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Contains testimonies of leaders of the LDS church concerning the Book of Mormon as well as other topics. Included are Joseph Smith and his family members and close associates, the witnesses to the Book of Mormon, and those involved in the translation and publication of the Book of Mormon.
Comprehensive study on the theories that have been held concerning the provenance of the American Indians from the time of Columbus to 1929.
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.
Ten theology lessons designed to give evidences of the divine origin of the Book of Mormon. Bible passages foretold the Book of Mormon. Tells about the translation and publication of the manuscript, provides the testimonies of the witnesses, explains the objections to the Book of Mormon, Indian traditions, and similarities between the Biblical and Book of Mormon passages.
The six-volume Comprehensive History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints originally began as a series of monthly articles written by B.H. Roberts from 1909 to 1915 for the Americana magazine. The articles were published in in the six-volume masterpiece in 1930 in commemoration of the Church\'s Centennial Celebration. The volumes discuss in detail many of the developments and events throughout the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
A history of the Church, including detailed discussions of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, Joseph obtaining the plates, Lucy Mack Smith’s description of the Urim and Thummim, the translation, Professor Anthon’s letter, and the loss of the 110 pages of manuscript. Examines the mode of translation as reported by those who were near the prophet. Reports the testimony of the Three Witnesses and the Eight Witnesses, discusses anti-Mormon criticism and the excommunication of the Three Witnesses. Reveals details of the publication of the Book of Mormon, the efforts to thwart its publication, and other problems concerning the copyright. Provides an analysis of the purpose and structure of the book. Considers the conflict between Book of Mormon teachings and the revelation given to the Prophet on marriage.
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.
A study guide/lesson plan for the Reorganized church with five parts and twenty-one lessons. Lessons deal with the book’s authenticity, authors, chronology, groups of people, doctrines, and social relations among the different people.
Pages 397-401 contain a brief discussion of Mormonism and the Book of Mormon. Author notes that more recent critics of the Book of Mormon favor the environmentalist explanation over that of the Spaulding theory.
A reprint of Adair’s work with an index, extended notes by the editor of Adair’s original notes, and an introduction giving an account of Adair and the book.
Lambert praises the one hundred-year anniversary of the Book of Mormon, discusses the rarity and value of the first edition and urges all to heed its counsel.
Burgess discusses the different editions of the Book of Mormon, including items about when and where they were printed.
Articles
Perhaps the greatest message of the Book of Mormon is that God speaks to all his children, “on one continent or another, in one land or another,” all will be taught the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Refers to the Book of Mormon as the record of Joseph in the hands of Ephraim that supplies the world with a new witness for Christ and the fullness of the gospel.
A brief bibliography of books and tracts on the Book of Mormon.
Outlines the different groups who came to America as described in the Book of Mormon and shows how the Book of Mormon story agrees consistently with the Bible in history and doctrine.
A brief history of the restoration of the Church and of the translation, the contents, and the importance of the Book of Mormon. [M.D.P.]”
Both the Bible and the Book of Mormon testify of Christ. Author tells of the importance and significance of the two.
A poem describing the confiict between the Lamanites and Nephites and the final translation of the plates.
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.
Discusses John 10:14-16 where the Savior speaks of his other sheep. The Book of Mormon reveals that this other “fold” was the branch of Israel in America.
The more evidence there is, the stronger faith will become. The Book of Mormon increases the evidence for supreme religious truths. Bringing forth this book may be said to double the divine evidence for these truths. This book is a new volume of scripture, the voice of the inhabitants of the western continent testifying that they were not neglected by God.
The appearance of the Savior to a group of people in the land Bountiful after his ascension into heaven (3 Nephi) was personal testimony of Christ himself. The people on the American continent were the “other sheep”
Christ is God manifested. If men would know God, all they have to do is hold up a clear vision of the Christ. Christ appeared to the people in Bountiful after his resurrection.
Alma says that after the resurrection there is no dissolution that takes place, but spirit and body become inseparably united into one spiritual personage, spirit predominating, and that is why the revelations say, “Man is spirit”
Refers to Jesus as the “Creator of all things,” as well as “the Father of Heaven and of Earth” This same thought is repeated in the Book of Mormon by Mosiah, Alma, Nephi, and Moroni in connection with the idea that Jesus is “the Creator”
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Jesus came that he might redeem the children of men from the Fall, and because they are redeemed they are free (2 Nephi 2:22-27). Resurrection from the dead is as universal as death—therefore Jesus is referred to as the Redeemer.
“At the end of the work, Nibley writes in long hand: This is unfortunately not the end—I have over one hundred pages that go on
like this. Authorities and sources for all quotations and other exact assertions will be freely revealed on request.“
An overview of the Republic following stream of conscious.
Scriptural passages point out the difference in Christ as a “Redeemer” and Christ as a “Savior” (Alma 22:14; Helaman 15:18). Christ’s work brings universal redemption from physical death through resurrection, and brings salvation from the effects of individual sin through faith and repentance.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Helaman
Reprinted as “First Christmas on Western Hemisphere” Deseret News Church Section (23 December 1939): 1, 8. Retells the story of Samuel the Lamanite’s prophecy to the Nephite people of the signs that would occur at Christ’s birth in the Western Hemisphere.
Presents an anthology of scriptural references from the Book of Mormon that pertain to the various doctrines, including the plan of redemption, baptism, law of Moses, and the coming of Christ.
A historical polemical work against Mormonism. Chapter 8 discusses various alleged anachronisms and absurdities in the Book of Mormon. The author rejects the Spaulding Theory in favor of the psychological environmentalist explanation proposed by Woodbridge Riley for the origin of the Book of Mormon.
A historical examination of the life of Sidney Rigdon that discusses the theories concerning the origin of the Book of Mormon. Concludes that Sidney Rigdon had no contact with Joseph Smith nor the Spaulding Manuscript prior to 1830.
The Church’s role in Abraham’s covenant
This booklet calls attention to the wonder of the Great Pyramid of Egypt and points out that ancient Americans show archaeological similarities to the ancient Egyptians. Smith discusses astronomy and geometry as related to the construction of these ancient structures and explores how Mayan ruins and the legend of Quetzalcoatl relate to the Book of Mormon.
Bearing witness of the Father and of the Son—and especially of the Son—seems to be the major function of the Holy Ghost, Supreme Witness for God (1 Nephi 12:18).
“Men are that they might have joy” (2 Nephi 11:25-27). The resurrected man can die no more, his spirit and body will never be divided again, and thus will progress through the eternities if he wills it so (Alma 11:45).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Reprinted from the Kansas City Star, 24 February 1931, wherein Alberto R. Escalona, Mexican archaeologist, is quoted as saying “the Mayas arrived in Yucatan about 275 B.C” The date provided by Escalona coincides approximately with proposed Book of Mormon dates.
Joy comes from experiencing and knowing opposites, and then choosing the better part (2 Nephi 2:25).
