"'Howlers' in the Book of Mormon." Millennial Star 125 (February 1963): 28–34.Abstract: Lists over twenty Book of Mormon points that may have seemed ridiculous in 1830 but that “appear very different” in light of modern scholarship, including transoceanic voyaging, gold plates, steel, elephants, coins, names, literary and ritual patterns, execution, modes of prophecy and revelation.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"There Were Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"1: Egypt Revisited." Improvement Era, February 1956, 88–89, 106, 108.Keywords: Ancient Near East, Egypt
"2: Egypt Revisited." Improvement Era, March 1956, 150–52, 185–87.Keywords: Ancient Near East, Egypt
"3: Egypt Revisited." Improvement Era, April 1956, 244–45, 252–54, 258.Keywords: Ancient Near East, Egypt
"4: Egypt Revisited." Improvement Era, May 1956, 308–10, 334, 336, 338–40.Keywords: Ancient Near East, Egypt
"5: Egypt Revisited." Improvement Era, June 1956, 390–91, 460–61.Keywords: Ancient Near East, Egypt
"A New Look at the Pearl of Great Price." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Ancient Temples: What Do They Signify?" Ensign, September 1972, 46–49.Abstract: Comments about the roles of ancient temples in general, with emphasis on Mesoamerican temples as centers of religion, culture, the arts, and world view.
"Baptism for the Dead in Ancient Times." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Authors Note: 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 it 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 which 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.—H. N.
Keywords: Brigham Young
"Censoring the Joseph Smith Story." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Explains how Joseph Smith’s critics in the 1840s and also Fawn Brodie rewrote Joseph’s story to suit their perceptions of the Book of Mormon and the First Vision.
Keywords: Joseph Smith, Book of Mormon
"Christ among the Ruins." Ensign, July 1983, 14, 16–19.Abstract: A comparison of the Old World early Christian ‘forty-day ministry’ story with the New World 3 Nephi accounts.” Compares Jesus’ post-resurrection words to his disciples in Galilee with accounts in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Columbus and Revelation." Instructor, October 1953, 319–20.Abstract: Relevant to 1 Nephi 13:11-12, this brief article gives historical evidence showing that Columbus was moved upon by the Holy Ghost.
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Conclusion." Improvement Era, July 1952, 510, 550.
"The Stick of Judah and the Stick of Joseph." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Writing on tally sticks is related to Ezekiel 37 and the meaning of the prophecy that two sticks shall become one. Extensive commentary on the traditional interpretations given to Ezekiel 37.
"Conclusion." Improvement Era, May 1953, 331–32, 334, 336, 338, 341, 343, 345.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Conclusion." Improvement Era, July 1954, 506–7, 521.
"Censoring the Joseph Smith Story." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Explains how Joseph Smith’s critics in the 1840s and also Fawn Brodie rewrote Joseph’s story to suit their perceptions of the Book of Mormon and the First Vision.
Keywords: Joseph Smith, Book of Mormon
"Conclusion." Improvement Era, November 1961, 812–13, 865–69.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Conclusion: Taking Stock." Improvement Era, May 1970, 82–89, 91–94.
"The Way of the Church." A series of articles in three parts in the Improvement Era.
"The Way of the Church—1: Controlling the Past"
"Controlling the Past." Improvement Era, February 1955, 86–87, 104, 106–7.
"Controlling the Past (A Consideration of Methods)." Improvement Era, January 1955, 20–22, 44–45.
"Controlling the Past: Part 3." Improvement Era, March 1955, 152–54, 166, 168.
"Controlling the Past: Part 4." Improvement Era, April 1955, 230–32, 258, 260–61.
"Controlling the Past: Part 5." Improvement Era, May 1955, 306–8, 364–66.
"Controlling the Past: Part 6." Improvement Era, June 1955, 384–86, 455–56.
"Early Accounts of Jesus' Childhood." Instructor, January 1965, 35– 37.
"There Were Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Epic Milieu in the Old Testament." Improvement Era, October 1956, 710–12, 745–51.Keywords: Bible, Old Testament
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Epilogue: Since Qumran." Improvement Era, July 1966, 636–38.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"If There Must Needs Be Offense." Ensign, July 1971, 53–55.
"Islam and Mormonism—A Comparison." Ensign, March 1972, 55– 64.
