Writes concerning the early history of Palmyra, the arrival and history of the Smith family, Joseph Smith’s interest in the religious revival, the details of the First Vision, and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.

Scenes from Aaron’s conversion of King Lamoni’s father illustrated in color for children.

Aaron chose missionary service over the opportunity to serve as king and suffered hardship and inhumane treatment to preach the gospel to the Lamanites. Though little is known about him, the Book of Mormon sets forth the greatness of his character.

Aaron chose missionary service over the opportunity to serve as king and suffered hardship and inhumane treatment to preach the gospel to the Lamanites. Though little is known about him, the Book of Mormon sets forth the greatness of his character.

I submit that anyone who reads the Book of Mormon and receives a testimony of its truthfulness by the power of the Holy Ghost will be motivated to live a life more consistent with the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. He or she will become a better person. The Book of Mormon is action oriented. It is motivational. As long as the Spirit continues to strive with such individuals, their consciences will not let them be completely at peace until they improve their lives. Abiding by the precepts, teachings, and commandments taught so clearly in its pages will help a person proximately in this life and ultimately in the life to come. As a result, I resonate positively to the theme of this symposium: “Living the Book of Mormon: Abiding by Its Precepts.”

A children’s story of Abinadi preaching to King Noah.

Under the guidance of some of the best thinkers on the Book of Mormon, the Abinadi narrative springs to life as each chapter approaches Abinadi’s story and words from a different perspective. Whether viewed through a sociopolitical, literary, theological, philosophical, or historical lens, new insights and a new appreciation for the richness of Abinadi’s discourse will help readers reignite their passion for the beauty and depth of the Book of Mormon. This volume is written for an informed, Latter-day Saint audience and seeks to make a contribution with other high-quality research and writing being done on the Book of Mormon. It is produced by members of Brigham Young University’s Book of Mormon Academy, a group of scholars dedicated to research on the Book of Mormon. Each of the members brings a different area of expertise to bear on the Abinadi narrative. As that narrative is viewed from a variety of angles, its richness, beauty, and profound meaning come more clearly into focus. ISBN 978-1-9443-9426-4

Cartoon for children presenting the story of Abinadi.

An important part of drawing nearer to God is coming to know and understand Him through the scriptures He has given us—especially the Book of Mormon, since it contains many plain and precious truths missing from our current Bible. Although most Book of Mormon passages are easy to understand, some are more difficult, such as Abinadi’s teachings about the Father and the Son in Mosiah 15:2–5. Yet Mormon’s inclusion of these words in his abridgment suggests that the Lord wants us to have these teachings and wants us to understand them. Accordingly, many have written about what Abinadi taught—that Jesus Christ is the Father and the Son—and have provided valuable insights and explanations. In these discussions, however, a satisfactory explanation of why Abinadi spoke this way appears to be unaddressed. Abinadi’s teachings can help us know God better and thereby draw nearer to Him if we (1) correctly interpret the why and what of his message and (2) apply his teachings in our study of the scriptures.

A poem telling the story of Abinadi, his preaching to King Noah, and his martyrdom.

A poem telling the story of Abinadi, his preaching to King Noah, and his martyrdom.

An illustrated storybook for children. Features an account of Abinadi, his preaching, and eventual martyrdom.

Todd Parker discusses the meaning of Abinadi’s name and compares his circumstances to those of John the Baptist and his message to that of King Benjamin. He points out legal pretexts for Abinadi’s trial from Old Testament passages, and demonstrates how the priests of King Noah misunderstood the function of prophecy. Abinadi provides several examples of types and shadows pointing to the mission of Christ.

A story for children depicting Ammon teaching the gospel to King Lamoni and recounting the testimony of Abish (Alma 19).

Believes that even though the major events of the Book of Mormon took place in South America, it would have been possible for the gold plates to have been brought to New York. Author argues, therefore, that the Hill Cumorah is in New York.

A series of dramatic scripts based on the Book of Mormon, designed as radio programs. Music, sound effects, and dialogue are features of the thesis.

This series defends the reality of the natural catastrophes described in 3 Nephi 8-10. It quotes descriptions of more recent hurricanes and earthquakes to show how similar the details are and how accurate the Book of Mormon account is. The account in 3 Nephi 8-10 is so accurate that neither Joseph Smith nor Oliver Cowdery could have had sufficient knowledge of the facts of natural disasters to have invented this description. The first part covers hurricanes.

This series defends the reality of the natural catastrophes described in 3 Nephi 8-10. Quotes descriptions of more recent hurricanes and earthquakes to show how similar the details are and how accurate the Book of Mormon account is. The account in 3 Nephi 8-10 is so accurate that neither Joseph Smith nor Oliver Cowdery could have had sufficient knowledge of the facts of natural disasters to have invented this description. The second part covers earthquakes.

An historical look at the anti-Masonic and historical factors present in up-state New York in the late 1820s following the murder of William Morgan. The author asserts that the Book of Mormon incorporates these factors into its discussion of the Gadianton robbers. A summary of the arguments for the “Gadianton-Mason” in the Book of Mormon.

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.

This pamphlet was circulated to refute the claim that the Three Witnesses had denied their testimonies. In spite of his negative feelings toward the Church, David Whitmer strongly testifies of the divine origin of the Book of Mormon. He refutes the Solomon Spaulding manuscript theory and applauds the character of the witnesses. The Book of Mormon denounces the iniquity of polygamy.

Butler discusses the premises of the DNA argument between supporters and critics of the Book of Mormon.

3 Nephi 8 records the great calamity and destruction that occurred at the coming of Christ to America. Similar destructive occurrences will occur before Christ’s Second Coming to the world. Drawing parallels between the two comings of Jesus assists those of the latter-days to prepare for his coming.

Reports upon a Book of Mormon Conference that was held at Graceland College for young men and women of the RLDS church. The Book of Mormon is a valuable treasure to be shared.

A polemical work against Mormonism, written by a former Mormon. The Book of Mormon condemns polygamy. The book contains various anachronisms, including the mention of the Mariner’s compass and the use of scimitars hundreds of years before they were ever in use. The character of the Book of Mormon witnesses is discredited. Modern terms such as “priestcraft,” “lawyers,” and”machinery” found in the Book of Mormon are considered to be proof of forgery. The Jaredite barges are ridiculed by the author as well.

A Book of Mormon study guide consisting of thirty-four lessons. Also includes author’s interpretations of the Book of Mormon.

A plea is made to all saints to await the great judgment of God, when the enemies of the Book of Mormon will be judged and the saints vindicated. There are righteous causes that cannot be tried in the tribunals of men.

Archaeologists have largely suppressed the writings of Ixtlilxochitl, considering them to be “baseless dreams of poetic fancy”

This article illustrates the Nephite notions of priesthood and church in order to show that the Book of Mormon conception of priesthood is based on Judahite notions of kingly priesthood and ideas firmly rooted in the biblical law of Moses and the Sinai Covenant. This is the underlying idea behind Alma2’s discussion of Melchizedek in Alma 13. In this article, I first look at “priest” in the biblical record and tradition. I follow this with a discussion of Book of Mormon “priesthood” notions up to Alma1 and Alma2 (including the interaction with Nehor). Finally, I examine the conflict between Alma2 and the Nehorite people of Ammonihah, where Alma2 draws on a narrative expansion of the Melchizedek tradition in Genesis 14 to make his point about his priesthood order and its superiority to the order of Nehor.