The doctrine of free agency is strongly set forth (2 Nephi 2:26-27; Alma 29:4).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
The Book of Mormon came forth at a time when there was a great need for faith. It is a record of God’s personal dealings with the ancient inhabitants of America and its purpose is to convince the Jew and gentile that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God.
Refers to the prophecy of Samuel the Lamanite about Christ’s birth and the prophecy’s subsequent fulfillment (3 Nephi 8-11). The Easter event in the western world was “established by ocular and auditory evidence”
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.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 3 Nephi
Moroni was a man who was faithful in life, in death, and as a resurrected being. Under the most difficult circumstances during and after the Nephite civil war, he lived as an outcast rather than deny his testimony.
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.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 3 Nephi
Articles
Based on the findings of a Jewish archaeologist, Isadore Lhevinne, who affirms that Jews discovered America, this article claims that evidence shows that Jews reached Mexican shores on more than one occasion hundreds of years before Columbus.
Reprinted from the Kansas City Journal, June 5, 1881. A reporter interviews David Whitmer regarding his role as a witness, the gold plates, and his testimony of the Book of Mormon.
The reason Joseph could marry an Egyptian and still have the heirship of Israel placed on his son Ephraim
Old Testament Topics > Joseph and Asenath
Old Testament Topics > Women in the Old Testament
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Abraham and Sarah [see also Covenant]
Traditions of the Indians tell of “a book” that their forefathers once possessed. It was taken from them, buried, and promised that it would come forth at a later time. Accounts from letters and journals of early missionaries of the Church as well as scholars of ancient Indians tell of these traditions.
David Whitmer showed his copy of the Book of Mormon manuscript to Orson Pratt and Joseph F. Smith, who noticed that the signatures of the 11 witnesses were in Oliver Cowdery’s handwriting. The author concludes therefore that this is the printer’s manuscript, and that the original manuscript was placed into the cornerstone of the Nauvoo House.
The Book of Mormon represents only a “fragment of the inspired writings recorded on metallic plates by Israelitish prophets in America” There existed many additional records, which may be revealed in a future day.
Refers to a book by Reverend D. H. Bays who collected views of eminent scholars on the authenticity of Martin Harris’s “characters” Central American scholars Augustus LePlongeon and Ignatius Donnelly identified Mayan inscriptions with elements of Egyptian writing in them.
Retells Joseph Smith’s account of the angel Moroni’s visit, his acquisition of the plates, and the translation. Concludes with the testimony of the Three Witnesses.
Denigrates LDS practices and teachings. Says that missionaries circulate the Book of Mormon but not the Bible. Comments on reactions of Church leaders to an earlier article claiming that LDS teachings were changing.
Contains a photograph and transcription of the patent for the first edition of the Book of Mormon filed by Joseph Smith Jr., 11 June 1829.
A fictional story that tells of a Gadianton spy who falls in love with the daughter of Gidgiddoni and plans the extermination of his own secret band.
The author considers the Book of Mormon to be a “solemn parody of the Bible” (p. 253) and a product of a nineteenth-century New England environment.
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.
The author of this paper accuses Moroni of not letting competent professionals view the golden plates. Mysteries concerning the ancient Mesoamericans, will forever remain unknown until Moroni descends and reveals to professionals where to find the hidden golden plates. One such mystery, for instance, pertains to whether or not Quetzalcoatl is related to the Asian Buddha.
A missionary tract that describes some of the ruins of Yucatan and Guatemala. Presents an overview of the contents of the Book of Mormon.
Sunday School lessons for youth. Gives an outline of the text covered each week. Integrates teachings of Book of Mormon prophets with examples from daily life.
History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a semi-official history of the early Latter Day Saint movement during the lifetime of Joseph Smith. It is largely composed of Smith’s writings and interpretations and editorial comments by Smith’s secretaries, scribes, and after Smith’s death, historians of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The history was written between 1839 and 1856. Parts of it were published in Times and Seasons and other church periodicals. It was later published in its entirety with extensive annotations and edits by B. H. Roberts as part of a seven-volume series beginning in 1902 as History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
First published as The Redeemed Hebrew, 1926. A message to all Jews that Jesus is the Christ, the Eternal God, and that a new witness to these truths has been brought forth. The Book of Mormon brings knowledge of Christ in the New World as it discusses the signs of his birth and death. The divinity of Christ is proclaimed in the Book of Mormon. The testimony of the Three Witnesses and the Eight Witnesses is given to prove that Joseph Smith had the ancient American record.
Deals with the historical relations between the Mormons and the Indians, and gives a brief overview of the Book of Mormon, explaining how that and biblical prophecies have influenced relations between the Latter-day Saints and the American Indians.
Also in Deseret News Church Section
On the basis of its involved structure, the author argues that the Book of Mormon is a translation of an ancient document and not a modern composition.
A seaman creates a model of a Jaredite barge and explains its different parts.
The use of the term “stick” in Ezekiel 37 does not refer to books as some have suggested, but it has reference to nations, i.e., the stick of Judah is the Jewish nation and the stick of Ephraim is the Ephraimite nation.
The “Book of Mormon is the greatest missionary in all the world” Those who prefer to believe the Spaulding theory should publish the manuscript and make a comparison. There are two tests that must be applied to any man claiming to be a prophet of God: Are the things he prophesied coming true? Are the doctrines he teaches the same as those taught by Jesus Christ? In both instances Joseph Smith passes the test.
The prophet Joseph Smith taught in the Nauvoo House concerning the stick of Joseph, Ephraim, and Manasseh. Lehi was of the family of Manasseh and Ishmael and his family were of the house of Ephraim. The one hundred sixteen lost pages of the Book of Mormon contained a clear account of Ishmael’s ancestry. That is the reason, the prophet said, that no mention of Ishmael’s genealogy is in the Book of Mormon. Richards discusses the marriage relationships and union of the families. Lehi’s sons married Ishmael’s daughters thus combining the two tribes. Richards writes that this fulfills the prophecy in Genesis 48:20 that Ephraim and Manasseh together should become a multitude of nations.
Talks about the role of witnesses. God gave the same commission to the Book of Mormon witnesses in the new dispensation as he did to the ancient witnesses.
Describes several external evidences of the Book of Mormon: an Egyptian Prince declared that he could understand a pure Egyptian dialect spoken in Mesoamerica; compares Egyptian and Mayan alphabet characters and says one borrowed from the other; discusses the theory of Atlantis as a possible land bridge; relates the discovery of the “earliest American date, 6 August 613 B.C”
Archaeological discoveries in Mexico and Central America demonstrate the abundance and frequent use of gold. Spanish conquistadors describe plates and slabs of gold that match Joseph Smith’s description of the gold plates.
Provides a list of references from the Book of Mormon concerning the location of the Hill Cumorah.
