Review of Fathers and Sons in the Book of Mormon (1991), by E. Douglas Clark and Robert S. Clark.

Review of Fathers and Sons in the Book of Mormon (1991), by E. Douglas Clark and Robert S. Clark.

Review of The Grand Design: America from Columbus to Zion (1992), by E. Douglas Clark.

Review of The Lands of Zarahemla (1993), by E. L. Peay.

There is room for improvement in every life. … Regardless of our circumstances, we can improve ourselves and while so doing have an effect on the lives of those about us.

Review of Christ's Answer to the Atheist, to the Jew: Who Wrote It? (1987), by Earl W. Carlsen.

As we seek to understand the belief and practices of the earliest Christians, we find ordinances and doctrines quite familiar to the restored gospel.

The study of the interpretations of the Book of Mormon text in the early days of the Church is helped by three documents called “reference guides” One is thought to have been printed in Kirtland in 1835, another in 1841 as part of the first European edition of the Book of Mormon, and the third a year later in Philadelphia, about which little is known.

Review of Scott H. Faulring, Kent P. Jackson, and Robert J. Matthews, eds. Joseph Smith's New Translation of the Bible: Original Manuscripts.

Reprinted in Mormonism and Early Christianity, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 4.
An assessment of the various infancy materials about the childhood of Jesus.

Originally published as an article in The Instructor.
An assessment of the various infancy materials about the childhood of Jesus.

A photographic essay of Mesoamerica and the narrow coastal region and highlands of the Middle Andes, which includes Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

Through the employment of quotes from authorities of the Church, scientiic data, and photographic presentations of Polynesia, the author discusses the possibilities that the Polynesians were descendants of Lehi.

New details on archaeology of the area around Guatemala City in Book of Mormon times are given. Some features can be compared with the ancient Near East.

A study of textual changes made in the Book of Mormon.

Classifies and discusses the main types of textual changes in the 2nd (1837, Kirtland) and 3rd (1840, Nauvoo) editions of the Book of Mormon, including corrections of typos from the 1st (1830, Palmyra) edition, revisions by Joseph Smith for the 2nd edition, corrections in the 3rd edition by reference to the original manuscript, and accidental errors in both editions.

The most extensive collection of writings about the Book of Mormon published between 1829 and 1844 has been made available as an online database. The collection, 19th-Century Publications about the Book of Mormon (1829–1844), includes nearly 600 publications and close to one million words of text. It is intended to comprise, insofar as possible, everything published during Joseph Smith’s lifetime relating to the Book of Mormon. Under the auspices of Digital Collections at Brigham Young University’s Harold B. Lee Library, this ambitious project can be accessed at lib.byu.edu/dlib/bompublications.

An address delivered to the BYU Tri-Stake Fireside
A discussion of what then newly discovered papyri mean for the history of Christianity.

Hugh Nibley begins by showing the interrelatedness of ancient records, regardless of their origin, a phenomenon called “pattemism.” He proposes that Joseph Smith presented the world with authentic ancient records. The Prophet brought forth many of the same concepts that are found in ancient temple libraries, such as the council in heaven during the premortal period, the casting out of Satan, the doctrine of the “two ways,” the fallen nature of mankind, and the need for a redeemer. Accompanying the doctrines is a body of rites or ordinances, and Nibley gives special attention to the Nag Hammadi documents.

Abstract: This study argues that the Book of Moses was an early Christian text. The book’s language, literary genre, and references to its own production could fit with a date in the late first century ad. Further, the study argues that a possible ritual context of the book was a baptismal ritual, as suggested by the detailed description of Adam’s baptism in Moses 6. A comparison between the content of the Book of Moses and early Christian sources on baptism shows some close resemblances, which may suggest that the Book of Moses was read aloud, and perhaps portrayed as a ritual drama, on sacred space during a baptismal ritual.

This first of two volumes of essays honoring Hugh Nibley includes scholarly papers based on what the contributors have learned from Dr. Nibley. Nearly every major subject that he has encompassed in his vast learning and scholarly production is represented here by at least one article. Topics include the influence of Nibley, Copts and the Bible, the Seventy in scripture, the great apostasy, the book of Daniel in early Mormon thought, an early Christian initiation ritual, John’s Apocalypse, ancient Jewish seafaring, Native American rites of passage, Sinai as sanctuary and mountain of God, the Qurʾan and creation ex nihilo, and the sacred handclasp and embrace.
A sketch of some medieval European Christian exegetical and homiletic traditions, which analyzes references from the second century to the Carolingian Renaissance.

