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Focuses upon the cross as a religious symbol in ancient Mesoamerica. The cross- shaped tree found in Mesoamerica has conventionally become known as the “Tree of Life”
A lesson manual for young Book of Mormon students, consisting of thirteen lessons on the Book of Mormon and a variety of maps at the end. Lessons address the nature of the Book of Mormon, its coming forth, religion and government of the Nephites, and other topics.
Articles
Reprinted in Eloquent Witness: Nibley on Himself, Others, and the Temple, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 17.
EDITORS NOTE: With Christmas still fresh in our memories, Professor Hugh Nibley, in this article especially prepared for the readers of the Millennial Star, gives us an interesting insight into what the world looks for in the celebration of Christmas. Nibley briefly looked into the question of whether it is possible that the bewildering profusion of Christmas observances might contain, among other things, a latent longing for the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Jesus Christ > Birth, Christmas
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Jesus Christ > Childhood
Outlines the social and intellectual history of religions in Western New York in the early nineteenth century. Chapter 8 deals with Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. The author sees Joseph Smith’s teachings and the Book of Mormon as products of his enthusiastically religious environment. This can be seen from modern elements in the Book of Mormon such as proper names, modern Christian doctrines, and others.
A thirteen-page paper defending the Book of Mormon from an archaeological viewpoint.
The Spanish conquest of Mexico resulted in the deliberate destruction of almost all written native records. Fortunately there were some who remembered the contents of the destroyed records. One of those was Ixtililxochitl who wrote as best he could a history of ancient America. This book uses parallel quotations from the Works of Ixtililxochitl and the Book of Mormon. Striking similarities confirm to a remarkable degree the story of the Book of Mormon.
A comparison between the Book of Mormon and Spanish, Mexican, and Guatemalan sources, such as Works of Ixtlilxochitl, Popul Vuh, and Totonicapan. Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon independently, with no help from historical sources, as most lay unpublished in archives or had not reached the United States.
Defends Book of Mormon statements that some truths have been lost from the Bible through the process of translation. Affirms that the Book of Mormon was translated by the power of God. Cites Nephi’s testimony concerning the Bible beginning in 1 Nephi 3.
A Book of Mormon lesson manual for adults of the Reorganized Church. The manual teaches of the Jaredite nation and the Nephite nation 200 years after the appearance of Jesus in the New World.
Discusses the eschatological theories of the early Christian church. Intended to be included in The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley.
Virtually all that is known of the world in which Lehi is purported to have lived has been discovered within the last hundred years, mostly within the last thirty. How does this information check with that in the book of 1 Nephi? A classic reflection on Lehi’s world in Arabia: poetry, tree of life, family affairs, politics, imagery, travel, tents, and foods. One of the first attempts to test the Book of Mormon against known geographical and cultural details in the regions where Lehi probably traveled in the Old World.
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites (1952)
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites (1980)
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites. An unedited reprinting of the original version (1987)
Lehi in the Desert; The World of the Jaredites; There Were Jaredites (1988)
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon
Articles
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Tests the story of Lehi against various markers certain Egyptologists use to test the authenticity of other Egyptian stories.
This talks about the teaching of the Lord after his resurrection.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Looks at the various dreams of prophets and how they related to the prophets’ lives at the time they had them.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Discusses the distinction that Lehi dwelt in a tent as showing him of a different class as those who dwelt in sturdier houses.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
States that Lehi’s family did not run into any important contacts throughout their eight years of wandering the desert because they didn’t light fires. It discusses this being a common practice even today so as to not attract the attention of prowling raiding parties.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Discusses Middle Eastern traditions of naming a place you have discovered after you and how that relates to the names of places within the Book of Mormon.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A study of early desert poems.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
States that the actions of Lehi’s sons when they go back for the brass plates are typical of people from that time and even from today in the Middle East.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A discussion about the history of using metal plates for more important records.
Draws the conclusion that Lehi took the shortest and safest route through the desert during his journeys in the Book of Mormon.
Consists of 13 lessons directed towards adults of the RLDS church. Lesson contents include a definition of doctrine, an overview of the contents of the Book of Mormon, and discussions dealing with faith in God, the law of revelation, repentance, baptism, spiritual birth, the Holy Spirit, resurrection, justice and judgment, worship, the Trinity, and the significance of Book of Mormon doctrine.
