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In an article published by the Messenger and Advocate in Kirtland, Ohio, July, 1835, a quote attributed to Joseph Smith appeared. It described the Hill Ramah as being about one mile west of the Hill Cumorah (in New York). Between these two hills was the final battleground of both the Nephite and Jaredite nations.
An interview that took place two weeks before the death of William Smith, wherein Smith avows that he did indeed lift the gold plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated.
Consists of 42 poems concerning latter-day events that are prophesied of in the Book of Mormon. Subjects of the poetry include: opposition in all things, the Church is organized, and the Lamanites are to be a blessed people.
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”
Relates names from New World inscriptions to names or titles in the Book of Mormon. Names of calendar months and other titles were associated with Book of Mormon words such as Laman, Mulek, Enos, Laban, Benjamin, Nephi, and so forth.
A transcript of the author’s radio address on KSL Radio, May 5, 1940, wherein the author testilies that the Book of Mormon contains the word of God and is a true work, and recounts briefiy how the book affected the lives of early Saints like Parley P. Pratt and Brigham Young.
Speculates on Book of Mormon geography. Defends the view that Moroni hid the plates in upstate New York.
Articles
In response to the accusations of three traveling Methodist preachers, the author attempts to prove through archaeology the existence in pre-Columbian Central America of horses, cement, and jewelry—things mentioned in the Book of Mormon.
This article describes how the Urim and Thummim were used in connection with priestly functions of the Old Testament and later were important in the translation process of the Book of Mormon. Historically they served to facilitate communication with the Lord.
A fictional account of a mission president instructing his missionaries on how to use the Book of Mormon effectively as a proselytizing tool. This imaginary exchange takes place in the Palmyra-Manchester area in 1939.
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.
A KSL radio presentation presenting an overview of the contents of the Book of Mormon.
RLDS pamphlet that makes summary statements about three colonies—the Jaredites, Lehites, and Mulekites—and mentions the coming of Christ to ancient America Writes regarding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. Cites archaeological evidence.
Comprises a storybook version of the Nephite history for youth that sequentially covers all of the general Book of Mormon events, with the omission of the Jaredite record. Includes maps, geographical information, and archaeological data and suppositions, which the author incorporates into the story.
Religious principles to be learned from stories and prophets
This outline, prepared for missionaries, contains twelve reading assignments, each of which provides study helps intended to assist the missionaries in stimulating the interest of investigators.
A 13-page pamphlet that describes the provenance of the Indians. It describes how Lehi left Jerusalem to come to America. The RLDS church is the church that brings the Book of Mormon to the Indians.
Examines the travel and geographical locations of the Jaredites, Mulekites, Nephites, and Lamanites. The issue of birth and death rates in relation to population size is also discussed.
Presents an outline of several Book of Mormon subjects: (1) priests in the Book of Mormon—finds that Book of Mormon priests were after the order of Melchizedek; (2) the choice seer—the choice seer was to come from the tribe of Joseph who was sold into Egypt. This seer will be named Lehi and he will be weak in speaking and will need a spokesman. This criteria does not fit Joseph Smith; (3) Zion—suggests that Zion is a spiritual condition not a literal gathering; (4) the parable of Zenos—outlines its contents, stressing the need for obedience and an ultimate cleansing.
A fictitious novel based on various episodes of the Book of Mormon.
This article recounts some of the archaeological discoveries found in Central and South American sites that date before the advent of the Aztecs and the Mayas. Archaeological exploration and the Book of Mormon provide clues as to the origin of the Maya people.
A copy of the Book of Mormon is presented to the crew of the “North Star” which was on its way to the Antarctic.
Articles
Contains details about the 25 writers of the Book of Mormon, including who they were, where and when they lived, what they wrote, and their relationship to each other. Includes photographs of the first edition of the Book of Mormon and an artist’s conception of Nephi obtaining the plates from Zoram.
It was the intention of the Prophet to make the Inspired Version of the New Testament and the Book of Mormon available to all the world. This work was accomplished in 1895 by the RLDS church in fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 29.
Sessions
The similarities between the Hawaiian culture and the Mayas of Central America appear in the worship of a white god, Hebrew culture, and language.
Articles
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.
The Book of Mormon could not have been translated from a language unknown by an unlearned young man such as Joseph Smith. Either the book was a miracle or a fraud to be explained away by natural means. Those who believed were permitted to view the plates (Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer), or were convinced of its truthfulness (Phinehas and Brigham Young and Parley P. Pratt). It is a living book that offers a rebirth for all who read it.
Many principles and ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ are taught in the Book of Mormon, including faith, repentance, the merciful kindness of God, charity, baptism, the laying on of hands, and prayer.
The author read a copy of the Book of Mormon that he found sitting on a table and it helped him to overcome his prejudice and caused him to feel a spiritual warmth, and he received a witness of its validity.
The Book of Mormon teaches us that for true freedom to exist, there must be a law (2 Nephi 2:10-16).
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Problems in the Old Testament
This article relates that the first printing of the Book of Mormon in Portuguese rolled from the press March 15, 1940, after two and one-half years of effort.
This article is a list of kings, presidents, and statesmen of the world to whom a Book of Mormon has been presented, with the date and name of the presenter.
Either the Book of Mormon is true or a fraud, and many intelligent, honest people have found the former. Its claims are supported by the testimony of men who witnessed the plates, by biblical prophecy, by archaeological study, and by the witness of the spirit.
Gives an explanation of the lost 116 pages and how the small plates of Nephi were substituted for these lost pages that had been translated from the large plates of Nephi.
A series of brief comments in which the author presents archaeological findings, architectural notes, and myths and legends that deal indirectly with the Book of Mormon. Dibble discusses the wheel, ancient irrigation methods, metals, Mexican and Mayan codices, Quetzalcoatl, ancient buildings, and numerous other related items. The first part covers Mexican and Mayan codices.
A defense of Joseph Smith in response to The Children of God, by Vardis Fisher. Joseph Smith made no mistake in translating the record that represents a people who dwelt upon the land of America 600 years B.C. who brought no records of the minor prophets who wrote between the time of Lehi’s departure and A.D. 70.
Seven scriptural accounts of the Creation arranged in parallel columns
Old Testament Topics > Creation
Sessions
Gives brief assessment of the Book of Mormon. Says that anthropologists agree on some points with the Book of Mormon.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Urim and Thummim
This two-part series deals with biblical prophecies that dealt with the Book of Mormon. Part I mentions Genesis 17 and 49, Deuteronomy 33, Genesis 11, and Ezekiel 17 in connection with the Book of Mormon; part II discusses Ezekiel 37, or the sticks of Joseph and Judah, and Isaiah 29, or the prophecy concerning the “marvelous work and a wonder,” that was to come forth in the last days.
The teachings of the Book of Mormon tend to clarify controversial theological subjects such as baptism, repentance, the purity of little children, spiritual gifts, riches of the world, and marriage.
This series is a presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
Provides photos and notes of a stone box containing silver and gold plates of Darius I and stone memorial tablets of Xerxes.
The Book of Mormon is not an ordinary history, it is a book with a purpose. It is a “new witness” for Jesus Christ. Its greatest purpose is to convince Jews and Gentiles that Jesus is the Christ. Out of 239 chapters only seventy-five have no relationship with the things of God. The testimony of Nephi and Jacob sustain the idea that the Book of Mormon was written to bear testimony of Jesus Christ.
