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An examination is made of the influence of biblical English literature prevalent in Joseph Smith’s day upon the translation of the Book of Mormon. Also a scholarly inquiry into the verbal and syntactical structure in the small plates compared with Hebrew grammatical structures.
Examines the personalities of important persons in the scriptures, including characters of the Book of Mormon.
Latter-day Saints should be trained and active because we have “with archaeology and the Book of Mormon the one instance in the history of the world . . . in which it is possible to put a decisive scientiic test to the key foundation stone of a major religious system” Archaeologists ought, moreover, to be interested in the Book of Mormon for what it potentially can tell them.
examples from the life of Joseph of Egypt
Old Testament Topics > Joseph and Asenath
A compilation of references dealing with the Lamanites taken from the Journal of Discourses and from the Comprehensive History of the Church. The references include prophecies about the Lamanites, a description of their Book of Mormon background, and the blessings that await them.
Polemical article about Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon that questions its authenticity and claims that certain passages imitate parts of the Methodist Book of Discipline. Discusses Book of Mormon teaching of Adam’s sin.
A collection of faith-promoting documents. Includes information about the Three Witnesses and a list of ingredients needed to write something as demanding as the Book of Mormon.
A tract published by the Reorganized Church designed to introduce interested readers to the Book of Mormon. Teachings from the Book of Mormon are consistent with and in agreement with biblical doctrines.
A pamphlet directed to the American Indians as a missionary message. Summarizes the contents of the Book of Mormon and invites the Indians to investigate the book.
Details the coming forth of the Book of Mormon by naming its authors and their records, the transferal of the gold plates from generation to generation, the nature of metal records, and Joseph Smith’s role in the process.
Reprinted in When the Lights Went Out, 1970.
“Christian Envy of the Temple” (1959)
“Christian Envy of the Temple” (1987)
Hugh Nibley shares some of the words of Brigham Young that demonstrate his unique character and his devotion to the goal of eternal life for the Saints.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Doctrines, Principles > Plan of Salvation, Terrible Questions > Exaltation and Eternal Life
A series of four lectures. Makes connections and correspondences between the land of promise and God, Zion, gentiles, and descendants of Joseph. Also points out differences between the LDS view of the Second Coming and those of the world in general.
This multivolume work contains verse-by-verse commentary on the Book of Mormon. The text of the Book of Mormon is included. Also includes discussions of the history and missions of major personalities of the book, treatment of word meanings and usages including comparisons with biblical terms, comments and testimonies of Church leaders, discussion of doctrine, and each volume outlines the chronology of the scriptures included in its scope.
Presents Book of Mormon lessons dealing with Nephi, the Three Witnesses, and formulas for peace and national survival during times of war.
A polemical article against the Book of Mormon. Author considers numerous environmental influences Joseph Smith could have drawn upon: Ethan Smith’s View of the Hebrews, plagiarized biblical passages, anti-Catholic influences, anti-Masonry, revival language, Westminster Confession, and others. He appeals to the “automatic unity” theory in order to explain the speed of composition of the Book of Mormon. He alleges that Book of Mormon Isaiah passages quote errors in the King James translation of the Old Testament. He considers anachronistic the assertion that steel, the compass, and horses were known in Book of Mormon times.
Advertisement for a musical drama with actors Bryce Chamberlain and Francis Urry starring as Nephi and Lehi, respectively.
Retells story of the people of Zeniff in the form of a fictionalized account that incorporates quotes from Book of Mormon text. Zeniff’s story is a warning, and it “presents a miniature of the whole Book of Mormon message”
Provides hypothetical maps and tries to establish Book of Mormon geographical connections.
Tract written by a mission president on various points of the Restoration, including information on the Book of Mormon, which “came forth into the world in a most miraculous manner”
Presents parallel columns showing similarities between New Testament scriptures and counterpart scriptures in the Book of Mormon. The two scriptures agree because the Book of Mormon plagiarized the Bible.
Contains a topical index to the Book of Mormon, showing 220 topics— from “act” to “Zion”—keyed according to the RLDS authorized version (1908) of the Book of Mormon. Some commentary accompanies the topical index.
A map published as a study aid for the Book of Mormon. It is not meant to definitively locate specific locations; however, the artist used Mesoamerica as the basis for assumptions.