The choices we make may not affect the future history of our nation, but they do impact our personal destiny and influence those in our families and other circles of influence. Indeed, the cause-effect relationship of our choices is a major message of the Book of Mormon. In its pages, we learn about the nature of human agency and the enduring consequences of our choices. This chapter will discuss what agency is; how, where, and by whom various principles of agency are taught; and how understanding and applying the basic elements of agency will bring us nearer to God.

Tells how the Nephites started declining when they became the aggressors by attacking the Lamanites.

This article argues that Book of Mormon references and archaeological evidences (i.e. complex irrigation systems and terraces) from early agricultural sites demonstrate advanced knowledge and practice in tilling the land among the Nephite peoples.

Deals with aspects of agriculture in the Book of Mormon.

Deals with aspects of agriculture in the Book of Mormon.

Pioneers and New World peoples often place an emphasis on agriculture when settling a new land. Such was the case with the Book of Mormon peoples who brought fruits and grains to America.

An article for youth that draws attention to the fact that the downfall of the Jaredites was due to their desire to have a king rule over them. King Akish’s deeds of cruelty, treachery, and iniquity created a kingdom so filled with corruption and secret societies that civil war broke out and ended only after the destruction of the nation.

An article for youth that draws attention to the fact that the downfall of the Jaredites was due to their desire to have a king rule over them. King Akish’s deeds of cruelty, treachery, and iniquity created a kingdom so filled with corruption and secret societies that civil war broke out and ended only after the destruction of the nation.

Review of Step by Step through the Book of Mormon: The Story in Scriptures? A Geographical, Cultural, and Historical System of Understanding (1996), and Step by Step through the Book of Mormon: A Cultural Commentary, Part 1?Through the Wilderness to the Promised Land (1996), by Alan C. Miner

Review of “A Hemeneutic of Sacred Texts: Historicism, Revisionism, Postitiveism, and the Bible and Book of Mormon” (1989), by Alan Goff.

Infers that albino Indians are a genetic reminder of an earlier lighter-skinned ancestry.

An apologetic piece that responds to a pamphlet written by Alexander Campbell, who charged that Joseph Smith was the author of the Book of Mormon.

Equality and charity are two expressions of the same principle—both require humility and meekness; both are central to the message of the Book of Mormon. With distinct clarity, the Book of Mormon teaches over and over again that “all are alike unto God,” and this simple truth is the antidote for many of the pride problems that keep people from coming unto Christ and from extending service and love to all of His children. Whenever an individual or a nation achieves greatness in the Book of Mormon, it is because the people are free with their substance and treat each other as equals. In contrast, the many tragic pitfalls of pride that the Book of Mormon outlines can be traced to a person or persons withholding charity and thinking they are above another. Alma’s deep sorrow was because of the “great inequality among the people, some lifting themselves up with their pride, despising others, turning their backs upon the needy and the naked and those who were hungry, and those who were athirst, and those who were sick and afflicted”. In the kingdom of God, righteousness and devotion are what matter—not prestige, power, or possessions. Love, compassion, and abundance of heart characterize the real Christian, not acquisitiveness and selfishness. The Book of Mormon declares that the true Saints of God are those who put “off the natural man” and become “new creatures” in Christ—”submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love”.

Again and again the Book of Mormon teaches that the gospel of Jesus Christ is universal in its promise and effect.

Discourse by Elder Orson Pratt, delivered at the Adjourned Semi-Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, in the New Tabernacle, Salt Lake City, Sunday Morning, October 11, 1874. Reported By: David W. Evans.

After Joseph Smith received the gold plates from the angel Moroni, he had to take great measures to protect them from people who wanted to steal them for their monetary value. Although Joseph did not leave much documentation of such experiences, the people who were closely associated with him at the time did. Using what records still exist, Hedges pieces together some of the stories of Joseph’s challenges in obtaining and protecting the gold plates.

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.

Poor LDS scholarship has damaged Book of Mormon credibility. Raish points out several types of errors: reliance on archaeologists to lend credibility, faulty footnotes, the use of pictures not related to scriptures with which they are associated, and publishing unauthenticated artifacts that sometimes turn out to be fraudulent.

The Lord told Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, “Look unto me in every thought” (D&C 6:36). In the ordinance of the sacrament we covenant each week to “always remember him,” that we “may always have his Spirit” to be with us (D&C 20:77). The Book of Mormon testifies that “all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all thing that are upon the face of it” (Alma 30:44). Thus, God has given all things as a type or representation of Christ to help us remember Him (see 2 Nephi 11:4; Helaman 8:24). The key to understanding the things of God is to see Christ in them, including His creations.

Discourse by President John Taylor, delivered at Bountiful, Davis County, on Sunday Afternoon, December 1, 1878. Reported By: Geo. F. Gibbs.

As we search, pray, and believe, we will recognize miracles in our lives and become miracle workers in the lives of others.

We may never know in this life why we face what we do, but we can feel confident that we can grow from the experience.

Review of Fun for Family Night: Book of Mormon Edition (1990), by Allan K. Burgess and Max H. Molgard.

Review of Living the Book of Mormon: A Guide to Understanding and Applying Its Principles in Today's World (1991), by Allen K. Burgess.

Review of Timely Truths from the Book of Mormon (1995), by Allan K. Burgess

One of the most “objectionable features” of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Book of Mormon. The book is not a substitute for the scriptures.

In the Book of Mormon, the allegory of the olive tree—written by a prophet named Zenos and later quoted by the prophet Jacob to his people—stands out as a unique literary creation worthy of close analysis and greater appreciation. Besides its exceptional length and exquisite detail, this text conveys important teachings, deep emotion, and wisdom related to God’s tender devotion and aspirations for the house of Israel on earth.

In The Allegory of the Olive Tree, 20 scholars shed light on the meaning, themes, and rhetorical aspects of the allegory, as well as on its historical, cultural, and religious backgrounds. In so doing, they offer answers to questions about the significance of olive tree symbolism in the ancient Near East, who Zenos was, the meaning of the allegory, what it teaches about the relationship between God and his people, how it might relate to other ancient texts, the accuracy of the horticultural and botanical details in the text, and much more.

A children’s story of how Alma believed Abinadi and then organized the Church of Christ after preaching in secret to the people.

A fictional account of Alma₁ who fled the presence of King Noah and followed the prophet Abinadi.

Contains narration and commentary on Book of Mormon passages about Alma and Abinadi. Chapters include: “Abinadi the Martyr,” “Alma’s Ministry,” “Alma the Younger,” “Amlici’s Rebellion,” and “The Zoramite Apostasy”

Alma and Amulek preached to the Zoramites and taught them how to pray. Stresses the importance of prayer and gives the basic steps of how to offer a prayer.

This article states that Alma the Younger taught principles that are relevant in our day. The combined teachings of Alma connect the premortal life, present day, and future life. Alma’s teachings deal with such concepts as the Fall and redemption, the nature of the priesthood, the final judgment, humility, faith, and prayer.

Color illustrations for children of scenes from Alma’s sermon on faith.

Musical selections for chorus, solo voices, and the organ.