A series of Sunday School lessons that presents a history of the Church of Jesus Christ and recalls the story of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon is a new revelation and the events that brought about the Book of Mormon were foretold in the book itself.
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.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
A manual for young LDS students that contains twenty-nine lessons taken from selected texts in the Book of Mormon. Contains lesson ideas, study devices, projects, poems, and illustrations.
A series of radio addresses on the Book of Mormon discussing metal plates, the Spaulding manuscript, Hebrew traits and Bible quotations within it, the antiquity of the book, its current relevance, the Book of Mormon as a witness of the Bible, and the witnesses.
Presentation to the American Historical Association.
Uses the Book of Mormon to answer some archaeological riddles, primarily the sudden appearance of great civilizations and subsequent degeneration in ancient America when an evolutionary process would normally be expected.
Contains quotes from archaeological books and newspaper articles that deal with the bearded white god, Quetzalcoatl, who was born of a virgin and was associated with the cross. Christ visited in America and these beliefs are relics of this visit.
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 third part covers Costa Rica.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
Articles
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 fourth part covers Ancient American metallurgy.
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.
Sessions
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
Articles
This article argues that the existence of Indian artifacts help to form the conclusion that two separate cultures existed in ancient Northwestern America.
In this article, passages relating to the Jaredites are used as a basis for examining different aspects of the Jaredite journey including the design of the barges, a possible route of their journey, and their qualifications as ship builders.
Sets forth the places where the Book of Mormon was translated, beginning in Harmony, Pennsylvania, to its completion in the home of Peter Whitmer, Sr. The role of Martin Harris and the lost 116 manuscript pages are also discussed.
The primary purpose of the Book of Mormon is to provide the world with a second witness for Christ. Another purpose is to present the plan of salvation for all people.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
This article is an examination of the people and dates involved in translating the Book of Mormon. Very little of the translation occurred between the time Martin Harris lost the 116 pages of the Book of Lehi and Oliver Cowdery began serving as scribe on April 7, 1829. The author also provides information regarding the hand-written manuscripts of the Book of Mormon.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
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 fifth part covers Native American languages.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
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.
Lists the birthdates of the eleven witnesses and mentions the fact that none of the witnesses denied their testimonies and all were baptized as a result of viewing the plates.
Discusses and quotes at length Sam Tucker, a columnist of the Decative Herald in Illinois, who suggests that the Book of Mormon and Mormonism be taught in courses of religious instruction in the public schools. Tucker argues that (1) the Book of Mormon is the American Bible, and (2) the stories of the Book of Mormon and Mormon history are very exciting.
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 sixth part covers the Toltecs.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
This article advances several questions and answers about the Book of Mormon, including: Are all the Indians Lamanites? No. Did any white people survive the battle of Cumorah? Yes. Did the Book of Mormon people occupy the greater part of the western hemisphere? No. Is it true that the Nephites and Lamanites spent most of their time at warfare? No. Do archaeologists accept the Book of Mormon and use it as a guide in discovering ruined cities? No.
Articles
Discusses the authors’ point of view concerning the identity of the Hill Cumorah as an ancient battlefield. Authors conclude that the scholars “need not search for (Cumorah) in Mexico or Yucatan”
This article discusses the first printing and subsequent editions of the Book of Mormon and identifies different formats the Book of Mormon has taken since its first publication.
Sessions
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 seventh part covers ruins in Chiapas.
A presentation of photographs of Ancient American ruins, accompanied by brief descriptions and comments.
A collection of written materials concerning horses in pre-Columbian America from the fifty years preceding 1933.
Tells of Joseph Smith’s desire to have someone examine characters copied from the gold plates. Reprints a portion of Joseph Smith’s history dealing with the visit of Martin Harris to Charles Anthon. Also contains a letter sent to John A. Widtsoe by Frederick M. Smith of the Reorganized Church stating that the original copy of the Egyptian characters made by Joseph Smith is in the hands of the Reorganized Church. Tells of several different copies of the Egyptian characters in existence and gives examples of people verifying the genuineness of the characters as Egyptian.
Explains sacred scripture found in various cultures with regard to the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon can be divided into four divisions: the plates of Nephi, Mormon, Ether, and the brass plates of Laban. Archaeological research supports the Book of Mormon.
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 eighth part covers the Olmecs.
A debate between a Mormon apologist and Mormon critic dealing primarily with the Bible and the Book of Mormon. A variety of Book of Mormon issues are discussed, including the Anthon episode, the testimonies of the Book of Mormon witnesses, Bible prophecies and the Book of Mormon, and the use of Egyptian by Book of Mormon writers.
A biographical treatise on the life of Oliver Cowdery. Presents a discussion of Cowdery during the formative years of the LDS church and his involvement as scribe during the translation process of the Book of Mormon.
The Book of Mormon is an important part of the Restoration. It is the sacred history of the American natives and clarifies the location of the lost tribes who are “lost only as to their identity and not their location”
An outline of time from Abraham to the birth of the United States written by W. J. Cameron and pedigree charts written by James H. Anderson showing the relationship of Mormonism to the past and the future of the covenant
Old Testament Topics > Covenant [see also Ephraim, Israel, Jews, Joseph]
This polemical work sets out to “unmask the deception” of the Book of Mormon upon which “the whole fabric of Mormonism” rests. It includes an attempt to show that the Book of Mormon was a “sandy foundation upon which to build a religious system” and supports the Spaulding theory.
Consists of a series of thirteen lessons prepared for the study of the Book of Mormon by adults of the RLDS church. The lesson topics include such areas of study as: the reign of King Benjamin, the church in Zarahemla, and Alma’s ministry, and others.
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 ninth part covers the practice of fasting among the Aztecs.
Reprinted in The Ancient State, The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley 10. 303–10.
Adds some notes to Mr. Warren Blake’s study of the life and works of Joseph Justs Scaliger to correct some common misconceptions.
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 tenth part covers archaeological work in Cuicuilco.
The epistles of Clement to the Corinthians are further proof that the Book of Mormon came from God. These two epistles were discarded from the Canon “because the legend of the ‘Phoenix Bird’ was used as an illustration,” and “because they taught the heresy that there were lands beyond the ocean”
An Easter message that includes an extensive quotation from 3 Nephi concerning the appearance of Jesus Christ in America.
Sessions
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 eleventh part covers the Mayan calendar.
Reporting of an expedition to Mexico and Central America. Quetzalcoatl appears to be Jesus Christ as identified in the Book of Mormon. The “wise men” talked about in the Bible are also found in ancient American traditions.
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 twelfth part covers ruins in Mexico.
A series of brief comments in which the author presents archaeological findings, architectural notes, and myths and legends that deal indirectly with the Book of Mormon. Dibble discusses the wheel, ancient irrigation methods, metals, Mexican and Mayan codices, Quetzalcoatl, ancient buildings, and numerous other related items. The thirteenth part covers archaeological work in Mexico City.
Articles
The author argues that the Nephites possessed the higher priesthood during the era before the resurrected Jesus visited the Nephites (citing 1 Nephi 5:14-16, Alma 10:3, Mosiah 25:21, and others).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Mosiah
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
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 fourteenth part covers Mexican “money-axes.”
The article relates the story of Cabeza de Vaca, a European who traversed across what is now Texas in the fall of 1537, and mingled among the Indians and found their traditions and beliefs closely related to Christianity.