"Mixed Voices: A Study in Book of Mormon Criticism." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: A series about the Book of Mormon and its nineteenth-century American critics. David Marks, who heard the story of the book from the Whitmer family, dismissed it as deception that he could not support by purchasing the book. Alexander Campbell, Origen Bacheler, E. D. Hose, and Professor Rafinesque joined him. The critics could not believe in angelic visits, visions, and further revelation from God. They criticized the grammar and content, rebuked the translator as a fraud, a liar, and a money-digging, peep-stone looking cheat. One critic relied upon the words of another without checking to see if there was any truth.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Just Another Book? Part One." Improvement Era, May 1959, 345–47, 388–91.Abstract: Shows ways in which the Book of Mormon was out-of-sorts with the nineteenth century and thus not just another book of that time
"Just Another Book? Part Two." Improvement Era, June 1959, 412–13, 501–3.Abstract: Shows ways in which the Book of Mormon was out-of-sorts with the nineteenth century and thus not just another book of that time
"Just Another Book? Part Two, Conclusion." Improvement Era, July 1959, 530– 31, 565.Abstract: Shows ways in which the Book of Mormon was out-of-sorts with the nineteenth century and thus not just another book of that time
"Kangaroo Court." Improvement Era, March 1959, 145–48, 184–87.Abstract: A witty exposé of anti-Mormon methods of Book of Mormon criticism.
"Kangaroo Court: Part Two." Improvement Era, April 1959, 224–26, 300–301.Abstract: A witty exposé of anti-Mormon methods of Book of Mormon criticism.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Man's Dominion." New Era, October 1972, 24–31.Links to available media:
"Mixed Voices: A Study in Book of Mormon Criticism." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: A series about the Book of Mormon and its nineteenth-century American critics. David Marks, who heard the story of the book from the Whitmer family, dismissed it as deception that he could not support by purchasing the book. Alexander Campbell, Origen Bacheler, E. D. Hose, and Professor Rafinesque joined him. The critics could not believe in angelic visits, visions, and further revelation from God. They criticized the grammar and content, rebuked the translator as a fraud, a liar, and a money-digging, peep-stone looking cheat. One critic relied upon the words of another without checking to see if there was any truth.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"More Voices from the Dust." Instructor, March 1956, 71–72, 74.
"Myths and the Scriptures." New Era, October 1971, 34–38.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Of Birthdays." The Improvement Era; 1920-1930 (Volumes 24-33); 1925-1926 (Volume 29); 1926 June (No. 8); Church History Library, 743; Reprinted in Hugh Nibley: A Consecrated Life, 2002, p. 55.Links to available media:
Abstract: Poem written for his grandmother when he was 16
"There Were Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Our Own People." Improvement Era, November 1956, 818–19, 857–58.
"Our Own People: Continued." Improvement Era, December 1956, 906–7.
"Our Own People—Concluded." Improvement Era, February 1957, 94–95, 122–24.
"Our Own People—Continued." Improvement Era, January 1957, 26–27, 41.
"Baptism for the Dead in Ancient Times." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Authors Note: 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 it 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 which 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.—H. N.
Keywords: Brigham Young
"Part 1." The Improvement Era; 1941-1950 (Volumes 44-53); 1948 (Volume 51); 1948 December (No. 12); Church History Library, 786–88, 836–38.Links to available media:
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 1." Improvement Era, September 1951, 628–30, 673–75.
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Part 1." Improvement Era, October 1964, 816–21, 844–47.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 1." Ensign, October 1975, 78–84.
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Part 1 (continued)." Improvement Era, November 1964, 924–28, 974–75, 977–78, 980–83.
"Part 1 (continued)." Improvement Era, December 1964, 1032–35, 1126–28.
"Part 1 (continued)." Improvement Era, January 1965, 34–37, 60–64.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 1 - The Problem." Improvement Era 53, no. 1 (1950): 102-104, 155-159.Links to available media:
Keywords: Ancient Near East, Arabia, Egyptology, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response (continued)." Improvement Era, February 1968, 14–18, 20–21.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response (continued)." Improvement Era, March 1968, 16–18, 20–22.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response (continued)." Improvement Era, April 1968, 64–69.