Reprinted in Mormonism and Early Christianity, The Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 4, 45–99. Also reprinted in LDS Views on Early Christianity and Apocrypha: Articles from BYU Studies, Salt Lake City: Deseret Book.
Draws upon a host of sources and shows certain parallels between an early Christian form of prayer and that of the Latter-day Saint prayer circle.

Originally published as an article in BYU Studies in 1978.
Draws upon a host of sources and shows certain parallels between an early Christian form of prayer and that of the Latter-day Saint prayer circle.

A practice that was eventually condemned by the church because of its Jewish affinities—being found, for example, in the Testaments of Abraham and Job and in the writings of Philo—the prayer circle has a long and complex history in Christian practice. This practice was considered one of the “ mysteries” and therefore was protected from all who weren’t initiated. For the initiated participants, this was a very sacred practice, which demanded unity between all those involved. The prayer circle, generally referred to as a “ dance,” often included hymns, prayers for the living and the dead, and gestures that would prepare the participants for heavenly visitations.

This text, from a Christian “Book of Breathings,” highlights the importance of the prayer circle in early Christian worship.

Patriarch Tarasius and various bishops and monks condemn the Acts of John, in which an account of the early Christian prayer circle is recorded.

Abstract: This paper addresses the early Christian transition from temple-based Judaism to the Constantinian basilica of the fourth century. David argues that some Christians of the second and early third centuries may have had places of worship that, while not monumental in scale, qualify typologically as temples and were understood as such. These sacred structures may have been used for the performance of baptisms for the dead, as suggested by Doctrine and Covenants 124. In support of this thesis, he takes as case studies the Christian places of worship at ancient Edessa and Dura Europos, based on a combination of textual sources and archaeological remains. David then briefly applies these findings to a question posed years ago in studies by Hugh Nibley and John Lundquist, “What Is a Temple?”
[Editor’s Note: Part of our book chapter reprint series, this article is reprinted here as a service to the Latter-day Saint community. Original pagination and page numbers have necessarily changed, otherwise the reprint has the same content as the original.
See David Calabro, “From temple to church: Defining sacred space in the Near East,” in The Temple: Past, Present, and Future. Proceedings of the Fifth Interpreter Foundation Matthew B. Brown Memorial Conference, 7 November 2020, ed. Stephen D. Ricks and Jeffrey M. Bradshaw (Orem, UT: The Interpreter Foundation; Salt Lake City: Eborn Books, 2021), page numbers forthcoming. Further information at https://interpreterfoundation.org/books/the-temple-past-present-and-future/.]Introduction.

Abstract: This paper addresses the early Christian transition from temple-based Judaism to the Constantinian basilica of the fourth century. David argues that some Christians of the second and early third centuries may have had places of worship that, while not monumental in scale, qualify typologically as temples and were understood as such. These sacred structures may have been used for the performance of baptisms for the dead, as suggested by Doctrine and Covenants 124. In support of this thesis, he takes as case studies the Christian places of worship at ancient Edessa and Dura Europos, based on a combination of textual sources and archaeological remains. David then briefly applies these findings to a question posed years ago in studies by Hugh Nibley and John Lundquist, “What Is a Temple?”
[Editor’s Note: Part of our book chapter reprint series, this article is reprinted here as a service to the Latter-day Saint community. Original pagination and page numbers have necessarily changed, otherwise the reprint has the same content as the original.
See David Calabro, “From temple to church: Defining sacred space in the Near East,” in The Temple: Past, Present, and Future. Proceedings of the Fifth Interpreter Foundation Matthew B. Brown Memorial Conference, 7 November 2020, ed. Stephen D. Ricks and Jeffrey M. Bradshaw (Orem, UT: The Interpreter Foundation; Salt Lake City: Eborn Books, 2021), page numbers forthcoming. Further information at https://interpreterfoundation.org/books/the-temple-past-present-and-future/.]Introduction.

If God is good, why does he permit evil to exist? People through the ages have wrestled with this philosophical question, often called simply “the problem of evil.” The Bible contains one of the earliest works to address it-the book of Job.