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 fifteenth part covers archaeological discoveries in Teotihuacán.
Articles
Discusses 49 similarities between the Book of Mormon and the Spaulding manuscripts, and concludes that the manuscripts were the basis for the Book of Mormon.
Believes that Joseph Smith was not an Egyptologist and could not/did not translate the Book of Mormon that was written in the Egyptian language.
Argues that the Book of Mormon doctrine on eternal progression contradicts Mormon teachings on the same, and the Book of Mormon therefore cannot be based upon truth.
The peoples of the Book of Mormon were destroyed and their lands were not cared for. The Book of Mormon records this “sad fate” because of their iniquity, but in these latter days the land will again become fruitful if the people will serve the God of the land, Jesus Christ.
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 sixteenth part covers priests’ dwellings in Teotihuacán.
Articles
This article is a published summary of Merrill’s thesis, written in 1940, wherein the author examined publications dealing with the Book of Mormon and noted the themes emphasized during the periods 1830-1855 and 1915-1940.
This testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon states that the spirit of God led the reader to a greater understanding of the original inhabitants of the American continent. This knowledge clarified many discrepancies in Christian theology.
Pachacamac, a deity of the Incas, and the ancient ruins of his cities and temple remind one of the Book of Mormon.
Sessions
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 seventeenth part covers the ancient cemetery at Copilco.
Articles
A discussion of the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian hieroglyphics and how these finds relate to the Book of Mormon and the story of the Anthon transcript. Includes a facsimile of the Anthon transcript and photographs of Egyptian works and transcript characters.
Christ’s visit to the American Continent is well supported by histories and native traditions. The author finds that 3 Nephi 4-13 are compatible with many of these histories and traditions.
Articles
From the Nephites we learn the importance of self-defense to protect one’s homeland, freedom, and religion, but also the necessity of finding lasting peace. Contrasts two individuals—Moroni and Zerahemnah.
A two-part series prepared for Relief Society theology lessons. Part 1 reviews the historical accounts of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon; part 2 considers the authenticity of the book by listing five reasons why the Book of Mormon is true.
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 eighteenth part covers Quetzalcoatl.
One chapter of this work is dedicated to the sacred writings of Mormonism. Provides a brief history of the discovery and translation of the Book of Mormon, followed by a brief synopsis of each individual book. Reprints scriptural passages from the Book of Mormon.
A small handbook of references for missionaries. The scriptural references are placed according to topic: “Where does faith come from?” “Is sincerity of belief enough?” “Who should be baptized?” and “Are revelations continuous?”
Uses archaeological, geographical, scriptural, and historical information to theorize that the Mayan culture was related to the cultures of the Nephites and Jaredites. Desires to prove that advanced civilizations lived on the American continent before the arrival of Columbus.
Book of Moses Topics > Chapters of the Book of Moses > Moses 8 — Noah
Book of Moses Topics > Selection of Ancient Sources > Noah
Includes questions and answers about Bible passages
Contains lessons that address the question, “Is the Book of Mormon necessary?” Discusses the Jaredite and Mulekite histories, Lehi’s exodus from Jerusalem and journey to the promised land, Nephi’s leadership, Zeniff’s people and Alma’s establishment of the Church in the Waters of Mormon, Alma the Younger’s missionary service, missionary work of the sons of Mosiah, the sons of Alma the Younger, Captain Moroni, Helaman, signs of Christ’s coming, Mormon’s abridgment, Moroni’s preservation of the records, and the purpose of the Book of Mormon as a basis for the Restoration and proof that God speaks today.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Helaman
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 nineteenth part covers an Aztec codex.
Examining the life of Professor Anthon proved him to be an impostor. He knew French well enough to translate a Frenchman’s work, and he published it without giving credit where it was due. Perhaps he was “bluffing” concerning his knowledge of Egyptian.
A literary analysis in rebuttal to allegations that the Book of Mormon was poor literature. It is found that it is a very complex document, a historical narrative, and a theological book with a purpose. It is the work of multiple writers, two abridgers, and a translator, all of whom influenced the work with their own style and idioms, yet its clarity never fails. It is “self-consistent” and the “literary style is admirably adapted to the role the book was intended for”
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 twentieth part covers the “five suns” of Aztec mytology.
Sessions
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-first part covers the La Venta culture.
Sets forth an overview of the Book of Mormon while arguing that the Book of Mormon account is not based upon historical reality.
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-second part covers pre-Columbian irrigation methods.
A less than smooth exposition in which it is argued that Lehi’s colony landed in South America. The author’s sources include the Book of Mormon and books on American geography and Indian history.
Analyzing historical and legendary accounts of the ancient inhabitants of America in conjunction with Book of Mormon accounts and the geographical lay of the land, the author attempts to associate the Book of Mormon locations with ancient ruins. The greatest concentration of civilization was in Central America and Mexico, but the possibility of a Peruvian landing site is not ruled out.
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-third part covers the “Central American migration legend.”
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-fourth part covers archaeological findings about the use of arches and wheels in Ancient America.
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-fifth part covers some characteristics about Central American architecture.
This article claims that in the study of ancient civilizations in Mexico and Central America two facets should be considered—important geographical locations and the chronological factor. This article is interested in the latter concern, discussing the sequential relationship of civilizations in a given area, and the “absolute chronology” as measured by the Western calendar.
Articles
This article is a recital of Oliver Cowdery’s testimony of the Book of Mormon before a court in Michigan.
Text of radio address that details the numerous prophecies from the Book of Mormon that have since been fulilled, including Nephi’s prophecies about the Gentiles and the gospel, the existence of latter-day believers who will receive the Holy Ghost and endure martyrdom, and the birth of Jesus Christ. “Conirmed by completion,” these prophecies are evidence of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.
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.
Articles
How the Bible has influenced the growth of civilization
On September 21, 1823, an angel of God announced that records of an ancient American people taught by the Savior were to come forth. The inspired records would bring the fulness of the gospel to the house of Israel and to the Gentiles and add a second witness to the Bible.
Sessions
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-seventh part covers English words of Aztec origin.
Articles
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-eighth part covers the practice of human sacrifice among the Aztecs.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Prophets and Prophecy
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Covenant [see also Ephraim, Israel, Jews, Joseph]
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.
This article deals with Lehi’s migration from Jerusalem and discusses the river Laman (1 Nephi 2:6). Quoting from the W. M. Flinders Petrie journal that recalls an expedition in Sinai, Crowley presents possible locations for the river Laman and the valley of Lemuel. A map of the region is included in the article.
The first section of this work focuses on “the political theory of the Book of Mormon” Several political aspects are treated, including the founding of the Nephite republic (Mosiah 29:10-29), the welfare of the state (Alma 4:11-12, 15-20), and the ideal Christian society (4 Nephi 1-3, 16-17).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Book of Mormon Scriptures > 4 Nephi
An historical discussion of Mormonism. The Anthon denials are discussed. Author considers the Book of Mormon to be “a strange jumble of pseudo-historical narrative and religious precept” and dismisses the book on the grounds that it is full of “outlandish errors in spelling, syntax and grammar” He also notes what he terms “countless anachronisms that exposed the author’s ignorance of geography, chronology, physical science and Bible history” He decries the book’s use of King James English and alleged pilfering of biblical material. He seems to accept the Spaulding Theory regarding its origin.
