the New Testament / Monte S. Nyman
Fasting in the Perspective of Ancient Israel and the New Testament / Stephen D. Ricks
A Parable of Parables / Robert C. Patch
Paul: Apostle of Grace / Rodney Turner
The Parable of the Two Sons: A Revelation about God / Jay E. Jensen
Let Us Go On Unto Perfection: Paul’s Message in the Book of Hebrews / Leland H. Gentry
New Testament Prophecies of Apostasy / Kent P. Jackson
The Price of Redemption / Robert J. Matthews
Articles
This article discusses how a population’s number of pure-blooded individuals can diminish drastically to only a few percent in a few hundred years. This information suggests that it is difficult and perhaps impossible to draw any definite conclusions concerning the genetics of Native Americans in relation to the people spoken of in the Book of Mormon.
“Steve Shields presents the argument of Eritrean-born Embaye Melekin that the Book of Mormon conforms more closely to the geography, culture, and lore of Africa than to the Americas.” [Publisher]
“I will first introduce the context and content of Understanding the Book of Mormon and then, second, investigate Hardy’s attempt (and, ultimately, his failure) to create a neutral, universal discourse for academic conversation about the Book of Mormon. Third, I will discuss the performances of shame that crop up throughout Understanding the Book of Mormon and how these motivate Hardy’s turn to treating the Book of Mormon as world scripture, before concluding, fourth, with a reflection on how Hardy’s inheritance shapes the contemporary field.” [Author]
Mayan traditions state that two migrations of ancestors came to America, one from the east, the other from the west. The Book of Mormon witnesses of a New Jerusalem in America. The Book of Mormon will be used with the Bible to witness for Christ to silence unbelievers.
The authenticity of a letter purported to have been written by Emma Smith is called into question. Emma Smith denies the truthfulness of the letter and bears witness that at no time did she ever question Joseph Smith’s divine calling or the divinity of the Book of Mormon that he translated.
One year following the publication of the Book of Mormon, a shift of emphasis had taken place among the Latter-day Saints. The Lord warned them in June of 1829 (D&C 15) to place emphasis upon the writings that he had given to them prior to June of 1829—the Book of Mormon. There is no church upon the earth, only the Book of Mormon guides souls to the truth.
Due to the fact that visiting with angels isn’t part of the normal human experience, it makes it hard for historians to prove that it happened through an academic investigation. The best way, as discussed by the author, to determine what really happened is by studying other individual’s first-hand accounts about the Gold Plates.
A tract-size study aid featuring scriptural references from the Book of Mormon and a series of questions about the Book of Mormon.
Thomas W. Brookbank long ago suggested that enallage, meaning the substitution of the singular for the plural or vice versa for rhetorical effect, is present in the Book of Mormon. Enallage does appear to exist as a prominent, meaningful rhetorical figure in the Bible, but its presence in the Book of Mormon is more difficult to demonstrate given the pronominal variation found in the Book of Mormon, a factor that Brookbank did not account for in his study. Nevertheless, a careful reading of contextual and verbal clues reveals that enallage does indeed appear to exist in some passages in the Book of Mormon. An awareness of this usage is important for a full understanding of such passages.
Abstract: This study builds upon Hugh Nibley’s insightful observation that several Book of Mormon passages reflect “the ritual embrace that consummates the final escape from death in the Egyptian funerary texts and reliefs” as expressing the meaning of Christ’s Atonement. This study further extends Nibley’s observations on Jacob’s “wrestle” as a divine “embrace” to show that Lehi’s, Nephi’s, and their successors’ understanding of the divine embrace is informed by their ancestor’s “wrestle” with a “man” (Genesis 32:24–30) and reconciliation with his brother (Genesis 33:4–10). Examples of the divine embrace language and imagery throughout the Book of Mormon go well beyond what Nibley noted, evoking the Psalms’ depictions of Jehovah whose “wings” offered protection in the ritual place of atonement. Book of Mormon “divine embrace” texts have much to teach us about Jesus Christ, his love, the nature of his Atonement, and the temple.
Perplexing things will still happen, but, like Nephi, we can still know that God loves us, a … fact which can and will sustain us through so much!
This bibliographic article identifies descriptions of the Hill Cumorah that go beyond Joseph Smith’s account. The author includes firsthand reports of the hill’s appearance at the time the sacred events took place and accounts by visitors who focus on emotional, spiritual, poetic, or nostalgic aspects of their experience. Some of the featured descriptions are written by James Gordon Bennett, Oliver Cowdery, Orson Pratt, George Q. Cannon, Susa Young Gates, photographer George E. Anderson, and Anthony W. Ivins. Taken together, the accounts enrich our understanding and appreciation of the Hill Cumorah and the role it played in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. This article includes recommendations for post–World War II studies on the hill and a sidebar that discusses a clue to the history of the name Cumorah being associated with the hill near Palmyra.
Volume 5 contains the complete texts of The Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price.
An encyclopedic work attending to a number of Book of Mormon topics. Entries deal with biography, history, and doctrine.
The principle of enduring to the end is specifically taught 22 times throughout the Book of Mormon. Endurance might be considered the fifth of the first principles and ordinances. God’s children are to endure afflictions and temptations, to continue in the faith, and are entitled to divine help. Enemies of endurance include Satan’s inspiration, murmuring, hardness of heart, immorality, apostasy, and priestcraft.
The ward is organized to minister to the needs of those who face even the most difficult and heartbreaking trials.
RSC Topics > Q — S > Salvation
Photographic presentation of Book of Mormon editions in English.
This article discusses the process of making a duplication of the engravings of the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon.
Contains depictions of stone, copper, and clay tablets, boxes and other objects upon which are found ancient engravings.