This book takes a fresh look at the apostasy of the early Christian church. Most Latter-day Saint scholars and leaders previously based their understanding of the Christian apostasy on the findings of Protestant scholars who provided a seemingly endless array of evidences of apostasy in Christian history. Since the classic treatments of this topic were written, many newly discovered manuscripts written during the first Christian centuries have come to light, giving a clearer picture of what the early Christian experience was like. Drawing on this material, LDS scholars today are able to shift the focus of study to the causes of the apostasy rather than the effects. This volume of essays reports new research by several LDS scholars in different fields. They identify common myths and misconceptions about the apostasy and promote better understanding of when and why the apostasy occurred.

This article discusses the history of the Hill Cumorah pageant, a dramatic production that depicts the people of the Book of Mormon who peopled America many years ago.

A tendentious and sardonic but highly imaginative recounting of Joseph Smith’s life, including the events leading to the coming forth and publishing of the Book of Mormon. Entertaining mixture of fiction with fact.

An historical and polemical work directed against Mormonism. The author advances the Spaulding theory to account for the Book of Mormon’s origin.

A Discourse by Elder Wilford Woodruff, Delivered in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, Sunday afternoon, January 10, 1858. Reported By: J. V. Long.

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A polemical article against Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. The author discusses Joseph’s use of the seerstone, Book of Mormon witnesses, Shakespeare and the Book of Mormon, the condemnation of polygamy in the Book of Mormon, Spaulding theory, and other related items.

Includes the LDS account of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon but accepts the Solomon Spaulding theory for its origin. Also speaks concerning the attempts by mobs to steal the gold plates, the mode of translation, and Joseph Smith’s literary aptitude.

Uses archaeological evidence, legends, traditions, and myths of the native inhabitants, as well as historical accounts to show that the Book of Mormon coincides with ancient evidence and thus it must surely be the record of the ancient inhabitants of the Americas. Ties Book of Mormon migrations with specific locations and civilizations according to Book of Mormon texts.

One of the great lessons to be drawn from the Islamic world of the Middle Ages is that in order for people of varying faiths and persuasions to coexist peacefully, it is not necessary that significant differences between them be settled or even downplayed. Islamic society was vibrant with debate and ideological rivalry. But there was a framework of tolerance that allowed for these differences while preserving basic modes for coexistence. For example, the Islamic caliphates (beginning in the seventh century and continuing into the early modern period) treated the Jews and Christians living within their domains as ahl al-kitab (“People of the Book”), a Qur’anic designation that recognized that these communities, too, worshipped the God of Abraham and had at least part of his truth revealed to them and recorded in their scriptures—the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament, respectively. Therefore, these non-Muslims, though not accorded the same legal or social status as Muslims, were nevertheless allowed to practice their religions freely and openly and to participate in the pursuit of knowledge.

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.

In 1875, a few days before the first missionaries to Mexico were to depart, Brigham Young changed his mind: rather than have them travel to California where they would take a steamer down the coast and then go by foot or horseback inland to Mexico City, Brigham asked if they would mind making the trip by horseback, going neither to California nor Mexico City, but through Arizona to the northern Mexican state of Sonora—a round trip of 3,000 miles! He instructed them to look along the way for places to settle and to determine whether the Lamanites were ready to receive the gospel. But Brigham Young had other things in mind: the Saints might need another place of refuge, and advanced exploration was a logical course to pursue, should that need ever arise. The most promising site for such a refuge lay to the south, perhaps Mexico.

Some have argued that Mormonism began with a book, the Book of Mormon. This printed beginning quickly spawned a prolific amount of published material both expounding and defending early doctrines of the Latter-day Saints. Between 1836 and 1860 about ninety Church members authored a variety of written works. Although many publications were based on the writings of Parley P. Pratt and Orson Pratt, some represented original ideas. Most pamphlets grew from missionary efforts, but others countered anti-Mormon literature then in circulation. In promoting truth, Mormons found the press to be a powerful weapon. These early pamphlets developed from the interactions of Church members with themselves, their message, and their neighbors. As Mormonism grew, David Whittaker explains, the press became a key element in providing the institutional glue for helping to hold together this dynamic social and religious movement. Whittaker’s dissertation explores the rise and development of pamphlet literature during the Church’s formative years. Whittaker’s dissertation explores the rise and development of pamphlet literature during the Church’s formative years.