Articles
This article describes how Moroni experienced two aspects of war—he rallied his soldiers in defense of their liberties and later witnessed the destruction of his people. Moroni later wrote concerning the destruction of his people.
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.
Since the day of publication of the Book of Mormon, the flood of opposition towards it has increased. The Book of Mormon answers the critics successfully, fulfills biblical prophecy, and is a testimony against the world. Since not all believe, special witnesses had to be chosen. The Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon remained true to their testimonies.
This article presents archaeological evidence of the Book of Mormon. It introduces the similarities between the religion of the Incas and Christianity, and a possible connection between the ancient Sumerians and the inhabitants of Ancient America.
Articles
This article discusses how Moroni was alone for thirty-six years. He finished the Book of Mormon, abridged the book of Ether, and wrote the title page.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
About one-third of the Book of Mormon names have biblical roots and many other names may have had their beginning in the biblical text because of their similarity.
Sessions
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Tithing
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Jerusalem
Historical, legendary, and archaeological evidences support the Book of Mormon. Many scholarly works of the day are cited: Velt, Travels, Gann, Maya Cities, Kingsburough, Bancroft and Ripley, and many others. The Book of Mormon is an invitation to come to Christ.
Articles
How religion affects everyday life in aspects like health, marriage, and education
A series of reprints consisting of 26 radio talks. The topics vary from teachings of the Book of Mormon concerning government and war to prayer and the Atonement. Other topics are concerned with material evidences that the Book of Mormon is true, rebuttal to Book of Mormon critics, the testimony of the eleven witnesses, archaeology, comparison between the doctrine of the Bible and the Book of Mormon, and many others.
As part of a Church history series, this lesson quotes much of Joseph Smith—History concerning the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. [J. W.M.]
A historical account of the vision the Three Witnesses received on the Peter Whitmer farm during the latter part of June 1829. Includes the testimonies of Oliver Cowdery, David Whitmer, and Martin Harris.
Many say they would believe the Book of Mormon if the plates were on display. Smith explains that the Lord works by faith (2 Nephi 27:22-23). There are, however, the testimonies of the Three Witnesses and the Eight Witnesses who testify that the plates existed.
Discusses a number of early views of the Mormon religion. E. D. Howe’s Mormonism Unveiled (1834) was not the irst piece of literary criticism against the Mormons as generally assumed. Editor Obadiah Dogberry, of the freethinking newspaper the Reflector, wrote on the Mormons before and after the oficial establishment of the Church (April 6, 1830) and the publication of the Book of Mormon (March, 1830).
Presents a character-by- character analysis and interpretation of the Anthon transcript and concludes that a translation is still confronted with “formidable obstacles,” but that it is clearly Egyptian and “most closely akin to demotic”
Discusses the publication and printing process of the Book of Mormon, the present location of the original manuscript of the book, and the statement of the Three Witnesses regarding the authenticity of the Book of Mormon.
Reasons that Joseph Smith could not have utilized the Spaulding manuscript to create the Book of Mormon, but that he translated the book by the gift of God.
Sessions
The prophecies and teachings of the Mormon Church are contained in a book published under the same name, “Mormon” Provides an account of the visit of the angel Moroni and the prophecies of the Old Testament that he quoted. These prophecies spoke of Joseph Smith’s calling, and the “Last Days” when Jesus Christ will return. None have been fulfilled. In 1844 a young Persian too received a call. He was the Bab (the Gate) through whom God would be revealed. He prophesied that God would not appear for a thousand years.
This article is a collection of Book of Mormon scriptures that reiterate the promises of the Lord concerning the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.
A second story of the first Christmas, contemporaneous with that recorded in Luke, is recorded in the Book of Mormon. The people in America were Christ’s “other sheep” They were given signs of his birth.
Mormon, the last historian of the Book of Mormon, inserted his commentary along with the small plates of Nephi after examining their content and finding them to be very valuable. They were put there for the special purpose of converting his people in the last days. They replaced the lost 116 pages.
A re-creation of Book of Mormon stories, with a concern for telling them rather than analyzing or criticizing them.
Includes two addresses about the Book of Mormon: “Book of Mormon Prophecies Fulilled,” pages 102-13, sets forth many prophecies of the Book of Mormon that have been fulilled; and “The Coming Forth of the Book of Mormon,” pages 155-70, shows that the Book of Mormon came forth at a time of spiritual unrest and higher criticism of the Bible. Includes a short narrative of the angel Moroni’s visit, the delivering of the gold plates to Joseph Smith, and provides six purposes for which the Book of Mormon was written.
A revision of the author’s Dictionary of All Proper Names in the Book of Mormon. The author describes the revision as a definitive “historical, biographical, gazetteerical and chronological” work.
Compiled in Compiegne, France (at the end of World War II) using J. G. Hava, Arabic-English Dictionary for the Use of Students (Beirut: Catholic University Press, 1921).
An eight- part instructional aid to study of the Book of Mormon that includes lesson outlines and questions arranged in the same chronological order as the events in the Book of Mormon.
This series identifies a number of well-known Book of Mormon spiritual leaders, many of whom consisted of fathers and their sons (i.e., Alma/Alma the Younger, Mormon/Moroni). The first part covers Alma the Elder and Alma the Younger.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Lehi was a great father, faithful prophet of God, spiritual leader, and a man of great vision.
The character of Nephi, son of Lehi, is best exemplified in the story of his return to obtain the plates of Laban. Nephi was obedient, courageous, and resourceful. He was a teacher, spiritual leader, and wrote for the purpose of bringing all to Christ.
Great destruction, followed by thick darkness and a heavy vapor occurred at the time of the crucifixion of Christ. Such an atmosphere may have been the result of an eruption of a volcano similar to the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.
This series identifies a number of well-known Book of Mormon spiritual leaders, many of whom consisted of fathers and their sons (i.e., Alma/Alma the Younger, Mormon/Moroni). The second part covers Helaman the son of Alma and Helaman the son of Helaman.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Helaman
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Sessions
The Savior’s ministry among the ancient inhabitants of America represents “the only explanation of many facts of American archaeology and native tradition” It also clarifies why the Spanish conquistadors were welcomed by people who already possessed Christian traditions.
A supercilious discussion on the Book of Mormon, where an unnamed author believes that its contents were derived largely from “writings by Spaulding, Isaiah, and others, with copious additions by Smith” Lists 49 similarities between the Book of Mormon and Spaulding’s manuscript. Emphasizes similarities between the Book of Mormon and the King James Bible. Associates the name “Nephi” with the Hebrew “Nephilim,” or fallen angels at the time of Noah.
Jacob, younger brother of Nephi, became the second scribe of the gold plates, delivered a powerful temple sermon, called the people to repentance, taught the allegory of the Olive Tree, and defeated the anti-Christ Sherem.
It was during Mosiah’s reign that Zeniff’s group returned to the land of Nephi. Upon the return of both the people of Zeniff and Alma, the great statesmanship and wisdom of King Mosiah was most apparent. He stressed the responsibility of each man in a democratic society to bear his share in the decisions, cost, and labor of government.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
This series identifies a number of well-known Book of Mormon spiritual leaders, many of whom consisted of fathers and their sons (i.e., Alma/Alma the Younger, Mormon/Moroni). The third part covers Nephi the son of Helaman and Nephi the son of Nephi.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Helaman
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Alma was a great statesman, judge, theologian, and missionary. His message of salvation and prophecies of Jesus had a great impact on the people of many cities.
