Full Bibliography by Date

Focuses upon the cross as a religious symbol in ancient Mesoamerica. The cross- shaped tree found in Mesoamerica has conventionally become known as the “Tree of Life”

A lesson manual for young Book of Mormon students, consisting of thirteen lessons on the Book of Mormon and a variety of maps at the end. Lessons address the nature of the Book of Mormon, its coming forth, religion and government of the Nephites, and other topics.

Outlines the social and intellectual history of religions in Western New York in the early nineteenth century. Chapter 8 deals with Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. The author sees Joseph Smith’s teachings and the Book of Mormon as products of his enthusiastically religious environment. This can be seen from modern elements in the Book of Mormon such as proper names, modern Christian doctrines, and others.

A thirteen-page paper defending the Book of Mormon from an archaeological viewpoint.

The Spanish conquest of Mexico resulted in the deliberate destruction of almost all written native records. Fortunately there were some who remembered the contents of the destroyed records. One of those was Ixtililxochitl who wrote as best he could a history of ancient America. This book uses parallel quotations from the Works of Ixtililxochitl and the Book of Mormon. Striking similarities confirm to a remarkable degree the story of the Book of Mormon.

A comparison between the Book of Mormon and Spanish, Mexican, and Guatemalan sources, such as Works of Ixtlilxochitl, Popul Vuh, and Totonicapan. Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon independently, with no help from historical sources, as most lay unpublished in archives or had not reached the United States.

Defends Book of Mormon statements that some truths have been lost from the Bible through the process of translation. Affirms that the Book of Mormon was translated by the power of God. Cites Nephi’s testimony concerning the Bible beginning in 1 Nephi 3.

A Book of Mormon lesson manual for adults of the Reorganized Church. The manual teaches of the Jaredite nation and the Nephite nation 200 years after the appearance of Jesus in the New World.

Discusses the eschatological theories of the early Christian church. Intended to be included in The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley.

Virtually all that is known of the world in which Lehi is purported to have lived has been discovered within the last hundred years, mostly within the last thirty. How does this information check with that in the book of 1 Nephi? A classic reflection on Lehi’s world in Arabia: poetry, tree of life, family affairs, politics, imagery, travel, tents, and foods. One of the first attempts to test the Book of Mormon against known geographical and cultural details in the regions where Lehi probably traveled in the Old World.

Consists of 13 lessons directed towards adults of the RLDS church. Lesson contents include a definition of doctrine, an overview of the contents of the Book of Mormon, and discussions dealing with faith in God, the law of revelation, repentance, baptism, spiritual birth, the Holy Spirit, resurrection, justice and judgment, worship, the Trinity, and the significance of Book of Mormon doctrine.

Scattering and gathering of Israel

Uses the Bible, Book of Mormon, and historical accounts from the early writers of the Church to show that the Urim and Thummim and other “media” have been used since ancient times to receive communication from God. Joseph Smith also employed such media to translate the scriptures.

A polemical work against the Book of Mormon. The author discusses the Anthon denials and other alleged anachronisms in the Book of Mormon such as the pre-Columbian presence of certain domesticated animals in America such as the horse, cow, and ox. The Book of Mormon quotes Shakespeare, the Westminster Confession of faith, and plagiarizes the New Testament.

Simplifies the complex structure of the Book of Mormon by providing an overall synopsis of the text. He orders the fifteen books of the Book of Mormon into four divisions: (1) the small plates of Nephi, (2) Mormon’s explanatory notes, (3) the literary labors of Mormon, and (4) the literary labors of Moroni; he follows with a literary synopsis of each of the fifteen books. Several types of literature are identified, including “the American Gospel” (3 Nephi 1:4-21; 8-28, Jesus’ Nephite ministry), pastoral, prophetic, and war epistles, one psalm, one lamentation, memoir, prophetic discourse, oratory, patriarchal blessings, symbolic prophecy, prophetic narrative, prophetic dialogue, allegories, prayers, songs, and genealogies. More than fifty percent of the book is “historical narrative” Deals with the problem of biblical texts (Isaiah, the Sermon on the Mount, 1 Corinthians chapters 12 and 13) found in the Book of Mormon. This work is reviewed in N.096.

The majority of the book is devoted to “the spirit of modern scripture,” in which Sperry discusses modern scriptural doctrine, including teachings found in the Book of Mormon. He explores the concept of God, great personalities of the Book of Mormon, personal religion, brotherhood, the hereafter, judgment, and universal aspects of the Book of Mormon.

A concordance to the Book of Mormon published by the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Format is dictionary style, by words and key phrases with cross references.

Retelling of the Book of Mormon in simplified language.