This compilation of articles and book reviews on Mormon polygamy is selected from over fifty years of LDS scholarship published by BYU Studies. This volume features articles on the Church’s legal confrontation with government over polygamy, various aspects of plural marriage in St. George, the perspectives of two prominent Mormon plural wives (Eliza R. Snow and Emmeline B. Wells), and several reviews of books addressing various aspects of polygamy. Contents “Letters on Mormon Polygamy and Progeny: Eliza R. Snow and Martin Luther Holbrook, 1866–1869” Jill Mulvay Derr and Matthew J. Grow “A Strange Encounter: The English Courts and Mormon Polygamy” Kenneth L. Cannon II “Emmeline B. Wells: ‘Am I Not a Woman and a Sister?’” Carol Cornwall Madsen “The Legislative Antipolygamy Campaign” Richard D. Poll “The Mormon Disfranchisements of 1882 to 1892” Joseph H. Groberg “The Judicial Campaign against Polygamy and the Enduring Legal Questions” Edwin Brown Firmage “Probing the High Prevalence of Polygyny in St. George, 1861–1880: An Introduction” Davis Bitton, Val Lambson, Lowell C. Bennion, and Kathryn M. Daynes “Demographic Limits of Nineteenth-Century Mormon Polygyny” Davis Bitton and Val Lambson “Mapping the Extent of Plural Marriage in St. George, 1861–1880” Lowell C. Bennion “Striving to Live the Principle in Utah’s First Temple City: A Snapshot of Polygamy in St. George, Utah, in June 1880” Kathryn M. Daynes “Plural Marriage in St. George: A Summary and an Invitation” Davis Bitton, Val Lambson, Lowell C. Bennion, and Kathryn M. Daynes Review of Elizabeth Wood Kane, Twelve Mormon Homes Visited in Successions on a Journey Through Utah to Arizona Reviewed by Eugene E. Campbell Review of Jessie L. Embry, Mormon Polygamous Families: Life in the Principle Reviewed by Kahlile Mehr Review of Larry M. Logue, A Sermon in the Desert: Belief and Behavior in Early St. George, Utah Reviewed by Armand L. Mauss Review of Richard S. Van Wagoner, Mormon Polygamy: A History, 2d ed. Reviewed by Thomas G. Alexander Review of Jennifer Moulton Hansen, Letters of Catharine Cottam Romney, Plural Wife; Maria S. Ellsworth, Mormon Odyssey: The Story of Ida Hunt Udall, Plural Wife; and Stan Larson, Prisoner for Polygamy: The Memoirs and Letters of Rudger Clawson at the Utah Territorial Penitentiary, 1884–87 Reviewed by Kathryn M. Daynes Review of Joan Smyth Iversen, The Antipolygamy Controversy in U.S. Women’s Movements, 1880–1925: A Debate on the American Home Reviewed by Jed L. Woodworth Review of Norman R. Bowen, A Gentile Account of Life in Utah’s Dixie, 1872–73: Elizabeth Kane’s St. George Journal Reviewed by Carol Cornwall Madsen Review of Sarah Barringer Gordon, The Mormon Question: Polygamy and Constitutional Conflict in Nineteenth-Century America Reviewed by Nathan B. Oman and Reviewed by Terryl L. Givens Review of Kathryn M. Daynes, More Wives Than One: Transformation of the Mormon Marriage System, 1840–1910 Reviewed by Sarah Barringer Gordon Review of Brian C. Hales, Modern Polygamy and Mormon Fundamentalism: The Generations after the Manifesto Reviewed by J. Michael Hunter Review of B. Carmon Hardy, Doing the Works of Abraham: Mormon Polygamy, Its Origin, Practice, and Demise Reviewed by Kathryn M. Daynes Review of George D. Smith, Nauvoo Polygamy: “. . . but we called it celestial marriage” Reviewed by Thomas G. Alexander

Believes that the Book of Mormon came forth out of a religio-magical backdrop. The author discusses the event of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon with commentary to help the reader look at the book in the appropriate setting, consistent with the “magical” beliefs of the 19th century. This work is reviewed in W.365, W 286, and in R.418.

A polemical article that attempts to enumerate numerous modern environmental factors that influenced the Book of Mormon such as anti-Masonic influences, theories regarding Indian origins, and money digging. The 1826 trial of Joseph Smith, Anthon episode, Book of Mormon witnesses, lack of archaeological evidence, and plagiarisms from the Bible are also discussed.

How the Book of Mormon fit in the early years of the Church and important doctrine that was introduced with the publication the Book.