Catherine Thomas places Alma and his teachings within the context of the premortal existence to show his concern for the plan of redemption. She notes that some spirits were notably more responsive in their faith than others and that Israel was there organized. Alma’s discourses are set against his dramatic conversion, from a condition of abject wickedness to that of a highly motivated saint. His transformation serves as a model of encouragement for the lost soul seeking a higher state.

One of the key messages of the Book of Mormon is that the human soul must change, must progress, must become. The Book of Mormon is, in effect, a handbook of change, with the Lord seeking to motivate mighty change within us by using the lives and teachings of the Book of Mormon protagonists as the means to teach us how to become. At the heart of the Book of Mormon, in the books of Mosiah and Alma, Alma the Younger makes the subject of change, progression, and becoming the very essence of his life and sermons, and thus Alma the Younger becomes a quintessential standard of how to become like God.

A biography of Alma the Younger, employing paraphrases from the Book of Mormon. Includes a section containing the sayings of Alma.

A children’s story of the angel that appeared to Alma the Younger and the four sons of Mosiah and how they were converted by this experience.

In Alma 21 a new group of troublemakers is introduced—the Amalekites—without explanation or introduction. This article offers arguments that this is the same group called Amlicites elsewhere and that the confusion is caused by Oliver Cowdery’s inconsistency in spelling. If this theory is accurate, then Alma structured his narrative record more tightly and carefully than previously realized. The concept also challenges the simplicity of the good Nephite/bad Lamanite rubric so often used to describe the players in the book of Mormon.

Just as modern missionaries can learn much from the methods of the sons of Mosiah, we can learn much about strengthening wavering members from the example of Alma the Younger in his remarkable reform of the Nephites in Zarahemla. A careful study of Alma 4–16 shows that Alma the Younger models many important principles of activation that are helpful to us today. This study examines principles of activation derived from the account of Alma’s labors among the apostate Nephites, particularly in the city of Zarahemla in Alma 4 and 5.

Alma’s distinctive use of the word state in the Book of Mormon is present in his unique concentration of state, his tendency to reword with state, and his treatment of a shared topic involving state.

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.

In this setting today it is worth noting that the two terms we hear often at graduation—alma mater and alumni—both originally referred to a special relationship, one very much like but also different from that between a parent and a child.

As a part of the restoration of the gospel, the Book of Mormon became the companion volume of the Bible. No one who reads the Bible sincerely can deny that a volume of scripture is needed to record the fulfillment of the promises made to Joseph.

Shows many similarities between aspects of life in the Mediterranean world and ancient America, including linguistic similarities.

The author encourages people to accept the Book of Mormon yet reject the LDS church because the devil has used the uninspired Pearl of Great Price and Doctrine and Covenants to dilute the message of the Book of Mormon.

This article is for the general reader, testimonies of Christopher Columbus, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and ancient traditions from Alaska to Chile regarding the Great White God are discussed. There are limited references.

Through Bible and Book of Mormon references, Elliott claims that “the history of America and the history of the Israelite peoples have been inseparably entwined together” Both the land of Israel and the land of America are lands of promise, both have a city called Jerusalem, and both are gathering places for the House of Israel. America will play a major role in the redemption of the world.

This article attempts to link the name “America” with a cognate form of the name Mulek, a pre-Christian traveler to the western hemisphere. The author rejects the concept that America was named in honor of Amerigo Vespucci, as has been often assumed.

This article discusses how Book of Mormon prophets proclaimed the Lord’s intent to protect the blessed land of America. The brother of Jared, Nephi, Joseph Smith, and others spoke concerning America’s great destiny. Man-made governments often threaten the foundation of liberty. Though the Constitution will “hang by a thread,” the promise guarantees that the thread will not break.

Analyzes American anthropology, and concludes that recent findings correspond with Book of Mormon descriptions.

A polemical tract against the Book of Mormon attempting to demonstrate that many of its claims are false and unsupported by archaeological evidence. Author asserts that there is no evidence for the Hebrew origin of the American Indian, pre-columbian iron and steel, transoceanic migration, and Egyptian language in American white Indians. Other alleged anachronisms are noted.

Correct answers concerning the origins of past civilizations in the Americas were not found until the Book of Mormon was published. Discusses mounds in North and South America. Notes distinct historical periods in Mexico, Central America, and Peru.

Correct answers concerning the origins of past civilizations in the Americas were not found until the Book of Mormon was published. Discusses mounds in North and South America. Notes distinct historical periods in Mexico, Central America, and Peru.

Correct answers concerning the origins of past civilizations in the Americas were not found until the Book of Mormon was published. Discusses mounds in North and South America. Notes distinct historical periods in Mexico, Central America, and Peru.

Correct answers concerning the origins of past civilizations in the Americas were not found until the Book of Mormon was published. Discusses mounds in North and South America. Notes distinct historical periods in Mexico, Central America, and Peru.

Contains information about “traces of an Egyptian custom in Kentucky,” “traits of the Mosaic history found” among the Indians of Mexico, and the “great stone calendar of the Mexicans”

Pachacamac, a deity of the Incas, and the ancient ruins of his cities and temple remind one of the Book of Mormon.

A polemical work that discusses Mormonism on pages 341-58. The author considers the Book of Mormon “an unsuccessful imitation of the style of the King James Version” of the Bible. After a brief review of the Book of Mormon’s contents the author notes alleged anachronisms such as biblical plagiarism, quotations from Shakespeare, and others. Reference is also made to the incident of Anthon’s 1834 denial of the “sealed book”

Explains that the American gospel is the gospel taught by Jesus Christ when he administered to the Nephites on the American continent. Many of the principles Jesus taught were the same as he had taught in the Holy Land among the Jews.

A whimsical newspaper-like publication that describes Book of Mormon events as if they were happening today. Cartoon drawings are included.

Compares Nephi’s vision (1 Nephi 13) to the manner in which history unfolded on the American continent. Columbus was inspired, the Pilgrims came out of captivity, the gentiles fought against England, and America became a land of liberty and prosperity as Nephi prophesied.

The remarkable vision of Nephi in 1 Nephi 13 speaks concerning the Savior’s visit to America, Columbus’ crossing the ocean, and the “plain and precious” truths of the gospel in the Book of Mormon that would come forth.

A report on blood type analyses used to determine the origins of the American Indians. A lack of B-type blood, which is outstanding in Asiatic areas, indicates that most American Indians are probably not of Mongoloid descent. Transoceanic crossings, espoused in the Book of Mormon, are discussed as a possible source for American Indian origins.

Presents the first section of 1 Nephi as the “book of Lehi” Says nothing about the name Book of Mormon, its origins, or Joseph Smith, but entitles his series the American Indian Bible. Has no commentary or notes.

A booklet containing four lectures on the Indians. Author endeavors to identify the American Indians, deals with the condition and status of the North American Indians as of 1964, discusses the LDS Indian programs, and is concerned with the ways in which the Caucasian sector of the Church can be of service to the Indians.

Says that the Book of Mormon prophesied of the American nation, the United States—the struggle for independence, the establishment of democracy, and that no king would rule over the land.

A presentation of photographs, notes, and comments dealing with ancient South and Central America. Discusses Hebrew and Egyptian parallels in the New World, four brothers as founders of the early South American culture, Christianity before Columbus, cement roads, and the use of metal. This work is reviewed in S.515.

The Book of Mormon prophesied of Christopher Columbus and declares America to be “a choice land,” “a land of liberty” The fulfillment of this promise rests upon obedience to Jesus Christ by those who occupy the land.