Events and predictions of the Book of Mormon are closely related to events that transpired among the Seneca Indians in the years 1798 and 1815.
A series of books in cartoon format for children that relate stories from the Book of Mormon.
Challenging others to duplicate the Book of Mormon, the author has published this list of conditions under which the book was translated.
Argues that the value of the Book of Mormon lies in its restoration of lost biblical truth and sets forth the idea that the early LDS church went astray by publishing the Book of Commandments and later the Doctrine and Covenants, rather than relying totally on the Bible and the Book of Mormon.
Discusses the translation and manuscripts of the Book of Mormon, arguing that the book was translated accurately.
A rebuttal to James M. Tolle, Is the Book of Mormon from God?. Writes about Lehi’s genealogy, lights in the barges of Jared, the Liahona, plagiarism of the Bible, and other items. The Book of Mormon is a true document, but after the translation was complete and he gave up the stone Joseph Smith changed in a negative manner.
Author bears fervent testimony of the Book of Mormon and pleads with Tanner to reconsider his evaluation of the book. Wipper condemns Utah Mormonism and the RLDS church as well.
Applauds David Whitmer, who loved and defended the Book of Mormon, but eschewed other forms of “Latter-day Saintism”
Deals with the kingdom of God throughout the dispensations, including the Book of Mormon period.
Believes that the Book of Mormon was a word-for-word translation.
Several short essays condemning alterations that have been made in the wording and punctuation of the Book of Mormon. The author calls for the release of the original manuscript so that the original version of the translation can be read instead of what is printed now.
Joseph Smith was called to translate only the Book of Mormon and was given no other gift (D&C 4:2). By May 1829 Joseph Smith gave up the seer-stones and negative changes came over him.
Distinguishes between the post-Book of Mormon teachings of the LDS/RLDS churches and the Book of Mormon itself.
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.
Wipper’s intent is to glorify God and the unlearned man who brought forth the Book of Mormon.
Homemade brochure that contains several scriptural texts, and accepts the teachings of the Book of Mormon but despises the doctrines of the LDS church.
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.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Tithing
Articles
An explanation of differences in lineages of patriarchal blessings in the same family
The Book of Mormon presents evidence that a single prophet wrote the book of Isaiah, not three, as biblical scholars have maintained.
Sessions
This article states that faithful men and women all over the world bear witness of the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. The message can be spread throughout the world through Church members. Two stories, one of a Methodist minister and another of a young Baptist, reveal the value of this concept
This article encourages Church members to read the Book of Mormon because the book will fill the reader’s mind with “the waters of life,” remind him/her of spiritual truths, bring great blessings into the home, cause children and parents to respect once another, and arm the reader against the faulty teachings of the world.
Old Testament prophecies
Quoting an Episcopalian prayer book, the author gives “five steps to wisdom”—read, hear, mark, learn, and digest. Application of the five steps should be made to the Book of Mormon, so that one’s love of the book will grow.
This article states that English, the language of translation employed by Joseph Smith, retains the original thought, personal writing styles, distinctive patterns, and unique phraseology belonging to each of the ancient writers and prophets of the Book of Mormon. Barker also discusses the language of the gold plates, which has been described as being a combination of the “learning of the Jews and the language of the Egyptians” (1 Nephi 12), and as “reformed Egyptian” (Mormon 9:32). Too little is known about the characters of reformed Egyptian, which had been “altered” by the Nephites (Mormon 9:32).
This article discusses Lehi’s vision, Christ’s Sermon at the Temple to the Nephites, and emphasizes the correctness of the Book of Mormon translation. The Book of Mormon, when used in concert with the Bible, will guide individuals to the one and only road to heaven.
This article states that skeptics and critics of the Book of Mormon who must see to believe may not find the answer in seeing. The true testimony comes from reading its sacred pages.
When an Indian’s house burned down and only the Book of Mormon was spared, she bears testimony of the Book of Mormon. “This book has gone through fire for me…Now I am willing to go through fire for it”
Old Testament Topics > Teaching the Old Testament
Contains a reproduction of the testimony of the Three Witnesses. David Whitmer, after being excommunicated from the Church, still testifies of the truthfulness and divinity of the Book of Mormon.