Scattering and gathering of Israel
Uses the Bible, Book of Mormon, and historical accounts from the early writers of the Church to show that the Urim and Thummim and other “media” have been used since ancient times to receive communication from God. Joseph Smith also employed such media to translate the scriptures.
A polemical work against the Book of Mormon. The author discusses the Anthon denials and other alleged anachronisms in the Book of Mormon such as the pre-Columbian presence of certain domesticated animals in America such as the horse, cow, and ox. The Book of Mormon quotes Shakespeare, the Westminster Confession of faith, and plagiarizes the New Testament.
Simplifies the complex structure of the Book of Mormon by providing an overall synopsis of the text. He orders the fifteen books of the Book of Mormon into four divisions: (1) the small plates of Nephi, (2) Mormon’s explanatory notes, (3) the literary labors of Mormon, and (4) the literary labors of Moroni; he follows with a literary synopsis of each of the fifteen books. Several types of literature are identified, including “the American Gospel” (3 Nephi 1:4-21; 8-28, Jesus’ Nephite ministry), pastoral, prophetic, and war epistles, one psalm, one lamentation, memoir, prophetic discourse, oratory, patriarchal blessings, symbolic prophecy, prophetic narrative, prophetic dialogue, allegories, prayers, songs, and genealogies. More than fifty percent of the book is “historical narrative” Deals with the problem of biblical texts (Isaiah, the Sermon on the Mount, 1 Corinthians chapters 12 and 13) found in the Book of Mormon. This work is reviewed in N.096.
The majority of the book is devoted to “the spirit of modern scripture,” in which Sperry discusses modern scriptural doctrine, including teachings found in the Book of Mormon. He explores the concept of God, great personalities of the Book of Mormon, personal religion, brotherhood, the hereafter, judgment, and universal aspects of the Book of Mormon.
A concordance to the Book of Mormon published by the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Format is dictionary style, by words and key phrases with cross references.
Retelling of the Book of Mormon in simplified language.
A work that attempts to harmonize the geographical accounts contained in the Book of Mormon with the countries of Nicaragua and Costa Rica located in Central America.
A missionary tract covering the origin of the Book of Mormon, the Book of Mormon witnesses, archaeological facts, and several biblical proof texts.
An RLDS tract that presents the testimonies of the Book of Mormon witnesses.
Textbook with review questions
Tells the story of the Book of Mormon in an epic poem.
Offers an interpretation of the Mesoamerican “cross-shaped tree” as being a representation of the tree of life and several important symbolic figures, including the bird, serpent, monster, and the two personages.
Discusses the importance of the Bible, Doctrine and Covenants, and the Book of Mormon. Together they constitute the doctrine of the Church. The Book of Mormon is a valuable testament of Christ from cover to cover.
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.
John Whitmer saw and handled the plates in 1829 and assisted Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the final preparation of the Book of Mormon manuscript. In his later years, he affirmed his testimony many times.
Discusses the manner in which Jesus Christ is the Savior of mankind.
This article describes several crudely drawn petroglyphs chiseled on rocks and walls of the Hava Supoi Canyon (Indian Reservation on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon), then concludes that “man and prehistoric animals must have lived at the same time, for man could not make a picture of an elephant or a mastodon if he had not seen one.”
Articles
The view of scholars in the field of American archaeology holds that the pre-Columbian inhabitants of America did not know of or use iron. However, this article, citing the Science Newsletter of November 12, 1949, recommends that this view may have to be reevaluated on the basis of new findings of iron in Ancient America.
Articles
In an unbelieving world it is easier to prove a man to be a fraud than a prophet. The proof of a prophet lies in the witness of the Holy Ghost. The witness of the Spirit is more important than external evidences. The enlightened nature of the Book of Mormon startled the Christian world of the nineteenth century by answering numerous concerns. During the century that followed, religions modified their perspectives because of the Book of Mormon.
Sessions
Articles
Quotes exclusively from Dewey Farnsworth’s The Americas before Columbus and the scriptures (Genesis 49:22-26, John 10:16) to show that American Indians are descended form the House of Israel and were acquainted with biblical stories (e.g., House of Noah, Abraham, Jacob) prior to contact with Europeans.
Provides an annotated bibliography on mounds found in the United States.
Articles
This article argues that, although there is little definite evidence or data with which to clearly identify Book of Mormon geographical sites, continued earnest, honest, and scholarly studies should not be discouraged. “All such studies are legitimate,” but dogmatic conclusions made without actual verifiable data “must at the best be held as intelligent conjectures.”