A missionary tract covering the origin of the Book of Mormon, the Book of Mormon witnesses, archaeological facts, and several biblical proof texts.

In God’s economy, America is now and has always been a choice and favored land. God has decreed for her a final, great, and glorious destiny.

In 1644 Antonio de Montezinos, a Jewish adventurer, declared he had found the lost Ten Tribes in America. The Spanish, who in the Inquisition tried to eliminate Jewish influence, continued to do so in America. They destroyed artifacts and architecture that made the link. The belief that the Lost Ten Tribes were in America has had a profound influence on the history of the world. Among the books written supporting this theory, the Book of Mormon is a significant work.

Compares the studies of Samuel N. Kramer on the Sumerian culture at the time of the tower of Babel with the Jaredite culture as explained in the Book of Mormon.

The high culture and notable achievements found in the archaeology of early American civilizations are outlined and shown to be consistent with the description of civilization found in the Book of Mormon. Christian influence in America before Columbus and Hebrew/Egyptian origins of American aborigines are also discussed in relation to the Book of Mormon.

A tract written to non-LDS presenting an overview of the coming forth and the contents of the Book of Mormon.

Fifteen-part series. Joseph Smith was unshakable in his faith that the Book of Mormon was “the most correct book” The observations of the critics of the Book of Mormon by D. H. Bays, Rev. M. T. Lamb, the Wayne Sentinel, and the Palmyra Reflector show that the book is either true or false. The Book of Mormon is evidence of divine intervention. Reprints articles from the Wayne Sentinel dated September 16, 1829—January 2, 1830, that are infiammatory and derogatory toward the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith. Contains facts concerning the translation and publication process of the Book of Mormon. Includes Joseph Smith’s own words concerning commencement of the translation with Oliver Cowdery as scribe, the move to Fayette, New York, and publication by E. B. Grandin. Quotes extensively from Lucy Mack Smith concerning Joseph’s reception of the plates, the work of translation, the loss of the 116 pages of manuscript, and Martin Harris’s donation of money for the Book of Mormon. John S. Reed, Esq., a nonmember, delivered testimony before the state convention at Nauvoo in 1844 that Joseph had received the plates. Quotes several authors to prove that it was well-known that Joseph Smith had the plates prior to the publication of the Book of Mormon. Both friend and foe declared Joseph unlearned and devoid of the ability to write the Book of Mormon. Earnest seekers of truth and the knowledge of God acknowledge the Book of Mormon as a divine witness of Jesus Christ.

This collection includes a script for a pageant entitled The Book of Mormon. It explains the meaning and purpose of the Book of Mormon.

Contains the script to the Hill Cumorah pageant.

An abridged version of the Book of Mormon with an emphasis on Christ-related material. Also includes an index of name-titles used in the Book of Mormon to describe Christ.

A children’s story of Ammon teaching among the Lamanites.

Ammon, a Nephite missionary who chose to serve a Lamanite king as his servant, gained fame by cutting off the arms of the king’s enemies. The practice of smiting off arms of enemies as trophies fits a cultural pattern known among the later Aztecs and Maya in pre-Spanish Mesoamerica.

Scenes from Ammon’s encounter with King Lamoni’s father illustrated in color for children.

Relates Ammon’s fourteen years of unselfish missionary service.

Deals with the story of Ammon, the son of Mosiah, who served King Lamoni, and the subsequent conversion of the king, his family, and the people (Alma 17-19).

A fictional story of Jothan, an iron worker of King Lamoni’s court who fashioned an important sword, and of Ammon who became a shepherd for Lamoni. This work is reviewed in S.085.

Reprints of letters that describe the ruins of Central America: Teotihuac‡n, Tula, Copan, Quirigua, Palenque, Uxmal, and others. Includes photographs. He relates Central American Culture and religion with Near Eastern Culture and religion, quoting such authors as Bancroft, Humboldt, and Lord Kingsborough, among others, to back his claims. Equates Quetzalcoatl with Jesus Christ whose visit to America is recorded in 3 Nephi 11 in the Book of Mormon.

Tells about Joseph Smith’s use of a seer stone to translate the Book of Mormon. Calls the character of Joseph Smith into question but bears witness that the Book of Mormon is the work of God.

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.

Biographical sketch of Amulek who was a man “of liberal education, of great faith, of unswerving integrity, and untiring zeal for the cause of truth.” Also discusses Alma, Zeezrom, and the divine justice displayed in the destruction of Ammonihah.

Biographical sketch of Amulek who was a man “of liberal education, of great faith, of unswerving integrity, and untiring zeal for the cause of truth” Also discusses Alma, Zeezrom, and the divine justice displayed in the destruction of Ammonihah.

A children’s story of Amulek.

Alma and Amulek share common experiences before and during their missionary experiences.

Recounts the story of Amulek, a missionary companion to Alma in the city of Ammonihah whose call came from God through an angel.

This article argues that there is a marked absence of anachronisms in the Book of Mormon. One method of detecting a fraudulent historical document is to examine it for anachronisms. It is almost impossible to keep such errors from slipping into documents when one is producing the document in a time period other than that about which it is being written.

Review of Charting the Book of Mormon (1999), by John W. Welch and J. Gregory Welch

Delineates the parts of the Book of Mormon worked on by Mormon. Discusses the lost 116 pages. Refers to the “types” or “situation symbols” from the Old World carried through the Book of Mormon. Points out relevant passages for today’s world.

Compares the changes of a number of LDS editions of the Book of Mormon, including the first three editions (1830, 1837, and 1840) published under the direction of Joseph Smith, the third British edition (1852) edited by Franklin D. Richards, Orson Pratt’s 1879 revision that introduced a new chapter and verse system, and James E. Talmage’s 1920 version. The author displays 156 textual differences between these editions. Only a sampling of differences is provided with no intent to be systematic or complete.

Reviews the style, vocabulary, and unique characteristics of the various books within the Book of Mormon. Concludes that the books were authored by a number of writers rather than a single writer, Joseph Smith.

Gives an analysis of the composition of the Book of Mormon, provides an explanation of Mormon’s work of abridgment, identifies the contributors to the Book of Mormon text, and presents a comparison of the Book of Mormon Isaiah with the biblical Isaiah.

Gives an analysis of the composition of the Book of Mormon, provides an explanation of Mormon’s work of abridgment, identifies the contributors to the Book of Mormon text, and presents a comparison of the Book of Mormon Isaiah with the biblical Isaiah.

Gives an analysis of the composition of the Book of Mormon, provides an explanation of Mormon’s work of abridgment, identifies the contributors to the Book of Mormon text, and presents a comparison of the Book of Mormon Isaiah with the biblical Isaiah.

Gives an analysis of the composition of the Book of Mormon, provides an explanation of Mormon’s work of abridgment, identifies the contributors to the Book of Mormon text, and presents a comparison of the Book of Mormon Isaiah with the biblical Isaiah.

A polemical work that asserts that the Book of Mormon was inspired by Satan.

Examines the structure of the Book of Mormon—the first section of the Book of Mormon represents a verbatim translation of the “smaller plates” of Nephi and the remainder is an abridgment with comments, warnings, prophecies, and admonitions mixed with narrative by Mormon and his son Moroni. Compares biblical passages with similar verses quoted in the Book of Mormon.