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 10." Improvement Era, June 1952, 398–99, 462–64.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 10." Ensign, March 1977, 86–90.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 10 - Conclusion." Improvement Era 53, no. 10 (1950): 804-806, 824, 826, 828, 830.Links to available media:
Keywords: Arabia, Lehi (Prophet), Wilderness
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 10. The Sacrifice of Isaac." Improvement Era, March 1970, 84–94.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 11." Ensign, April 1977, 78–89.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 11. The Sacrifice of Sarah." Improvement Era, April 1970, 79–95.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 12." Ensign, June 1977, 78–90.
"Part 13." Ensign, August 1977, 64–65.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 1: Some Standard Tests." Improvement Era, November 1953, 830–31, 859–62.
"The Stick of Judah and the Stick of Joseph." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Writing on tally sticks is related to Ezekiel 37 and the meaning of the prophecy that two sticks shall become one. Extensive commentary on the traditional interpretations given to Ezekiel 37.
"Part 1: The Doctors Disagree." Improvement Era, January 1953, 16–17, 38–41.
"Censoring the Joseph Smith Story." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Explains how Joseph Smith’s critics in the 1840s and also Fawn Brodie rewrote Joseph’s story to suit their perceptions of the Book of Mormon and the First Vision.
Keywords: Joseph Smith, Book of Mormon
"Part 1: The Problem." Improvement Era, July 1961, 490–92, 522, 524, 526, 528.
"Baptism for the Dead in Ancient Times." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Authors Note: 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 it 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 which 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.—H. N.
Keywords: Brigham Young
"Part 2." The Improvement Era; 1941-1950 (Volumes 44-53); 1949 (Volume 52); 1949 January (No. 1); Church History Library, 24–26, 60.Links to available media:
Abstract: The Teaching of the Lord After His Resurrection
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 2." Improvement Era 53, no. 2 (1950): 102-104, 155-159.Links to available media:
Keywords: Arabia, Lehi (Prophet)
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 2." Improvement Era, October 1951, 704–6, 752–55.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 2." Ensign, December 1975, 72–76.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 2. May We See Your Credentials?" Improvement Era, May 1968, 54–57.
"Part 2. May We See Your Credentials? (continued)." Improvement Era, June 1968, 18–22.
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Part 2: Hidden Treasures: The Search for the Original Scriptures." Improvement Era, February 1965, 100–103, 146–47.
"Part 2: Hidden Treasures: The Search for the Original Scriptures (continued)." Improvement Era, March 1965, 210–13, 226, 228, 230, 232, 234.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 2: Some Standard Tests." Improvement Era, December 1953, 919, 1003.
"Censoring the Joseph Smith Story." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Explains how Joseph Smith’s critics in the 1840s and also Fawn Brodie rewrote Joseph’s story to suit their perceptions of the Book of Mormon and the First Vision.
Keywords: Joseph Smith, Book of Mormon
"Part 2: Suppressing the First Vision Story after 1842." Improvement Era, August 1961, 577–79, 605–9.
"The Stick of Judah and the Stick of Joseph." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Writing on tally sticks is related to Ezekiel 37 and the meaning of the prophecy that two sticks shall become one. Extensive commentary on the traditional interpretations given to Ezekiel 37.
"Part 2: What Were the Sticks?" Improvement Era, February 1953, 90–91, 123–27.
"Baptism for the Dead in Ancient Times." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Authors Note: 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 it 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 which 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.—H. N.
Keywords: Brigham Young
"Part 3." The Improvement Era; 1941-1950 (Volumes 44-53); 1949 (Volume 52); 1949 February (No. 2); Church History Library, 90–91, 109–10, 112.Links to available media:
Abstract: How the Dead Received Baptism
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 3." Improvement Era, November 1951, 786–87, 833–35.
"The Stick of Judah and the Stick of Joseph." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Writing on tally sticks is related to Ezekiel 37 and the meaning of the prophecy that two sticks shall become one. Extensive commentary on the traditional interpretations given to Ezekiel 37.
"Part 3." Improvement Era, March 1953, 150–52, 191–95.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 3." Improvement Era, January 1954, 30–32, 41.
"Censoring the Joseph Smith Story." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Explains how Joseph Smith’s critics in the 1840s and also Fawn Brodie rewrote Joseph’s story to suit their perceptions of the Book of Mormon and the First Vision.
Keywords: Joseph Smith, Book of Mormon
"Part 3." Improvement Era, October 1961, 724–25, 736, 738, 740.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 3." Ensign, February 1976, 64–68.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 3 - The Problem." Improvement Era 53, no. 3 (1950): 200-202, 222, 225-226, 229-230.Links to available media:
Keywords: Arabia, Lehi (Prophet), Wilderness
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 3. Empaneling the Panel." Improvement Era, July 1968, 48–55.