A work that attempts to harmonize the geographical accounts contained in the Book of Mormon with the countries of Nicaragua and Costa Rica located in Central America.

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

An RLDS tract that presents the testimonies of the Book of Mormon witnesses.

Textbook with review questions

Tells the story of the Book of Mormon in an epic poem.

Offers an interpretation of the Mesoamerican “cross-shaped tree” as being a representation of the tree of life and several important symbolic figures, including the bird, serpent, monster, and the two personages.

Discusses the importance of the Bible, Doctrine and Covenants, and the Book of Mormon. Together they constitute the doctrine of the Church. The Book of Mormon is a valuable testament of Christ from cover to cover.

This article describes an archaeological expedition in January and February, 1948, to the Xicalongo Gulf Coast area of a district of western Campeche. The author provides descriptions of the area’s flora and fauna, the hardships of the expedition, and findings of relatively new early “pre-classic” civilizations.

John Whitmer saw and handled the plates in 1829 and assisted Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the final preparation of the Book of Mormon manuscript. In his later years, he affirmed his testimony many times.

Discusses the manner in which Jesus Christ is the Savior of mankind.

This article describes several crudely drawn petroglyphs chiseled on rocks and walls of the Hava Supoi Canyon (Indian Reservation on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon), then concludes that “man and prehistoric animals must have lived at the same time, for man could not make a picture of an elephant or a mastodon if he had not seen one.”

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

Contains tables of comparison between the RLDS and the LDS editions of the Book of Mormon.

Features a chart and explanation of the different sets of plates identiied in the Book of Mormon, including the brass plates, the twenty-four gold plates, the small and large plates of Nephi, Mormon’s abridgment of Nephi’s large plates, and Moroni’s abridgment of Jaredite record.

The Book of Mormon devotes a major part of its account to discussing the Lamanite nation. It is a mistaken idea that all the indigenous groups of people who were found in America following the landing of Christopher Columbus were Lamanites. A testimony is not based on the external but internal evidences of the Book of Mormon.

This article discusses a prophecy made by Nephi (2 Nephi 30:3), which states that many Gentiles of the last days will believe the words of the Book of Mormon. The author believes that the great numbers of persons who read and accept the Book of Mormon in this era demonstrate eloquent fulfillment of this prophecy.

Book of Mormon archaeologists are doing research to find if the “feathered serpent” god of the ancient American is a symbol of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon prophesies of an apostasy, which the author concludes was between Moroni and Columbus.

This article is an exhortation to work more towards redeeming the “Lamanites.” Kimball encourages the saints to remember them in their prayers and do their utmost to preach to them. He includes a prophecy of Joseph Smith that the saints will go to the Rocky Mountains and there open the door for establishing the gospel among the Lamanites. Wilford Woodruff designated the Zuni, Laguna and Isletas Indians of Southwest New Mexico as Nephite people.

The origin of the “feathered serpent” in the American native culture can best be explained by the Book of Mormon scripture that tells of Moses’ placing the fiery serpent upon the stick. This author sees the feathered serpent as a symbol of Christ, whose visit is recorded in Third Nephi.

When nations or individuals are peaceful, the indication is that they have a committed, loving relationship with Deity. The opposite is also true. Evidence of this is abundant in the Book of Mormon.

Compendium of scriptural references from the Book of Mormon and other standard works of the RLDS church appear under subject headings to assist greater understanding of doctrinal topics. Topics include the divine nature of God, the Book of Mormon, divine revelation, authority and priesthood.

G-2 Reports—a series of handouts prepared in the fifties and early sixties for distribution to various audiences. “Years ago it was my custom to communicate to the General Authorities in an occasional brash and self-appointed newsletter (called “G-2 Report”) items of interest dealing with new discoveries which I considered significant. My boldness was not ill-received.” Quoting a letter from Nibley to Elder Bruce R. McConkie, 2 October 1979.

Reprinted in Eloquent Witness, in The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley.

Reprinted in Ancient State: The Rulers and the Ruled, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 10.
How most modern traditions come from ancient ones, and why and how.

Contains brief stories designed for children, with illustrations.

Thorough listing of scriptural quotations addressing many themes from the standard works, including Lehi’s dreams, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin’s speech, and Christ’s ministry in America.

Contains specific outlines of various studies presented at a conference during the dates mentioned above. The subjects discussed included the Book of Mormon story, teachings particular to the Book of Mormon, and evidences within the Book of Mormon that support its authenticity.

Retells the events of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon as told by Joseph Smith and his associates.

Sets forth biblical prophecies that relate to the Book of Mormon, tells the historical facts surrounding the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and provides commentary on 1 Nephi.

