4.68

1

Jun 17, 2007

This book is much more entertaining if you read it as a "historical novel" rather than trying to read it as a religious text. Honestly, because of the sheer volume of anachronistic errors contained in Joseph Smith's book, even trying to read it as a novel is taxing.

The Book of Mormon is set in North America in the first century. Before I get "flamed" I would like to point out three of the more glaring anachronistic errors:
1) Horses (actually brought to the Americas by Europeans hundreds of This book is much more entertaining if you read it as a "historical novel" rather than trying to read it as a religious text. Honestly, because of the sheer volume of anachronistic errors contained in Joseph Smith's book, even trying to read it as a novel is taxing.

The Book of Mormon is set in North America in the first century. Before I get "flamed" I would like to point out three of the more glaring anachronistic errors:
1) Horses (actually brought to the Americas by Europeans hundreds of years later)
2) Wheat (actually brought to the Americas by Europeans hundreds of years later)
3) The book of Mormon claims the existence of over 150 first century "cities" (not "towns" or "villages" or "settlements" but "cities") in North America. No evidence has EVER been found to substantiate the existence of even ONE of these cities.

There are also major battles recorded in the Book of Mormon and, again, NO evidence has EVER been found to substantiate even ONE of those battles. This book is probably most correctly classified as Science Fiction/Fantasy. ...more

5

Oct 18, 2007

While certainly not comprehensive, here are some of my observations from reading this entire book in three days:

* Nephi is hard for the proud to like. If this sounds sacrilege, and you've never had this thought before, congratulations...you're probably not proud. But, pride is something I struggle with so his, "Why can't you all just be more like me?" attitude can be a stumbling block. But the thing to remember is, he was called of God, and although his personality might make me less wont to While certainly not comprehensive, here are some of my observations from reading this entire book in three days:

* Nephi is hard for the proud to like. If this sounds sacrilege, and you've never had this thought before, congratulations...you're probably not proud. But, pride is something I struggle with so his, "Why can't you all just be more like me?" attitude can be a stumbling block. But the thing to remember is, he was called of God, and although his personality might make me less wont to invite him to a party, his righteousness is absolute. And, ultimately, those who are called to be our leaders are meant to be followed. This means that the relief society president, who drives me batty (not my current one), still has the mantle of leadership, and it is my responsibility to adjust my pride so that I can learn the gospel. Laman and Lemuel, while probably slightly justified in finding their younger brother too much to take, allowed their pride to turn to sin, which resulted in the loss of the spirit. And thus, the second promise of the Lord is fulfilled, that "inasmuch as ye will not keep my commandments ye shall be cut off from my presence. They didn't and they were.
* the word "durst" is used quite frequently.
* The lineage of authorship foreshadows the later-day church established by Joseph Smith. Nephi gives the small plates to his brother, Jacob, not to any of his own children. Sort of similar to how Hyrum's children were later leaders for the LDS church but not Joseph's own. I found that interesting. I wonder if there was an ancient RLDS church out there.
* The allegory of the Lord in the Vineyard found in Jacob is profound and deeply relevant to our day.
* There were some slackers that were handed the plates.
* Race does not matter. The line between Nephite and Lamanite was so blurred throughout their history that it wasn't a matter of race. The distinction was between those who were lived the commandments of God and those who ignored them. The Nephites who turned "bad" were the worst of all. Those were some scary dudes.
* I've often wondered why there are so many details of the wars. I'm sure there are multiple and deeper reasons, but I'm leaning towards Mormon just being really interested in it. After all, he was in charge of the entire Nephite army when he was only 16. I can imagine him looking through all the old plates and scrolls and loving all the details Captain Moroni, Teancum, Helaman and Moronihah left. It's a manly book. If only their wives could have been bloggers.
* Sadly, the history is dictated by which war was in what year. I don't think their history differed from that of any other civilization. We mark time by our skirmishes and conquests. The peace and love that existed while Christ visited, and the effect his visit had for generations to come, stands in stark contrast.
* The sacrament is sacred. Jay and I had a discussion a couple of weeks ago where he pointed out that taking the sacrament is symbolic of partaking of the tree of life. After reading Christ's words to his disciples, I absolutely agree. I think we endanger our spirits when we partake unworthily or even absentmindedly.
* It truly matters who our leaders are. I found this discovery extremely apropos with the current change in leadership of this church, as well as the leadership of our country. It takes a wise, humble, and righteous person to effectively lead his people in peace and prosperity whereas a corrupt leader inevitably leads those who follow to destruction. Every time.
* Being rich isn't the point of being prosperous. I think a great stewardship comes with becoming rich. It's almost a test to see how you handle it. I've been feeling covetous lately for a large home. You see these monster homes being built everywhere around here and it's gotten into my head that I must have one. Nothing less than 5,000 square feet will do! It's pretty clear throughout the book that those the Lord blesses with prosperity doesn't entitle them to get caught up with their money and belongings. The outcome is never good when this happens. So, I'm going to nip this feeling in the bud and hopefully do it before the riches come. (by the way, I don't think having a 5,000 square foot house is bad. But coveting one before you need it or can afford it certainly is).
* Moroni was totally improvising at the end. He didn't know when he'd die so he just kept adding stuff at the end. And there is some really good stuff at the end!
* The moral of the story seems to be repentance. The theme throughout is "keep my commandments and you will prosper in the land." but as no one does that perfectly, except my good friend Nephi (who, really I'm just envious of because he never seems to stumble...and who doesn't stumble???) the only way to do it is to repent...continually.