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Part 3: Secrecy in the Primitive Church." Improvement Era, April 1965, 308– 11, 326, 328–32.
"Part 3: Secrecy in the Primitive Church (concluded)." Improvement Era, June 1965, 482–83, 574–76.
"Part 3: Secrecy in the Primitive Church (continued)." Improvement Era, May 1965, 406–7, 444.
"Baptism for the Dead in Ancient Times." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Authors Note: 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 it 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 which 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.—H. N.
Keywords: Brigham Young
"Part 4." The Improvement Era; 1941-1950 (Volumes 44-53); 1949 (Volume 52); 1949 March (No. 3); Church History Library, 146–48, 180–83.Links to available media:
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 4." Improvement Era 53, no. 4 (1950): 276-277, 320-326.Links to available media:
Keywords: Arabia, Lehi (Prophet), Wilderness
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 4." Improvement Era, December 1951, 862–63, 946–47.
"The Stick of Judah and the Stick of Joseph." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Writing on tally sticks is related to Ezekiel 37 and the meaning of the prophecy that two sticks shall become one. Extensive commentary on the traditional interpretations given to Ezekiel 37.
"Part 4." Improvement Era, April 1953, 250, 267.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 4." Improvement Era, February 1954, 88–89, 125–26.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 4." Ensign, March 1976, 62–66.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 4. Second String." Improvement Era, August 1968, 53–64.
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 5." Improvement Era, January 1952, 22–24.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 5." Improvement Era, March 1954, 148–50, 170.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 5." Ensign, April 1976, 60–64.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 5 - Contacts in the Desert." Improvement Era 53, no. 5 (1950): 382-384, 448-449.Links to available media:
Keywords: Arabia, Lehi (Prophet), Wilderness
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 5. Facsimile No. 1: A Unique Document." Improvement Era, September 1968, 66–80.
"Part 5. Facsimile No. 1: A Unique Document (continued)." Improvement Era, October 1968, 73–81.
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 6." Improvement Era, February 1952, 92–94, 98, 100, 102, 104–5.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 6." Improvement Era, April 1954, 232–33, 246, 248–50, 252.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 6." Ensign, July 1976, 64–48.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 6 - Place Names in the Desert." Improvement Era 53, no. 6 (1950): 486-487, 516-519.Links to available media:
Keywords: Arabia, Lehi (Prophet), Nahom, River of Laman, Shazer, Valley of Lemuel, Wilderness
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 6. Facsimile No. 1: A Unique Document (continued)." Improvement Era, November 1968, 36–38, 40, 42, 44.
"Part 6. Facsimile No. 1: A Unique Document (continued)." Improvement Era, December 1968, 28–33.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 7." Improvement Era 53, no. 7 (1950): 566-567, 587-588.Links to available media:
Keywords: Arabia, Lehi (Prophet), Poetry, Wilderness
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 7." Improvement Era, March 1952, 162–65, 167–68.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 7." Improvement Era, 1954, 308–9, 326, 330.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 7." Ensign, October 1976, 76–81.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 7. The Unknown Abraham." Improvement Era, January 1969, 26–33.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Part 7. The Unknown Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, February 1969, 64–67.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Part 7. The Unknown Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, April 1969, 66–72.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Part 7. The Unknown Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, June 1969, 126–28, 130–32.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Part 7. The Unknown Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, July 1969, 97–101.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 8." Improvement Era, April 1952, 236–38, 258, 260–65.
"New Approaches to Book of Mormon Study." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Vividly displays internal and external evidences to test whether the Book of Mormon is or is not a forgery, using the standard scholarly criteria for detecting forged writings. Very insightful comments on methodology for studying the Book of Mormon, evaluating evidence, using newly discovered documents, metal plates, literary criticism, poetry, lower criticism, and history. Also comments on animals, weights and measures, and the use of the Bible in the Book of Mormon.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Part 8." Improvement Era, June 1954, 389, 447–48, 450–51.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 8." Ensign, December 1976, 73–78.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 8 - Adventures in Jerusalem." Improvement Era 53, no. 8 (1950): 640-642, 670.Links to available media:
Keywords: Jerusalem (Old World), Laban, Nephi (Son of Lehi)
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 8. Facsimile No. 1, By the Figures." Improvement Era, July 1969, 101–11. Part 8. Facsimile No. 1, By the Figures (continued). Improvement Era, August 1969, 75–87.