This series identifies a number of well-known Book of Mormon spiritual leaders, many of whom consisted of fathers and their sons (i.e., Alma/Alma the Younger, Mormon/Moroni). The fourth part covers Nephi the son of Nephi, Amos the son of Nephi, and Amos and Ammaron the sons of Amos the Elder.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Moroni
Reprinted in The Ancient State.
Considers the nature and importance of the sparsiones by looking at three points: (1) what was distributed by sparsio, (2) by whom and on what occasions, and (3) by what particular methods.
Moroni, one of the Book of Mormon’s great military generals and the creator of the title of liberty, was a man of integrity and honor. He did much to preserve the liberty of his people by defeating his government’s enemies.
Moroni was the last surviving historian/writer of the Book of Mormon, a witness of the demise of his nation, an abridger of the Jaredite record, and prophet of God.
Living in a time of great wickedness while the Gadianton robbers flourished, Nephi, son of Helaman, preached by the spirit of prophecy, taught of Christ, and supported the ministry of Samuel the Lamanite.
Nephi, son of Nephi, began his ministry in the very troubled era immediately prior to the crucifixion of Christ. He lived to become one of the Nephite twelve disciples and to preside during part of the golden age of Nephite history.
Mormon was a record keeper, author, prophet, general, and editor. He recorded the tragic events that he had witnessed and tried to save a sinful and dying nation with his personal testimony of Jesus Christ.
Ammon, his brothers, and Alma2, once persecutors of the church, were called to repentance by an angel of the Lord. Ammon later spent fourteen years in missionary service to the Lamanites, thousands of whom were converted to the gospel.
Declaring that it is ever God’s way to try the faith of “the chosen few” rather than to demonstrate his power to the whole of mankind who may scoff and scorn, this article examines the testimonies of the witnesses to the Book of Mormon and the subsequent events that prove the validity of these testimonies. The angel verified the correctness of the translation and the witnesses never denied this important testimony.
A five-part series: the Book of Mormon is a witness for Christ and in accordance with Old Testament laws of evidence there must be two or three witnesses; it is to be the means of bringing the house of Israel to Christ; it prophecies of America and warns of kings and wickedness; it clarifies doctrine about baptism, the Atonement, God’s love, moral agency, sin, the condition of souls after death, and the restoration; it explains American origins.
This article consists of a list of the fifteen books of the Book of Mormon and a chronological order of the Book of Mormon scribes, from Nephi to Moroni.
Articles
In this two-part series, the author writes concerning the conditions of the people and era when Mormon grew up and the manner in which Mormon’s family influenced him for good. The first part discusses Ammaron’s influence on Mormon, and Mormon as a record keeper.
An overview regarding Moroni’s guardianship over the gold plates and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, including the method of translation, the dictation to scribes, and the publication of the work.
Provides three reasons why the gold plates were returned to the angel Moroni: the gold from which the plates were made was of great value and could not have been protected in a “backwoods pioneering community”
Sessions
Articles
In this two-part series, the author writes concerning the conditions of the people and era when Mormon grew up and the manner in which Mormon’s family influenced him for good. The second part discusses Mormon as a teacher and warrior.
Temples in the Near East and America
Describes a dream concerning the author’s work with the Book of Mormon and its external evidences, and the eventual fulillment of a dream described in the article “The Mound Builders and the Indians”
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Melchizedek
A radio address delivered Sunday, December 1, 1945, over KSL. Explains how Joseph Smith received the plates from the angel, translated them and published them. Determines that the Three Witnesses were privileged to view the plates.
Chapters 15-28 deal with the Book of Mormon. Explains why the Book of Mormon is needed, describes the history of its peoples, relates its coming forth and translation, and discusses its message of the divinity of Christ.
A pocket-sized work containing the book of 3 Nephi, selections from the Joseph Smith History describing Moroni’s visit and the translation of the gold plates, the testimony of the Three and Eight Witnesses, and a number of Book of Mormon references.
The author reviews many Indian legends and beliefs that parallel Book of Mormon claims. Such legends include: Jesus Christ visiting the Americas, their ancestors as descendants of Hebrews and their travel across the sea, and the voyages of Hagoth. The author interprets the Boturini Codex of the Peregrinacion de Los Aztecas, using the Book of Mormon. His interpretation parallels precisely the history of the Book of Mormon peoples.
Transcripts of radio messages, two of which relate to the Book of Mormon. Speaks concerning the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon; contains the testimony of the Eight Witnesses, the final statements of the Three Witnesses, and explores the possibility of collusion.
A Sunday School manual that contains lesson outlines, commentaries, and study questions. Divides the Book of Mormon into the following subsections: the period between Jerusalem and Zarahemla, the reign of kings (starting with King Benjamin), the reign of the judges, the ministry of Jesus, the fall of the Nephites, and the works of Mormon and Moroni.
Commenting on the reception of Fawn Brodie’s biography of Joseph Smith, Thomas G. Alexander claims that “perhaps no book in recent years has evinced more comment.” He then contrasted “the scholarly Marvin Hill’s” two reviews of Brodie’s biography of Joseph Smith (Dialogue 7, no. 4 [1972]: 72–85; Church History 43, no. 1 [March 1974]: 78–96) with “the rather outrageous Hugh Nibley’s No Ma’am That’s Not History. . .’” See Thomas G. Alexander, “The Place of Joseph Smith in the Development of American Religion: A Historiographical Inquiry,” Journal of Mormon History 5 (1978): 3–17, at 10, no. 9. The bibliographer-historian Dale L. Morgan, who provided Fawn Brodie with considerable assistance with both the contents and style of her biography of Joseph Smith, described Nibley’s pamphlet as “something of a slapstick performance, and the irony of it is, Nibley . . . is much more intoxicated with his own language than you, the ‘glib English major’ are.” See Morgan’s letter to Fawn Brodie, dated 9 June 1946, in Dale Morgan on Early Mormonism: Correspondence & A New History, ed. John P. Walker (Salt Lake City: Signature Press, 1986), 125. Tertius Chandler, a dilettantish polymath and friend of Morgan, included a polemic against Nibley’s pamphlet in Chandler’s Half-Encyclopedia ([Dedham, MA]: privately printed, 1956), 662–79. (The entry is entitled “The Controversy over Joseph Smith” and is dated 14 July 1952; it was extended to include other LDS responses to Brodie’s biography of Joseph Smith in “The Controversy over Joseph Smith—Part II,” dated 1 September 1952, 675–79). BYU Special Collections has a primitive typescript version of Chandler’s “The Controversy over Joseph Smith,” dated 1 September 1952, 22 pp.
This is a short, witty reply to Fawn M. Brodie’s No Man Knows My History: The Life of Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, 2nd ed., rev. and enlarged (New York: Knopf, 1945; 1971). Nibley’s response to Brodie signaled to the Saints that there was still room for a nonnaturalistic account of Joseph Smith’s prophetic claims and revelations. Cultural Mormons who celebrated a new enlightenment with the appearance of Brodie’s treatment of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon were often troubled by what they considered Nibley’s flippant response to Brodie. Opposition to his views has also been a common feature of the secular, revisionist element in the so-called New Mormon History, which has tended to see in Brodie’s account of Joseph Smith the beginning or basic outline of an acceptable naturalistic account of Mormon things.