A thorough analysis of the history and authenticity of the Kinderhook plates is presented. The author concludes that the evidence is inconclusive as to whether or not they are authentic. Includes extensive appendix of known data on the problem.

A study of the proper names extant in the Book of Mormon. Author notes that over 140 biblical names occur in the Book of Mormon, while over 188 Book of Mormon names are nonbiblical. After a technical analysis the writer suggests that efforts “should be directed towards linking up the non-biblical names with names found in post-biblical literature, Talmudic materials, other Semitic languages; and particularly, in materials about South American and North American proto-languages”

Provides a bibliographic listing of articles on the Book of Mormon that were published in Church periodicals during the years named in the title of the work, also presents comparisons of themes emphasized in one period over against the other.

Concentrating on archaeological finds in Mexico, Yucatan, Central America, and Peru, this article presents the civilizations of ancient America as evidence of the grandeur of pre-Columbian America.

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.

Notes shared patterns between ancient Mesoamerica and the Near East in the following areas: architecture, astronomy, calendrical systems, writing, burial practices, use of incense, figurines, sacrifice, ritual washing, sanek symbolism, tees, and kingship complex. These connections indicate that the Book of Mormon is an ancient text.

Describes how two herbs—cascara sagrade and quinine—have helped current civilization. He sees this as a contribution made by the descendants of Book of Mormon peoples.

This book wishes to motivate members of the Church to read the Book of Mormon with greater benefit. The Book of Mormon is directed to the Lamanites, Jews, and Gentiles; the author provides biographical sketches of prominent figures, expounds on character traits, and treats selected doctrinal themes.

A series of brief comments in which the author presents archaeological findings, architectural notes, and myths and legends that deal indirectly with the Book of Mormon. Dibble discusses the wheel, ancient irrigation methods, metals, Mexican and Mayan codices, Quetzalcoatl, ancient buildings, and numerous other related items. The second part covers Mayan glyphs.

Relates the Book of Mormon to archaeological finds throughout the Americas. Discusses marriage customs, baptism, and legends. Adds information about the Mexican calendar, textiles, and landscaping.

Relates the Book of Mormon to archaeological finds throughout the Americas. Discusses marriage customs, baptism, and legends. Adds information about the Mexican calendar, textiles, and landscaping.

According to some archaeologists’ interpretation of an ancient Mayan calendar, the earliest known date in America was August 6, 613 B.C. This date helps to support the Book of Mormon.

A missionary tract that describes some of the ruins of Yucatan and Guatemala. Presents an overview of the contents of the Book of Mormon.

Refers to an article in the June, 1892 issue of Popular Science Monthly by S. Newberry, whose description of ancient civilizations of Latin America harmonize with information in the Book of Mormon.

The goals of the authors are to show “(1) the origins of the American Indians, (2) cultural parallels between the Old and the New World, and (3) temples, mounds, and ruins in prehistoric North America” Includes photographs and illustrations. This work is reviewed in R.007.

Ancient art objects in the Americas correspond to Book of Mormon symbols, i.e., the brazen serpent and the tree of life.

Some traditions of the Native Americans speak of people of the American continent who were descendants of Shem and were scattered at the time of “the confusion of tongues,” of people who believed they descended from the Jews and had preserved traditions of Moses and a miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. Joseph Smith brought forth the Book of Mormon by the power of God and it explains the ruins and ends the mystery surrounding them.

A treatment of geography that settles on a “plausible” scene in Mesoamerica (the Grijalva River as the Sidon), treats the nature of “history” in the scripture, and discusses how scholars learn about the ancient world. Specific data from external studies are then used to shed light on the Nephite record book by book. This work is reviewed in W.058, and in A.079.

Human bones found in caves along the Sac River near Osceola, Missouri, date to “pre-Indian” times, which Gunnell suggests may be of interest to readers of the Book of Mormon.

The discovery of ancient American cities, temples, and other archaeological items will bring about a universal acceptance of the Book of Mormon. It may then fulfill its purpose to convince the Lamanite, the Jew, and the Gentile that Jesus is the Christ.

Compares the Twelve Apostles who were with Christ during his ministry with the Nephite twelve that Christ ordained in the Americas, and discusses their relationship, positions, and responsibilities.

Describes the culture of the Zuni tribe located in the four corners region of the United States and concludes that because of their civilized lifestyle they must have been of Nephite descent.

Discusses how certain Latin American artifacts confirm the Book of Mormon. Contains several pictures.

Nephite kings were expected to fulfill the same roles that kings played in other ancient civilizations— commander of the military forces, chief judicial official, and leader of the national religion. A king’s success depended not only on the extent to which he performed each role, but also on the motives behind his service. Selfless rule by Benjamin-type kings commanded the respect and praise of the people, while King Noah’s quest for personal gain roused Old World disdain for the monarch. The Nephite experiment with kingship confirms that between “kings and tyrants there’s this difference known; kings seek their subject’s good; tyrants their own” (Robert Herrick, 1591–1674).

Book of Mormon accounts of the final battles of the Nephites are compared with historical reports of DeWitt Clinton and O. Turner who tell of formidable fortresses with deep trenches, double walls, mass graves, and rusted tools in the state of New York.

This paper is an expanded version of a paper presented earlier at the Library History Seminar VI in March 1980.

This paper deals with the persistence of a strange documentary custom of the Mesopotamian kings, which led to numerous burials of metallic documents (often encased in stone boxes or other special containers) and were concealed in the foundations or other inaccessible recesses of temples and palaces.

Friar Diego de Landa’s book, Yucatan Before and After the Conquest, recently published, reveals that most of the writings of the Mayas were destroyed by de Landa because he considered them workings of the devil that stood in the way of the native’s conversion to Christianity. The information that was preserved tells of communal living, reckoning of time, festivals, sacraments, worship of one supreme God, baptism, immortality of the soul, and creation of the world. This new publication verifies the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.

Provides an annotated bibliography on mounds found in the United States.

The Bible describes a bifurcated world in which God bids, commands, and teaches the people he has created to follow him in the way of righteousness, and in which the devil leads people into wickedness. This way of seeing things surfaces explicitly in various texts and is known among scholars as the Doctrine of the Two Ways. While the same teaching has been noticed in the Book of Mormon, there is as yet no study that examines the Book of Mormon presentations systematically to identify the ways in which they might follow any of the ancient versions of the Two Ways doctrine, or the ways in which these might feature original formulations. In this article, Noel Reynolds shows that the Book of Mormon writers did retain most elements of the earliest biblical teaching, but with enriched understandings and original formulations of the Doctrine of the Two Ways in their prophetic teachings. He documents twelve exemplary passages in the Book of Mormon that explicitly refer to two paths or ways and assesses the extent to which these follow or vary from each other or from Jewish and Christian models.

Daniel Peterson discusses recent research that supports a spiritual witness for the Book of Mormon, including the following: Joseph Smith’s lack of schooling, his supposed misnaming of Jesus’ birthplace, the translation process, studies of chiasmus, possible locations for Book of Mormon events, and ancient manuscripts that are consistent with Book of Mormon accounts about document practices and beliefs of past civilizations.

Relates the mounds found in the United States to war sites in the Book of Mormon. Also discusses anthropological aspects of the Book of Mormon.

This article refers to the record-keeping habits of the inhabitants of the Americas as discovered by European observers. An English translation of several records is given, and a kinship shown between traditions among the American pre-European peoples and the milieu from which the Book of Mormon emerged.