The Book of Mormon contains the fulness of the gospel of Christ. Many critics have pointed out that Joseph Smith’s later Nauvoo period teachings are not contained in the Book of Mormon. Joseph Smith’s later teachings pertain to the higher order of the Church of the Firstborn, the gospel of the Father, the doctrine of exaltation, which supersedes and is built on the gospel of Jesus Christ, the doctrine of salvation. The Book of Mormon hints at such teachings but does not reveal them (3 Nephi 27:10, 23, 3 Nephi 26:6-11, 16, 18).
Solomon Spaulding, born in Connecticut in 1761, wrote the romantic novel that is alleged to have provided the “historical” source of the Book of Mormon. It was a fictional novel about a ship of Roman soldiers “in the time of Constantine driven by storm to the New World” who became a part of the Indians. He was known to believe in the Hebrew origin of the Indians.
Illustrated 17p. report of the ancient stone tower standing beside a wadi on the al Hauta coast and the collapsed tower at Khor Kharfot, both claimed to be the lower end of a pulley system from the overlooking mountains and both attributed to the Minjui people (ca. AD 1000).
Discusses John 10:14-16 where the Savior speaks of his other sheep. The Book of Mormon reveals that this other “fold” was the branch of Israel in America.
This ebook contains three articles from a conference on Enoch and the temple that was cosponsored by BYU Studies in February 2013 at Utah State University and BYU. George Nickelsburg, an eminent biblical scholar, identifies much temple content in the book of 1 Enoch: Enoch’s commissioning and ascension into the heavenly sanctuary. David Larsen discusses ancient sources regarding a community ascending to heaven as a group. Jeffrey M. Bradshaw shows what ties together the stories about Adam, Eve, Enoch, and Noah in the Book of Moses. The answer, unexpectedly, has to do again with temple motifs, all of which culminate with Enoch in Moses 6–7. The original video presentations of these articles are also included. Finally, this ebook contains an article by Stephen D. Ricks discussing the prophetic commission of Enoch, which is a striking example of a “narrative” type of call (see Moses 6:23–36). This study considers the elements of the narrative call pattern; those elements of this form found in the prophetic commission of Enoch are examined and compared with the biblical narrative call passages. Contents “The Temple According to 1 Enoch” George W. E. Nickelsburg “Enoch and the City of Zion: Can an Entire Community Ascend to Heaven?” David J. Larsen “The LDS Story of Enoch as the Culminating Episode of a Temple Text” Jeffrey M. Bradshaw “The Narrative Call Pattern in the Prophetic Commission of Enoch (Moses 6)” Stephen D. Ricks Video Presentations from the conference “Enoch and the Temple”
Cartoon pages for children telling the story of how Enos went into the wilderness to pray.
An illustrated story for children about Enos.
Enos presents a positive model of how prayer is to be conducted.
A story for children that recounts Enos’s experiences as he went into the forest and prayed (Jacob 7:27; Enos).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Enos
Less than a generation after Sariah and Lehi arrive in the promised land, their family fractures in two. The books of Enos, Jarom, and Omni feature seven authors recounting five generations of fallout from this division. Whether the people and their records will be preserved is in constant doubt. Yet, the authors continue writing in order to keep hope alive despite civil wars and precarious political reorganizations. In this brief theological introduction, literary scholar and theologian Sharon J. Harris investigates this messy middle era between the genesis of the Nephite people and their reorganization under King Benjamin. What keeps things—relatively—together? Harris uncovers the personalities, concerns, and patterns of righteousness and wickedness that are often overlooked in these short books. She illustrates how Latter-day Saints today might learn to better keep covenants and pass a promising inheritance to those who come after.
Describes the historical setting of the Nephites and Lamanites during the time of Enos, provides a brief summary of the book of Enos, and then focuses upon Enos, a man of great faith.
RSC Topics > L — P > Prayer
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Words of Mormon
A children’s version of Enos and his prayer.
Illuminates certain features of the Book of Mormon to encourage the reading of the book. The Book of Mormon is intended to be an ensign to the nations, Joseph Smith was the “choice seer” designated to bring it forth. Comments on how the Book of Mormon relates to the remnant of Ephraim, the gentiles, the Lamanites, the Jews, and the lost tribes. Includes a study of the allegory of the olive tree, and the building of two Zions, one in New Jerusalem, one in Jerusalem. [L.D. & D.M.]
Reprinted in Lehi in the Desert; The World of the Jaredites; There Were Jaredites, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 5.
Discussions of the book of Enoch and its relationship to the Book of Abraham and other ancient texts and folklore.
Originally printed as an article in the Improvement Era series There Were Jaredites.
Discussions of the book of Enoch and its relationship to the Book of Abraham and other ancient texts and folklore.
Having studied Janne Sjodahl’s work on the number of plates required for the original Book of Mormon text, John Gee examines the potential drawbacks of Sjodahl’s experiment. He concludes that the size of Miller’s script suffices for Sjodahl’s test.
The claim that a personal letter in the Book of Mormon mimics a form indicative of modern rather than ancient composition is critiqued. The majority of letters in the Book of Mormon follow the ancient Hittite-Syrian, Neo-Assyrian, Amarna, and Hebrew epistolary format in which the correspondent of superior rank is always listed first. Other clues to ancient composition are noted.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Individuals can build their testimony through attendance at church meetings and scripture study, especially study of the Book of Mormon.
Individuals can build their testimony through attendance at church meetings and scripture study, especially study of the Book of Mormon.
This article tells youth that they can find answers in the scriptures and uses stories and quotes from the Book of Mormon and the Bible to show this.