A detailed examination of the Book of Mormon plates, their contents and the story behind them.
Defines proper names in the Book of Mormon.
The Bible is the main book of scripture for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; the Book of Mormon is the companion volume of scripture that guides practice, doctrine, and conduct of the Church and clarifies doctrines such as the Lord’s interest in all people of the earth, the nature of the soul of man, baptism of little children, democracy, mode of baptism, and the Fall of Adam.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Geography
Articles
This article discusses Moroni’s abridgment of the gold plates, his wanderings, his address concerning the future, the war at Cumorah, and how to gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon (Moroni 10:4).
A series of thirteen lessons dealing with the Book of Mormon that are directed towards the Sunday Schools of the RLDS church. Also includes a Book of Mormon chronology chart.
Sessions
The Latter-day Saints consider the Book of Mormon to be another witness of Christ. The Book of Mormon contains the same principles of the gospel as the New Testament.
Articles
This article provides several reasons to believe the testimony of the witnesses of the Book of Mormon.
An essay consisting largely of polemical arguments of Clark Braden against the Book of Mormon. Argues that the Book of Mormon contains anachronisms, Elizabethan mediated Hebraisms, and Americanisms. Places credit for the Book of Mormon on Sidney Rigdon, a revivalist preacher.
The Book of Mormon is “that point in our religion where faith sets foot on solid ground. Where concrete meets abstract and heaven touches earth” Archaeological evidence is convincing but the surface is still unscratched. Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon possess the secret of ancient and future America.
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-ninth part covers a translation of the Ten Commandments into Aztec characters.
Articles
This article discusses the plates of Mormon, source material, and the use made of the plates. It also explains the general structure of the Book of Mormon and how to identify different writers in the Book of Mormon.
This article passes on much misinformation about the Spaulding story, seemingly unaware of what has been written since the mid-1880s. “No copy of this curious romance of a pre-historic American race is now known to exist. The discovery of the manuscript would mean a fortune to the person discovering it”
Discusses what the Book of Mormon says about war. God has forbidden the shedding of blood (Ether 8:9). However, he does not command men to subject themselves to bondage, but rather to protect their freedom (Alma 6:9-14).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Ether
World peace can only come if there is tolerance and freedom. The Book of Mormon teaches these attributes. It also teaches there should be no law against belief and no single race is superior to another.
Discusses the many books that attempt to prove the origin of the American Indian. He writes that the dominant view is that the Indian crossed the Bering Strait. Other contact by boat was also later made.
This article describes President George Albert Smith’s visit to Mexico City. Several prophecies concerning the Lamanites are quoted to show the importance of the Lamanites in the last days.
A perfunctory discussion on the unique LDS scriptures. Devotes a chapter to the Spaulding manuscript, concluding that proper names and writing style in that romance have affinities with the Book of Mormon.
Articles
This article gives an account of the efforts of Ebenezer Robinson to arrange the printing of the third edition of the Book of Mormon. It also mentions changes made since the second edition.
In this article, the author presents his testimony of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon.
Sessions
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 thirtieth part covers Aztec recordkeeping.
The real value of the Book of Mormon is that it is a witness of Christ and it is able to convince people of his message to the point where they will try to live his teachings and commandments. The author gives examples of how some of the first Latter-day Saints were converted by the Book of Mormon.
A radio address Sunday, October 20, 1946, over KSL. Critics of the Book of Mormon have three theories to explain the Book of Mormon: Joseph got the ideas from other books and ingeniously authored the Book of Mormon through Sidney Rigdon; Joseph used the Spaulding manuscript; or Joseph suffered from psychological delusions that account for his supposed inspiration. None of these theories have been convincing.
Articles
This article discusses how there is “no motivating power in this world” comparable to the testimony of truth concerning Jesus Christ and there is no greater testimony of Jesus Christ than that of the Book of Mormon.
Describes the nature and origin of the Book of Mormon as well as the Doctrine and Covenants.
This article argues against those that believe that the Ancient Americans had no knowledge of the wheel by presenting five reproductions of wheeled toys and several scholarly views on the existence of such in Mesoamerica.
A cartoon-style story of the Book of Mormon for children.
Produces many evidences that ancient Israelites engraved their records upon metal plates.
A sketch of Lehi’s life that draws heavily on Jewish sources and terminology.
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.
Ferguson looks at the conflicting theories that the original Hill Cumorah was in New York or in Mesoamerica and concludes that it was in Mesoamerica.
Pierce tells chronologically the story of the Book of Mormon with added explanations and correlating archaeological evidence of the events that occurred. Photographs are included from various sites and findings in Mexico that correspond to Book of Mormon history.
Identified as a “synchronic, chronological study of the Book of Mormon” Contains historical highlights, illustrations, notes, and comments.
A Sunday School manual for the study of the Book of Mormon. Each chapter of the Book of Mormon is outlined and a brief summary is provided. Sperry also gives scriptural references, along with other bibliographic material suitable for outside reading.
A literary analysis of the Book of Mormon. After briefly examining theories regarding its origin, the author examines several historical and philosophical claims and contributions of the book. Also contains a short discussion of the allegation that the Book of Mormon quotes Shakespeare. Thomas concludes that the Book of Mormon represents a significant literary achievement.
An historical thesis on Mormonism and the development of its doctrine. The author attempts to examine possible influences of Sidney Rigdon upon Mormon doctrines and scripture, saying that the Book of Mormon is a product of its times, with possible connections to the Spaulding manuscript.
A fictional story that tells of two children, one a pioneer girl and the other a native American, who listen to stories about the Book of Mormon inhabitants of America told by the pioneer mother.
A treatise that discusses the history and prophetic future of the tribes of Israel (including the Book of Mormon people) with particular emphasis on their divine mission and role among the nations of the earth.
A 26-page non-dogmatic pamphlet on Book of Mormon geography. Guesses where locations are in relation to the American continent.
A polemical work that asserts that the Book of Mormon was inspired by Satan.
Gives the “outstanding characteristics” of three great men in the Book of Mormon—Nephi, Jacob, and Enos. Nephi was faithful and a great spiritual leader, Jacob believed and defended the sanctity of the home, and Enos received “an unshakable faith” in God.
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Enos
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.
Sperry describes the nature of God as taught by the Book of Mormon.
Articles
This article reports that fragments of an original Book of Mormon manuscript were given to the Church by Charles C. Richards.
Explains that the Nephites had a personal relationship with God. This close relationship accounts for their noble ideas and modes of conduct. We can learn from Nephite views on riches, pride, power, inequality, authority, and the vain things of the world.
The Book of Mormon clearly teaches God’s plan in respect to the afterlife. Death is necessary for all individuals (2 Nephi 2:22-25). This life is the time to prepare to meet God (Alma 34:32, 34-35). In the spirit world there is a division of people who await the resurrection (Alma 40:9-14). There will be a judgment and all will be given a just reward according to their actions and desires (Alma 41:3-5, 2 Nephi 9:14).
Book of Mormon Scriptures > Alma
Sessions
Articles
This article argues that steel existed around the time Lehi left Jerusalem, about 600 B.C.
A list of 113 scriptures from the King James and Inspired Version of the Bible that are evidences for the Book of Mormon. Includes scriptures that mention archaeology related to the Book of Mormon.