The Indian legend concerning the peace pipe is one of great significance to the Book of Mormon. The pipe was a symbol of Jesus, the Prince of Peace. The account of Jesus’ visit to the Americas might help to explain this legend more fully.
Pack defends the veracity of the Book of Mormon, dismisses the Spaulding Theory, reminds his listeners that the Three Witnesses never denied their testimonies, and reiterates Moroni’s promise (Moroni 10:4) that all may know the truth of the Book of Mormon through prayer.
The Book of Mormon purports to be a record of the dealings of God with certain people on the American continent. Gives a lengthy overview of the Book of Mormon story.
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.
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.
A story about Oliver Cowdery, who never denied his testimony of the Book of Mormon.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Abraham and Sarah [see also Covenant]
Text of an address showing the power that the Book of Mormon exerts on human hearts. Gives conversion stories of early Church leaders, and relates the Book of Mormon teachings to the principles of personal knowledge, righteousness, and service that are the heart of the New Testament.
An excerpt from the pamphlet “Divine Authenticity of the Book of Mormon” that claims that the stick of Judah refers to the Bible and the stick of Ephraim refers to the Book of Mormon.
A rebuttal to an earlier article (James H. Anderson, 20 February 1932) concerning the meaning of the term stick in Ezekiel 37:15-17. Sperry argues that the stick of Ephraim is the Book of Mormon and the stick of Judah is the Bible.
Reviews the obtaining and the translation of the gold plates by Joseph Smith, the Anthon incident and the publication of the Book of Mormon.
Presenting a brief history of the Mormons in Illinois, the author offers a psychological interpretation of Joseph Smith, considering the Book of Mormon to be “the product of an adolescent mind, and a mind obviously suffering from the characteristic mental disease of adolescence-dementia praecox. The Mormon faith is the result of the reaction of an adolescent nation to that book”
Articles
This article claims that Chihuahua, Mexico was once inhabited by a brilliant civilization. A visit to the ruins shows remarkable skills in masonry, textiles, and pottery, as well as a preoccupation with warfare and ingenious designs for protection. The inhabitants of this civilization may have been the Gadianton robbers.
This article provides information regarding a number of recent paleontological discoveries that shed light on Book of Mormon statements regarding oxen, sheep, and other animals, and the smelting of iron.
This article is a travelogue of visitors to Easter Island. The underlying question is whEther or not certain aspects of the island reflect cultural characteristics of the Nephite voyagers during the time of Hagoth.
This article is a fictional story of Lehi’s family and the Exodus as seen from the eyes of Lemuel’s wife.
Lessons from the Book of Mormon written in story form. Includes questions for study and discussion, problems to solve, and projects.
Central American architecture is similar to ancient Near Eastern architecture as found in Babylon and Egypt. The ruins in Central America fit criteria of architecture of the Book of Mormon.
Articles
Announces The Great Migration, by J. Fitzgerald Lee, which is a scholarly book with the hypothesis that the Hebrew race originated in America and migrated there from Asia. Concludes that this “unwittingly testifies to the truth of the Book of Mormon”
Presents the Book of Mormon as a scripture that originated on the American continent and gives a summary of its contents.
According to prophecy, Jesus Christ visited many persons on the American continent shortly after his resurrection. He established his Church and taught the people his gospel.
The Urim and Thummim were instruments used in translating the Book of Mormon, were utilized by the brother of Jared, and were prepared by God to bring to light all the works of darkness and secret organizations.
In order to support claims by the Book of Mormon, the author presents archaeological evidence that the wheel existed in ancient America.
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 United States of America is a choice land. There are two great prophecies in the Book of Mormon: it is a witness of the divinity of Christ, and it gives prophecies concerning the great gentile nation. If the Gentiles sin against the gospel, it shall be taken from among them. But if they will repent, they shall be numbered among his people.
Articles
Book of Mormon gives world new light on ancient history. Archaeology confirms its truth. Quetzalcoatl stems from Christ’s visit. Hagoth’s expeditions possibly settled South Pacific islands. Politics and war are highly developed in Book of Mormon, which is a divine record.
Articles
In Jacob’s sermon on immorality (Jacob 2) polygamy is not forbidden. What is forbidden is the taking of wives and concubines without the sanction of God.
Since Columbus, the world has tried to find out the origin of the American Indian. The author gives several examples of different theories written on this subject. The members of the LDS church have a true history of the American Indian and that history is the Book of Mormon.
An announcement that “all source material pertaining to the introduction and translation of the Book of Mormon is to be made available to members of the Church”
Articles
Describes a time when Indian students visited the Alberta, Canada, Temple. They saw wall paintings that depicted Lehi offering a sacrifice after landing on American soil, and a picture of Christ administering the sacrament to a Lamanite at his coming after his resurrection.
The Nephites continued Lehi’s priesthood, especially the Aaronic priesthood connected with the law of Moses. The Book of Mormon is a witness of God that gives the account of God’s dealing with man through his holy priesthood. In time, both the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods were lost on both hemispheres.
The authenticity of a letter purported to have been written by Emma Smith is called into question. Emma Smith denies the truthfulness of the letter and bears witness that at no time did she ever question Joseph Smith’s divine calling or the divinity of the Book of Mormon that he translated.
Addresses the problems raised by the Isaiah portions contained in the Book of Mormon, including the multiple authorship of Isaiah and resulting conflict in dates, and the similarities and differences between the King James Version wording and Joseph Smith’s translation. Cites the various Hebrew texts to support claims that the Book of Mormon translation is the most accurate.
The traditions of the Maya are recorded in the book known as the Popol Vuh. These traditions include the creation story, the Tower of Babel, and the bearded, white God. These traditions coincide with some Book of Mormon teachings and may aid in its authentication.
Articles
The author claims that a comparison of Quetzalcoatl, the Book of Mormon, and biblical passages reveals many similarities.
Articles
Argues against statements that Joseph Smith produced the Book of Mormon by way of “visionary seizures” The testimony of the Three Witnesses is reprinted, as is a description of David Whitmer’s testimony before he died.
Lord Kingbrough (1830—1848), H. H. Bancroft, D. G. Brinton, Torquemanda, and Angus W. McKay found traditions of the virgin birth in the traditions of Mexico, the Otomies, and Navajo Indians. Other ancient peoples such as the Aztecs and the Indians of Paraguay believed in the virgin birth of their gods. This same belief was taught to ancient Americans in the Book of Mormon.
Articles
Growing amount of evidence shows that Columbus was late in his discovery of America. Ancient manuscripts indicate that the first inhabitants of America came from the East and that they had elephants as reported in the Sheffield Weekly Telegraph, November 4.
Gives a brief background of the Aztecs’ Calendar Stone and of the disappearance of the Mayas between the time a.d. 400 and 500. These evidences support the Book of Mormon.
Believers in the Bible should look forward to further revelation from the Lord. The Book of Mormon restores ancient knowledge that has been lost, such as the plan of salvation. The doctrine of the Atonement is no better explained in all of scripture than in the Book of Mormon. The law of opposites and the concept of Satan is clarified.