The best part of this experience has been today. There is a certain famous verse, although when I read it, it wasn't a verse but merely part of the second to last page, where Moroni challenges the reader to pray with a sincere heart to discover the truth of the book. My greatest fear while reading was that I would feel exactly the same afterwards. I wanted to feel more, and an inner voice sounded off a worry about what I'd think if I didn't.

I didn't know if I'd get the burning bosom. I wanted it, but knew I couldn't force it so I decided to fast the entire day and made arrangements with my sister to have her watch my children while I went to the temple. It was while I was driving to her high school to drop them off, and after I switched the CD playing from a mix to a Mormon Tabernacle Choir recording (I knew no burning would come from listening to Timbaland) that it came. Peace like a River started to play while I was going through the drive through at Carl's Jr. to get lunch for my boys and the melody and words "peace like a river", " faith like a river" "hope like a river", "love like a river" and I felt overwhelmed with such a spirit of joy and love for my Savior.

That's it! That's it. There are wars, and rumors of wars, and corruption and sin and secret combinations and even total destruction. But with Christ, there is peace. And hope. And charity. The Book of Mormon boldly teaches us the commandments of God, and of His plan so that the faith, hope and peace can be felt.

This book is true. It is not written by a genius of manipulation. By their fruits ye shall know them, and this is good fruit. It testifies of Christ and because it does, it uplifts the soul.
...more

5

Jan 10, 2008

Elder Ballard of the LDS Church, talking to a group of graduates at BYU-Hawaii, encouraged us to use the media, specifically blogs, to teach of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I'd like all who read this post to know that this is a book that has changed my life. It is a book that can change anyone's life if read with an open heart and mind. It testifies of Jesus Christ, our atoning Savior. It was translated by Joseph Smith Jr., who was a prophet of God. I've read this book many Elder Ballard of the LDS Church, talking to a group of graduates at BYU-Hawaii, encouraged us to use the media, specifically blogs, to teach of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I'd like all who read this post to know that this is a book that has changed my life. It is a book that can change anyone's life if read with an open heart and mind. It testifies of Jesus Christ, our atoning Savior. It was translated by Joseph Smith Jr., who was a prophet of God. I've read this book many times and I learn something new every time. I spent a year and a half in Brazil teaching from and about this book. I use this book to help raise my children in righteousness. "Abiding by it's principles will get you nearer to God than any other book." I know that this is true, for it has worked in my life. I'd encourage all who read this comment to also read this book.
...more

1

Jan 12, 2015

Unlike most religious texts that are approached metaphorically, the Book of Mormon claims to be an historical history of the Americas, which is a verifiable claim.

The linguistic, anachronistic, biological, sociological, and archaeological evidence against this being a legitimate history of the Americas is monumentally staggering. Pick a random field of study, and that field has numerous evidences illustrating the impossibility of this being historically accurate. Even BYU's own archaeology Unlike most religious texts that are approached metaphorically, the Book of Mormon claims to be an historical history of the Americas, which is a verifiable claim.