"Part 8. Facsimile No. 1, By the Figures (continued)." Improvement Era, September 1969, 85–95.
"Part 8. Facsimile No. 1, By the Figures (continued)." Improvement Era, October 1969, 85–88.
"Part 8[7]. The Unknown Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, March 1969, 76, 79–80, 82, 84.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Part 8[7]. The Unknown Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, May 1969, 87–91.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"Part 9." Improvement Era, May 1952, 316–18, 340, 342, 344, 346.
"A Strange Thing in the Land: The Return of the Book of Enoch." A series of articles in the Ensign.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Moses, Enoch (Prophet)
"Part 9." Ensign, February 1977, 66–75.
"Lehi in the Desert." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: 1 Nephi, 2 Nephi, Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"Part 9 - A Word About Plates." Improvement Era 53, no. 9 (1950): 706-708, 744.Links to available media:
Keywords: Ancient Near East, Bountiful (Old World), Metal Plates, Metallurgy, Recordkeeping, Wilderness
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 1. Challenge and Response." Improvement Era, January 1968, 18–24.
"Part 9. Setting the Stage: The World of Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, January 1970, 56–65.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Part 9. Setting the Stage—The World of Abraham." Improvement Era, October 1969, 89–95.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Part 9. Setting the Stage—The World of Abraham (continued)." Improvement Era, November 1969, 116–26.Keywords: Abraham (Prophet)
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Problems, Not Solutions." Improvement Era, May 1966, 419–20, 422, 424.
"Problems, Not Solutions (continued)." Improvement Era, June 1966, 582–83.
"Review of Our Book of Mormon, by Sidney B. Sperry." The Improvement Era; 1941-1950 (Volumes 44-53); 1948 (Volume 51); 1948 January (No. 1); Church History Library, 42.Links to available media:
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Since Cumorah (Since Qumran)." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"Since Cumorah (Since Qumran)." Improvement Era, September 1966, 794–95, 799–800, 802, 804–5.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"Since Cumorah (Since Qumran)." Improvement Era, October 1966, 884–85.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"Since Cumorah (Since Qumran)." Improvement Era, November 1966, 974–75, 1028–31.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"Since Cumorah (Since Qumran)." Improvement Era, December 1966, 1084–85, 1162–65.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"Since Qumran (continued)." Improvement Era, August 1966, 710–12.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"The Way of the Church." A series of articles in three parts in the Improvement Era.
"The Way of the Church—3: The Apocalyptic Background"
"The Apocalyptic Background, 1: The Eschatological Dilemma." Improvement Era, November 1955, 817, 829–31.
"The Apocalyptic Background, 2: The Eschatological Dilemma." Improvement Era, December 1955, 902–3, 968.
"There Were Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"The Babylonian Background, 1." Improvement Era, July 1956, 509–11, 514, 516.Keywords: Ancient Near East, Babylon
"The Babylonian Background, 2." Improvement Era, August 1956, 566–67, 602.Keywords: Ancient Near East, Babylon
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"The Bible, the Scrolls, and the Book of Mormon: A Problem of Three Bibles." Improvement Era, November 1965, 974–77, 1013, 1040.Keywords: Bible, Book of Mormon
"The Bible, the Scrolls, and the Book of Mormon: A Problem of Three Bibles (continued)." Improvement Era, December 1965, 1090–91, 1165–68.Keywords: Bible, Book of Mormon
"The Bible, the Scrolls, and the Book of Mormon: A Problem of Three Bibles (continued)." Improvement Era, January 1966, 32–34, 44–46.Keywords: Bible, Book of Mormon
"The Bible, the Scrolls, and the Book of Mormon: A Problem of Three Bibles (continued)." Improvement Era, February 1966, 118–22.Keywords: Bible, Book of Mormon
"The Bible, the Scrolls, and the Book of Mormon: A Problem of Three Bibles (continued)." Improvement Era, March 1966, 196–97, 232–34.Keywords: Bible, Book of Mormon
"The Book of Mormon as a Mirror of the East." The Improvement Era; 1941-1950 (Volumes 44-53); 1948 (Volume 51); 1948 April (No. 4); Church History Library, 202– 4, 249–51.Links to available media:
Abstract: "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?