Gives a brief history of the translation process of the Book of Mormon and cites cases of ancient peoples like the Nephites who also kept records.
Features 86 brief chapters, each containing a number of verses from the Book of Mormon. Some chapters are introduced with a note from the author.
A correlation of the Book of Mormon and the history of Old Testament events
The LDS church is founded upon the principles of the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon is not a “Golden Bible” nor does it take the place of the Bible. It is not associated with secret societies, but condemns the same.
Typescript copies of two early upstate New York newspapers that provide comments about the Book of Mormon. Includes Obadiah Dogberry’s well-known satire, The Book of Pukei.
This tract explains briefly the contents, origin, authenticity, witnesses, consistency, archaeological discovery in modern times, and the Bible prophecies concerning the Book of Mormon.
Articles
Catholic missionaries who arrived in America found the natives practicing baptism and were horrified. Some cultures sprinkled while others immersed the infant, but always it was meant to lead the individual toward a better life and salvation in the kingdom of God. These practices are explain by the Book of Mormon text that informs the reader that baptism was introduced early in America’s history. [J.W. M.]
Tells of American Indian traditions that support the Book of Mormon since they are similar to traditions of the Nephite and Lamanite people.
Articles
The calendar developed by the Maya Indians began somewhere between 613 and 580 B.C., though it dates back to 3373 B.C., and was arranged by the deity Quetzalcoatl. The Book of Mormon people reckoned their time from the Savior’s birth. The date when Mayan history began and the correlation with the sign of the birth of deity are evidence of the authenticity of the Book of Mormon.
Witnesses of the truth are a very important part of God’s plan. The Three Witnesses to the Book of Mormon were respected men who approached the Lord in humble prayer in daylight and open air. Eight other witnesses added their testimonies. The chief human witness was the translator, Joseph Smith.
Argues that some names on the Mayan Calendar are similar enough to Book of Mormon names to clearly confirm the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. God permitted the ecclesiastics in A.D. 1561 to destroy the ancient records of the Indians so that when the Book of Mormon was published there would be no information on the Indians from which Joseph Smith could have been accused of borrowing ideas.
Articles
The Book of Mormon records that Lehi’s colony took brass plates upon which were recorded the record of the Jews and the genealogy of their forefathers. The British Museum has metal plates that are engraved with records of several different cultures.
Discusses various concepts regarding the two manuscripts of the Book of Mormon, including ownership, history, and significance.
Articles
Metal plates prepared by the ancients have been found in several locations in America. There are many historical accounts of metal plates that no longer exist as they were melted down to be used in other ways. Melvin J. Ballard describes plates seen in a museum in Lima, Peru, that were gold sheets, the size of the Book of Mormon plates (Deseret News April 30, 1932).
Articles
Joseph Smith described the gold plates as having “the appearance of gold” The word “appearance” is significant as plates of pure gold would have been in danger of easy destruction. Most likely it was a gold and copper alloy. The Book of Mormon could have been written in Hebrew on just 21 pages or plates; in Phoenician characters about 45 plates would have been necessary, even taking into account the loss of the 116 pages.
Articles
The legal status of the testimony of the witnesses to the Book of Mormon is important. “Their witness stands unimpeached before the world” Despite apostasy, none ever denied his testimony; all were honorable, upstanding men.
Articles
Harris cites evidence that many ancient American cultures used “seer stones” and breastplates that suggest a corrupt form of the Urim and Thummim used with the breastplate. He shows how many Indians from North America to Peru in South America used clear stones or crystals for divination.
This article is a brief testimony of the truthfulness and value of the Book of Mormon, written by a man who is part Scottish and part Blackfoot Indian.
Heber J. Grant writes about reading the Book of Mormon as a boy. Melvin J. Ballard speaks about the book’s purpose of being carried to “all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples.”
A brief testimony of the truthfulness and value of the Book of Mormon, written by a man who is part Scottish and part Blackfoot Indian.
Articles
This article is a listing of Book of Mormon authors, the number of years each composed his writings, and their order of succession. It also includes scriptural references.
Text of an address dealing with the Book of Mormon’s history and prophecies about America. Nephi’s vision of the land of promise and Moroni’s warning to the Gentiles are lessons for us today.
Articles
Harris cites many examples of one language being written with another alphabet—transliteration. This he does to support the claim of the Book of Mormon that Hebrew was written with Reformed Egyptian characters (Mormon 9:32-33; 1 Nephi 1:2). Mentions the discovery by Sir Flinders Petrie of some writings in the Peninsula of Sinai that were in the Hebrew language but written “in Egyptian hieratic characters somewhat changed”
Articles
Explores geographical/historical/archaeological implications of Lehi’s journey out of Jerusalem. Says hostile Arabs prevented a journey through inhabited areas.
Refutes scholarly claims that the Bible was written during the 7th century b.c. by examining the contents of the brass plates that Lehi took to the New World. Since the brass plates contained the Pentateuch, chronicles, and prophecies until the reign of Zedekiah, the Book of Mormon offers evidence that the Bible was written at an earlier date.
This page contains a picture of copies of the Book of Mormon and a very short paragraph on a page of a Book of Mormon owned by Hyrum and Joseph Smith with signatures to their testimony.
Articles
The copy of the Book of Mormon owned by Hyrum Smith at the time of his martyrdom is a cherished heirloom.
Gives evidence and reasons that Joseph Smith did not quote from the Bible in translating the Book of Mormon as many critics suggest.
A non-member read and studied the Book of Mormon for six months and was very impressed by it.
Articles
This article chronicles the final years of Martin Harris’s life and his journey to Utah. Harris spoke to congregations bearing his witness of the Book of Mormon. He died in July 1870 and was buried with a Book of Mormon in one hand and a Doctrine and Covenants in the other.
Notes that Moroni’s sermons about spiritual gifts, the sacrament, and charity resemble Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 13. Suggests that Jesus was actually the originator of Paul’s words, since Paul could have collected records from his contemporaries that were not included in the four gospels. Moroni would have learned from Jesus’ actual words to his disciples in America, which explains the similarities in the teachings of 1 Corinthians and the Book of Mormon.
The author, not a member of the Church, examines the Rigdon-Spaulding theory of the origin of the Book of Mormon. He gives several reasons why the Rigdon-Spaulding theory is false and states that the Book of Mormon was not influenced by the writings of Solomon Spaulding.
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.
A non-Mormon scholar states that the Spaulding theory is false and that Joseph Smith is not a fraud, arguing that the Book of Mormon witnesses who left the Church would have exposed the Book of Mormon story if it truly were fraudulent.
Articles
Concentrates on the work of salvation for the dead as introduced when Moroni quoted Malachi to Joseph Smith.
Likens the Gadianton robbers to modern organized crime. Claims that the “author and founder” of the Gadianton robbers is Satan.