Sessions
This article discusses how the Book of Mormon prophesies much concerning the Lamanites. It is the responsibility of the Church to help them to fulfill their great destiny. It states that many are receiving the gospel and are bearing fervent testimonies and living the gospel. The author includes a letter from a father to his son in which he counsels the son to look for the “Mormons,” who have the record of his people, and the son then writes of his search for this book that would teach him the true gospel, which he found in the Book of Mormon.
Discusses Nephi’s knowledge of Egyptian and Hebrew and how the Book of Mormon plates were only written upon by a distinct class of educated people. The Jaredites “presumably [spoke] the language of Adam,” but Moroni translated their record into reformed Egyptian using the Urim and Thummim. Argues that the brass plates were also written in Egyptian since it took less space than Hebrew, and Moses knew both languages.
Biblical and archaeological evidence indicate that a wide variety of materials were used for record keeping, including papyrus, parchment, clay tablets, brass, and other metals. The Book of Mormon mentions plates of brass, of ore (gold, silver, and copper), and of pure gold.
A guidebook that treats such Book of Mormon topics as prophecy, ancient records, topography, major and minor migrations of the people, government, political and social customs, military, language and writing, science, animal and plant life, archaeology, and a number of religious traditions and doctrines.
In some twenty pages (pages 240-61) of this polemical work the author discounts the Spaulding Theory on the grounds that the Manuscript Found has little resemblance to the Book of Mormon. Unable to accept Joseph Smith’s own claims, the author favors Woodbridge Riley’s environmental-psychological hypothesis as the best explanation for the Book of Mormon. He notes alleged modernisms and anachronisms in the book such as the use of New Testament and King James language, Westminster Confession of faith, Shakespeare, pre-Columbian domesticated animals, and the proposition of new and continual revelation.
An RLDS teaching manual that addresses the topics of Book of Mormon authorship (including the Spaulding-Rigdon theory), language, metal plates, witnesses, animals, metals, and the problems of dating.
Presents the Book of Mormon in a narrative style, written primarily for juvenile audiences.
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.
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The first part consists of chapter I.
Argues that the Hill Cumorah and Hill Ramah as geographical locations in the Book of Mormon were located in upstate New York. It therefore challenges the theory that the Hill Cumorah was located somewhere in Latin America. At least some Book of Mormon history took place in southeast Canada and the northeast United States.
Chapters 33-41, dedicated to the Book of Mormon, set forth the importance of the Book of Mormon in relation to the Bible, the account of Moroni’s visit to deliver the plates, the story of the Book of Mormon, the witnesses of the book, Ezekiel’s prophecy of the sticks of Joseph and Judah, the Book of Mormon as a witness for Christ, Jesus’ organization of the church in the Americas with all of the ordinances essential for salvation, Christ’s visit to his “other sheep” in America, and related items.
Contends that the church of Christ existed in the New Testament and Book of Mormon but that Mormonism is not in harmony with this ideal. Quotes Joseph Smith’s history relevant to receiving and translating the Book of Mormon; reinterprets Book of Mormon prophecies to show that Lamanites will join the resurrected members of Christ’s church in a revolution against American Gentiles as Moroni returns and rules as God’s spokesman.
The explanation of the relationship between the Book of Mormon and the Bible is found within the pages of the Book of Mormon itself. Latter-day Saints do not replace the Bible with the Book of Mormon, they are companions, one complimenting the other. The Bible does prophesy of the Book of Mormon in many places, just as it foretells of Christ without revealing his name. The use of metal and cement in the Book of Mormon was once ridiculed, but is now verified by archaeology. The Book of Mormon adds credence to the Bible. It is a second witness to the divinity of Christ.
Defending the originality of the Book of Mormon, this article discusses how during the period of 1820-1830 coining words was less common than at any subsequent time in America. The fact that the Book of Mormon contains so many unfamiliar words is a testimony of its divinity. B. H. Roberts studied the names in the Book of Mormon and found that Jaredite names end with consonants and Nephite names in vowels. One hundred eighty-one new words came forth out of seventy-five working days of translation.
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The second part consists of chapter II.
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The third part consists of chapter III.
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.
Sessions
Articles
Reprinted in a 1970 Improvement Era article.
“The average man,” wrote the great A. E. Housman, “believes that the text of ancient authors is generally sound, not because he has acquainted himself with the elements of the problem but because he would feel uncomfortable if he did not believe it.” The Book of Mormon has enjoyed no such popular support. Indeed, the “average man” would like nothing better than to see it thoroughly exposed once and for all; it has made him feel uncomfortable for over a century. What is holding up the show? The earliest version of Nibley’s theory that a portion of the meaning and the historical authenticity of the Book of Mormon can be uncovered and tested by drawing upon the literary remains of the Near East. This essay contains Nibley’s initial speculation on possible links between Book of Mormon names and Egyptian etymologies. The series drew the attention of Wesley Walters, who drafted a statement concerning its contents, a statement which was signed by William F. Albright in 1949. Since that time the Reverend Walters has been an anti-Mormon polemicist.
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The fourth part consists of chapter IV.
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The fifth part consists of chapter V.
Old Testament Topics > Creation
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The sixth part consists of chapter VI.
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The seventh part consists of chapter VII.
For an audience unfamiliar with the Book of Mormon, Njeim explains its contents, purpose, and effect upon the world. The Book of Mormon restores lost truths from the Bible, witnesses of Christ and eternal life, and is the authority brought by God to quell “spiritual anarchy”
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The eighth part consists of chapter VIII.
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.
A series presenting narrative taken from 3 Nephi 1-28 with accompanying illustrations. Illustrations depict the events surrounding Christ’s birth, death, and visit on the American continent. The first part consists of scenes from chapters 1, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 9.
Treasures of wisdom comparable to the biblical book of Proverbs may be found scattered throughout the Book of Mormon. The author presents many Book of Mormon examples of proverbial sayings.
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The ninth part consists of chapter IX.
The gentile members of the Church must remember that the Book of Mormon was written for the Lamanites also. Emphasizes the need to find where and who these people are by using Book of Mormon geographical passages. Finds that the Isthmus of Tehuantepec most clearly fits the description. The Hill Cumorah was the location of the final battles.
Articles
The Aztecs of Mexico were religious fanatics who eventually were led to human sacrifice. The myths and legends of the Aztec people are perversions from the true gospel of Jesus Christ that was had in the first and second centuries A.D.
Sessions
A series presenting narrative taken from 3 Nephi 1-28 with accompanying illustrations. Illustrations depict the events surrounding Christ’s birth, death, and visit on the American continent. The second part consists of scenes from chapters 6–9.
Articles
This series is a novel based on the fictional character Mulek, an inhabitant of the city of Zarahemla during the war between Amalickiah and Moroni. The tenth part consists of chapter X.
A series presenting narrative taken from 3 Nephi 1-28 with accompanying illustrations. Illustrations depict the events surrounding Christ’s birth, death, and visit on the American continent. The third part consists of scenes from chapters 11, 15, and 16.
A series presenting narrative taken from 3 Nephi 1-28 with accompanying illustrations. Illustrations depict the events surrounding Christ’s birth, death, and visit on the American continent. The fourth part consists of scenes from chapters 17–19, 21, and 23.
Reprinted in Mormonism and Early Christianity, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 4.