Daniel Peterson discusses recent research that supports a spiritual witness for the Book of Mormon, including the following: Joseph Smith’s lack of schooling, his supposed misnaming of Jesus’ birthplace, the translation process, studies of chiasmus, possible locations for Book of Mormon events, and ancient manuscripts that are consistent with Book of Mormon accounts about document practices and beliefs of past civilizations.
Daniel Peterson discusses recent research that supports a spiritual witness for the Book of Mormon, including the following: Joseph Smith’s lack of schooling, his supposed misnaming of Jesus’ birthplace, the translation process, studies of chiasmus, possible locations for Book of Mormon events, and ancient manuscripts that are consistent with Book of Mormon accounts about document practices and beliefs of past civilizations.
Originally published in An Approach to the Book of Mormon (1957).
“There is no more authentic bit of Oriental ““culture-history” than that presented in Nephi’s account of the brothers’ visits to the city. Because it is so authentic, it has appeared strange and overdrawn to western critics unacquainted with the ways of the
East and has been singled out for attack as the most vulnerable part of the Book of Mormon. It contains the most widely discussed and generally condemned episode in the whole book, namely, the slaying of Laban, which many have declared to be unallowable on moral grounds and inadmissible on practical grounds. It is maintained that the thing simply could not have taken place as Nephi describes it. In this lesson, these objections are answered.
“
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Books > 1 Nephi
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Places > Old World > Jerusalem
This article is an attempt to reconcile the biblical account of Zedekiah’s capture and the implied extermination of all his male royal line, with the Book of Mormon account of an escape by one son, referred to as Mulek. The author attempts a reconciliation between the two accounts.
A polemical work divided in two parts, one dedicated to the history of the Church and the second to the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon contains anachronisms, mistakenly uses Greek words, and presents supernatural and miraculous events that are not to be believed. Joseph Smith’s claim that the Book of Mormon was written in reformed Egyptian does not hold up, and the Book of Mormon introduces new doctrine.
Contains a historical account of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon—the visit of the angel Moroni, the translation, the lost manuscript, the witnesses and their testimonies.
RSC Topics > L — P > New Testament
RSC Topics > L — P > Old Testament
RSC Topics > Q — S > Scriptures
Abstract: Some have come to insist that the Book of Mormon should be read as inspired fiction, which is to say that readers, including Latter-day Saints, should abandon any belief in the Book of Mormon as an authentic ancient text and instead should see it as an inspired frontier novel written by Joseph Smith that may act as scripture for those who follow his teachings. This paper provides reasoning to reject this proposition as not only logically incoherent but also theologically impotent.
It raises the objection that this position fundamentally undercuts the credibility of Joseph Smith. The Prophet’s direct claims concerning the coming forth of the Book of Mormon as well as how the Book of Mormon presents itself to the world do not easily permit any leeway for a “middle ground” on this matter.
The Book of Mormon must be read as an ancient,
not as a modern book. Its mission, as described by
the book itself, depends in great measure for
its efficacy on its genuine antiquity.
—Hugh Nibley.
The temple sealing has greater meaning as life unfolds. It will help you draw ever closer together and find greater joy and fulfillment.
External evidences of the Book of Mormon include the testimony of eleven witnesses, the fulillment of many prophecies, and modern archaeological discoveries. The greatest evidence, however, comes from reading, praying, and pondering the message of the book.
RSC Topics > L — P > Prophets
Following the destruction of the Nephite people, Moroni works in solitude to complete a long-promised translation of an ancient record: the Jaredite plates. Discovered amid the ruins of a lost civilization, this record had captivated Nephites’ imaginations for centuries. Now Moroni sees foreshadowed therein the spiritual wonders and historical tragedies of his own people. In this brief theological introduction, literary scholar Rosalynde Frandsen Welch explores the book of Ether—a sweeping history in which Moroni, absorbed in the past, turns his heart to future readers whose spiritual fate will be at stake. According to Welch, Moroni’s work as translator-prophet brilliantly reframes the nature of scripture itself. Like the brother of Jared’s luminous stones, Moroni’s offering glows with his powerful testimony of Christ. In faith, his record extends the promise of Christ’s saving power to people in every place and time.
“I propose three related ways of further developing this subfield of Book of Mormon studies: (1) catching up to biblical studies, (2) participating in broader conversations outside and within the Latter-day Saint tradition, and (3) articulating the Book of Mormon’s vision of human flourishing. I will also suggest that Book of Mormon scholarship on ethics may itself, to borrow a phrase, be a ’way of doing ethics,’ meaning that it should be responsible, relevant, and self-aware, and should ultimately contribute to more ethical theorizations of scripture and moral and religious life.” [Author]
The Bulgarian National Museum of History in Sofia, Bulgaria, recently placed on public display an ancient book comprising six pages of 23.82-karat gold (measuring 5 centimeters in length and 4.5 centimeters in width) bound together by gold rings. The plates contain a text written in Etruscan characters and also depict a horse, a horseman, a Siren, a lyre, and soldiers. According to Elka Penkova, who heads the museum’s archaeology department, the find may be the oldest complete book in the world, dating to about 600 B.C.
Nephi set the racist attitude of the Book of Mormon, one similar to biblical record keepers. The mark placed on those who sinned was propagated by themselves by either marking their own bodies or by intermarriage with those who had been genetically marked with a dark skin. Latter-day Saint people need to put away racial attitudes and see that God recognizes all men as equal.
Review of Converted to Christ through the Book of Mormon (1989), edited by Eugene England.
Review of Explorers of Pre-Columbian America? The Diffusionist-Inventionist Controversy (1994), by Eugene R. Fingerhut; and Legend and Lore of the Americas before 1492: An Encyclopedia of Visitors, Explorers, and Immigrants (1993), by Ronald H. Fritze.