An account of an interview between David Whitmer and the author’s father, James H. Moyle, in which Whitmer reaffirmed the validity of the plates and the angel who showed them to him.
Theorizes that the Central Andes of Peru may have been home to much of the Book of Mormon civilization. Also, the “narrow neck of land” may have been the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Many “large-scale migrations” are recorded in the Book of Mormon.
Points out that Jacob 2:39 does not condone polygamy.
Reprinted in Eloquent Witness, The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley 17. 125–41.
Addressed to “Dear Brother Burgon,” dated 29 July 1960, with a cover letter, addressed to “Dear Brother . . .,” 1 pp., dated 3 August 1960.
“Nobody to Blame” (1960)
“Nobody to Blame” (2008)
In this letter to a BYU graduate student, Hugh Nibley advocates the program of the school of the prophets as a way to meet the challenges of academia. He explores four obvious ways of meeting the challenges of the learned world: ignoring them, running away from them, agreeing with them, or meeting the opposition on their own grounds.
In the 130th year of its publication, nearly four million copies of the Book of Mormon had been sold, and it had been published in 23 languages.
Sessions
This article states that knowledge concerning the Egyptian language was underdeveloped in the 1820s when Martin Harris presented the Book of Mormon characters and translation to Dr. Charles Anthon. While Anthon was a known Egyptian scholar of the period, he nonetheless lacked sufficient knowledge to vouch for the accurate translation of the characters.
This article states that teachers of the Book of Mormon may teach the historical, geographical, literary, or archaeological aspects of the book, but they should emphasize the doctrines and teachings of Jesus Christ and demonstrate in what manner the book assists individuals in our present day world conditions.
This article is a testimony of the Book of Mormon from the point of view of a successful and professional writer, Helen Hinckley Jones. In order to write an excellent book, it takes tremendous research, painstaking effort to build distinct characters, a complex form, a unique style of writing, and an appropriate theme, followed by laborious retracing, redoing, and revising. Joseph Smith had neither the talent nor the time to author the Book of Mormon. Jones concludes that Joseph Smith “was reading the Book of Mormon, not writing it.”
Articles
This article is a review of the lives of Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris, the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon. Although the Three Witnesses later left the Church, none of them ever denied their testimony of the Book of Mormon.
This article compiles the testimonies of the Book of Mormon borne by the Presidents of the Church—from the Prophet Joseph Smith through President David O. McKay.
The article reprints three earlier published recollections of the profound converting effects of the Book of Mormon in the lives of three prominent early LDS personalities—Wilford Woodruff, Willard Richards, and Parley P. Pratt. Wilford Woodruff received his testimony in a missionary meeting held in a village schoolhouse. Willard Richards was touched by the Lord after reading the entire Book of Mormon twice in just ten days. Parley Pratt read the Book of Mormon straight through, non-stop, day and night, and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him and he knew it was true.
This article explains the different writings that comprise the plates given to Joseph Smith. They include: (1) Mormon’s abridgment, (2) the small plates, (3) the plates (abridgment) of Mormon, and (4) the sealed plates.
This article traces the history of two Book of Mormon manuscripts—the original manuscript and the printer’s manuscript. Joseph Smith deposited the original manuscripts in the cornerstone of the Nauvoo House October 2, 1841. It was recovered in 1882. The printer’s manuscript is now in the possession of the RLDS church.
Recent finds have renewed consideration of the possibility of transoceanic crossings and Old World infiuence in the New World in pre-Columbian times. A new theory is emerging that looks at three possibilities: the infiuence of the Old World via the Bering Strait, independent origins, and transoceanic crossings.
Articles
This article compiles a number of excerpts from previously published articles by LDS authors that cover such Book of Mormon-related topics as the “fifth gospel,” the stick of Joseph, language, the significance of scientific discoveries, and the manner in which Alma speaks to our day.
A number of excerpts from previously published articles by LDS authors cover such Book of Mormon related topics as the “fifth gospel,” the stick of Joseph, language, the significance of scientific discoveries, and the manner in which Alma speaks to our day.
This Christmas season, ask yourselves, “How does my testimony of Jesus Christ influence my beliefs, my actions, and the way I treat others?”