Remarks by President Heber C. Kimball, made in the Bowery, July 7, 1861. Reported By: J. V. Long.

Articles from early newspapers and other publications give rare insights into the way in which the original audience of the Book of Mormon, both believers and critics, viewed the document. A large-scale collection of these documents was not initiated until the 1930s by Francis Kirkham, with encouragement from President George Albert Smith. Kirkham later published his collection in two volumes. His work, while extensive, was not exhaustive. The 19th-Century Publications about the Book of Mormon (1829–1844), a project partnered by the Maxwell Institute and the Harold B. Lee Library, builds off of Kirkham’s original research and seeks to preserve every extant published text discussing the Book of Mormon. The collection includes more than six hundred publications related to the Book of Mormon—almost one million words of text.

This article speaks of Joseph Smith’s visions of Moroni, the last battles of the Jaredites, and of the Nephites on the hill Cumorah.

Reviews various theories held between the 16th and 19th centuries regarding the descent of the American Indian from biblical peoples, including theories regarding Cain, Ham, Magog, the Hebrews, and others. Believes that the idea of a Hebrew origin for the American Indian was readily accessible to Joseph Smith, and thus favors an environmentalist explanation for the Book of Mormon’s origin.

Heavenly Father is intimately interested in hearing from us and that He is omnipresent and available to listen at all times.

Review of Recent Book of Mormon Developments: Articles from the Zarahemla Record, vol. 2 (1992), edited by Raymond C. Treat.

Men who have “integrity of heart” are men to be trusted—because trust is built on integrity.

originally published in Deseret News, November 21, 1931, pp. 7-8

The BYU Religious Studies Center, in cooperation with Deseret Book, has published a book by President Boyd K. Packer featuring a significant number of his paintings, drawings, and wood carvings. The book is titled The Earth Shall Teach Thee: The Lifework of an Amateur Artist. President Packer is well known for his years of service as a teacher and leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Many would say that his greatest contribution has been that of a teacher. His ability to teach principles with simple everyday examples is a gift. This gift came as a natural ability but has been refined by years of study, practice, and prayer. But what most people don’t know is that President Packer has had a pastime of painting and carving. This hobby has been used to beautify his home, teach his children, and provide needed relaxation. While he was painting or carving, his mind was carving out a sermon. He has created what some describe as masterpieces. To him, they are simply an attempt to capture the beauty of nature. The whole collection of his art consists of nearly six hundred original carvings, paintings, sketches, and drawings. He has used oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastels, charcoal, crayon, ink, and pencil. The collection covers seventy-seven years of effort, beginning in 1933 at age nine. President Packer’s artistic bent and love of nature are as integrally a part of him as his spirituality, compassion, steadiness, and humor. His carvings of life-size birds in natural habitats are perhaps the apex of his artistic creations. Of more enduring worth, however, are the valuable lessons taught through his art, illustrations, parables, and example. Above all, his art expresses reverence for life. Through artwork he has shared the lessons of life with his family and with members of the Church. President Packer once wrote, “During those hours working with my hands, I pondered on the marvels of creation, and inspiration would flow. As I carved wood, I carved out talks.” ISBN 978-0-8425-2806-1

Remarks by President Brigham Young, made in the Tabernacle, Great Salt Lake City, June 4, 1864. Reported By: G. D. Watt.

We have earthly debts and heavenly debts. Let us be wise in dealing with each of them.

Discourse by Professor Orson Pratt. Reported By: G. D. Watt.

Argues that the scriptures, including the Book of Mormon, refer to places inside the earth. Makes reference to the parable of the olive tree and to the habitation of the lost tribes of Israel.

Review of Brian C. Hales and Laura H. Hales, Joseph Smith’s Polygamy: Toward a Better Understanding. Salt Lake City: Greg Kofford Books, 2015, 198 pages + index.

Responds to the objection that the Book of Mormon was originally inscribed on metal plates. Numerous examples in the Old Testament demonstrate the working of metal from early ages, including Tubal-Cain’s work with brass and iron (Genesis 4:22), the brass gates of Babylon (Isaiah 45:1-2), the use of steel in Job’s day (Job 20:24), the golden calf made in the wilderness, and all the gold of Moses’ tabernacle (Exodus 25:17-36).

The daily living of the gospel brings a softness of heart needed to have an easiness and willingness to believe the word of God.