Contains tables of comparison between the RLDS and the LDS editions of the Book of Mormon.
Features a chart and explanation of the different sets of plates identiied in the Book of Mormon, including the brass plates, the twenty-four gold plates, the small and large plates of Nephi, Mormon’s abridgment of Nephi’s large plates, and Moroni’s abridgment of Jaredite record.
The Book of Mormon devotes a major part of its account to discussing the Lamanite nation. It is a mistaken idea that all the indigenous groups of people who were found in America following the landing of Christopher Columbus were Lamanites. A testimony is not based on the external but internal evidences of the Book of Mormon.
Sessions
This article states that Church members (and those in the world if they only knew) should be grateful that the Lord has given further and clearer light of revelation in the Book of Mormon and other modern scriptures.
Articles
The Book of Mormon prophet and writer Moroni prophesied that he would come forth “triumphant through the air” at a future date (Moroni 10:34). Wight sees a quite literal fulfillment in this prophecy in the statues of Moroni on the top of the Salt Lake Temple and the Hill Cumorah, saying that Moroni now stands triumphant in the air.
This article discusses a prophecy made by Nephi (2 Nephi 30:3), which states that many Gentiles of the last days will believe the words of the Book of Mormon. The author believes that the great numbers of persons who read and accept the Book of Mormon in this era demonstrate eloquent fulfillment of this prophecy.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Covenant [see also Ephraim, Israel, Jews, Joseph]
Book of Mormon archaeologists are doing research to find if the “feathered serpent” god of the ancient American is a symbol of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon prophesies of an apostasy, which the author concludes was between Moroni and Columbus.
This article is an exhortation to work more towards redeeming the “Lamanites.” Kimball encourages the saints to remember them in their prayers and do their utmost to preach to them. He includes a prophecy of Joseph Smith that the saints will go to the Rocky Mountains and there open the door for establishing the gospel among the Lamanites. Wilford Woodruff designated the Zuni, Laguna and Isletas Indians of Southwest New Mexico as Nephite people.
The origin of the “feathered serpent” in the American native culture can best be explained by the Book of Mormon scripture that tells of Moses’ placing the fiery serpent upon the stick. This author sees the feathered serpent as a symbol of Christ, whose visit is recorded in Third Nephi.
When nations or individuals are peaceful, the indication is that they have a committed, loving relationship with Deity. The opposite is also true. Evidence of this is abundant in the Book of Mormon.
Compendium of scriptural references from the Book of Mormon and other standard works of the RLDS church appear under subject headings to assist greater understanding of doctrinal topics. Topics include the divine nature of God, the Book of Mormon, divine revelation, authority and priesthood.
G-2 Reports—a series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences. “Years ago it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called “G-2 Report”) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
““Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
“The Religious Picture”: Changes in the religious world and in scholarship concerning religion are illustrated by numerous quotations from various writers.“
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
““Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
Changes in religious scholarship further illustrated. Quotations are arranged under headings such as “Revelation,” No Longer a Dirty Word,” “Neo-orthodoxy,” and “Science.”“
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
“Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
“Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
““Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
This report is a summary of the teachings of the early church fathers on the nature of God.“
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
“Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
““Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
Including such topics as no more infallible books, more revelation needed, the language problem, the textual problem, Paul quotes the ancients, the statue of John, the historical Jesus, and the present impasse.“
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences. This report includes excerpts from the Expository Times by Nibley in the form of a G-2 Report. 14 pages, s.s., 1984. Most excerpts deal with the state of Christianity in 1983 and 1984.
““Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
Two topics or reports are included. Includes various quotations from the Expository Times on Old Testament biblical research. See “New Age of Discovery” in Since Cumorah, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 7.“
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
“Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
““Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
Topics include the flood, the patriarchal age, the Old Testament as history, the Old Testament in its Near Eastern setting, patterning, language of the Old Testament, and the integrity of the text.“
A series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences.
“Years ago, it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called a ‘G-2 Report’) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” —Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Pearl of Great Price > Book of Moses > Chapters > Moses 2
Reprinted in Eloquent Witness, in The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley.
Reprinted in Ancient State: The Rulers and the Ruled, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 10.
How most modern traditions come from ancient ones, and why and how.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Temples > Ancient Temples > Ritual Patterns, Great Year-Rites, Universal Gospel Culture
Contains brief stories designed for children, with illustrations.