A piece critical of Mormonism that contends that the Book of Mormon plagiarizes the New Testament, has undergone numerous changes, and contains strands of Protestant doctrines common to Joseph Smith’s day.
An outline that intends to aid students of the Book of Mormon to understand how each part of the Book of Mormon relates to the whole. Author identifies various Book of Mormon writers according to book name and chapter, chronology and locale, and general and specific events surrounding the individual.
A polemical work that sets forth claims against Mormonism and its doctrines. The account of the angel and his gold plates is of questionable authenticity since the plates themselves are not available for inspection. Charles Anthon denied the Mormon version of the Martin Harris incident, and Harris must have lied or exaggerated greatly. There is no archaeological evidence for the Book of Mormon. It attributes King James English to people who lived thousands of years ago, and moreover it attributes Christian ideas and phrases to people who lived long before Christ’s coming in the flesh. The testimony of the Book of Mormon witnesses is also dismissed as worthless.
A textbook for the Polynesian people that deals with their origin, genealogy, traditions, responsibilities, and blessings as a chosen people of God. Includes charts, photographs and illustrations.
This article is a challenge to readers of the Book of Mormon to memorize scriptural quotes as they read the work.
Chapter 12 discusses the tradition of “the wandering Jew among the Mormons,” wherein the author cites examples of Mormons seeing one of the Three Nephites or the wandering Jew.
A textual comparison between the Isaiah texts in the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Book of Mormon.
This article discusses some of the many rewarding approaches to the Book of Mormon. One can approach the Book of Mormon historically, through the external evidence, through its marvelous theological teachings, and through its application to life.
An argument for the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. The author asserts that the biblical passages of the Book of Mormon represent a translation of an ancient text and that the language of the Book of Mormon indicates multiple authorship. Also discusses discoveries of metal records, the origin of the Native Americans, and Christ’s visit to America.
A large fold-out chart depicting the way in which the Book of Mormon was compiled and abridged. Includes a facsimile of the characters on the plates, the translation of the records, and an account of the method of translation.
A fold-out map of the Americas marked with Book of Mormon story events and dates showing the location where Book of Mormon peoples landed in South and Central America. To be used as a teaching aid.
A large portion of this booklet is devoted to an attempt to discredit the Book of Mormon. The author challenges LDS claims by referring to opinions of the Smithsonian Institute and shows the views of pre-Book of Mormon publications that have similarities in thought to the Book of Mormon. He also claims that the testimonies of the Three Witnesses were faulty.
Four different charts show the Book of Mormon timeline, the historical setting of the books of the Book of Mormon, the angel Moroni’s visits, and the translation of the book.
A biography of Moroni, based on the Book of Mormon and comments from LDS authorities.
Two dramatic plays using Book of Mormon material showing the “tragic potential in the parallel destructions of the peoples of Jared and Nephi”
A study guide for the Melchizedek priesthood quorums of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Lessons encourage reading the Book of Mormon.
The student’s manual for the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Book of Mormon is a companion book to the Bible. Presents lessons with a stated objective, a prospectus of the reading material for each lesson, and points to ponder. Includes a list of the records included in the book, chronological charts of leaders and their journeys.
Parts 2-3 feature Book of Mormon stories for youth, with illustrations.
A highly satirical examination of the early criticisms of Joseph Smith.
An early draft of the authors’ two books, A Doctrinal Approach to the Book of Mormon, and Teaching with the Book of Mormon. This version is shorter and lacks the study questions.
Notes briefly some problems he sees with the Book of Mormon and archaeology: the horse did not exist in Mesoamerica contemporaneously with the Nephites; natives with white skin and beards migrated in the Paleo- Mesolithic period; there are no remains of the Middle-Eastern seeds the Nephites planted (1 Nephi 18:25); many aspects of Nephite culture are not evidenced by archaeology.
Knowing the language and culture of the scriptures
Old Testament Topics > Scripture Study
Old Testament Topics > Teaching the Old Testament
In the beginning Joseph Smith patterned Mormonism after six groups: Roman Catholicism, Campbell’s teachings, the Pharisees, Masonry, Islam, and Rosicrucianism. Smith’s claims to have translated the Book of Mormon by the power of God have no foundation. LDS doctrines and practices have changed.