Recounts Christ’s visit to the Nephites in the Americas. Refers to external evidences, such as the Mexican calendar stone and Joseph Smith’s witnesses, that help support the truth and divinity of the Book of Mormon.
States that many archaeological, historical, and traditional evidences of ancient inhabitants of Mexico and Central America are linked with the Book of Mormon. Many items mentioned in the book have been found such as fine linen, elephants, horses, and temples.
That the bulk of the translation was done from 7 April 1829 to June 1829 is evidence that the Book of Mormon was of divine origin. The book agrees in doctrine with the Bible and with archaeological facts that were virtually unknown in backwoods New York in 1830.
Describes the Hill Cumorah and country surrounding it. Also gives evidence of ancient American Indians.
A list of biblical trees and their symbolic usage
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.
Bancroft (Native Races, vol. 1, 628) describes the warfare found among the Mexican people when the Spaniards arrived in the New World. The description is similar to descriptions found in the Book of Mormon concerning the final battle between the Nephites and the Lamanites. [J.W.M.] ”
A two-part article that states that there were approximately 1,150,000 descendants of Lehi in Mexico when the Europeans arrived. Intermarriages took place between the two groups and as a result many Americans now have Lamanite blood. Argues that thousands of Church members are descendants of Lehi, showing that Lehi’s promises are being fulfilled.
The Mayan Indians achieved advanced scientific achievements in mathematics, astronomy, and with their calendar system. Robinson quotes Book of Mormon passages to show that Book of Mormon peoples possessed the same skills. He defends the 600 B.C. departure date of Lehi against the assertion that 613 b.c. was the Mayan calendar’s starting date.
The Aaronic Priesthood was restored May 15, 1829, as a result of the translation of the book of Mormon. Includes testimonies of Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris.
Includes a reprint of the testimony of the Three Witnesses from the Book of Mormon, a report of Oliver Cowdery’s testimony given at the conference at Council Bluffs, his testimony at the time of his death in David Whitmer’s home, David Whitmer’s rebuttal to John Murphy, William Harrison Homer’s interview with Martin Harris, and Harris’s testimony given in Salt Lake City and in Clarkston, Utah, just prior to his death.
Written for the dedication of the monument of Moroni that stands on the Hill Cumorah. Retells the story of Mormon’s and Moroni’s abridging the Book of Mormon, Moroni’s appearances to Joseph Smith, and Joseph Smith’s receiving the plates from Moroni at the Hill Cumorah.
An attempt to explain Joseph Smith and the Three Witnesses on the basis of current pop psychology. Links Smith’s reputed early practices to the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. “The Book of Mormon reads like a mixture of Old Testament, Arabian Nights and Gulliver’s Travels, with a literary quality decidedly inferior to any of these” Suggests that the Three Witnesses suffered a hallucination.
Ambrose R. Winch, through reading and manually copying a borrowed copy of the Book of Mormon, was converted to the Church.
Gives several examples on how “modern revelation,” including the Book of Mormon, gives more understanding to the Bible. The Book of Mormon shows that the five books of Moses were indeed written by one author, Moses, instead of several authors as many scholars claim.
This article provides “an account of the dedication of the Angel Moroni Monument at Hill Cumorah, near Palmyra, New York,” and discusses the significance of this dedication to the Church.
Describes the first visitation of the angel Moroni to Joseph Smith, Joseph’s call to the ministry, and scriptures quoted and interpreted by Moroni. Emphasis is placed on prophecies of key events in the latter days.
Articles
Mentions the erection of the Cumorah Monument, identifies Moroni as a resurrected Nephite prophet. Stresses the doctrine of the immortality and resurrection of man.
Articles
This article remarks on the new monument on the Hill Cumorah, which commemorates the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, a most significant book.
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.
The author believes that the Polynesians are of the blood of Israel and that they journeyed from the American continent at the time Hagoth built his ships.
Shows that the Mexican Calendar Stone gives an account and the exact date of the “great cataclysm,” and that it is the same date and account that is given in the Book of Mormon. The “great cataclysm” is the destruction that happened to the land during and after the crucilixion of Jesus Christ.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Old Testament: Overviews and Manuals
Gives the historical background of Utah towns that were given names from the Book of Mormon.
Discusses the present whereabouts of the posterity of Judah, Joseph, Manassah, and Ephraim. The land of America is the “land blessed of the Lord” above all lands. Believes that the American Indian will be used in the latter days in revealing the mysteries of the Lord.
A non-Mormon writing under the pseudonym of Robert C. Webb discusses issues relate
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This article discusses newly discovered fossils of elephants that were found on an island off the coast of California. This discovery may indicate that the Book of Mormon contains the truth.
Written in poetic form, this pamphlet was created for the express purpose of telling briefly the story and the preservation of the records that were to come forth in the last days as the Book of Mormon.
Reprints obituaries on David Whitmer from Missouri newspapers. Stresses his tenacious testimony as one of the Three Witnesses. States some details of his vision, including the handling of the Urim and Thummim and sword of Laban.
This article discusses the Hopi Indians and their connection with the Book of Mormon and includes an interpreted version of the Hopi Indian story as told by their chief in Salt Lake City.
Articles
Brief life story of Oliver Cowdery. He was a special witness for the Book of Mormon and never denied the Book of Mormon even though he was once excommunicated but later rebaptized.
Research has shown that the Egyptians, Hebrews, and Greeks used tablets of metal to record important documents. The Inca-ruled natives of Peru and the Aztecs of Mexico engraved records on metal sheets. Engraved records are also found among relics of North American Indians. The British Museum possesses a set of twenty-five silver plates containing Buddha’s first sermon and a gold tablet containing the dedication of the temple to Osiris by Ptolemy Eureregetes, 242-222 B.C.
The actual translation of the Book of Mormon took place in just under ninety days, though Joseph Smith had the plates from September 22, 1827, to July 1, 1829. The printing contract was made August 25, 1829. The author’s research of 700 items regarding the origin of the Book of Mormon found in the New York City Library confirmed his testimony. A newspaper article is included from the Wayne Sentinel about Martin Harris mortgaging his farm and a quote from Mormonism Unvailed stating that there are affidavits from 60 persons to prove Joseph’s inability to write the book.
The Book of Mormon is a literal translation of an ancient record, not the product of Joseph Smith as Alexander Campbell claimed. Through the spirit individuals may gain testimony of its divine origin. Included are personal testimonies of the Book of Mormon converts Wilford Woodruff and Parley P. Pratt.
Eight part series. The Book of Mormon records that the faithful of the American Continent were visited by the Jesus and were told they were the “other sheep” that he had spoken of in John 10. There are three groups of people the Savior refers to when he talks of “other sheep”
WilliamA. Cole studied Polynesian traditions, legends, and ancestry. He found that Polynesians are direct descendants of the Nephites and gives several Polynesian legends of the migrations that took place, one of which is of the Nephite shipbuilder, Hagoth.