Thorough listing of scriptural quotations addressing many themes from the standard works, including Lehi’s dreams, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin’s speech, and Christ’s ministry in America.
Contains specific outlines of various studies presented at a conference during the dates mentioned above. The subjects discussed included the Book of Mormon story, teachings particular to the Book of Mormon, and evidences within the Book of Mormon that support its authenticity.
Retells the events of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon as told by Joseph Smith and his associates.
Sets forth biblical prophecies that relate to the Book of Mormon, tells the historical facts surrounding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and provides commentary on 1 Nephi.
Extensive treatise on Joseph Smith as a witness for God, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, Book of Mormon lands, peoples, government, evidences of the truth of the Book of Mormon, the Three Witnesses, philosophical considerations, and many other subjects advanced as secondary evidences in support of the truth of the Book of Mormon.
Contains outlines of sermons by RLDS church dignitaries, including I. A. Smith, D. O. Chesworth, W. Wallace Smith, Maurice L. Draper, H. E. Velt, and R. A. Cheville. Topics include Book of Mormon history and doctrine.
A quarterly series, presented in a manual format with discussion questions. Addresses witnesses, Rigdon-Spaulding theory, metal plates.
Uses scriptures, archaeological evidence, and geography to explain that the Book of Mormon lands do not encompass as large an area as previously supposed. Suggests that the RLDS church maps placing Lehi’s landing on the coast of Chile should be revised. Finds the Isthmus of Tehuantepec much more probable contender for “narrow neck of land” than the Isthmus of Panama.
To clarify false impressions about the Book of Mormon, this article gives a brief summary of the narrative in the Book of Mormon, an account of its discovery and translation, and explains that the RLDS church is the “legal and spiritual successor” to the foundation built upon the doctrine of the Book of Mormon.
Citing early Spanish writers and historians, the author demonstrates that the name “Laman” existed among the Indians at least as early as the time of Columbus’ discovery of America. The first part introduces the author’s argument.
Explains the importance of Book of Mormon, and gives archaeological evidence to authenticate it. Discusses the serpent symbol as representing Satan, and believes that it is a perversion of Christ as the brazen serpent.
Writes concerning the translation of the Book of Mormon, its multiple references to Christ, and peculiar phrases found in the Book of Mormon. Discusses the use of King James language and phrases in the book, Joseph Smith’s ability as a translator, and the clarity of Book of Mormon prophecies.
Discusses the 1830 Palmyra Edition of the Book of Mormon, its title page, preface, and the corrections of later editions.
An examination of the Lord’s prayer in the Book of Mormon. Believes that Joseph Smith did not copy the Bible in translating the Book of Mormon. [A.C.W.] ook of Mormon. Believes that Joseph Smith did not copy the Bible in translating the Book of Mormon. [A.C.W.] ”
Citing early Spanish writers and historians, the author demonstrates that the name “Laman” existed among the Indians at least as early as the time of Columbus’ discovery of America. The second part concludes the series.
Discusses the testimonies of the Three and Eight Witnesses, Moroni’s angelic ministrations to Joseph Smith, and the purpose of the Book of Mormon as stated by Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon itself, and other scripture. Concludes with an explanation of how the Book of Mormon has been preserved and invites the audience to examine the original manuscript kept by the RLDS church.
Sessions
Articles
A comparison of the building of Solomon’s temple with the Saints’ building of the Salt Lake Temple
Old Testament Scriptures > 1 & 2 Kings/1 & 2 Chronicles
Thor Heyerdahl, a Norwegian explorer, successfully accomplished a 4000-mile sea voyage from the coast of Peru to the Tuamotu Islands across the Pacific. The balsa raft named Kon-Tiki sailed only by wind and ocean currents. The author argues that the Kon-Tiki voyage clearly demonstrates that such voyages could certainly have been made, similar to the claims made in the Book of Mormon.
Focuses on the Book of Mormon’s grammatical structure, language, and absence of anachronisms. Suggests the Book of Mormon as an antidote to latter-day secularism, then proceeds to give evidence of its Hebrew origin.
Articles
This article argues that any translation will reflect the vocabulary of the translator, and such was the case with Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. An average “fairly well-educated” person possesses an 8,000 word vocabulary. Joseph Smith as a youth would have had a substantially smaller vocabulary. Interestingly, the Book of Mormon has a total vocabulary (including person and place names) of 3,307 words.
Monthly Book of Mormon lessons for adult women (Relief Society). Each month a verse of Book of Mormon scripture is presented with accompanying quotes from General Authorities and writers of the Church.