Paintings by Arnold Friberg of ten Book of Mormon events. Contains scriptural text to accompany the prints.
“The purpose of this study is to classify under appropriate headings the prophecies of the Book of Mormon relating to the period 1830 to 1961, to see what evidence exists regarding the fulfillment of such prophecies and to summarize the findings. These prophecies have been classified under the following chapter headings: the Book of Mormon, Joseph the seer, America—land of promise, the Gentiles, the Lamanites, the Jews, and two churches only”
Articles
Articles
Articles
Gives a brief history of numerous accounts of divinely inspired or protected books as well as heaven-sent books, including the Book of Mormon.
This article discusses how, although being born of “goodly parents” (1 Nephi 1:1) is an ideal situation, not all children have this opportunity and privilege. However, everyone may become “goodly parents” to their own children in ways that the Book of Mormon teaches.
Articles
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Analysis of the Liahona, especially in light of Arabic divination arrows. Proposes an etymology for this name.
The Book of Mormon shows that we need to “center our thinking in the joys of living the gospel,” of service, and of living in the world.
See also the series entitled “Censoring the Joseph Smith Story,” published in 1961 in the Improvement Era. Compare with “Censoring the Joseph Smith Story” in Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 11.
Nibley sets forth various reasons for believing that there had been suppression of the story of the initial vision of Joseph Smith by his enemies between 1820 and 1838.
Book review.
Children’s flannel board story of Alma and the people he baptized at the waters of Mormon, and Alma the Younger’s conversion.
Articles
This article discusses how the Book of Mormon was key in the restoration of the priesthood and the Church. It has survived a century and a quarter of anti-Mormon criticism.
Reprinted in CWHN 8:207-11. Historical fiction about the possible thoughts on a day in the life of the twelve-year-old Nephi in Jerusalem.
Reprinted in The Prophetic Book of Mormon, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 8.
Historical fiction about the possible thoughts on a day in the life of the twelve-year-old Nephi in Jerusalem.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Places > Old World > Jerusalem
Sessions
This article argues that various Indian traditions and practices suggest that Jesus Christ visited the American continent, as the Book of Mormon indicates. The author points out archaeological and historical similarities between Jesus and Itzamna, the god of the Mayas, and Quetzalcoatl, the “Fair God” of the Aztecs.
This article states that acceptance of the Book of Mormon requires acceptance of modern revelation and Joseph Smith as a prophet of God. The Church received its name from Jesus Christ, as he said in 3 Nephi 27 and D&C 115:3-4.
This article states that experiencing soul satisfying circumstances is better when one is not alone. Sharing such experiences with loved ones increases the satisfaction, as is exemplified in the Book of Mormon. Examples of such phenomena include Lehi, who tastes of the fruit of the Tree of Life and desires to share; Enos, who prays for his brethren; and the sons of Mosiah and Alma, who shared their experiences as missionaries following their conversion.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Enos
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
There are many possible sites for the Book of Mormon city Bountiful and its temple. One possible site is Aguacatal, which in many respects is similar to the descriptions of Bountiful in the Book of Mormon.
Book of Mormon archaeology presents many problems: the location of Book of Mormon lands is unknown; many researchers are not qualified and have made serious mistakes; some use writings that support LDS theology and ignore unsupportive writings. There is a need to test theories carefully and slowly create a basis of tested and proven evidence to support the Book of Mormon.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Geography
BYU accepts the copyrights of Kirkham’s two new books, A New Witness for Christ in America. Kirkham describes his motives behind writing the books and his experience of publishing the work. He also discusses the coming forth of the Book of Mormon to the world.
Lehi, Jacob, King Benjamin, mothers, and other characters are honored as being great Book of Mormon teachers.
Articles
This article argues that the appearance of Christ in America occurred shortly after his ascension from the Mount of Olives into heaven.
This article gives the dates that the Book of Mormon was translated into each language. By May 1961 the Book of Mormon had been translated into 29 different languages.
The power of choice is within you. The roads are clearly marked: one offering animal existence, the other life abundant…
Notes that a declaration by Thomas Stuart Ferguson that the discovery of Central American cities helps to prove the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon contradicts statements and opinions of other LDS archaeologists.