RSC Topics > T — Z > Testimony
Review of Return to Cumorah: Piecing Together the Puzzle Where the Nephites Lived (1998), by Duane R. Aston; The Land of Lehi: Further Evidence for the Book of Mormon (1999), by Paul Hedengren: and The Lost Lands of the Book of Mormon (2000), by Phyllis Carol Olive
This article puts forward a methodology for identifying and classifying phrases from the New Testament that are present within the Book of Mormon text at a phrasal level. The need for such a methodology has arisen because of a recent rise in close textual studies of the Book of Mormon and its relationship to the Bible. The methodology proposed by this study suggests that terms such as quotation, allusion, and echo—terms popular in biblical studies—be avoided because of the implication that the author of the Book of Mormon was consciously relying upon the language of the Bible. While this may be true, the use of language implying a reliance risks derailing useful textual studies in favor of debates over provenance. Additionally, because not all potential interactions with the New Testament are easily identifiable, this paper proposes a series of criteria that can be applied to potential phrases to determine the likelihood that a given phrase should be studied as a valid New Testament interaction. Finally, this paper proposes three levels of classification, based upon how well a given phrase meets the criteria laid out in the study
The early and persistent claim that Joseph Smith quoted Shakespeare in the Book of Mormon fails to take into account the broader context of sources. Much closer parallels than Shakespeare are available in the Bible as well as in ancient Near Eastern literature. Indeed, the constellation of ideas about death expressed in 2 Nephi 1:13–15 fits that ancient Near Eastern context in several powerful ways—ways that belie the claim that Joseph Smith plagiarized Shakespeare.
No abstract available.
Evaluates the use of Book of Mormon filmstrips in youth classrooms to determine their pedagogical effectiveness.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Discusses how the Book of Mormon was translated, and the phraseology in the book that identifies the everlasting covenant of salvation. The Book of Mormon uses different language than the Doctrine and Covenants and Bible with regard to the everlasting covenant.
Review of Book of Mormon Dictionary (1988), by George Reynolds.
The Book of Mormon is “doctrinally relevant” in today’s world as it provides answers to vital questions concerning Christ’s divinity, mission, resurrection, the essential nature of baptism, the power of the Holy Ghost, God as a God of miracles, and the reality of a inal day of judgment.
Argues that science and religion cannot “prove” or “disprove” the existence of God; however, reason and faith each have their role to play in the pursuit of truth. Modern scientific methods along with modern revelation (i.e. Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon) are outlined as a means for drawing conclusions concerning the reality of God.
Joseph Mahan of the Columbus (Ga.) Museum of Arts and Crafts sees evidence that people from the eastern Mediterranean have migrated to America since 2,000 B.C. A clay tablet containing Sumerian cuneiform has been discovered. This is further evidence that people should read the Book of Mormon.
The prophecies of Abinadi in the Book of Mormon, his sacrificial death, and the deaths of his murderers all correlate with Maya rituals and ceremonies. The later order of Nehor, having common elements with the King Noah syncretic religion, also correlates with known Mesoamerican religious practices, one correlation being the Principal Bird Deity and its manifestations. Two other religious traditions, the “Great Spirit” and Amalekites, are derivatives of the Nephite religion.
Widtsoe presents external evidences as proof that the Book of Mormon is authentic: metal plates have been found, reformed Egyptian has been proven beyond a doubt, research has indicated that there were multiple authors of the book, religious beliefs of the ancient Americans conform to the Book of Mormon text.
This book meets the need for the publication of a work setting forth the evidences in proof of the truth of the Book of Mormon, first, for the benefit of the young Elders and Priests who are just commencing in their ministry, second, for the benefit and encouragement of those who have just embraced the faith, and thirdly, to correct the public mind in reference to its real intent and character. [From Preface]
Excerpts from a book by the same title. Compares descriptions of ancient American fortifications with comparable fortifications in the book of Alma. Discusses the Gadianton robbers and the visit of Martin Harris to Dr. Mitchel.
Three parts. Sets forth evidences to prove the Book of Mormon’s truthfulness to benefit those embarking on missionary work, for the encouragement of those who had just joined the Church, and to correct false doctrine concerning the Book of Mormon’s “real intent and character” Discusses scriptural accounts of the scattering and gathering of Israel, the sign of the record of Joseph, and America as a land of promise. Refutes allegations made against the Book of Mormon and issues a warning to the inhabitants of America.
Language and cultural traits of Polynesia and the Americas are compared under scores of headings. The abundant parallels indicate voyages as explanations but lack of geographical and chronological clustering leaves the picture unclear, and provides no good evidence for the LDS Hagoth-Polynesian supposition.
A Discourse by Elder Orson Pratt, Delivered in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, January 2, 1859. Reported By: G. D. Watt.
Defends the Book of Mormon, drawing on proof texts found in Genesis 48-49, Psalm 85:11, and Ezekiel 37. Links truth and law with the descendants of Joseph, as found in the Book of Mormon.
Authors make reference to secular evidences related to the Book of Mormon that are offered by non- LDS scholars in such matters as medicine and astronomy. They also relate the Book of Mormon to passages in Ezekiel 37, Jeremiah 49, Genesis 49, and Isaiah 29.
A five-part series that includes a brief overview of the Book of Mormon, an account of Spanish conquerors who destroyed evidence of Hebrew influence reasoning that “Satan had counterfeited in this people the history, manners, customs, traditions, and expectations of the Hebrews,” a description of artifacts containing Hebrew characters, and evidence that the religious traditions of the Indians corroborate Book of Mormon statements.