Articles
This article discusses the many witnesses to the truth of the restored gospel. The Three Witnesses saw the plates and bore witness of the validity of the Book of Mormon. The Holy Spirit also is a witness to the truth.
Questions the appearance of crops in the Book of Mormon, then discusses the “golden crop of America,” maize. Gives botanical evidence that an Asian ancestor of maize probably existed, and hybrid crossing with Old and New World crops would produce corn as found in America. Therefore, the Book of Mormon record is “possible in light of the best scientific knowledge on the subject”
Examines prophecies in the Book of Mormon and relates them to historical events of the twentieth century. Prophecies are classified as follows: (1) the vision of Nephi—1 Nephi 3:210-216 (RLDS scriptures); (2) the prophecy of Nephi—2 Nephi 11:116-117; (3) the word of Christ relative to gentile disobedience—3 Nephi 9:64-71, and the return of the Jews —3 Nephi 9:85-101; (4) warning to Gentile America—Ether 1:29-35.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 2 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 3 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
The Old Testament law of witnesses was approved by Paul the Apostle, Hammurabi, and Utah code: by the mouth of two or three witnesses shall the matter be established. The Three Witnesses and Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon fulfill this criteria. The most important witness for which there is no substitute is the Holy Ghost who witnesses to the very soul of man.
Articles
Isaiah saw the great work of the Book of Mormon and prophesied concerning Martin Harris’s visit with Professor Anthon (Isaiah 29:11-12). The article contains Martin Harris’s account of this visit. Edward Stevenson wrote that Martin Harris saw his visit as a fullillment to Isaiah’s prophecy. Metallic sheets discovered in Iran buried in the palace of Darius verify the statements made by Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon about metal records.
The Book of Mormon is first a warning voice to our day and time. We must serve God or perish, and beware of secret combinations. Second, it is a testimony that Jesus is the Christ. The third outstanding message shows the Lord’s concern toward the house of Israel.
Reprinted as the second half of Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites (1952); and reprinted in Lehi in the Desert; The World of the Jaredites; There Were Jaredites. These articles were written in the form of expository letters to a fictitious “Professor F.”
A detailed reconstruction of the epic milieu and ancient historical setting in the third millennium B.C. in Mesopotamia and Asia relative to details about the Jaredites: their ships, shining stones, government, wars, society, and worldview.
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites (1952)
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites (1980)
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites. An unedited reprinting of the original version (1987)
Lehi in the Desert; The World of the Jaredites; There Were Jaredites (1988)
Articles
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
The epistolary form of this series of articles, is the style in which the writer most commonly expounds his views. Although “Professor F.” to whom these letters are addressed is a purely fictitious anthropologist in an eastern university, he is typical of many a real correspondent, and the letters themselves are no less typical. If “F.” seems unduly meek and teachable, that is because with the limited space at our disposal it would be folly to engage in long and needless controversies.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Peoples > Jaredites
This talks about the teaching of the Lord after his resurrection.
This talked about how the dead received baptism.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Gives a historical parallel to the Big Wind to show that it such a thing was possible.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A study into the deseret, or honeybee.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Studies the Jaredite practice of “drawing off” followers to an army to builds its forces and bides its time to show that this was a normal practice at the time.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Looks at ancient thrones and suggests that they all go back to the old Asiatic pattern.
The purpose of these articles is to (1) call attention to some of the long-ignored aspects of the Joseph Smith account of Enoch in the book of Moses and in the Inspired Version of Genesis and (2) provide at the same time some of the evidence that establishes the authenticity of that remarkable text. Contemporary learning offered few checks to the imagination of Joseph Smith; the enthusiasm of his followers presented none.
Addresses the dangers of oversimplifying the scriptures and attempts to look at the Book of Mormon without such oversimplification.
This exciting and penetrating comparison of the Joseph Smith book of Enoch, with four known variant manuscripts of that ancient work, provides yet another evidence of the Prophet’s inspiration and the scope of his vision in the great work of the Restoration.
A conclusion to the World of the Jaredites series.
Sessions
This article discusses how since the Book of Mormon was first published it “has withstood a century of attempts to prove it man-made.” The author gives examples of different attempts and shows how each has failed.
Articles
Giving a history of the Gates Collection of Mayan literature located at Brigham Young University, this author hopes that the origin of the Mayan culture may be found through study and a greater understanding.