Review of Finding Biblical Hebrew and Other Ancient Literary Forms in the Book of Mormon (1999), by Hugh W. Pinnock

The Book of Mormon records that there are records “of every kind” written (Helaman 3:15). Ancient Maya hieroglyphs are found on stelae, codices, vases, and on walls and steps of temples. The Mayan calendar found to be more accurate than its European counterpart dates to pre-Book of Mormon times. It is difficult to correlate it with the European calendar.

The Book of Mormon records that there are records “of every kind” written (Helaman 3:15). Ancient Maya hieroglyphs are found on stelae, codices, vases, and on walls and steps of temples. The Mayan calendar found to be more accurate than its European counterpart dates to pre-Book of Mormon times. It is difficult to correlate it with the European calendar.

Large map of Central America showing the migration routes of the Book of Mormon peoples. Uses double arrows to indicate a northward direction as well as a true north to accommodate directions used in the Book of Mormon. Identifies the “Narrow Neck” with the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.

Shows how the four Book of Mormon abridgers—Nephi, Jacob, Mormon, and Moroni—saw our day and directed their writings accordingly.

States that the writings of Ixtlilxochitl contain biblical stories that parallel ancient Mexican myths, e.g., concerning original sin and the flood.

Evidence shows that in middle America the calendar was first developed in the Lehite- Mulekite period. Calendars duplicate the ancient Israelite system. There is evidence of a final migration from Central America into Mexico that corresponds with the final migration of the Nephites in A.D. 327. The birth of the Christ-like god took place on April 6, A.D. 2, in correspondence with Joseph Smith’s revelation (D&C 20:1).

Considers that the mounds in Ohio had their origins with Book of Mormon peoples.

In this article, corresponding words in ancient near Eastern languages and those of American Indians is seen as evidence of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon because Latter-day Saints believe the book is a sacred history of ancient inhabitants of America who came from Jerusalem.

This article states that a testimony of the Book of Mormon comes by the Spirit (Moroni 10:4) and not from scientific research, nor from argument. And yet, the author claims, modern findings are vindications or supports to one’s testimony. Such evidences are cement buildings, gold plates with ancient inscriptions, and stone boxes as depositories of metal records.

Discusses the Book of Mormon as an ancient record that was predestined to come forth in this day and is a work relevant to our day.

Author recalls his visit to South America and suggests several possible connections between South American archaeological ruins and the Book of Mormon.

This piece is largely an account (accompanied by photographs) of a trip by the author to ancient ruins in the Andes Plateau. Monoliths and the ruins of temples in the sites of three ancient cities are described. The workmanship of the ruins is marvelous, states the author, and comparable to ancient Egyptian buildings.

Tells about baptismal fonts that existed among the QuichŽ Mayas in Guatamala and another font is identified in Peru.

Original article.

These are comments about the roles of ancient temples in general, with an emphasis on Mesoamerican temples as centers of religion, culture, the arts, and world view.

Reprint of the 1972 Ensign article.

These are comments about the roles of ancient temples in general, with an emphasis on Mesoamerican temples as centers of religion, culture, the arts, and world view.

This article first appeared in the Ensign (September 1972), 46–49. It was reprinted in The Prophetic Book of Mormon, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 8, 265–73.

These are comments about the roles of ancient temples in general, with an emphasis on Mesoamerican temples as centers of religion, culture, the arts, and world view.

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.

In the past, experts have assumed that primitive sailors would have found it impossible to cross the oceans between the Old World and the New. However, John Sorenson here concludes that the evidence for transoceanic contacts now drowns out the arguments of those who have seen the New World as an isolated island until ad 1492. Sorenson’s arguments are based on evidences from Europe, Asia, and Polynesia of the diffusion of New World plants and infectious organisms. His research identifies evidence for transoceanic exchanges of 98 plant species, including tobacco and peanuts. The presence of hookworm in both the Americas and the Old World before Columbus also serves as evidence to establish transoceanic contact.

After approximately 140 years, public and scholarly opinion are finally beginning to concede the possibility that writing did indeed exist among the ancient Americans. While I have been waiting for this shift to occur among those who don’t have the Mormons’ axe to grind, I have been collecting every available evidence to support my belief in the existence of such writing. My own findings and the findings of others not only establish the fact that writing did exist in ancient America, but they also indicate that metal plates were frequently used as a medium for this writing and that the writings themselves often denote Old World, specifically Hebrew, origins.

The Book of Mormon was translated from gold plates. Correspondingly, many examples of writings on metal plates and other pre-Columbian writings have been discovered since the time of Joseph Smith. Such items lend credence to the gold plates of the Book of Mormon.

Thanks to the work of Hugh Nibley, Paul Hoskisson, Terrence Szink, and others, the plausibility of Alma as a Semitic name is no longer an issue. Hoskisson has noted that “Alma” derives from the root ‘lm (< *ǵlm) with the meaning “youth” or “lad,” corroborating Nibley’s earlier suggestion that “Alma” means “young man” (cf. Hebrew ‘elem,עלם). Significantly, “Alma” occurs for the first time in the Book of Mormon text as follows: “But there was one among them whose name was Alma, he also being a descendant of Nephi. And he was a young man, and he believed the words which Abinadi had spoken” (Mosiah 17:2; emphasis in all scriptural citations is mine). This first occurrence of “Alma” is juxtaposed with a description matching the etymological meaning of the name, suggesting an underlying wordplay: Alma (‘lm’) was an ‘elem. A play on words sharing a common root is a literary technique known as polyptoton.

Analyzes the modern English edition of the Book of Mormon called the “reader’s edition,” published in 1966 by the RLDS church.

Discusses the phrase “and it came to pass” in the Book of Mormon and its importance as a token of Hebrew abridgment.

The Lord has preserved the scriptures for the inspiration and instruction of his children. This divine preservation is particularly evident in the Book of Mormon. The Nephite prophets tell of the importance of the brass plates and the records they kept. We show appreciation by reading their records.

The Lamanites are promised that the covenants made to their fathers will be fulfilled, that a remnant would receive the Book of Mormon, and would associate with other members of the house of Israel in the building of their inheritance in the land of America.

North, Central, and South American Indians all “preserved the story of the flood” Their deluge accounts share with the Bible three main themes: “(1) mankind becomes wicked and offends the Gods, (2) a worldwide flood destroys sinners and purifies the earth, and (3) one righteous family or group is spared to begin a new, improved human race” Samples of the writings of early American explorers relating to Indian traditions about the flood are given.

North, Central, and South American Indians all “preserved the story of the flood.” Their deluge accounts share with the Bible three main themes: “(1) mankind becomes wicked and offends the Gods, (2) a worldwide flood destroys sinners and purifies the earth, and (3) one righteous family or group is spared to begin a new, improved human race.” Samples of the writings of early American explorers relating to Indian traditions about the flood are given.

A summary of the scriptural and historical evidences concerning the Arabian Bountiful, with an evaluation of all possible coastal locations on the Arabian peninsula based upon exploratory fieldwork by the authors in the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of Yemen from 1984 to 1990. The study concludes that an objective and precise identification of Bountiful with a present-day location is now feasible and introduces data on physical traces revealing very early human involvement at the site.