Extensive treatise on Joseph Smith as a witness for God, the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, Book of Mormon lands, peoples, government, evidences of the truth of the Book of Mormon, the Three Witnesses, philosophical considerations, and many other subjects advanced as secondary evidences in support of the truth of the Book of Mormon.

Contains outlines of sermons by RLDS church dignitaries, including I. A. Smith, D. O. Chesworth, W. Wallace Smith, Maurice L. Draper, H. E. Velt, and R. A. Cheville. Topics include Book of Mormon history and doctrine.

A quarterly series, presented in a manual format with discussion questions. Addresses witnesses, Rigdon-Spaulding theory, metal plates.

Uses scriptures, archaeological evidence, and geography to explain that the Book of Mormon lands do not encompass as large an area as previously supposed. Suggests that the RLDS church maps placing Lehi’s landing on the coast of Chile should be revised. Finds the Isthmus of Tehuantepec much more probable contender for “narrow neck of land” than the Isthmus of Panama.

To clarify false impressions about the Book of Mormon, this article gives a brief summary of the narrative in the Book of Mormon, an account of its discovery and translation, and explains that the RLDS church is the “legal and spiritual successor” to the foundation built upon the doctrine of the Book of Mormon.

Citing early Spanish writers and historians, the author demonstrates that the name “Laman” existed among the Indians at least as early as the time of Columbus’ discovery of America. The first part introduces the author’s argument.

Explains the importance of Book of Mormon, and gives archaeological evidence to authenticate it. Discusses the serpent symbol as representing Satan, and believes that it is a perversion of Christ as the brazen serpent.

Writes concerning the translation of the Book of Mormon, its multiple references to Christ, and peculiar phrases found in the Book of Mormon. Discusses the use of King James language and phrases in the book, Joseph Smith’s ability as a translator, and the clarity of Book of Mormon prophecies.

Discusses the 1830 Palmyra Edition of the Book of Mormon, its title page, preface, and the corrections of later editions.

An examination of the Lord’s prayer in the Book of Mormon. Believes that Joseph Smith did not copy the Bible in translating the Book of Mormon. [A.C.W.] ook of Mormon. Believes that Joseph Smith did not copy the Bible in translating the Book of Mormon. [A.C.W.] ”

Citing early Spanish writers and historians, the author demonstrates that the name “Laman” existed among the Indians at least as early as the time of Columbus’ discovery of America. The second part concludes the series.

Discusses the testimonies of the Three and Eight Witnesses, Moroni’s angelic ministrations to Joseph Smith, and the purpose of the Book of Mormon as stated by Joseph Smith, the Book of Mormon itself, and other scripture. Concludes with an explanation of how the Book of Mormon has been preserved and invites the audience to examine the original manuscript kept by the RLDS church.

Focuses on the Book of Mormon’s grammatical structure, language, and absence of anachronisms. Suggests the Book of Mormon as an antidote to latter-day secularism, then proceeds to give evidence of its Hebrew origin.

Monthly Book of Mormon lessons for adult women (Relief Society). Each month a verse of Book of Mormon scripture is presented with accompanying quotes from General Authorities and writers of the Church.

Questions the appearance of crops in the Book of Mormon, then discusses the “golden crop of America,” maize. Gives botanical evidence that an Asian ancestor of maize probably existed, and hybrid crossing with Old and New World crops would produce corn as found in America. Therefore, the Book of Mormon record is “possible in light of the best scientific knowledge on the subject”

Examines prophecies in the Book of Mormon and relates them to historical events of the twentieth century. Prophecies are classified as follows: (1) the vision of Nephi—1 Nephi 3:210-216 (RLDS scriptures); (2) the prophecy of Nephi—2 Nephi 11:116-117; (3) the word of Christ relative to gentile disobedience—3 Nephi 9:64-71, and the return of the Jews —3 Nephi 9:85-101; (4) warning to Gentile America—Ether 1:29-35.

The Old Testament law of witnesses was approved by Paul the Apostle, Hammurabi, and Utah code: by the mouth of two or three witnesses shall the matter be established. The Three Witnesses and Eight Witnesses of the Book of Mormon fulfill this criteria. The most important witness for which there is no substitute is the Holy Ghost who witnesses to the very soul of man.

Reprinted as the second half of Lehi in the Desert and the World of the Jaredites (1952); and reprinted in Lehi in the Desert; The World of the Jaredites; There Were Jaredites. These articles were written in the form of expository letters to a fictitious “Professor F.”
A detailed reconstruction of the epic milieu and ancient historical setting in the third millennium B.C. in Mesopotamia and Asia relative to details about the Jaredites: their ships, shining stones, government, wars, society, and worldview.

This article discusses how since the Book of Mormon was first published it “has withstood a century of attempts to prove it man-made.” The author gives examples of different attempts and shows how each has failed.