A fictional narrative based upon the Book of Mormon. The author uses the events and names as recorded in the Bible and the Book of Mormon as she puts the narrative in story form quoting extensively from the actual text as the characters speak.
Sunday School manual comprising forty-four lessons designed for beginning students of the Book of Mormon. Topics include faith, repentance, baptism, and the nature of God.
On pages 477-83 of this work the author provides a brief history of the Book of Mormon and discusses Joseph Smith’s translation methods. He mentions the lack of credibility of the Eight Witnesses and the possible influence of the Spaulding Manuscript.
The 54 evidences are divided into three sections: general evidences, doctrinal evidences, and Book of Mormon evidences. Book of Mormon evidences involve external evidence including the Savior in America, steel, horses and elephants, Hebrew language, literary style, and many others.
A cantata paraphrased from 1 and 2 Nephi.
Musical selections for chorus, solo voices, and the organ.
Reprinted in LDS Views on Early Christianity and Apocrypha: Articles from BYU Studies, Salt Lake City: Deseret Book.
A compendium of passages from the New Testament, from the early fathers of the church and from historians of Christian antiquity on the question of the apostasy. The issues raised in this handout were eventually dealt with systematically in the series that appeared in the Improvement Era between January and December 1955 called “The Way of the Church,” and also in the essay entitled “The Passing of the Church,” Church History 30, no. 2 (June 1961): 131–54; reprinted in When the Lights Went Out (1970), 1–32; and in “The Passing of the Church: Forty Variations on an Unpopular Theme,” BYU Studies 16, no. 1 (1975): 135–64; “The Passing of the Primitive Church,” in Mormonism and Early Christianity, The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley 4. 209–322; and “The Passing of the Primitive Church: Forty Variations on an Unpopular Theme,” in When the Lights Went Out (2001), 1–47.
The bulk of these materials appeared in the Improvement Era between 1950 and 1952. The original illustrations and some other materials were not included in the book.
“Lehi in the Desert” (1950)
“The World of the Jaredites” (1951)
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites (1980)
Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites. An unedited reprinting of the original version (1987)
Lehi in the Desert; The World of the Jaredites; There Were Jaredites (1988)
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Ancient Near East
Retells stories for children. Book of Mormon topics include the Three Witnesses, the restoration of the Priesthood, the scribal work of Oliver Cowdery, Moroni’s visits to Joseph Smith, Martin Harris’s loss of the 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript, and Joseph Smith’s reception and translation of the gold plates and its publication.
The prophet Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon by means of the seer stone, the Urim and Thummim. Excerpts from the journals of Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, Emma Smith, and Martin Harris declare his methods of translation. The characters appeared sentence by sentence and the translation below it. George Reynolds and B. H. Roberts suggest that Moroni may have assisted him.
A thesis that examines the life of David Whitmer, his testimony of the divinity of the Book of Mormon, and his involvement with the Mormons. As one of the witnesses who saw an angel and the gold plates, Whitmer’s testimony of the Book of Mormon is valuable.
A play based upon Book of Mormon characters and situations.
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.
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.
A typescript of six lectures. The author presents a discussion on reformed Egyptian, the books of 2 Nephi, Alma, and 3 Nephi, and the question regarding Isaiah in the Book of Mormon.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 3 Nephi
The author analyzes each book in the Book of Mormon by giving its literary structure, purposes for writing, and content. The Book of Mormon is summarized in three main messages: a warning to the inhabitants of the American continent, the testimonies of Christ, and the Lord’s promises to Israel.
An edited version of The Message of the Twelve Prophets along with additional commentary on the Major Prophets
Biblical prophecies fulfilled by the Book of Mormon and the lives and testimonies of the witnesses of the golden plates are reported and shown to support the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. The physical attributes, theological contents, and prophecies of the golden plates (Book of Mormon) are also discussed.
Commentary on the Old Testament with study questions
A series of mimeographed circulars devoted to promoting the Book of Mormon, but opposing the Latter-day Saint “Mormons” and RLDS churches and their doctrines.
Refers to evidences of iron found in ancient America.
Ancient art objects in the Americas correspond to Book of Mormon symbols, i.e., the brazen serpent and the tree of life.
A list of 23 traits considered by Steward as characteristic of early “formative” culture common to both Mesoamerica and the Andean region is compared with Book of Mormon culture. None of Steward’s elements are contrary to the Book of Mormon.