A response to a letter by C. Sumter Logan of the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Ogden.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Bible > New Testament > Characters > Paul
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Book of Mormon > Characters > Moroni
Dahl reviews many of the major works of numerous authors who between 1800 and 1840 were using archaeology and conjecture to explain the origins of the mound-builders. He compares these works to Bryant’s poems “The Prairies” and “Thanatopsies” Concerning the Book of Mormon, Dahl writes that it is “certainly the most influential of all Mound-Builder literature,” and that “whether one wishes to accept it as divinely inspired or as the work of Joseph Smith, it fits exactly into the tradition”
Articles
Acceptance of the Book of Mormon requires acceptance of modern revelation and Joseph Smith as a prophet of God. The Church received its name from Jesus Christ, as he said in 3 Nephi 27 and D&C 115:3-4.
Nibley sets out forty arguments for the apostasy as he examines the expectation of early Christian writers of the fading of the Church. Hans J. Hillerbrand wrote a letter protesting Nibley’s thesis because, among other reasons, of the possibility that, if widely accepted, Nibley’s view would preclude one such as Hillerbrand from continuing to teach what is traditionally known as “Church history.” See Hillerbrand, “The Passing of the Church: Two Comments on a Strange Theme,” Church History 30, no. 3 (December 1961): 481–82; and a response to Hillerbrand by Robert M. Grant, “The Passing of the Church: Comments on Two Comments on a Strange Theme,” Church History 30, no. 3 (December 1961): 482–83.
“The Passing of the Church: Forty Variations on an Unpopular Theme” (1975)
“The Passing of the Primitive Church: Forty Variations on an Unpopular Theme” (1987)
Exhortation to read “the most unusual book produced in our day,” the Book of Mormon. Provides reasons to read the Book of Mormon.
This article argues that, inasmuch as the Book of Mormon is a literal translation from a Hebrew record, one would expect to find the frequent use of Hebraic idiomatic expressions in it. Bramwell provides examples of a number of Hebraisms, such as compound subjects, frequent usage of the conjunction “and,” a limited number of vocabulary words, and the repetitive use of possessive pronouns.
Articles
How one can be a full-blooded non-Israelite and still be a literal descendant of one of the twelve tribes
Reprinted in Tinkling Cymbals and Sounding Brass: The Art of Telling Tales about Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 11.
Explains how Joseph Smith’s critics in the 1840s and Fawn Brodie rewrote Joseph’s story to suit their perceptions of the Book of Mormon and the First Vision.
Articles
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A study of claims that Joseph Smith’s first vision was a fabrication due to the time lapse between when it was written and when it was published.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
Looks at various summaries of Joseph Smith’s vision and how the deleted portions of these summaries make them lose all authenticity and truth.
This talked about how the dead received baptism.
A conclusion to the Joseph Smith Story series.
Reprinted in CWHN 8:212-18. Discusses why the Book of Mormon uses King James English to communicate effectively with Joseph Smith’s audience.
Circulated under the title“Literary Style of the Book of Mormon Insured Accurate Translation.“
The Church News received a letter from an interested non-member of the Church making the inquiry about why the Prophet Joseph Smith, in translating the Book of mormon, did not use contemporary English instead of using the “King James English” as found in the Bible. The Church News forwarded the letter on to Dr. Hugh Nibley, and this is his reply.
This article affirms that the only way to clearly understand the great teachings and doctrines of the Book of Mormon is through the Holy Spirit. Science, study, and pure human intellectual pursuits, without God’s spirit, will not adequately relay the full message of the Book of Mormon.
Presents statistics of the number of Books of Mormon that were distributed through placements (i.e. hotels, motels, stores, etc.).
Discusses the intent of archaeology, anthropology, and biology in providing evidences to the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.
Tour report by Milton R. Hunter. Archaeological evidence, in the form of carvings and artifacts viewed in Central and South America, are given as support for the veracity of the Book of Mormon.
Reports on the increasing number of archaeological finds that do not conflict with the Book of Mormon, and that in some cases support the historical accuracy of the book. The remains of horses and wheels have been discovered.
Sessions
The author writes concerning the value of reading the Book of Mormon. He adds his testimony to those of the Three Witnesses, Joseph Smith, and the book itself.
Articles
This article tells of the assignment, given to every Melchizedek Priesthood holder, to read the Book of Mormon during the year 1961.