The linguistic, anachronistic, biological, sociological, and archaeological evidence against this being a legitimate history of the Americas is monumentally staggering. Pick a random field of study, and that field has numerous evidences illustrating the impossibility of this being historically accurate. Even BYU's own archaeology department shut down their research into its historical accuracy in the seventies, because they didn't find anything after decades of field research.

Setting all of that aside, the text is derivative to the point of containing translation/text errors and phrases unique to the contemporary books it borrowed chunks from (mainly: 1. View of the Hebrews 1825: Or the Tribes of Israel in America 2. The Late War Between the United States and Great Britain and 3. The First Book of Napoleon, and of course the KJV version of the Old Testament/New Testament).

I'd give it a C for effort by the standards of the 1800s, but if you're going to claim a found text as history, and you want it to last, you simply have to try harder than this. It just doesn't hold up to modern standards for determining authenticity. ...more

1

Aug 07, 2010

Somehow I'm not surprised Orson Scott Card and Stephanie Meyer don't recognize an uninspired sequel when they see one.
++++++

That's my one-sentence review.

And it came to pass that we had a talk with the neighborhood Mormons today, and they bestowed upon us the Book of Mormon. And it came to pass that we are slowly making our way through it, checking to make sure we haven't too hastily judged it. And it came to pass that, so far, god seems like every bit as cruel of a dictator as he ever did in Somehow I'm not surprised Orson Scott Card and Stephanie Meyer don't recognize an uninspired sequel when they see one.
++++++

That's my one-sentence review.

And it came to pass that we had a talk with the neighborhood Mormons today, and they bestowed upon us the Book of Mormon. And it came to pass that we are slowly making our way through it, checking to make sure we haven't too hastily judged it. And it came to pass that, so far, god seems like every bit as cruel of a dictator as he ever did in parts I and II. I'm going to do a real review later, but for now, know that, as long as you feel IN YOUR HEART god wants you to break into someone's house, steal his/her Sacred Tablets, and then cut his/her head off, it's okay.

Don't know about you, but that's a load off my mind.

+++++++


Honestly, I'm glad that on that day several weeks ago, the Mormons stopped by. It's a good thing they came over and talked to us about their religion.

They think stupid things, preciousss. . . They believe Jesus came to Americas and talked to the Indians. . .

Yes, but they were very nice.

The Mormonses want to sell you their religion. They think your atheism isn't good enough.

Yes, but from their point of view, my life is missing something. They can't help feeling that way, just like I can't help feeling like their lives are missing something. They think I'm missing god. I think they're missing sanity.

They think womanses can't preach, and they mock them by saying it's separate but equal. It's bullshit, precioussss. They think good people gets lighter skin, and dark people are being punished. Since the Latter Day Saints formed, they've changed their positions on just about everything, even though god's will should be a permanent thing. Nobody can provide any archeological evidence supporting any of their claims about ancient cities, golden tablets, or even the cultures that existed at the time their book was supposed to have been written. The Book of Mormon has people riding horses at a time when horses weren't in the U.S., has people using steel when nobody knew how to forge it, had people using compasses before they were invented. It's a fat turd of badly written lies and plagiarised Bible passages. . . preciousss.

Yes, there's all of that. But then, if we hadn't met them, Joy and I wouldn't have sat around discussing spirituality that one Sunday.

///flashback///

(Joy and Michael sit on the couch, holding hands, eyes closed.)

Joy: Dear father, uhhh...the Mormons convinced us to try praying to you, to see if we feel your presence or anything...thank you for sending the Mormons by, and....for giving us each other, and also our dog, Athena....Thanks for our jobs, and food, and the television, and whatever else I'm leaving out. I don't understand why you're male. And why, assuming you authored the Book of Mormon, you left out mrs. god. They say there's a holy mother, but in order to protect her, god hasn't spoken of her. That doesn't make any sense, and we think they're just making shit up.

Anyway, We said we'd ask some questions, so here they are: are the Mormons telling us the truth? And do you exist? And are you a male? Okay. That's it. Amen.

Michael: Amen.

*Later*

Michael: When I try to communicate with a greater presence, I sometimes feel a little something. But, when I picture Jesus on a cross, or Joseph Smith translating tablets, I don't feel anything. I just don't see any reason we have to give it a name, give it a sex, give it a personality, whatever.