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"The Book of Mormon as a Mirror of the East." Improvement Era, November 1970, 115–20, 122–25.Abstract: Book of Mormon proper names are related to Egyptian etymologies.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"The Book of Mormon: True or False?" Millennial Star 124 (November 1962): 274–77.Abstract: Argues that if Joseph Smith was not telling the truth when he provided the world with the Book of Mormon, then he recklessly exposed his forgery and fraud to public discovery. The Book of Mormon is authentic history, not a forgery, and not a product of the tendencies of Joseph Smith’s day.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"The Boy, Nephi, in Jerusalem." Instructor, March 1961, 84–85.Abstract: Historical fiction about the possible thoughts on a day in the life of the twelve-year-old Nephi in Jerusalem.
"The Christmas Quest." Millennial Star; 1941-1950 (Volumes 103-112); 1950 (Volume 112); 1950 January (No. 1); Church History Library, 4–5.Links to available media:
Abstract: EDITORS NOTE: With Christmas still fresh in our memories, Professor Hugh Nibley, in this article especially prepared for the readers of the Millennial Star, gives us an interesting insight into what the world looks for in the celebration of Christmas.
Keywords: Classics
"Mixed Voices: A Study in Book of Mormon Criticism." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: A series about the Book of Mormon and its nineteenth-century American critics. David Marks, who heard the story of the book from the Whitmer family, dismissed it as deception that he could not support by purchasing the book. Alexander Campbell, Origen Bacheler, E. D. Hose, and Professor Rafinesque joined him. The critics could not believe in angelic visits, visions, and further revelation from God. They criticized the grammar and content, rebuked the translator as a fraud, a liar, and a money-digging, peep-stone looking cheat. One critic relied upon the words of another without checking to see if there was any truth.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"The Comparative Method." Improvement Era, October 1959, 744–47, 759.
"The Comparative Method." Improvement Era, November 1959, 848, 854, 856.
"The Day of the Amateur." New Era, January 1971, 42–44.
"The Dead Sea Scrolls: Some Questions and Answers." Instructor, July 1963, 233–35.Keywords: Qumran, Dead Sea Scrolls
"Baptism for the Dead in Ancient Times." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Authors Note: 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 it 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 which 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.—H. N.
Keywords: Brigham Young
"The Dilemma: Part 5—Conclusion." The Improvement Era; 1941-1950 (Volumes 44-53); 1949 (Volume 52); 1949 April (No. 4); Church History Library, 212–14.Links to available media:
"The Genesis of the Written Word." New Era, September 1973, 38– 50.
"Mixed Voices: A Study in Book of Mormon Criticism." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: A series about the Book of Mormon and its nineteenth-century American critics. David Marks, who heard the story of the book from the Whitmer family, dismissed it as deception that he could not support by purchasing the book. Alexander Campbell, Origen Bacheler, E. D. Hose, and Professor Rafinesque joined him. The critics could not believe in angelic visits, visions, and further revelation from God. They criticized the grammar and content, rebuked the translator as a fraud, a liar, and a money-digging, peep-stone looking cheat. One critic relied upon the words of another without checking to see if there was any truth.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"The Grab Bag." Improvement Era, July 1959, 530–33, 546–48.
"The Idea of the Temple in History." Millennial Star 120 (August 1958): 228–37, 247–49.Links to available media:
Abstract: This essay was first written in 1958 for the dedication of the London Temple. Those Church Fathers, especially of the fourth century, who proclaim the victory of Christianity over its rivals constantly speak of the Church as the competitor and supplanter of the Synagogue, and modern authorities are agreed that in ritual and liturgy the Christian Church grew up “in the shadow of the Synagogue.” This is a most significant fact. While the Temple stood the Jews had both its ancient ordinances and the practices of the Synagogue, but they were not the same. The Temple was unique, and when it was destroyed the Synagogue of the Jews did not take over its peculiarly sacred functions—they were in no wise authorized to do so.
Keywords: Primitive Church, Jewish temples, ordinances, religious ritual, synagogue, temple
"The Lachish Letters: Documents from Lehi's Day." Ensign, December 1981, 48–54.Abstract: Suggests connections between the Lachish letters written at the time Jerusalem was destroyed by the Babylonians and events associated with Lehi’s departure. Includes political pressures on prophets, types of proper names, and a possible identification of Mulek.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"The Liahona's Cousins." Improvement Era, February 1961, 87–89, 104–6, 108–11.Abstract: Analysis of the Liahona, especially in light of Arabic divination arrows. Proposes an etymology for this name.