This article is a message to young men comparing the Book of Mormon to binoculars, which allow you to see ahead in order to avoid pitfalls and traps. It uses the story of Nephi and his brothers returning to obtain the brass plates to show that young men should fulfill all of their assignments even if they think they cannot.
Refutes claim of one thousand changes in Book of Mormon since its first publication. Exhortation to read the Book of Mormon and gain a testimony of its truthfulness. Members of the LDS church are on probation and, if proven worthy, will receive the fullness of the sealed portion of the plates.
Sets forth a few ideas on how to make reading the Book of Mormon more interesting to children.
Articles
This article discusses how Jacob (2 Nephi 9) taught concerning the Atonement and mission of Jesus Christ, and our debt to him. Out of love members of the Church should show deep gratitude by obedience and in humble prayer.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Jacob
The Book of Mormon relates that America is a promised land and the Lord will protect it through the covenant that he made with his people.
The “American Gospel” (3 Nephi), as recorded in the Book of Mormon, clariies, and supports the teachings of the Bible and testiies of its authenticity. When Jesus Christ visited the American continent he blessed his people, organized his Church, and taught the gospel.
A representation of the “tree of life” was found in a carving on a large stone monument in Southern Mexico at the ruin site of Izapa. It was the fifth of carved stone slabs located in the temple courts. The art style is pre-Mayan. It appears to represent two cherubim or Near Eastern-type figures, six figures that surround the tree, and a river of water. Two name glyphs were discovered and translated into the names Lehi and Nephi.
Articles
This article is a plea to study the Book of Mormon again and again, with the promise that the Lord has “greater things” to manifest if members of the Church will esteem the Book of Mormon.
Describes the set of seven volumes, Commentary on the Book of Mormon, prepared by Philip Reynolds, and celebrates the completion of the last volume.
The American Indians have lost more than buffalo and animals of the forest. Their greatest loss was in their knowledge of the Great Spirit. There is a sacred book of their history that will restore that knowledge—the Book of Mormon.
A Masters of Arts thesis that presents the process of producing the paintings of “Coriantumr resting upon his sword before slaying Shiz” (Ether 15:30), “An angel of the Lord appearing before Laman and Lemuel” (1 Nephi 3:28), “The Vision of Alma the Younger and the sons of Mosiah” (Mosiah 27:11), and “Christ calling Nephi from among the multitude” (3 Nephi 11:18).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 3 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
A study aid intended to demonstrate the many rich doctrinal topics contained in the Book of Mormon. One doctrinal topic discussed, for instance, is the divine birth of Jesus. Aids the reader with cross referencing and scripture marking.
Briefly discusses the Book of Mormon and its history in a chapter entitled “Post-biblical Sacred Books in America” The author doubts the authenticity of the Book of Mormon and charges that “there is not the slightest shred of [anthropological] evidence” to support the Book of Mormon.
This series is an apologetic work responding to claims that the Book of Mormon is the product of one man of mediocre ability. The author reports the finds of an analysis comparing the styles of different Book of Mormon writers and concludes that the different writers each have different styles. This supports Joseph Smith’s claim that he translated the work. The first part introduces the series.
Draws upon cultural and anthropological relationships between ancient American peoples and the civilizations in the Book of Mormon. Discusses Ixtilixochitl, Quetzalcoatl, and the “Fair God” of Mesoamerica.
Simplilied Book of Mormon stories are given for children, with illustrations.
Selects numerous Book of Mormon geographical sites and locates the places on a map. Various notes and opinions on the Book of Mormon are included.
A polemical work against Mormonism and Mormon scripture. The author attacks the interpretations of biblical prophecy supporting the Book of Mormon, previously advanced by Orson Pratt, B. H. Roberts, and other Mormon writers. The testimonies of Book of Mormon witnesses are also discussed and dismissed. The writer further alleges the complete lack of historical, scriptural, or archaeological evidence supporting the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon, he asserts, contradicts pagan practices of certain native American peoples and asserts that they bear no relation to descriptions in the Book of Mormon. He asserts a mongoloid rather than a Hebrew origin for these peoples.
A children’s story of Mormon up to the time he received the plates.