An anti-Mormon piece that argues that LDS scholars have changed the location of “the narrow neck of land” from the Isthmus of Panama to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, creating a problem with the “sea east” and the “sea west”

Reprinted in Immortality: Famed Discourses on Eternal Progression and Future Existence and The World and the Prophets, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 3.

This essay was reprinted in The World and the Prophets, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 3

Originally presented as a radio program as part of the Time Vindicates the Prophets series in 1962.

Abstract: Easters come year after year, reminding us of new life brought to the children of men by the eternal atoning sacrifice of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He grants us peace, forgiveness, grace, mercy, contentment, and joy in our hearts, and thus we gratefully testify of our everlasting redeeming Savior. All things bear witness of Jesus Christ. The Lord spoke thus face-to-face with Moses upon a high mountain: “And behold, all things have their likeness, and all things are created and made to bear record of me, both things which are temporal, and things which are spiritual; things which are in the heavens above, and things which are on the earth, and things which are in the earth, and things which are under the earth, both above and beneath: all things bear record of me.”
The intent of this article is to discuss scriptures that bear testimony of the reality of the Lord’s infinite atonement, to express deep gratitude for our Savior, and to praise Him for His grace, mercy, wisdom, power, and holiness.

Refers to the prophecy of Samuel the Lamanite about Christ’s birth and the prophecy’s subsequent fulfillment (3 Nephi 8-11). The Easter event in the western world was “established by ocular and auditory evidence”

The amazing achievements of the last hundred years in technology and science are paralleled by significant strides in Book of Mormon studies. Echoes and Evidences of the Book of Mormon takes inventory of some of the most fascinating ancient elements of the Book of Mormon. For many years now, Latter-day Saint scholars have called attention to significant parallels in the Book of Mormon with the ancient world that in many cases were unknowable in the world of Joseph Smith. The sheer number of these “bull’s-eyes” alone is impressive. In this volume, scholars trained in biblical studies, archaeology, classics, history, law, linguistics, anthropology, political science, philosophy, Near East studies, literature, and other relevant fields present some of their favorite evidences that support the Book of Mormon’s claim to ancient origins. Their findings illuminate points present in ancient sources, details that are not obvious, intricate patterns, unusual or distinctive features, and information that was little or not known in the 1820s.

“In recent years Mormon apologists have begun to challenge what many researchers, myself included, long regarded as obvious: the Book of Mormon’s reflection of the cultural milieu of early nineteenth-century America, particularly the anti-Masonic controversy that pervaded westen New York during the late 1820s. If the similarities between Masonry and the secret societies described in the book are not apparent to some modern readers, they were to its first readers, Mormon and non-Mormon, who almost immediately associated its warnings of latter-day ’secret combinations’ with the dreaded Masons. Despite the book’s use of the term ’secret combinations’--a favorite anti-Masonic epithet--several scholars now, for various reasons, object to the connection and, in some instances, offer alternative interpretations. In particular, I will examine and respond to the arguments put forth by Richard L. Bushman, Blake T. Ostler, D. Michael Quinn, and Daniel C. Peterson.” [From author’s introduction]

Also available for free at BYU ScholarsArchive.
A review of Lehi in the Desert, The World of the Jaredites, There Were Jaredites, Collected Works of Hugh Nibley vol. 5.

Economic systems are distinguished by their emphasis on equity and efficiency. Market controls are justified because of the need for equity. Free markets are justified because of the need for private incentives and efficiency. Most countries of the world today have adopted a combination of controls and free-market incentives. The Book of Mormon teaches that only through caring can equity and efficiency be simultaneously achieved.

Therefore, go; go humbly to serve. Work hard, be honest, and be reliable. I testify to you that you will be blessed and success will be yours.

From 1830 to the present those who find it difficult to accept “angelic visitations in the age of railroads” have searched Joseph Smith’s nineteenth-century environment for sources of the subject matter of the Book of Mormon. For example, in 1990 Susan Curtis explains the economic subthemes of the book as Joseph Smith’s commentary on “market capitalism.” But the economic conditions of Joseph Smith’s time and place are not reflected in the Book of Mormon. Its economic descriptions are consistent with our vast knowledge of the economic conditions of the ancient Middle East and not inconsistent with the little known of the economics of Mesoamerica of the relevant time period. Those more comfortable with Joseph Smith as universal commentator on the issues of his day would be well advised to ignore economics or limit that topic to the Doctrine and Covenants. Those who accept him as translator of ancient scriptural documents can gain additional reassurance from the economics of the Book of Mormon.