Defends the Book of Mormon against the charge that Joseph Smith fabricated it; lists Egyptian and Hebraic influences found in the Book of Mormon; discusses the methods of translating the work and its literary style.
The coming forth of the Book of Mormon fulfills a prophecy made by David that the truth would spring forth from the earth. It is the record of the “other sheep” spoken of by the Savior. The book fulfills other scriptural prophecies in Ezekiel, Genesis, and Isaiah. There are eleven witnesses as well as Joseph Smith and thousands of others bear testimony of its truthfulness.
Four part series: No 1. “The Vision of All,” focuses on Isaiah 29, the “marvelous work and a wonder,” Martin Harris’s visit to Professor Anthon, and related items. No. 2. “The Woe on the Enemies of the Marvelous Work,” having reference to Isaiah’s prophecy of a “woe” that would come upon the enemies of the “marvelous work,” or the Book of Mormon. Discusses other prophecies of Isaiah 29 related to the Book of Mormon, e.g., the deaf would hear the words of the book, the joy of the meek would increase. No. 3. “The Stick of Joseph,” presenting a discussion of Ezekiel 37 and the sticks representing the Bible and the Book of Mormon that would confound the false doctrines of the world. The Book of Mormon is the record of Joseph’s descendants in the land of promise, or America. No. 4. “Joseph’s Blessing,” connected with the Abrahamic covenant of a promised land. The family of Joseph inherited the promised land of America.
Excerpts from an address of LeGrand Richards. There are many evidences of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon—the witnesses who saw the book, many have put Moroni’s promise to the test, it makes biblical passages easier to understand.
Remarks by President Brigham Young, delivered at Bountiful, May 17, 1868. Reported By: Edward L. Sloan.
Discourse by Elder Orson Pratt, delivered in the New Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, Sunday Afternoon, Sept. 28, 1873. Reported By: David W. Evans.
Chapter 14 points out many references to Christ’s Atonement in the Book of Mormon. The law of Moses was a shadow and type of the Atonement, which was fulfilled by Jesus who gave his own life.
Seeks to prove that Roberts believed the Book of Mormon was of human origin and influenced by View of the Hebrews.
Examines B. H. Roberts’s unpublished manuscript, “A Book of Mormon Study,” and concludes that Mr. Roberts believed that the Book of Mormon was of human origins, and had been influenced by Priest’s Wonders of Nature and Providence. Shows photographs of the unpublished manuscript.
An literary comparison of Orson Scott Card’ Series with religiosity of the Book of Mormon. Comparing and contrasting mormon theology and doctrine as it is found between the two.
The 1829 “Articles of the Church of Christ” is a little-known antecedent to section 20 of the Doctrine and Covenants. This article explores Joseph Smith’s and Oliver Cowdery’s involvement in bringing forth these two documents that were important in laying the foundation for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Section 20 was originally labeled the “Articles and Covenants.” It was the first revelation canonized by the restored Church and the most lengthy revelation given before the first priesthood conference was held in June 1830. Scriptural commentators in recent years have described the inspired set of instructions in section 20 as “a constitution for the restored church.” In many respect, the Articles and Covenants was the Church’s earliest General Handbook of Instructions. Although Latter-day Saints typically associate the Articles and Covenants with the organization of the Church on April 6, 1830, this regulatory document had roots in earlier events: in the earliest latter-day revelations, in statements on Church ordinances and organization from the Book of Mormon, and in the preliminary set of Articles written by Oliver Cowdery in the last half of 1829.
A report on general philosophical principles of teaching and learning found in the Book of Mormon. Analysis of prominent figures such as Lehi, Nephi, Mormon, Alma, and Jesus Christ reveals their teaching preparation, purposes, and style, providing examples and principles of applications for current teachers in the LDS education system.
Tanner refutes the theory in Who Really Wrote the Book of Mormon?
Review of Matthew L. Jockers, Daniela M. Witten, and Craig S. Criddle. “Reassessing authorship of the Book of Mormon using delta and nearest shrunken centroid classification.”
The events of 3 Nephi and 4 Nephi may foreshadow the events of the final days as witnesses of Christ are killed, are raised from the dead, and continue to instill fear in the hearts of the wicked.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 4 Nephi
A series of brief comments in which the author presents archaeological findings, architectural notes, and myths and legends that deal indirectly with the Book of Mormon. Dibble discusses the wheel, ancient irrigation methods, metals, Mexican and Mayan codices, Quetzalcoatl, ancient buildings, and numerous other related items. The thirteenth part covers archaeological work in Mexico City.
Claims that archaeological evidences in the Americas substantiate the Book of Mormon. The book, The American Indian, by Elijah M. Haines, unwittingly supports the Book of Mormon.
Old Testament Scriptures > Isaiah
Gordon B. Hinckley - I know of no single practice that will have a more salutary effect upon your lives than the practice of kneeling together as you begin and close each day. Somehow the little storms that seem to afflict every marriage are dissipated when, kneeling before the Lord, you thank him for one another, in the presence of one another, and then together invoke his blessings upon your lives, your home, your loved ones, and your dreams.
Typescript copies of two early upstate New York newspapers that provide comments about the Book of Mormon. Includes Obadiah Dogberry’s well-known satire, The Book of Pukei.
Tells of the discovery of a sunken city off the coast of Peru and suggests that this might be one of the sunken cities described in the Book of Mormon.