Joy: See, I spent the first sixteen years of my life praying and trying to feel something. It's not like I haven't "given god a chance," so I don't even know why we're going through this. We're just humoring them.

Michael: You know, maybe there IS a god, and he IS selective about who gets to go to happyland. But, maybe he's put all of these earthly ideas of god here to serve as golden calves, and only those who use the abilities they've been given--their rational thought, and an adherence to a true morality--only those people will get into happyland. Maybe that's what it is.

*Later Still*

Joy: We should start going back to that Unitarian Universalist service. If we have a kid, we won't want her to grow up without any understanding of what religion is. We should be upfront with her--

Michael: Or him--

Joy: --about being atheists ourselves, but I don't want her--

Michael: Or him--

Joy: --to be forced into anything like I was as a kid.

Michael: Yeah, we should start going back. That one church we went to that one time had all sorts of volunteering. We can go protest the 1070 bill and get arrested!

///flashforward///

After talking to them, we started thinking about spirituality again, and we've both been feeling a little better about existence since then.

But it's bullshit, preciousss. The book is half "And so it came to pass," and one third "exceedingly," and the other third tripe.

But, Evil Half, that comes out to--

Shut up about my maths.

Well, the book sucks. It really does. But, despite all of the negativity between its covers, the people who follow the tradition still seem to be very nice people. And only good came from the two meetings we had with our Mormons.

They haven't given up on you yet. When they do, they'll eat your sooooouuuuuuuuulllll...

Shut up, Evil Michael. Leave now and never come back.


///ungracious segue into the final part of the review///

Greatest hits from The B.O.M.:

3 Nephi 7:8 And thus six years had not passed away since the more part of the people had turned from their righteousness, like the dog to his vomit, or like the sow to her wallowing in the mire.

2 Nephi 9:33 Wo unto the uncircumcised of heart, for a knowledge of their iniquities shall smite them at the last day.

2 Nephi 14:1 And in that day, seven women shall take hold of one man, saying: We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel; only let us be called by thy name to take away our reproach.

And, finally, my very favorite:

1 Nephi 18:2 Now I, Nephi, did not work the timbers after the manner which was learned by men, neither did I build the ship after the manner of men; but I did build it after the manner which the Lord had shown unto me; wherefore, it was not after the manner of men.

The word of god. He's a poet. ...more

5

Jun 12, 2007

Without sounding sacreligious, I am profoundly grateful for this book. It's a book about answers to personal challenges. It's a book about how to live your life. It's a book about two civilizations and their relationship with a loving Father in Heaven.
There really isn't a rating you could give something so profound and precious. And to this, I apologize.
It is the BEST book I have ever read. This is at the top of my favorite list!!! For anyone who hasn't read this yet, and would like a free Without sounding sacreligious, I am profoundly grateful for this book. It's a book about answers to personal challenges. It's a book about how to live your life. It's a book about two civilizations and their relationship with a loving Father in Heaven.
There really isn't a rating you could give something so profound and precious. And to this, I apologize.
It is the BEST book I have ever read. This is at the top of my favorite list!!! For anyone who hasn't read this yet, and would like a free copy, I'd be glad to send you one! :-) It's worth your time. Just be prepared to have your life changed...for the better!!!

...more

5

Jun 21, 2008

My Mom gave me the Book of Mormon as a gift to me when I was still a student at Seattle University. I reading it off and on for the next week or so and determined that it was an obscure history book with weird names, place-names and events and in fact could even have been written by a science fiction writer (especially after reading about the role of the Liahona - a current-day device that must have been a GPS of some sort powered by mental focus). It also sounded so much like the King James My Mom gave me the Book of Mormon as a gift to me when I was still a student at Seattle University. I reading it off and on for the next week or so and determined that it was an obscure history book with weird names, place-names and events and in fact could even have been written by a science fiction writer (especially after reading about the role of the Liahona - a current-day device that must have been a GPS of some sort powered by mental focus). It also sounded so much like the King James Version of the Bible in places that I couldn't help but think the author had been taught with that book.