Pack defends the veracity of the Book of Mormon and defends the Book of Mormon claim that horses existed on the American continent.
Articles
Gives logical evidences that support the Book of Mormon, including the short amount of time it took Joseph Smith to translate the Book of Mormon, the Three Witnesses testified of it’s truth to their dying day, archaeological discoveries, and more.
Articles
A famous Mohawk singer, Os-ke-non-ton, was told the story of the Book of Mormon and his ancestors and said, “Of the many anthropological explanations of the origin of the American Indian the Mormon one impresses me as the briefest and most feasible”
A letter by a non- member of the Church who was impressed by the Book of Mormon and after reading it understood more fully what Mormons believe.
Articles
Recounts the stories of Joseph Smith’s vision, of his receiving the plates, of the translation process of the Book of Mormon, and of the witnesses that testified of seeing the Book of Mormon.
Presents evidence that Martin Harris “mortgaged his farm for $3,000 to pay for the printing of the first edition” of the Book of Mormon.
A testimonial about the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. The author makes statements defending the Book of Mormon against charges that it is a replacement for the Bible and that it was plagiarized from the Spaulding manuscript.
This article testifies that the sacred mission of the Church and the Book of Mormon is to bring all nations to Christ. The book gives an account of Jesus’ visit on the American continent and provides a new witness for him.
Articles
Many prophesied of the star that would appear at the Savior’s birth, including Samuel the Lamanite, whose prophecy was quite detailed.
A historical treatment of Mormonism and its possible connection with Free-masonry. The author suggests that the Book of Mormon’s Gadiaton Robbers reflect nineteenth century influences of anti-Masonic hysteria in New York during the late 1820s.
An anthropological/archaeological approach to the Book of Mormon with emphasis on cultural parallels between Book of Mormon people and American Indians. Hebrew origins of early American aborigines and possible evidence of Christ’s visit to the Americas are also discussed.
A lesson manual. Cultural/religious parallels between the Book of Mormon people and the American Indians are discussed. Cites evidence linking American aborigines to Hebrew origins.
“My aim and method has been to present in brief the researcher’s findings in science and tradition as these data seem to reveal the ancestry of the Indian and his early history, and at the same time draw the reader’s attention to the close agreement to the story from the Book of Mormon. Even those who put no credence in the Mormon Prophet cannot help being intrigued by the parallelism and impressed by the fact that the book he gave to the world antedates the research that slowly but steadily corroborates his story. Those who read this work carefully, I venture to say, will be led into one of the most interesting and thought-provoking theories of history. Though not all who read may fully believe, yet they will revel in the newer and broader fields of exploratory thought and reason.” [Author]
A theological treatise on the Book of Mormon. Quotes verbatim the permit that was issued to Joseph Smith to copyright the book. The Lord observes the laws and customs of mankind. Bears witness of the Book of Mormon’s authenticity as well as the power of the priesthood.
Rehearses the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, as told by Joseph Smith, the mother of Joseph Smith, and others. Also included are statements by those who reject the divine nature of the Book of Mormon. This slender volume is the forerunner of the author’s A New Witness for Christ in America.
A literary analysis of the Book of Mormon. The author compares its language and style with the Bible attempting to determine what influence the Bible may have had on the Book of Mormon.
Old Testament Topics > Book of Mormon and the Old Testament
An Old Testament textbook for seminary classes
A biography of Alma the Younger, employing paraphrases from the Book of Mormon. Includes a section containing the sayings of Alma.
The disillusioned disciples of Christ in the Old World were changed from fearful, hesitant men to bold and anxious testifiers when they learned the Savior had risen. The Book of Mormon adds credence to the resurrection both in its content and in its coming forth. As the resurrected Lord was to the ancient apostles, so is the Book of Mormon to the Latter-day Saints. It is to strengthen and make unafraid the disciples of Christ.
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The Book of Mormon is published in Braille, fulfilling the prophecy in Isaiah that “the blind shall see out of obscurity and out of darkness”
Compares the American Indian’s agriculture, soil conservation, and the use of natural resources to that of modern days.
This article refers to evidence about the existence of elephants in ancient New Mexico.
Although the Book of Mormon does not contain definitive statements regarding ethical and social precepts, it does contain useful teachings regarding ethics, including statements on joy, the criteria and sanction of the good, freedom of the will, and guidelines for social problems.
Articles
Describes the labors of Andre K. Anastasiou in preparing a Russian translation of the Book of Mormon.
True secret combinations are alliances between the criminal underworld and corrupt government officials. They are designed to exploit, to plunder public treasures, and to promote vice.
Presents notes concerning the origin of the Book of Mormon. The nature of the book is sacred history as well as profane history, it teaches morality and spiritual truths, and it presents a perfect philosophy of life. Its primary purposes are to witness of the divinity of Jesus Christ and to combat the controversies that exist between the Bible and the modern philosophies of men.
Announces the number of languages into which the Book of Mormon has been translated, summarizes the book’s contents, and discusses its prophecies concerning the United States.
This article tells of the work conducted by Andre K. Anastasiou on a Russian translation of the Book of Mormon.
Some of the Jaredite nation possibly broke away from the main colony to journey southward to South America to become the Inca and pre-Inca civilization. Lehi’s colony on the other hand did not spread out, but stayed close to their point of origin since the land was fertile.
Deuteronomy 5:22 records that the Lord wrote the Ten Commandments on stone tablets and Joseph Smith claims that the Lord gave him a record engraved on plates of gold. The question is what became of these plates? There are many ancient accounts of deities who delivered the law to an intermediary. This book holds a place of honor in the Mormon Church because of its supposed divine origin.
Discounts the idea that Joseph Smith possessed gold plates from which came the Book of Mormon.
Articles
This article describes how in 1842 Lorenzo Snow made the presentation of a richly bound Book of Mormon to Queen Victoria, Queen of England.
Articles
Martin Harris acted as Joseph’s scribe during the translation of the Book of Mormon. He became convinced of the authenticity of the translation upon showing a translation and copies of the original characters to two well-known experts. He was one of the Three Witnesses and never denied his testimony of the Book of Mormon.
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Believes that the formula for understanding spiritual truth is found in Moroni 10:4-5, “by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things” Some of the best tools to lind spiritual truth are desire, sincerity, faith, pure living, and communication with God.
Alma2 and the sons of Mosiah were miraculously converted to Jesus and his gospel. Alma’s missionary experiences may be compared to the ministry of Jesus Christ who also accepted a lower station in life to serve his fellowmen and was subject to mockery and humiliation.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Estimates that the weight of the gold plates from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon was sixty pounds.
The Lord’s Church was organized from the very time that Lehi landed on the western shores of America and built a temple.
Articles
An editorial commemorating Joseph Smith’s receipt of the gold plates from the hand of the angel Moroni.