“This paper employs Ricoeur’s Interpretation Theory to analyze the effect the exclamation mark has on the readers’ interpretation of five Book of Mormon editions. Each unique instance of exclamation was obtained with its accompanying verse and these were coded by three coders for the genre they appeared in, the syntactic structures of their utterances, and the rhetorical function of the exclaimed proposition. This made possible a comparison of the exclaimed themes both within and across each genre and across each of the five editions analyzed. While the 1830 edition was found to have many exclamations in the genres of conversation and speech with emphasis on the themes of the love of God, the sacrifice of Christ, and the carnal nature of man, the 1920 edition by contrast saw emphasis mainly in the genres of prayer and aside on the call to repentance, the calamities of hell, and the need to call upon God’s grace to overcome the many sins that will beset the latter generation of readers.” [Author]
An alphabetical listing of nearly every word occurring in the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price with context entries. Words found in the title page and the thirty original chapter headings of the Book of Mormon are also included.
Two additional parallels to the exodus pattern include death and burial in the desert and the transfiguration of Nephi and Moses.
Old Testament Topics > Book of Mormon and the Old Testament
Old Testament Topics > Types and Symbols
Old Testament Topics > Book of Mormon and the Old Testament
Old Testament Topics > Types and Symbols
Old Testament Topics > Types and Symbols
Review of Samuel Morris Brown, Joseph Smith’s Translation: The Words and Worlds of Early Mormonism (New York: Oxford University Press, 2020). 314 pages. $34.95 (hardback).
Abstract: Samuel M. Brown opens up a new and expansive view of Joseph Smith as a religious thinker. Written for an academic audience, Brown is intentionally dealing with what can be seen and understood about Joseph Smith’s various translations, a term that Brown uses not only for texts, but for concepts of bringing the world of the divine into contact with the human domain. This is a history of the interaction of a person and the world of his thought, from the first text (the Book of Mormon) to the last, which Brown considers to be the temple rites.
This article describes an archaeological expedition in January and February, 1948, to the Xicalongo Gulf Coast area of a district of western Campeche. The author provides descriptions of the area’s flora and fauna, the hardships of the expedition, and findings of relatively new early “pre-classic” civilizations.
A typescript wherein Richards recalls visiting with Oliver Cowdery. Cowdery recalls the manner in which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon from the gold plates.
Abstract: Historical chronicles of military conflict normally focus on the decisions and perspectives of leaders. But new methodologies, pioneered by John Keegan’s Face of Battle, have focused attention on the battle experience of the common soldier. Applying this methodology to a careful reading of details within the Book of Mormon shows an experience in battle that is just as horrific as it is authentic.
Abstract: A favorite scripture of many faithful saints is Alma 7 where it describes how the Savior came to Earth to understand, in the flesh, not only human sin, but human suffering. He did this in order to succor and heal us. Despite its obvious appeal, two points may seem curious to some readers. First, the doctrinal power of verses 11–13, which form a chiasm, has as its apex not the “mercy in succoring us,” as might be expected, but the “in the flesh” detail. Why? Upon closer examination, it appears that, in addition to performing the Atonement, Christ needed a mortal experience in order to add a complete experiential knowledge to his omniscient cognitive knowledge. That could only be obtained, in its fulness, “according to the flesh,” hence the emphasis in the chiasm. A second possible curiosity is that Alma ends his beautiful teaching with his brief testimony, which lends an air of closure. Then, the topic appears to change completely and seemingly inexplicably to a discussion of repentance and baptism. Again, why? Closer examination reveals that the next two verses (14–15) form a second chiasm. If the first chiasm can be viewed as a statement of what Christ offers us, the second may be viewed as what we offer Christ. He runs to us in 7:11–13; we run to him in 7:14–15. When viewed together, the two chiasms form a two-way covenantal relationship, which Alma promises will result in our eternal salvation.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
This book is based on a novel idea: that Mormons do theology. “Doing theology” is different from weighing history, deciding doctrine, or inspiring devotion, though it sometimes overlaps with those things. Theology speculates. It experiments with questions, tests new angles, and pulls loose threads. It reads familiar texts in careful and creative new ways. In this collection of essays, six scholars theologically examine Alma chapter 32 in the Book of Mormon, which contains some of the most insightful verses about faith in the entire Latter-day Saint canon. Not only do these scholars shed new light on Alma 32, they also provide exemplary models for improved scripture study more generally.
Articles
Daniel Peterson discusses the sermon on faith given by Alma the Younger in Alma 32. Faith is not merely intellectual assent but trust or confidence, and it is expressed actively rather than passively. Peterson argues that the dichotomy between faith and works is artificial, since the root word for faith implies behavior. Alma invites us to experiment on the quality of faith, and Peterson suggests that scientific approaches to experimentation are applicable. He recommends testing or trying faith with the aid of prayer. He proposes that faith can have a spiral effect and that confidence can increase with continued experience.
The claim by three researchers that Soloman Spaulding wrote part of the Book of Mormon was refuted by a handwriting expert.
Review of The House of the Lord: A Study of Holy Sanctuaries: A special Reprint of the 1912 First Edition (1998), by James E. Talmage.
The use of the term “stick” in Ezekiel 37 does not refer to books as some have suggested, but it has reference to nations, i.e., the stick of Judah is the Jewish nation and the stick of Ephraim is the Ephraimite nation.
Written in rebuttal to No Man Knows My History,
Review of Earl M. Wunderli. “Critique of a Limited Geography for Book of Mormon Events.” Dialogue 35/3 (2002): 161–97.
Explains the origin of the NWAF, accomplishments of its first season’s work in Tabasco and Chiapas (in which the authors participated), and the supposed conceptual tie to the Book of Mormon.
This three-part series presents some legends and traditions of the American Indian in association with ruins, especially of Central America. They seem to prove that the Book of Mormon is historically correct. Throughout the Americas, the Indians believed in a Messiah who came a long time ago and promised to return. The high priest of the Quiche Indians wore a breastplate with seven precious stones. It was a Urim and Thummim used to decide the innocence or guilt of those accused of crimes. It would reveal both past and future events.