This article discusses the life and mission of the angel Moroni, his visits with Joseph Smith, and his role in the translation of the Book of Mormon.

Quotes Revelation 14:6-8 and explains that Moroni was the angel who held the keys of the gospel and came to earth in the latter days to commit them to Joseph Smith. Gives a biographical outline of Moroni’s mortal life and discusses his latter-day work in bringing the Book of Mormon to light.

Quotes Revelation 14:6-8 and explains that Moroni was the angel who held the keys of the gospel and came to earth in the latter days to commit them to Joseph Smith. Gives a biographical outline of Moroni’s mortal life and discusses his latter-day work in bringing the Book of Mormon to light.

Quotes Revelation 14:6-8 and explains that Moroni was the angel who held the keys of the gospel and came to earth in the latter days to commit them to Joseph Smith. Gives a biographical outline of Moroni’s mortal life and discusses his latter-day work in bringing the Book of Mormon to light.

A pamphlet that warns Mormons against believing in the Book of Mormon and the Angel Moroni, for the Book of Mormon is not even good fiction.

The founder of the True Church of Jesus Christ Restored claims to have had visitations of Nephi and Elijah.

This article is a photographic essay regarding the Joseph Smith Jr. home, where the angel Moroni visited. It includes details of activities outside the home as well as a discussion of the translation of the gold plates.

A polemical tract against Mormonism. The writer notes problems with the claims of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon witnesses regarding the revelatory events surrounding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.

A number of texts from the Qumran scrolls demonstrate the community’s interest in heavenly ascent and in communion with angels. This article lays out a pattern observable in some of the poetic/liturgical texts (for example, the Hodayot and other noncanonical psalms) in which the leader of the community is taken up into the divine council of God to be taught the heavenly mysteries, is appointed a teacher of those mysteries, and is then commissioned to share the teachings with his followers. Upon learning the mysteries, the followers are enabled to likewise ascend to heaven to praise God with the angels. In some texts, the human worshippers appear to undergo a transfiguration so that they become like the heavenly beings. This article further illustrates how these elements can be found together in a liturgical text known as the Songs of the Sabbath Sacrifice; their collective presence suggests that all were part of a ritual sequence. Finally, the article argues that these same elements, or traditions related to them, can be found in passages from the Old Testament.

Contains a rehearsal of the great apostasy and events related to the Restoration, including the coming forth of the Book of Mormon from the hands of the angel Moroni. The book contains the message of the everlasting gospel.

Celebrates the angel Moroni’s first visit to Joseph Smith and his delivering the plates to Joseph Smith.

This annotated bibliography compiled by John Sorenson makes accessible a range of information about animals in the Book of Mormon. It also includes an appendix of animal references in the Book of Mormon.

Rust, in the third annual FARMS Book of Mormon lecture delivered on 27 February 1990, examin3ed literary aspects of the book that develop the primary purposes set out on the title page. He discussed the elements characteristic of an epic that will allow modern-day Lamanites to trust in the Lord's deliverance and detailed literary (especially poetic) presentations of the covenants in the Book of Mormon. Literary elements combine with the influence of the Spirit to testify of the purposes of the Book of Mormon.

A brief review of an ancient literary form known as chiasmus. The material presented offers insight into the structure and history of chiasmus and its occurrence in the Book of Mormon as additional evidence to the book’s historical authenticity.

Reprint of an article from Inter-Ocean (23 September 1900), which tells of a discovery of nearly 2,000 human skeletons in Galveston, Texas. Scientists were of the opinion that the city was destroyed by a giant tidal wave. The Saints’ Herald article proposes that this occurred during the destruction at the time of Shiz and Coriantumr.

A geographical and archaelogoical look at events found in the Book of Mormon. Author argues for the existence of two Cumorahs, one in Palmyra, New York, and the other in Central America. Suggests that the existing oceanic currents aided the Nephites and Jaredites in their destinations from the Old to the New World. Sees a connection between the mound builders of Mississippi and Ohio Valleys and the mass migration of Hagoth and the other boats to the land northward.

Compares the story of the brother of Jared and his family with a Scythian/ Phoenician historical account that possesses similar elements, i.e., building a tower, the confusion of tongues, and a family whose language was preserved.

Reports that Angela Crowell’s identification of midrash in the Book of Mormon brings new understanding of the book’s Hebraic structure.

Suggests that Christ appeared to the Nephites on Rosh Hashanah (near September 22). The institution of the sacrament among the Nephites is compared to the last supper. Warns against the changing of ordinances.

The fragmentary text on a stele erected at Karnak seems to be connected with the volcanic eruption on Thera. The phraseology in many instances bears uncanny resemblance to the Book of Mormon account of the destruction in the Americas at the time of the crucifixion.

Explains why the phrase “Another Testament of Jesus Christ” is an appropriate subtitle to the Book of Mormon.

The Book of Mormon is clearly a didactic text, with its narrators using plainness, explicitness, and repetition to keep the message clear and straightforward. However, Hardy offers a more in-depth analysis of the text’s rhetorical design that also reveals it as a literary text. The Book of Mormon is both a primer for judgment and a guidebook for sanctification. Parallel narratives are compared through clusters of similar narrative elements or phrasal borrowing between the multiple accounts. In Mosiah, Mormon tells the story of the bondage and delivery of Alma and his people after recounting the story of the bondage of the people of Limhi. Hardy explains that ambiguity, indirection, comparison, and allusions are all used to suggest the larger context of these two narratives. The ability to read the book as a guidebook for sanctification, rather than just as a straightforward didactic primer, will provide insight and guidance in the process of living a faithful life.

The subject I believe we have neglected is the Book of Mormon’s witness of the divinity and mission of Jesus Christ and our covenant relationship to him.

A newspaper article from Zion’s Ensign that contains an interview with William Smith, brother of Joseph Smith. Discusses the frock covering the plates, Joseph Smith’s character, and Reverend Lane’s impetus that led to the first vision.

Report and commentary on an article from the Denver Republican (9 June 1900), which told of a trip that E. S. Compston of Harvard University made to Central America. Compston reported that he saw many similarities to the Book of Mormon but believed that Joseph Smith learned about these ruins from a traveler; yet many of the places Compston visited had never been viewed before.

Reprint of an article that appeared 18 August 1901 in the Denver Times. Tells of the claim of Mrs. Diadama Whitney Chittenden that Joseph Smith was working for a millwright named Spafford in Salem, Ohio, when Joseph stole the unpublished manuscripts that Spafford had composed. Joseph Smith then published the Book of Mormon using Spafford’s manuscript as the greater part of the Book of Mormon.

Discusses a possible “wise purpose” for the small plates. Since Nephi and Lehi experienced Jerusalem and the Old World their writings have a more distinct Jewish flavor to them. This is essential for a witness to Jews that Jesus is the Messiah and that the Book of Mormon is true.

This article is a one-act play of the first Christmas in America taken from the book of Alma.

Argues against false statements made regarding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and the idea that Sidney Rigdon had altered the Spaulding manuscript to produce the Book of Mormon.

Few books on the origin of American Indians were available in 1830 (James Adair, 1765; A View of the Hebrews, Ethan Smith, 1823; The Star of the West, Elias Boudinot, 1816). There is little evidence that Joseph Smith had access to these books because any information available would have related to American Indians in the United States east of the Mississippi. Information dealing with Mexico and Central America would have still been hidden in Spanish libraries.