Calls attention to the many difficulties that occurred during the translation and publication of the Bible. Although many people reject the Book of Mormon, it is yet the word of God and was translated correctly by a prophet of God.
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This article discusses how the Hill Cumorah pageant, “America’s Witness for Christ,” was prepared from the Book of Mormon by H. Wayne Driggs. It depicts scenes from the Book of Mormon, which proclaims a solemn message of Christ.
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Evans rejoices in the fact that missionaries are now being sent to preach to the Navaho Indians. The Navahos have many legends that are similar to biblical myths such as the fiood, and Jonah in the great lish. Many have tried to determine the origin of the Native Americans. The Book of Mormon gives the answer that they descend from Lehi, a Jew from Jerusalem.
When the Book of Mormon was published, a local newspaper called it “The greatest piece of superstition that has come to our attention” Orson Pratt observed that the book was either true or “one of the most cunning, wicked, bold, deep-laid impositions ever palmed off upon the world” By 1937, the book was translated into sixteen languages and selling 50,000 copies a year. This should be adequate evidence of the divine nature of the book.
Many books, including the Bible, are cited for their powerful influence, and the Book of Mormon is extolled as “the most powerful” American religious book to come forth in the nineteenth century. Though it has affected only one percent of the people, that percentage was affected in such a profound way as to affect the whole of the United States.
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Believes that the Hawaiians, Samoans, Maoris, and other south sea peoples originated on the American Continent. The three native foods of Polynesia—the coconut, sweet potato, and taro root—are of American origin. The genealogical name lines of such widely separated peoples as New Zealand Maoris and Hawaiians unite 65 generations back to Hema who led a migration to New Zealand. Prior to Hema, the names in both Hawaiian and Maori legends are similar.
Encourages Church members to read the Book of Mormon, and tells faith promoting stories of those who have read the book and have experienced a “spiritual revival” in their lives.
Under the direction of Moroni, Joseph Smith obtained the plates and translated them according to the gift and power of God. He was an unschooled boy and an instrument in the hands of the Lord who confounded the mighty with his work.
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.
An introduction to the Book of Mormon, featuring external evidences, teachings about God and Christ, immortality, and ethical and social teachings of the Book of Mormon.
A pamphlet comparing 1 Corinthians 15:25-32 with 2 Nephi 9:24, and Mosiah 15:8, 16:8 and 1 Nephi 11:26-27. Those who believe in genealogical temple work for the dead do not understand the scriptures.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 2 Nephi
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
This article shows examples of how the missionaries are carrying the gospel to the Indian, Mexican, and Spanish-American people. The Book of Mormon is a great converter because it tells of their ancestry and the beginning of their race.
Presents a paper and wood model of the gold plates.
The 1938–39 study manual for MIA
Old Testament Topics > Old Testament: Overviews and Manuals
A textual analysis of the Isaiah scriptures found in the Book of Mormon compared with the King James Version. The similarities, often word for word, between the two texts are explained but greater emphasis is given to the many differences found in the comparison. Where differences are noted, the Book of Mormon agrees with other versions of Isaiah texts—i.e. the Syriac, Septuagint, and Latin versions. Other differences are found to be Joseph Smith’s own word choice while translating.
Old Testament Scriptures > Isaiah
Articles
A testimony of the Book of Mormon. Truth has sprung out of the earth as Psalms 85:11 prophecies. The lost sheep of the house of Israel (Matthew 25:24) are the Nephites and Lamanites or the “voice out of the dust” (Isaiah 29:4-19). Professor Anthon fulfilled Isaiah 29:11 by saying he could not read a sealed book. The Book of Mormon is the stick of Joseph spoken of in Ezekiel 37:15-22.
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.
There were many sets of plates mentioned in the Book of Mormon. The brass plates, the large plates of Nephi that Mormon abridged, the small plates and the records of the Jaredites. All these were buried in the Hill Cumorah.
For twelve years a Jew living in Mexico City gathered evidence to attempt to prove the original inhabitants of America were of Jewish descent. The material that he collected provides a great deal of evidence that the people observed the Mosaic Law, believed in one supreme God, and believed in figures like Adam, Eve, and Noah.
Articles
Stresses that the Book of Mormon, which has come through the house of Joseph, stands as a second witness of Jesus Christ.
Stresses that keeping genealogical records by all branches of the House of Israel is of great import. Outlines the sequence of prophets who prepared the sacred record that we have as the Book of Mormon.
Voices strong objection to the introduction and circulation of maps that attempt to depict the geography of the Book of Mormon. Cannon raises doubts as to the authenticity of a piece entitled the “Route Traveled by Lehi and His Company” that places the landing site of Lehi’s party in Chili.
Sessions
Articles
This article uses the discourses of Alma and Amulek to the Zoramites as a partial guide to determine what the Book of Mormon teaches about social action. The work teaches that violence is not a recommended “principle of social action” and “the solution of social difficulties must be sought on the spiritual plane.” It also discusses what the Book of Mormon teaches about government.
All American editions of the Book of Mormon after 1882 contain a notation, written possibly by Frederick G. Williams, which identifies the location of the landing place of Lehi’s company. It is not properly verified as to authenticity and should be avoided.
As an individual reads the Book of Mormon, he or she should consider the spiritual nature of the book, the “culture of the people described” within its pages, and the manner in which it stands as a second witness, with the Bible, of Jesus Christ.
The relics found in the La Brea Tar pits include deposits of prehistoric life—horses, mammoths, and other animals now extinct, proving that these animals once roamed the American continent as the Book of Mormon records.
The Book of Mormon was published in an environment of intense opposition. The enemies of the book published strange stories concerning its origin. Newspapers printed numerous articles (some reprinted in this article) prejudicing the public, claiming that the “next generation” would not remember the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon survived the opposition and has been published in foreign languages.
It must not be supposed that the Book of Mormon people had the Melchizedek Priesthood before Christ. The Mosaic law was regulated under the Aaronic priesthood, there is no evidence that the law was practiced under Melchizedek Priesthood authority and that sacrificial offerings were performed by other than Aaronic priesthood holders. Alma speaks of the priesthood after the Order of the Son of God in past tense language.
Analyzes American anthropology, and concludes that recent findings correspond with Book of Mormon descriptions.
The Church has long been interested in the American Indians because they are descendants of Book of Mormon people.
This article contains a map of the proposed geography of the Book of Mormon but does not super-impose this geography over a present-day map. The author makes an analysis of the geographical descriptions in the Book of Mormon text.
Examines the origin, description, names, and purposes of the Urim and Thummim and the revelations received through them. Details the names of individuals who have used them.
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The Psalms
Articles
Studies the habits and customs of the Xlavajo Indians for forty years and concludes that the Book of Mormon represents the true explanation of their origin.
Presents the trends, theories, and accomplishments of ancient American researchers and how their research on the American Indians compares with the Book of Mormon story.
Recounts legendary stories concerning the three Book of Mormon Nephite apostles who were given power over death until the return of Jesus Christ in the last days.