Provides “an unbiased history of the life and times of Oliver Cowdery” Chapter 3 discusses Cowdery as a scribe during the translation of the Book of Mormon and chapter 5 relates his experience of viewing the gold plates.
A tract designed to persuade the reader that Christology in the Book of Mormon qualifies the book to be Christian scripture, consistent with the Bible.
An address to missionaries on the angel “flying in the midst of heaven” (Moroni) and the Book of Mormon containing the fullness of the gospel.
A book containing trivia questions about the Book of Mormon.
Transcript of a panel discussion presented on television in St. John, New Brunswick, in which the author, president of the New England mission, faces three Protestant ministers. Aspects discussed concern the King James language of the Book of Mormon, archaeology, the divinity of Christ, the trinity, and continuous revelation.
Discusses the Priesthood. Also explains how the Three Witnesses conform to five criteria for determining the soundness of a testimony.
“The Doctors’ Dilemma” and “The Return of the Prophets?” were added in this edition, though they were not part of the original series of radio addresses and have a somewhat different style.
In 1954, Hugh Nibley delivered a series of weekly lectures on KSL Radio. The series called “Time Vindicates the Prophets” was given in answer to those who were challenging the right of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to call themselves Christians.
“Time Vindicates the Prophets” (1954)
The World and the Prophets (1954)
The World and the Prophets (1987)
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > History > Christian History, Apostasy
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > History > Christian History, Apostasy > Prophets
A look at biblical examples of how man averted war
A new method of studying the Book of Mormon is proposed that includes finding some of the more important passages of the Book of Mormon and starting a structured cross-reference system. In the book a series of doctrinal topics are addressed by brief explanations, thought provoking questions, cross references, and a marking system. The goal is to help the user to be more fluent with the scriptures. [C. W.]
The great faith of the Polynesian people indicates that they are of the blood of Israel. Evidence that they are descendants of Lehi lies in the structure of their temples, baptismal fonts, stone roadways, and the plant life with origins in North America. The first white men in these islands were greeted with great reverence because of the traditions of the people concerning their white god whose teachings resembled those of Jesus Christ.
A pedigree chart of the Book of Mormon families of Lehi, Ishmael, and Mulek that provides brief information with scriptural references about Book of Mormon characters and the time and location where each resided.
Contains many of the important works of Orson Pratt. Subjects include elephants of the Jaredite nation, darkness upon the American continent following the crucifixion, the Hill Cumorah, the Book of Mormon is consistent with the Bible, the witnesses to the Book of Mormon, and the Jaredite origins and records.
Polemic challenging classic LDS Bible prooftexts prophesying of the Book of Mormon, attempting to diminish the impact of the testimonies of the Three Witnesses, discussing modes of translation, and citing attitudes of the Smithsonian Institute.
A typewritten paraphrase of 1 and 2 Nephi geared especially for the American Indian. Divided into 300 verses. Emphasizes Indians as the audience to whom the messages are addressed. Refers to God and Christ as “the Great Spirit”
Chapter 4 is titled “Lost Tribes and the Mormons” Edward King and others of his time held to the theory that the Mesoamerican people were descendants of the “Lost Tribes of Israel” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints denies the Book of Mormon is about the Lost Ten Tribes but asserts that Hebrews of Jerusalem came to America. Parallels between the Book of Mormon and accounts of Ixtilxochitl and Popol Vuh seem to support the Book of Mormon.
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An encouragement for LDS youth to read the Book of Mormon and pray about its contents so that they will know the truth.
This series is an apologetic work responding to claims that the Book of Mormon is the product of one man of mediocre ability. The author reports the finds of an analysis comparing the styles of different Book of Mormon writers and concludes that the different writers each have different styles. This supports Joseph Smith’s claim that he translated the work. The second and final part concludes the series.
A story for children about Moroni.
A penetrating satire on the foibles of typical anti-Mormon publications. Learn how authors of anti-Mormon materials use specific strategies to convince readers of their trustworthiness, knowledge, and lack of bias. Essentially a preview of Tinkling Cymbals and Sounding Brass: The Art of Telling Tales about Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 11 (1963).
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Brigham Young > Criticsms and Apologetics > Thomas B. Stenhouse
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Joseph Smith > Criticisms, Apologetics > Fawn Brodie