A note from author Hugh Nibley: “The rapid amassing of primary source works and auxiliary documents at Brigham Young University through the purchase of large collections and sets both in this country and abroad has made it possible for the first time to examine the Latter-day Saint position with reference to many ancient and valuable texts, which has been the custom of Christian scholars in general either to pass by in silence or to interpret arbitrarily. This article is in the nature of a preliminary survey dealing with a subject that has meant little to church historians in the past but on which in recent years a surprising amount of evidence has been brought to light.” Portions of Nibley’s position on baptism for the dead were briefly described and then rejected by Bernard M. Foschini, in “‘Those Who Are Baptized for the Dead,’ 1 Cor. 15:29,” Catholic Biblical Quarterly 13/1 (1951): 52–55, 70–73. Foschini offered a treatment of the language used by Paul and tried to explain away his apparent reference to baptism for the dead in a 96-page series appearing in five numbers of the Catholic Biblical Quarterly—12/3, 4 (July, October 1950): 260–76, 379–88; 13/1, 2, 3 (January, April, July 1951): 46–79, 172–98, 278–83.
Hugh W. Nibley Topics > Temples > Ancient Temples > Baptism for the Dead
Articles
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A study of early texts that suggests that the weight of early Christian doctrine wasn’t on the cross but on the work of Christ as a teacher, marking the way of eternal progress for the living and the dead.
This talks about the teaching of the Lord after his resurrection.
This talked about how the dead received baptism.
The Improvement Era was an official magazine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints between 1897 and 1970.
A study of Christ’s second mission, when he rose from the dead.
The conclusion to the series, this article goes into the details of ancient saints and apostles and their stances on baptism for the dead.
Old Testament Topics > Bible: Joseph Smith Translation (JST)
Old Testament Topics > Bible: King James Version
Consists of moral lessons from the Book of Mormon written for children. Emphasizes that the ancient Book of Mormon peoples were taught that they must serve God or perish.
A series presenting narrative taken from 3 Nephi 1-28 with accompanying illustrations. Illustrations depict the events surrounding Christ’s birth, death, and visit on the American continent. he fifth part consists of scenes from chapters 23, 24, and 26–28.
Argues that Quetzalcoatl, a major deity of pre-Columbian Mexico and Central America, may have been Christ. Presents a pictorial tour of archaeological sites—including the Toltec ruins at Tlaxcala, the ruins at Mitla, and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl at Tula, in which this deity, also known as the Feathered Serpent, is represented.
A scholarly analysis of the legend of the Three Nephites among Latter-day Saints in Utah. Lee explains the history of the Three Nephites and shows the chronological frequency and distribution of the legends. Lee analyzes the dominant motifs of the legends and discusses their historical, sociological, and psychological impact. More than thirty legends of the Three Nephites are included in the appendix.
Reprinted in The Ancient State: The Rulers and the Ruled, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 10.
A study showing how prehistoric hunters used marked arrows to mark territory, then applied the same techniques to come to the creation of a centralized state in historic times.
A chart that shows the chronology of events that take place in the Book of Mormon. It portrays the Nephites, Lamanites, and Mulekites on a timeline extending from 600 B.C. to A.D. 450, and shows corresponding world events in Greece, Rome, and Babylon.
Focuses on Lehi’s speech to his household—the historical setting, Lehi’s covenant and prophecy. Adds some notes on archaeological evidence and the achievements of the Mayans.
A Sunday School instructional aid comprising sixty lessons beginning with the Jaredites and concluding with the book of Moroni. Each lesson includes a retelling of a portion of the Book of Mormon and questions.
Quotes from archaeologists and historians to demonstrate the veracity of the Book of Mormon. Includes a discussion of cement, iron, and steel; shows a comparison of Indian traditions and myths with similar stories from the Bible, including Indian belief in communion, baptism, the creation and flood, and the Great White God.
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.
Notes that relatively few people read the entire Book of Mormon. Suggests that readers might dispel this problem by learning about Mormon and his interests, which the author explains in summary form.
Originally published in Gospel Quarterly
Gives the background of Solomon Spaulding’s manuscript and its similarities to the Book of Mormon. Concludes that the resemblances between the two works are superficial, and that those who supported the Spaulding theory were “motivated by revenge and a determination to overthrow the church”
Tells of Joseph Smith’s visions of Moroni and how he received the plates.
Widtsoe explains the major events that occurred between the time Joseph Smith received the plates in 1827 and 1830 when the Book of Mormon was published.
The only material background upon which we may base our faith in the Book of Mormon are the testimonies of the Three Witnesses and the Eight Witnesses.
Addresses claims that the Book of Mormon was not divinely written.
Articles
Prophets of old used the Urim and Thummim. The claims made by Joseph Smith were not illogical. King Saul used the devices as well as Moses and others. Joseph Smith’s account of using them is not out of harmony with these accounts. They are defined as “lights” and “perfections”
Sessions
Articles
This article discusses Spanish libraries containing historical accounts that describe a chamber in which gold plates were found. Ancient American goldsmiths made plates of gold that were thin like paper and on which ancient hieroglyphs were engraved.
Widtsoe presents external evidences as proof that the Book of Mormon is authentic: metal plates have been found, reformed Egyptian has been proven beyond a doubt, research has indicated that there were multiple authors of the book, religious beliefs of the ancient Americans conform to the Book of Mormon text.
When you know that Jesus is the Christ, that the gospel is true and you’re willing to sacrifice your life for it, then you have had a revelation of the Lord through the Holy Ghost, and it will guide you to all truth.
Articles
The Book of Mormon came forth in the midst of an unbelieving world that by faith and diligent study, mankind could come to know Jesus Christ by revelation. If the book had been a fraud, mistakes would have occurred on every page because of the complexity of the book.
Articles
Old Testament Topics > Angels, Heavenly Beings, and Messengers
Old Testament Topics > Problems in the Old Testament
As you leave these portals today, thank God reverently for what He has done for you, for the blessings that have been yours, for the work He has given you to do, for the strength He has bestowed upon you to do it, for the truth He has let you garner.
Includes Weldon’s “archaeological observations” in Central and South America and how he relates them to the Book of Mormon. The Gentiles are expected to carry the Book of Mormon to the Lamanites.
Articles
Discusses attempts to discredit the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith. Refers to Alexander Campbell, the Spaulding theory, and the Woodbridge Riley Theory. The best evidences of the divinity of the Book of Mormon are found within its own pages.
Sessions
Articles
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.
Presents the events and inspirations of Christopher Columbus’s life. From his birth Columbus certainly felt the call of the Lord and God’s protective hand over all things. Surely it was Columbus whom Nephi foretold would cross the waters.
Highly fanciful retelling of Joseph Smith’s early life and the coming forth of the Book of Mormon. Accepts the Spaulding story and tries to link its connection with Sidney Rigdon’s “versatile genius” Claims that John H. Gilbert said that Rigdon “came to Palmyra and there cooked up the scheme with Smith”
Discusses the Tower of Babel, Nimrod, and the Jaredites and argues that the Gazelem mentioned in the book of Alma is the brother of Jared.
The gospel of Jesus Christ, above all else, should be taught. And every student in this institution should go forth from it with an abiding testimony in Jesus Christ and likewise in the mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith.
The four cornerstones upon which we must build greatness faith, education, industry, and cooperation. John A. Widtsoe explains that each of these cornerstones must be nourished and understood through a gospel lens.