On the subject of national political reform, the Book of Mormon speaks out with unwavering conciseness. It states that no form of government will succeed unless the people maintain a high spiritual level; national ills cannot be cured by any amount of legislation if the spirituality of the people remains neglected.
Latter-day Saints, like Book of Mormon rebels, are raising insurrection toward their government. Cites many Book of Mormon passages and charges Joseph Smith with usurping power and authority.
This article argues that the Book of Mormon makes it clear that the economic welfare of any nation is inevitably linked with the level of spirituality among the people. Nations become prosperous when their spiritual level remains high or they sink into social decay with continual disregard for the word of God.
The position of the Church concerning war and armed conflicts is dictated by the teachings in the Book of Mormon. War is condemned by God and peace is always valiantly sought. However, at times wars must be fought by the righteous in order to safeguard liberty. Although God aids the righteous in war, the righteous may suffer or be slain.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Sessions
Old Testament Topics > Priesthood
Comparison of Book of Mormon cultures with known New or Old World cultures can be directed toward authentication or elucidation. Little has been done toward shedding light on the scriptures. Almost all necessary work has only begun.
Articles
Includes a description of patriarchal blessings
Old Testament Topics > Priesthood
A brief overview of the story of the Book of Mormon.
A lessening of belief in “the divine Christ” began in the seventeenth century. By Joseph Smith’s day “higher criticism” of the Bible, like a snake coiled, was squeezing the life blood out of Christianity. The Book of Mormon came forth to reaffirm the divinity of Christ. In 1946, the New York Times Book Review listed the Book of Mormon thirty-eighth on the list of books that have most influenced America.
Reprinted in Eloquent Witness, in The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley.
Reprinted in Eloquent Witness, in The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley.
While reading the Book of Mormon for the first time, the author was disappointed because it did not meet her expectations. She found it to lack “the grandeur of the Old Testament language,” personal stories, and too little mention of women.
Old Testament Topics > Melchizedek
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Melchizedek
A six-year series of theology lessons that follow a chronological order of the Book of Mormon. Lessons analyze the structure and purposes of the book, the witnesses, its divine origin, the Jaredite nation, Lehi’s exodus, and prophecies concerning the Jews, Gentiles and Lamanites. “The Book of Mormon is ‘A New Witness for Christ’”
Unpublished.
Discussion of Nibley’s review of No Man Knows My History.
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.
Articles
Deines Book of Mormon archaeology as “that branch of general archaeology which studies the discoveries . . . [for] every fact which throws light upon the Book of Mormon” It can be expected both to elucidate the scripture and to conirm it. Using the study of the Bible through archaeology as a model, he lays out a logic and methods for doing so, notably by establishing “major” and “minor” correspondences. Major correspondences consist of geographical and chronological frameworks in the real (New) world that compare adequately with what the Book of Mormon says. Minor correspondences consider speciic cultural elements such as the use of iron, the wheel, the horse, etc. Ultimately it should be possible to test “the historical claims” of the Book of Mormon by archaeology. The status thus far is reviewed and the interim conclusion is reached that “in large part the Book of Mormon is vindicated by archaeological science; but many points still remain . . . to challenge us”
This article discusses A. Hiatt Verrill’s work, Old Civilizations of the New World, which reproduces an “inscription found at Sahhuayacu, Peru” that closely approximates “the script of the Anthon Transcript.” The author argues that the Mayan people did not progress from pictographs to a linear script, but possessed a linear, semicursive script from its early history.
Summary of the latest excavations in New York, providing the archaeological history of the state. Lists evidences supporting the movements of Book of Mormon peoples in New York. This work is reviewed in W.062.
Sessions
Evidence exists to prove that man and elephants coexisted in America during the premodern era.
The sequence of pottery distribution around Guatemala City is suggested as alignable with Nephite culture history in that area.
Theorizes that the cataclysm in 3 Nephi resulted from a volcano (or several volcanoes) that are located near the central part of the narrow neck of land.
A testimony of the Book of Mormon can be gained while reading the book. By reading the standard works, individuals can come to know God.
Contains pictures and explanations of ancient American cities, statues, and water systems. The author shows how the ancient American ruins are closely related to the remnants found in Old World civilizations such as those of the Egyptians, Saxons, Hebrews, and others.
Presents archaeological findings from ancient America that provide support for the Book of Mormon.