Identifies the Book of Mormon as an additional scriptural witness of Christ and as the stick of Judah.
The Hill Cumorah was the same as the Jaredite hill Ramah. It seems that the Hill Cumorah of New York is the exact hill spoken of in the Book of Mormon.
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.
Talks about the American Indians, their customs and culture, and how they are connected with the Book of Mormon.
The lands of Guatemala and Honduras were anciently inhabited by two peoples. Archaeological evidence substantiates the Book of Mormon.
Address quoting Moroni’s title page, testimony of the Three Witnesses, Ezekiel 37:15-20, 1 Nephi 29:8, Nephi’s vision of the latter days, and various prophecies about the Jews. Exhorts listeners to repent and serve God. Shows how the Book of Mormon and other latter-day scriptures complement the Bible and provide the fullness of the gospel.
Elders Orson Pratt and Joseph Fielding Smith visited with David Whitmer and were shown the original manuscript. Elder Pratt recognized the handwriting of Oliver Cowdery and requested David Whitmer to surrender the copy to the “Utah Church,” but was refused. Whitmer’s testimony concerning the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon is included.
Suggests that much of the Book of Mormon activity took place in Mexico, speaks concerning Book of Mormon geography, archaeology, ancient races of Mexico, and traditions of the Mexican Indians.
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Having spent most of his life in Shiprock, New Mexico, the author explains the history of the American Indian through his knowledge of the Book of Mormon. He cites a knowledge of the cross symbol among pre-Columbian Indians.
Discusses the phrase “and it came to pass” in the Book of Mormon and its importance as a token of Hebrew abridgment.
It has been more than a century since the Book of Mormon was published. It has been published in sixteen languages. Archaeological evidences support the Book of Mormon.
Provides a chart reviewing the different editions of the Book of Mormon and their dates, an outline of the Book of Mormon, and a parallel outline of the Book of Mormon and the Bible, presenting a “bird’s eye view”
A recreation of the entire text of the Book of Mormon. Contains commentary and pictures of sites in Mexico that may correspond with Book of Mormon lands.
Large booklet with black and white photographs depicting ruins in Latin America. One of the great discoveries that has been made is an exact date of the arrival of the Mayas. This date was deciphered from Mayan hieroglyphics and scientists claim it to be August 6, 613 B.C.
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The family of Abraham and missionary work
Copy in HBLL SC box 27 folder 4 through box 29 folder 1. Nibley’s dissertation was completed and approved by December 1938. The library at the University of California at Berkeley catalogued the dissertation in early 1939.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Temples > Ancient Temples > Ritual Patterns, Great Year-Rites, Universal Gospel Culture
Written as an expanded version of the author’s booklet Jehovah-Christ: Is He Our Elder Brother?,
The purpose in writing this text is to “emphasize the geographic references in the [Book of Mormon], and to . . . identify those locations in the light of modern geography” Concludes that the Book of Mormon events covered both the North and South American continents, basing these ideas on the supposition that Panama is the “narrow neck of land” Several maps are included.
Using characters from the Book of Mormon, the author produces a fictitious story of the time surrounding Jesus’ visit to the people of ancient America.
An illustrated outline of Book of Mormon history beginning with the exodus of the Jaredite people to Joseph Smith’s visit from angel Moroni and the publication of the book. Gives a summary of the Manuscript Found
The author believes the geographical background of Book of Mormon events influences other aspects of the record, such as doctrinal interpretations. Scriptural references of the travel and place locations of the Jaredites, Mulekites, Nephites, and Lamanites are enhanced by discussion of population sizes, simple maps, and other illustrations.
Reports that there exist more than seventy-five editions of the Book of Mormon and several archaeological books that prove the authenticity of the book.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Creation
Old Testament Topics > Science and Religion
Sessions
The divine law of witnesses is fixed and definite. More than one witness is required, and had good records been kept through the ages one would probably find this to be so from the beginning. Three witnesses were called to testify of the Book of Mormon; they never denied this testimony, though two were excommunicated.
Articles
This article is an analysis of the geographical statements given in the Book of Ether and possible North American correlations.
In keeping with the Lord’s promises in the Book of Mormon that the land of America should be free from monarchical forms of government and slavery, the U.S. government has adopted many policies to protect America and fulill the prophecy that it would be a “choice land above all others” (1 Nephi 13:30). Two inspired measures that assist in the preservation of America are the Constitution and the Monroe Doctrine.
Articles
Because of fear, the people of Palmyra tried to prevent publication of the Book of Mormon. For this reason two copies of the translation were made and only portions went to the publisher at a time. A covenant was made among people in the community that not a single copy would be bought. Despite this difficult beginning, the Book of Mormon has become the second best seller in the nation, published also in Braille.
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Old Testament Topics > Biblical Criticism
Articles
It would have been impossible for an uneducated farm boy to have written the text of the Book of Mormon without provincialism upon every page. Anachronisms and other errors are not part of it. Much information that has recently been uncovered by archaeologists support the book. Though Shakespeare was an accomplished writer his works contain modernized character’s attire.
Lamanites will be restored to the gospel covenant, fulfilling Book of Mormon prophecy, and Moroni will no longer be the forgotten man of a forgotten people.
Sessions
This article quotes Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, and other contemporary accounts to show how and where Joseph obtained the plates. It also quotes Emma Smith and the Three Witnesses to explain that the Book of Mormon was translated with divine aid and with the use of the Urim and Thummim.
Articles
This article describes how the voyage of Christopher Columbus was foreseen by the Book of Mormon prophets. The spirit of the Lord “wrought upon the man.” Columbus wrote to King Ferdinand of his desire to spread the word of God as foretold by the prophet Isaiah in chapters 24 and 64. His journal excerpts show his loyalty to God and his own knowledge of his divine appointment. He recorded that an angel appeared to him and gave him keys to “bind the oceans” and to link the continents.
Old Testament Topics > Problems in the Old Testament
Articles
The Nephite people knew of Christ, his birth, mission, and death. When Mexico was conquered in 1520, Cortez found a fallen Christian Church, but the descendants of Lehi had not entirely forgotten their great white god and his wondrous miracles and teachings, which had become the worship of Quetzalcoatl. Thinking he had returned, the people welcomed the Spaniards.
A series of Book of Mormon illustrations accompanied by Book of Mormon scriptures in story sequence.
Articles
A literary study of the Bible assists in understanding its origin, purpose, and interpretation; the same is true of the Book of Mormon. Religious truths are conveyed in a distinctive way. The Book of Mormon is mainly narration of a pedantic style with a universal appeal. It was far more important to both recorder and translator that the book be understood than to be a literary masterpiece.
Series displaying J. Leo Fairbank’s paintings depicting Book of Mormon scenes, accompanied by appropriate Book of Mormon text.
This article consists of comments regarding A Voice from the Dust, an edition of the Book of Mormon that the author edited and rearranged.