Abstract: In this essay John Gee draws a connection between the Egyptian “Book of the Temple” and the book of Exodus, both in structure and topic, describing the temple from the inside out. Gee concludes that both probably go back to a common source older than either of them.[Editor’s Note: Part of our book chapter reprint series, this article is reprinted here as a service to the LDS community. Original pagination and page numbers have necessarily changed, otherwise the reprint has the same content as the original.
See John Gee, “Edfu and Exodus,” in Temple Insights: Proceedings of the Interpreter Matthew B. Brown Memorial Conference, “The Temple on Mount Zion,” 22 September 2012, ed. William J. Hamblin and David Rolph Seely (Orem, UT: The Interpreter Foundation; Salt Lake City: Eborn Books, 2014), 67–82. Further information at https://interpreterfoundation.org/books/temple-insights/.].

This article contains an account of the first vision received by Joseph Smith and the importance of other visions leading up to the publication of the Book of Mormon and the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Reprinted as “Editing Hugh Nibley: The Man and His Legacy“ in Hugh Nibley Observed.
A reflection on the author’s time as an editor working on Hugh Nibley’s books.

Originally presented as “Editing Hugh Nibley: From Manuscript to Book,“ a talk at a conference held by the Foundation for Apologetic Information and Research (FAIR) in Salt Lake City.
A reflection on the author’s time as an editor working on Hugh Nibley’s books.

A report on a visit to the Isle of Man where Pratt and others gave lectures on the divine authenticity of the Book of Mormon. They quoted from Isaiah 29 and explained how these verses apply to the Book of Mormon.

Heber J. Grant writes about reading the Book of Mormon as a boy. Melvin J. Ballard speaks about the book’s purpose of being carried to “all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples.”

Comments on recent negative publicity given the Book of Mormon when Jefferey Lundgren convinced his followers that chiasmus was the only way God speaks in scripture.

Various verses from Isaiah 29 are applied to the Book of Mormon. Refers to the work as a “record of the house of Joseph”

A didactic editorial lauding Nephi’s obedience and recommending imitation by the youth of the Church.

A didactic editorial lauding Nephi’s obedience and recommending imitation by the youth of the Church.

A didactic editorial lauding Nephi’s obedience and recommending imitation by the youth of the Church.

Asserts that the inhabitants discovered by the Europeans in America are descendants of Laman and Lemuel. The Book of Mormon peoples lived principally in Central and South America. LDS church members should recognize the important role of the Indians among the Gentiles.

Asserts that the inhabitants discovered by the Europeans in America are descendants of Laman and Lemuel. The Book of Mormon peoples lived principally in Central and South America. LDS church members should recognize the important role of the Indians among the Gentiles.

Asserts that the inhabitants discovered by the Europeans in America are descendants of Laman and Lemuel. The Book of Mormon peoples lived principally in Central and South America. LDS church members should recognize the important role of the Indians among the Gentiles.

Describes a disease called epizootic, which killed many horses in the Eastern states. The Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:14) “foretells a time when, if the people would not repent, the Lord would destroy their horses.” Author the asks “who can say that the epizootic has no connection with that threat of divine displeasure?”

Describes a disease called epizootic, which killed many horses in the Eastern states. The Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:14) “foretells a time when, if the people would not repent, the Lord would destroy their horses” Author the asks “who can say that the epizootic has no connection with that threat of divine displeasure?”

Describes a disease called epizootic, which killed many horses in the Eastern states. The Book of Mormon (3 Nephi 21:14) “foretells a time when, if the people would not repent, the Lord would destroy their horses.” Author the asks “who can say that the epizootic has no connection with that threat of divine displeasure?”

Discusses Korihor and refutes his anti-Christ methods and doctrines. Relates and compares anti-Christ teachings to American popular opinion, concluding that Satan has not changed his tactics through the centuries.

Discusses Korihor and refutes his anti-Christ methods and doctrines. Relates and compares anti-Christ teachings to American popular opinion, concluding that Satan has not changed his tactics through the centuries.

Discusses Korihor and refutes his anti-Christ methods and doctrines. Relates and compares anti-Christ teachings to American popular opinion, concluding that Satan has not changed his tactics through the centuries.

Didactic essay, showing how the Ammonite striplings or sons of Helaman are examples of childhood training that might well be exempliied in LDS homes.