This pamphlet was written to dispel the false doctrine that Jesus Christ is the Supreme deity. Doctrines found in the scriptures agree with the beliefs of the Restoration that God the Father and Jesus Christ are distinct and separate persons in the Godhead, one in purpose but not in person.
Retells the story of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. Quotes from Joseph Smith as well as S. M. Smucker, Josiah Quincey, Oliver Cowdery, James H. Fairchild. Contains the testimonies of the eleven witnesses and evidences from archaeology and Indian legends that vindicate the book.
Compares Joseph Smith to Mohammed. Notes that the anthropological data in the Book of Mormon does not likely reflect Jacksonian America. Discusses the characters from the plates and Joseph Smith’s supposed authorship. “I think the fact remains that the Book of Mormon is more or less difficult to explain because it has remarkable internal homogeneity”
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Abraham and Sarah [see also Covenant]
Old Testament Topics > Marriage
Old Testament Topics > Plural Marriage
Old Testament Topics > Priesthood
Old Testament Topics > Women in the Old Testament
“Reprinted in The Ancient State.
An examination of the problem of loyalty in the 4th century, with obvious significance for our own time. — Midgley“
Considers three significant aspects of the Roman loyalty program in the period designated.
Reprinted in The Prophetic Book of Mormon.
Writing on tally sticks is related to Ezekiel 37 and the meaning of the prophecy that two sticks shall become one. Extensive commentary on the traditional interpretations given to Ezekiel 37.
Old Testament Scriptures > Ezekiel
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Bible > Old Testament > Characters > Ezekiel
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Criticisms and Apologetics
Articles
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
“Demonstrates not only that
our interpretation of Ezekial 37:15ff is
a possible one—for there are many
possibilities—but that it is also the
one most likely intended by the
Prophet Ezekiel. “
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Criticisms and Apologetics
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A look at what the sticks of Judah and Joseph were or what they referred to.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Criticisms and Apologetics
This talked about how the dead received baptism.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A discussion of the stick of Judah and the stick of Joseph as scepters.
A conclusion to the Stick of Judah and the Stick of Joseph series.
A series of lectures covering the following topics: “Book of Mormon Chronology,” “The Mosiah Dynasty,” “Abinadi,” “Great Missionaries,” and “Book of Mormon Theology”
Old Testament Topics > History
Old Testament Topics > Old Testament: Overviews and Manuals
The Book of Mormon is given to test the faith of mankind. It is a companion to the Bible and answers vital questions more now than when it was first published. The writings of ancient American prophets are found in the book and many of their prophecies pertain to this time when they are just now being fulfilled. The land of America is a land of importance to God and man. Those who are righteous will be blessed. A warning against pride and secret societies permeates the book. The most significant part of the book is Christ’s visit, organizing his church and establishing his ordinances.
Stewart discusses various Book of Mormon topics such as the Lamanite curse, the issue of white Indians, Nephi’s sisters, calendars, shipbuilding, organized crime, arts, industry, and prophecies concerning our day. The topics are in random order, and are written in the form of short articles.
Authorized edition of the Book of Mormon of the RLDS Church. Translated by Joseph Smith Jr. Compared with the original manuscript and the Kirtland edition of 1837.
A polemical article written against the Book of Mormon. The writer notes what he feels are certain anachronisms, absurdities, and contradictions with the Bible.
A polemical article written against the Book of Mormon. Challenges the LDS view that “many plain and precious things” were excised from the biblical writings. Rejects Mormon proof texts from Ezekiel 37:16, 17; Revelation 14:6; John 10:16; Revelation 7:9, 10; and Psalms 85:11.
Tells about Heyerdahl’s attempt to find evidence that the Polynesians came from South America. Notes that one of the Galapagos Islands grows a species of cotton known to have been cultivated in pre- Columbian northern Peru. Statement about Hagoth (Alma 63) accompanies the article.
Articles
Old Testament Scriptures > Ezekiel
God does have control of all of these elements. You and I can reach out, and if it’s His will, we can bring those elements under our control for His purposes.
The American Indians possessed “a well-developed concept of Christianity which had degenerated when the white man arrived” on the scene.
Shows “striking agreements between the Book of Mormon history and the independent findings of modern archaeological-historical research”
An early description of Stela 5 from Chiapas, Mexico, which depicts a tree of life motif. Compares features on the stone that correspond to similar artistic objects in Mesopotamia. Relates Stela 5 to the tree of life vision in 1 Nephi and concludes that Stela 5 was infiuenced by the Book of Mormon tree of life story.