Described as “the most traveled man in the Church,” Andrew Jenson had been a lifelong globetrotter since his emigration from Denmark to Utah as a young boy in 1866. Although Jenson’s lifelong interest in the whereabouts of ancient Nephite and Lamanite ruins propelled him to visit the remote areas of Latin America, he returned with a powerful impression that the Latter-day gospel should be spread south, beyond the borders of Mexico. Jenson’s letters help readers better understand some of the events and experiences that seemingly led to the twentieth-century reopening of the South American Mission in 1925 by Church leaders. This book covers this important chapter from Jenson’s life and church history, which has rarely been told in over seven decades and is heretofore virtually unknown by most Mormon historians. ISBN 978-0-8425-2851-1
Articles
RSC Topics > L — P > Missionary Work
Described as “the most traveled man in the Church,” Andrew Jenson was a lifelong globetrotter since his emigration as a young boy from Denmark to Utah in 1866. Jenson’s mounting interest in the whereabouts of ancient Nephite and Lamanite ruins peaked in 1923 when he and his traveling companion, Thomas P. Page, embarked on a four-month exploration to remote areas of Latin America. Jenson returned with a powerful impression that the latter-day gospel should be spread south, beyond the borders of Mexico. His letters help readers better understand events and experiences that seemingly led to the reopening of the South American Mission in 1925. This book covers this important period in both Jenson’s life and Church history, which has rarely been told and is virtually unknown by most Mormon historians.
A work designed for youth that discusses the history of the acquisition and translation of the plates, the history of the Jaredites, and Lehi’s voyage into the desert.
“From Adam-ondi-Ahman to the City of Enoch; from the restoration of the Gospel to building of the New Jerusalem in the latter-days the Heartland of America has been the setting of sacred and significant events throughout human history.
Believers and non-believers have both assembled their separate sets of misconceptions about the Book of Mormon. So as truth emerges, everyone gets to be surprised in some ways, including the author. Previous thoughts on Book of Mormon language have been tEthered to the text. As a linguist, knowledgeable in Egyptian and Semitic languages, and as a leading authority in a relevant Native American language family, the author brings togEther evidence for an enlightening line of language history from Nephi to Now. His studies in comparative Uto-Aztecan clarify a number of Book of Mormon language matters.
“We invite you to let the Book of Mormon change your life-- again-- as you read this second edition of Exploring the Lands of the Book of Mormon. In doing so, you will learn about the numerous new developments and discoveries that have come forth in the last twenty years about Mesoamerica and the Book of Mormon, such as : the correlation of Stela 31 at Tikal as it relates to the great, decisive battle at Cumorah; a comparison of the Maya name Mormon with the Nahuatl name Tehuantepec; the discovery of the name of the Jaredite King Kish, including his date and place of birth; a comparison of Mesoamerican written languages and two high civilizations with the languages and civilizations of the Nephites and the Jaredites; detailed and illustrated map studies of Mesoamerican locations with cities and lands outlined in the Book of Mormon; types-and-shadows correlational outcomes such as those found with vultures, weather, wars, geography, and weights and measures; and much, much more.” [Summary from Book]
Describes the languages, history, geography, and culture of some of the peoples described within the Book of Mormon, and presents a number of possible sites where this ancient civilization actually lived. This work is reviewed in P.037 and in P.398.
Based on the foundation of a long-standing precedent of the spirit of inquiry in secular and religious education, this dissertation explored the spirit of inquiry in the Book of Mormon. The discovery was made that the spirit of inquiry consists of numerous attributes or characteristics. The list of characteristics that were discovered to be a part of the spirit of inquiry include such attributes as desire, pondering, a soft heart, asking in faith, belief, diligence, fasting, remembering, questioning, searching, understanding, and sharing. The ultimate discovery was that one cannot come to know Christ unless one walks the path of the spirit of inquiry. The Book of Mormon both models and teaches the importance of coming unto Christ through the spirit of inquiry. This study clearly describes the path of the spirit of inquiry in the hopes that all may follow it to its wonderful conclusion--knowing and understanding Christ.
This article refers to evidence about the existence of elephants in ancient New Mexico.
Author refutes the Spaulding theory and offers evidence as to the Book of Mormon’s divine origin.
An exposé of Mormonism written by a former Mormon. The author complains that he had never heard of the Book of Mormon until after his baptism. The Book of Mormon cannot be believed since the Three Witnesses left the Church, it mentions things that would occur in the New Testament hundreds of years before they happened, and it contradicts the Bible. The author alleges that there is a chronological discrepancy in the Book of Mormon when it says that Lehi left Jerusalem 600 years before the birth of Jesus. He accepts the Spaulding theory regarding its origin.
A polemical work against Mormonism. The writer favors the Spaulding Theory for the origin of the Book of Mormon, believes that the Book of Mormon plagiarizes the King James Version of the New Testament, and gives a brief discussion of the Anthon episode. Much of the work is devoted to exposing alleged errors in the Book of Mormon. Mormon interpretations of the prophecy in Isaiah 29 used to support the Book of Mormon are criticized.
An early polemical tract against Mormonism that accepts uncritically E. D. Howe’s book Mormonism Unveiled.
Condemning the “Utah Mormons,” this author claims they are confusing the public by large newspaper ads about the Book of Mormon that have appeared in many metropolitan dailies. The religious beliefs of Utah Mormons are inconsistent with the teachings of the Book of Mormon, e.g., their belief in polygamy.
Quotes contemporary historians and ancient authors whose writings confirm or support historical elements of the Book of Mormon. Among these are Lord Kingsborough who was impressed by the knowledge of Genesis possessed by the American Indians; Rosales who relates a Chilean tradition of a visitation by a wonderful personage who taught them of the creator; Prescott who tells of astonished Catholics who found the sign of the cross and a ceremony of partaking of the body and blood of deity.