"The Literary Style of the Book of Mormon." Deseret News, Church News, 29 July 1961, 10, 15. Originally a letter addressed to Dear Mr. ——, dated 12 July 1961.Keywords: Book of Mormon
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"The Mysteries of Zenos and Joseph." Improvement Era, April 1966, 296–97, 334–36.
"The Olive Tree." Improvement Era, October 1965, 876–77, 916–17.
"There Were Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"The Shining Stones—Continued." Improvement Era, September 1956, 630–32, 672–75.
"The Stick of Judah and the Stick of Joseph." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: Writing on tally sticks is related to Ezekiel 37 and the meaning of the prophecy that two sticks shall become one. Extensive commentary on the traditional interpretations given to Ezekiel 37.
"Since Cumorah: New Voices from the Dust." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: The changing attitudes of biblical scholars toward basic questions about scripture allow room for claims made by the Book of Mormon. Discusses external evidences, the primitive church, Lehi, Zenos, the olive tree, and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
"The Story of Zenos." Improvement Era, September 1965, 782–83, 792.
"The Testament of Lehi: Part 1." Improvement Era, July 1965, 616–17, 645–48.Keywords: Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"The Testament of Lehi: Part 1 (continued)." Improvement Era, August 1965, 696–99, 702, 704.Keywords: Book of Mormon, Lehi (Prophet)
"The Way of the Church." A series of articles in three parts in the Improvement Era.
"The Way of the Church—1: Controlling the Past"
"The Way of the Church—2: Two Views of Church History"
"The Way of the Church—3: The Apocalyptic Background"
"The World of the Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.
Abstract: 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.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"There Were Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"There Were Jaredites." Improvement Era, January 1956, 30–32, 58–61.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"There Were Jaredites." A series of articles in the Improvement Era, continued.Abstract: This wide-ranging series discusses the “epic milieu” of the second millennium B.C. and places the Jaredites in their historical context alongside the Babylonians, Egyptians, early Greeks and others. Makes a comparison between the Book of Ether and ancient writings of Babylon, Egypt, Sumer, and others. The description of the Jaredite boats seem to resemble the boat of Ut-Napitshtim who was the Sumerian counter-part of Noah. Old Jewish and even older Indian sources record the use of shining stones that protect the owner beneath the water. These have been traced back to Babylonian tales of the deluge. Since the Jaredite record reports that their boats were patterned after Noah’s ark, ancient myths that surely have their foundation in real events help to provide greater understanding of the book of Ether. The book of Ether meets all the criteria of epic traditions of heroic societies. The remains of heroic societies are difficult to identify.
Keywords: Book of Mormon, Jaredites
"The Way of the Church." A series of articles in three parts in the Improvement Era.
"The Way of the Church—2: Two Views of Church History"
"Two Views of Church History." Improvement Era, July 1955, 502–4, 538.
"Two Views of Church History: Part 2." Improvement Era, August 1955, 570–71, 599–600, 602–6.
"Two Views of Church History: Part 3." Improvement Era, September 1955, 650–53.
"Two Views of Church History: Part 4." Improvement Era, October 1955, 708–10.
"Mixed Voices: A Study in Book of Mormon Criticism." A series of articles in the Improvement Era.Abstract: A series about the Book of Mormon and its nineteenth-century American critics. David Marks, who heard the story of the book from the Whitmer family, dismissed it as deception that he could not support by purchasing the book. Alexander Campbell, Origen Bacheler, E. D. Hose, and Professor Rafinesque joined him. The critics could not believe in angelic visits, visions, and further revelation from God. They criticized the grammar and content, rebuked the translator as a fraud, a liar, and a money-digging, peep-stone looking cheat. One critic relied upon the words of another without checking to see if there was any truth.
Keywords: Book of Mormon
"What Frontier, What Camp Meeting?" Improvement Era, August 1959, 590–92, 610, 612, 614–15.Abstract: Responds to the assertion that the Book of Mormon is a product of the religious and political milieu of the American frontier.
"What, Exactly, Is the Purpose and Significance of the Facsimiles in the Book of Abraham?" Ensign, March 1976, 34–36.Keywords: Pearl of Great Price, Book of Abraham, Abraham (Prophet)