Having looked at the historical sources for the Book of Mormon translation process, we have found that there is no good evidence for the idea that Joseph used a seer stone during the process. But, in the process, I kept coming across references to Joseph Smith using the Interpreters by putting them into a hat. This article evaluates those sources and draws conclusions about what they can and cannot tell us about the translation process.
Category: Religion
Translating The Book Of Mormon: The Interpreters
In this article, I evaluate the earliest primary counts describing the tool used by Joseph Smith to translate the Book of Mormon plates into English. To a one, all the firsthand, eyewitness accounts testify that Joseph used the Nephite Interpreters and say nothing about the seer stone. Further, I look at the history of the Interpreters and the ancient Sumerian words found throughout the Book of Mormon text that testify of its origin as an authentic ancient and historical text.
Translating The Book Of Mormon: The Seer Stone
The debate over how Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon continues to stir controversy. While many accept the theory that Smith used a seer stone, recent scholars challenge this, suggesting he used the Nephite interpreters instead. This article is the first of two that critically examines both perspectives, seeking to find the one with the strongest historical support. Here we critically evaluate the evidence that Joseph Smith used the seer stone to translate the Book of Mormon.
Why We Need The Book of Mormon Now
The article defends Christianity against atheist arguments, particularly Dr. Richard Carrier’s claims. I show that Carrier and atheists in general don’t understand the purpose of life.. And I show the necessity of The Book of Mormon as it restores lost truths, clears up contradictions from the Bible, and provides essential insights into God’s plan, offering a more complete understanding of Christian doctrine.
Can You Be Good Without God?
It is a very common claim from agnostics and atheists that not only do you not need God to be a good person, but that if you do need God to be good then you are terrible. This article shows that both of these claims are backwards, irrational nonsense. In fact, not only do you absolutely need God to be good, but you can’t even understand good without God.
Beautiful Free Printable Plan of Salvation Poster
For a long time I have looked for a clear and attractive graph or poster of the Plan of Salvation. It is easier for children and adults to better understand the Plan once it is laid out for them. Despite appreciating one recently published in a church magazine, it is imperfect because it lacks critical elements like the Fall of Adam and Eve. To address this, I have created a revised, detailed version with added scriptural references and explanations to people understand the Plan of Salvation. This poster can be downloaded and printed for free by everyone in this article.
The Gospel According to Satan
This article explains that Satan’s goal is to be worshipped as God, opposing Jesus Christ and His teachings by spreading false doctrines and corrupting political and religious systems. I explore Satan’s tactics using scriptural references to reveal what the religion of Satan looks like and emphasize how to fight against Satan through understanding and living by the Word of God. I also expose the manipulation and lies spread by Antichrists, both ancient and modern.
Why Do We Celebrate Pioneer Day?
The LDS pioneers, often mischaracterized as westward expansionists, were actually refugees fleeing persecution. Facing extreme hardship in Winter Quarters, they endured starvation, disease, and squalid living conditions. Despite these trials, their faith and dedication grew stronger, ultimately establishing the Kingdom of God. Their story is one of resilience and unwavering belief that should inspire all of us to aspire to match their examples in dedication, sacrifice, and faith.
Was Jesus Married?
Christians have often assumed that Jesus wasn’t married, mostly based on the idea that if Jesus had been married then it would be mentioned in the Gospels at some point. This assumption is flawed for many reasons as shown in this article. Indeed, when we add the historical knowledge we have of the era with the cultural information preserved within the Gospels, it seems most likely that Jesus was married.
How Can We Know The Resurrection Is Actually Real?
The Atonement of Jesus Christ is constantly under attack by the world. We are constantly challenged to present proof that someone could be resurrected and mocked when the ignorant presume their own superiority. But there is proof of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ outside the Bible. Here is that proof.