Didactic essay, showing how the Ammonite striplings or sons of Helaman are examples of childhood training that might well be exemplified in LDS homes.

Didactic essay, showing how the Ammonite striplings or sons of Helaman are examples of childhood training that might well be exemplified in LDS homes.

Editorial reflections on the Book of Mormon concepts of America as the choicest of lands and the necessity for righteousness for its inhabitants. Discusses secret combinations.

Editorial reflections on the Book of Mormon concepts of America as the choicest of lands and the necessity for righteousness for its inhabitants. Discusses secret combinations.

Editorial reflections on the Book of Mormon concepts of America as the choicest of lands and the necessity for righteousness for its inhabitants. Discusses secret combinations.

The hostile attitude of the Americans towards the Indians is a remarkable fulillment of Book of Mormon prophecy. LDS chruch members should consider the glorious future of the Lamanites.

Refers to the dangerous and unstable secret societies that are located throughout Europe and America and relates them to the secret combinations spoken of by Moroni.

Refers to the dangerous and unstable secret societies that are located throughout Europe and America and relates them to the secret combinations spoken of by Moroni.

Refers to the dangerous and unstable secret societies that are located throughout Europe and America and relates them to the secret combinations spoken of by Moroni.

Cannon reports that a German scholar, Professor Rudolph, noted striking resemblances between the leading Semitic languages (Arabic and Hebrew) and the Aymara language, belonging to the Incas in Peru. Cannon suggests that a reading of the Book of Mormon would enlighten the professor.

Cannon reports that a German scholar, Professor Rudolph, noted striking resemblances between the leading Semitic languages (Arabic and Hebrew) and the Aymara language, belonging to the Incas in Peru. Cannon suggests that a reading of the Book of Mormon would enlighten the professor.

Cannon reports that a German scholar, Professor Rudolph, noted striking resemblances between the leading Semitic languages (Arabic and Hebrew) and the Aymara language, belonging to the Incas in Peru. Cannon suggests that a reading of the Book of Mormon would enlighten the professor.

Civilized manners were not taught to the Lamanaites by Laman and Lemuel, and the Lamanites existed in a degenerate condition. On the other hand, due to the instructions of Nephi, the Nephites existed in a more civilized condition.

Civilized manners were not taught to the Lamanites by Laman and Lemuel, and the Lamanites existed in a degenerate condition. On the other hand, due to the instructions of Nephi, the Nephites existed in a more civilized condition.

Civilized manners were not taught to the Lamanites by Laman and Lemuel, and the Lamanites existed in a degenerate condition. On the other hand, due to the instructions of Nephi, the Nephites existed in a more civilized condition.

All churches except the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are part of the great and abominable church that was prophesied by Nephi. They will ight against the true church and will fall into the pit that they prepared for the people of the Lord.

All churches except the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are part of the great and abominable church that was prophesied by Nephi. They will fight against the true church and will fall into the pit that they prepared for the people of the Lord.

All churches except the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are part of the great and abominable church that was prophesied by Nephi. They will fight against the true church and will fall into the pit that they prepared for the people of the Lord.

When the Book of Mormon was published it was assumed that the American Indians were headed for extinction, but the Book of Mormon predicted that they would become a mighty people. This prophecy will yet be fulilled.

When the Book of Mormon was published it was assumed that the American Indians were headed for extinction, but the Book of Mormon predicted that they would become a mighty people. This prophecy will yet be fulfilled.

When the Book of Mormon was published it was assumed that the American Indians were headed for extinction, but the Book of Mormon predicted that they would become a mighty people. This prophecy will yet be fulfilled.

The hostile attitude of the Americans towards the Indians is a remarkable fulfillment of Book of Mormon prophecy. LDS church members should consider the glorious future of the Lamanites.

Contention over Book of Mormon geography is detrimental to the cause of truth. The reason for this contention is due to the fact that the Book of Mormon is not a geographical primer meant to teach geographical truths. The drawing of Book of Mormon maps is discouraged.

Offers an explanation why eight of the eleven witnesses were members of two families.

Harrison argues that it is impossible that the Book of Mormon be even remotely related to the Manuscript Found by Solomon Spaulding. The Manuscript Found is a fictitious account of the lost ten tribes and the Book of Mormon is an account of one family of the tribe of Joseph.

Introduction to the current volume.

Introduction to the current issue.

Introduction to the current issue.