A polemical work against the Book of Mormon. The author notes problems with the accounts and testimonies of Book of Mormon witnesses, whose characters he asserts were unreliable and reprobate. He discusses the 1834 Anthon denial and problems with the translation of the Book of Mormon. He also describes what he feels are numerous anachronisms and absurdities in the Book of Mormon. He favors the Spaulding explanation of Book of Mormon origins.
An RLDS teaching manual that addresses the topics of Book of Mormon authorship (including the Spaulding-Rigdon theory), language, metal plates, witnesses, animals, metals, and the problems of dating.
This second of two volumes of essays honoring Hugh Nibley includes scholarly papers based on what the authors have learned from Nibley. Nearly every major subject that Dr. Nibley has encompassed in his vast learning and scholarly production is represented here by at least one article. Topics include the sacrament covenant in Third Nephi, the Lamanite view of Book of Mormon history, external evidences of the Book of Mormon, proper names in the Book of Mormon, the brass plates version of Genesis, the composition of Lehi’s family, ancient burials of metal documents in stone boxes, repentance as rethinking, Mormon history’s encounter with secular modernity, and Judaism in the 20th century.
An exploration into Quetzalcoatl—the white, bearded, blue-eyed king of gods for many ancient cultures—and what that might represent in regards to the Book of Mormon and its message.
Vindictive tract addresses the testimony of the witnesses to the Book of Mormon and the part played by Professor Anthon. Refers to the Book of Mormon as a “mutilated romance” Accepts the Spaulding explanation.
The first mark of Mormonism is deception. It was founded upon the Spaulding Manuscript, palmed off as golden plates.
A proclamation to the inhabitants of America that Jesus Christ has appeared to the forefathers of the Indians, that God inspired Columbus to discover America, and that America became a free land “to prepare the way for the coming of the Book of Mormon” A warning for the same inhabitants to repent and believe in the words of Jesus Christ as presented in the Book of Mormon.
Using extracts from the writings of Stephens, these articles suggest that the archaeological and historical observations of Stephens in Central America provide evidence that the Book of Mormon contains the truth.
An extract from the Book of Mormon concerning the dispersion and gathering of Israel (1 Nephi 22).
Ever since rumors of a Golden Bible began circulating in the late 1820s, the Book of Mormon has occupied a singular place in the American popular imagination. It has been revered as scripture by Latter-day Saints and condemned as imposture by anti-Mormons for nearly two centuries, but what of Americas more moderate majority? Especially in the earliest days of its presence in print, how was the Book of Mormon seen by ordinary Americans, and what do their perceptions reveal about their day? This study analyzes the place of the Book of Mormon in the antebellum popular imagination as revealed through the lens of humor. A surprising number of the books early observers found something unmistakably humorous about its content and story of origin, and assumed that it was a piece of imaginative fiction. In expressing their views of the Mormon scripture, often in comic ways, they revealed much about the social and religious values they espoused, the cultural incongruities with which they were grappling, and the underlying assumptions that were being shaped in part by a uniquely American humor. Sounding a natural resonance with many of Americas comic chords, the Book of Mormon quickly achieved a certain cultural currency that was recognized by both humorists and polemicists, who often exploited humors rhetorical power. In the process, the Book of Mormon became and has remained a mythic presence in the national imagination.
A narrative of the first vision, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, visits of Moroni and other heavenly messengers assigned to instruct Joseph during the period 1823-1827 are presented using Joseph Smith’s four written histories in conjunction with other accounts written by Lucy Smith, Orson Pratt, Oliver Cowdery, and others. Also provides observations and recollections concerning Joseph Smith during the period of the translation and publication of the Book of Mormon. This work is reviewed in P.301.
Spanish chroniclers describe the use of various swords, including the macuahuitl, in Mesoamerican culture. The macuahuitl may fit the criteria for a Book of Mormon “sword.”
An assertion that the traditional Mormon interpretation of the prophecy in Ezekiel 37 regarding the Book of Mormon is both naive and unsupportable in light of Near Eastern scholarship.
Originally published as a lesson in An Approach to the Book of Mormon (1957).
The Latter-day Saint claim that Ezekiel’s account of the Stick of Joseph and the Stick of Judah is a clear reference to the Book of Mormon has, of course, been challenged. There is no agreement among scholars today as to what the prophet was talking about, and so no competing explanation carries very great authority. The ancient commentators certainly believed that Ezekiel was talking about books of scripture, which they also identify with a staff or rod. As scepters and rods of identification the Two Sticks refer to Judah and Israel or else to the Old Testament and the New. But in this lesson we present the obvious objections to such an argument. The only alternative is that the Stick of Joseph is something like the Book of Mormon. But did the ancient Jews know about the Lord’s people in this hemisphere? The Book of Mormon says they did not, but in so doing specifies that it was the wicked from whom that knowledge was withheld. Hence it is quite possible that it was had secretly among the righteous, and there is actually some evidence that this was so.
Old Testament Topics > Book of Mormon and the Old Testament
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Bible > Old Testament > Characters > Ezekiel
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Criticisms and Apologetics
The author criticizes Dr. Sidney Sperry’s research on the two sticks mentioned in Ezekiel 37:15-23, represented to signify the Bible and the Book of Mormon. The author analyzes these assertions and concludes that Dr. Sperry’s arguments are seriously fiawed. [A.L. & P.H.]
Review of A Witness and a Warning: A Modern-Day Prophet Testifies of the Book of Mormon (1988), by Ezra Taft Benson.