Questions 20, 34, and 35 deal with the Book of Mormon: the traditional Mormon interpretation of Ezekiel 37:16-17 is erroneous and the proper interpretation refers to the nations of Israel and Judah; praying about the Book of Mormon is not necessary since the Bible warns against those who preach any other gospel than what has been preached in the Bible; the Book of Mormon is not inspired of God as John 1:18 says that “no man hath seen God at any time” and since Joseph Smith claims to have seen God, he is a false prophet.

A polemical work against Mormonism, which responds to various questions often asked by Mormons dealing with the Bible and Mormon scripture.

A tract that argues against Moroni’s admonition to read the Book of Mormon (Moroni 10:4-5) and warns people against reading the book. The Book of Mormon is not doctrinally correct and its teachings do not accord with the Bible.

The Book of Mormon provides answers concerning the origin of the early inhabitants of America.

Resolves diverse questions about the Book of Mormon text as it relates to the Pentateuch, the writings of Isaiah, Shakespearean quotations, New Testament citations, domesticated animals, and others. This work is reviewed in S.511.

This article discusses why parts of Moroni 7 and 10 are similar to sections of I Corinthians 12 and 13. It also answers why the Book of Mormon is called the stick of Ephraim, given the fact that Lehi was a descendant of Manasseh.

Gives evidences of a high civilization in Meso and South America, including towers seen by Cortez, highways up to 9,000 miles in length that cross South America, and metallurgy including gold, silver, and copper all of which lend support to the Book of Mormon.

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.

A look at the relationship of the characters in the Anthon transcript to ancient Egyptian, Mesoamerican, and Phoenician scripts. The author concludes that while there are similarities between the characters in the Anthon transcript and Semitic languages, little more has been done by scholars than to define the problems. Much research remains to be done.

Prophesying of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, Nephi foretold that an unlearned man would be asked by God to read the words of a book after a learned man had failed to do so. The unlearned man was initially unwilling, claiming, “I am not learned” (2 Nephi 27:19). One interpretation of Nephi’s account is that Joseph Smith could not translate the Book of Mormon before the meeting of Martin Harris and Charles Anthon. Early historical accounts are consistent with this interpretation. However, according to Joseph Smith—History 1:64, Harris did take a translation to Anthon. Although this translation has not been found, evidence exists of similarities between this document and documents produced during the preliminary stages of the translation of the Book of Abraham. These similarities suggest that the document taken to Anthon was a preliminary and unsuccessful attempt to translate the Book of Mormon, during which Joseph Smith studied the translation problem out in his own mind as he qualified himself to receive the revealed translation from God.

A comparison of the “characters” from the Anthon transcript with two Mesoamerican scripts. The author concludes that the characters are similar.

Review of Parallel Histories: The Nephites and the Americans (1989), by Anthony E. Larson.

A series of brief comments in which the author presents archaeological findings, architectural notes, and myths and legends that deal indirectly with the Book of Mormon. Dibble discusses the wheel, ancient irrigation methods, metals, Mexican and Mayan codices, Quetzalcoatl, ancient buildings, and numerous other related items. The twenty-sixth part covers the proceedings of an anthropological conference.

Lists nine ways to guard against the influences of anti-Christs in modern days.

A four-page polemical tract asking questions about the Urim and Thummim, the translation processes, and the changes in the Book of Mormon.

Speaks about the validity of the Bible and argues that God has spoken to the ancient western world as well as set forth in the Book of Mormon. Adduces archaeological evidence and arguments of reason to defend the Book of Mormon.

Archaeological and historical concepts associated with the Americas and parallels between the Old and New Worlds (i.e., Hebrew and Egyptian languages and customs found among the Indians) are discussed in light of many claims made in the Book of Mormon.

The author presents extracts from a work called An Enquiry into the Origin of the Antiquities of America, by John Delafield Jr., which shows similarities between ancient Americans, Egyptians, and Hindostans. These evidences are used to support various claims of the Book of Mormon concerning its Egyptian influence.

In the traditions of the Apache all the Indian tribes long ago combined against a white group and exterminated almost all of them. Due to this great sin the Great Spirit allowed the Spaniards to drive them from their homes. A good book once held by their ancestors was lost long ago.

An edited version of an incomplete typescript.

An attack on the assumptions made by “apologetics” in asserting the historicity of the Book of Mormon. Special attention is paid to showing the inconsistencies in the apologetics methodology and hermeneutics, especially in the areas of chiasmus in the text and a Book of Mormon geography limited to Mesoamerica. The author also shows the contradictions inherent in any attempt to reconcile apologetic and critical methodologies.

In Understanding the Book of Mormon, Grant Hardy applies his unusual background in the history of historiography to the Book of Mormon, using the same techniques of literary analysis that are fruitfully employed in the study of classical Chinese, classical Greek, and other historical writing. He is able to identify very distinct historiographical approaches for Nephi, Mormon, and Moroni. While he brackets the question of whether or not they were actually distinct historical persons, the most intuitively obvious reading of his work strongly suggests that they were—a proposition that has profound implications for the controversy surrounding the origin and authorship of the Book of Mormon

The author proposes that Joseph Smith fabricated the Book of Mormon in an attempt to combat the works of Thomas Paine and others. He enumerates various environmental influences that he feels were incorporated into the text of the Book of Mormon, such as anti- Masonry, Hebrew origin of the Indians, Ethan Smith’s View of the Hebrews, and others. The Book of Mormon is seen as false, but a well intentioned attempt to stimulate greater faith among early nineteenth-century Americans.

Review of “Apologetic and Critical Assumptions about Book of Mormon Historicity” (1993), by Brent Lee Metcalfe.

The relationship of the Book of Mormon to the Bible from the standpoint of literary accuracy is discussed. The author justifies the textual changes in the Book of Mormon by rehearsing a historical trail of changes made in the English Bible.

A pamphlet containing a reprint of articles published in the Saints Herald in October 1903. The Book of Mormon was an important part of the Restoration.

The Book of Mormon was an important part of the Restoration, as it revealed the origin and the fullness of the gospel delivered to the former inhabitants of America. When Moroni appeared to Joseph Smith to reveal the location of the plates, he quoted many Bible prophecies that the book would fulfill.

Lengthy retelling of the conflict of Amalickiah and Ammoron against Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi.

Lengthy retelling of the conflict of Amalickiah and Ammoron against Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi.

Lengthy retelling of the conflict of Amalickiah and Ammoron against Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi.

Lengthy retelling of the conflict of Amalickiah and Ammoron against Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi.

Lengthy retelling of the conflict of Amalickiah and Ammoron against Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi.

Lengthy retelling of the conflict of Amalickiah and Ammoron against Moroni, Teancum, and Lehi.

The apostate Amalekites and Amulonties influenced the Lamanites to practice wickedness.

Originally published in 1957 as a Melchizedek Priesthood manual. A revised edition of the book was published under the same title by the Council of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for the lesson manual for the Melchizedek Priesthood quorums in 1957; a second edition was printed by Deseret Book in 1964; and it was reprinted in 1976 in the Classics of Mormon Literature series.

An Approach to the Book of Mormon is Dr. Hugh Nibley’s classic work on the Book of Mormon. A gifted scholar with expertise in ancient languages, literature, and history, Nibley shows numerous details in the Book of Mormon narrative to be in accord with cultural traits of the Middle East.