The history of the Nephites and Lamanites were typical stories of the rise and fall of nations - all explained by the book as occurrences of falls from righteousness and conversions to righteousness. To me, it sounded a lot like an amateur's attempt to put a spiritual face on historical events and so I put it down and forgot about it for many years.
I picked it up again years later at the encouragement of a crippled banker I had met at a financial seminar held in Provo, Utah. The seminar was not that interesting and he recommended that I read it again but "this time", he said, "pray and ask God if the book is true or not. Sit down, clear your head and ask your heavenly father to allow the spirit to teach you the truths of this history book and if it is true at all, you will get a warm familiar feeling and your focus will be single-minded. If it isn't correct, you will feel nothing different. But if you don't pray about it first, sincerely, in your heart with an open mind and heart, then you may feel nothing. Only your private spiritual effort will allow you to be in the frame of mind to read it through".

So I did and yes, what he told me was correct. I spent more than two weeks totally and spiritually absorbed in the Book of Mormon. The spiritual lessons learned by the various kings and rulers and characters in the book became real as I placed myself in their shoes and observed my life, my struggles, my accomplishments and my spiritual distresses as results of my dependence on myself and the worldly things surrounding me. Things such as my preoccupation with money and career and my own shortcomings as a man. Things I believed to be controllable if I had the right training, the right exercises, the right positive 'can do' mental attitude.

The Book of Mormon helps me to realize that I was on the wrong track; or rather I was doing many good things but for the wrong reasons. I continue to read it today - but perhaps with more depth of understanding - thanks to others in my Church: leaders and members like myself - who have testified how they too learned important life lessons from the characters and stories in the book and how it remains a reminder of how what we do now affects our destiny and how Jesus, the Christ, the annointed one has played an all important role in our salvation. I highly recommend anyone to site down by yourself, and ask God to allow his spirit to permeate your own soul and open your mind to the lessons the book contains before and as you read it. ...more

5

Jun 26, 2008

A book I've read more than any other book (unless you count a few picture books). The Book of Mormon is at the foundation of my testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I love this book!
5th Time - 3/7/91
6th Time - 5/3/91
7th Time - 11/3/91
8th Time - 4/26/92
9th Time - 9/24/92
10th Time 1/1/93
11th Time 2/15/93
12th Time 6/8/93
13th 3/13/94
14th 7/17/94
15th 2/23/95
2 years??
4/13/97
2 years??
11/15/99
Big gap where I know I read but didn't keep track...
ETA: finished the Book of Mormon yesterday! A book I've read more than any other book (unless you count a few picture books). The Book of Mormon is at the foundation of my testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. I love this book!
5th Time - 3/7/91
6th Time - 5/3/91
7th Time - 11/3/91
8th Time - 4/26/92
9th Time - 9/24/92
10th Time 1/1/93
11th Time 2/15/93
12th Time 6/8/93
13th 3/13/94
14th 7/17/94
15th 2/23/95
2 years??
4/13/97
2 years??
11/15/99
Big gap where I know I read but didn't keep track...
ETA: finished the Book of Mormon yesterday! 9/7/08
ETA: we finished it as a family on 12/24/08 - our 3rd time through as a family!
ETA: finished again today personal 4/26/09
12/25/11 finished as a family
6/25/12 finished personal
2/5/13 finished personal
9/13/13 finished as a family
12/13/13 finished personal
8/14/14 finished personal
1/11/15 finished personal
4/5/15 Finished as a family and finished personal
1/29/16 Finished personal
4/8/16 Finished personal
7/2/16 Finished personal
9/11/16 Finished personal
12/10/16 Finished Personal
6/23/17 Finished Personal (2nd time this year)
9/15/17 Finished Personal
1/5/17 Finished Personal
3/28/18 Finished Personal
5/27/18 finished as a family
6/18/18 Finished Personal
10/6/18 Personal
12/31/18 - Personal President Nelson Challenge ...more

1

Jul 23, 2007

The review process for this book has become a farce. Mormons give the book 5 stars because they believe in this junk. Non-Mormons give it 1 star because they recognize it for the fiction that it is. And so it goes.

2

Jan 21, 2008

I did actually read the entire book. Each week with some missionaries that discussed it with me. My grandparents are Mormon and after visiting the Temple in Salt Lake City on the way to California, I signed up for discussion. I love my grandparents and if some cult was going to take over their brain, I wanted to know what it was about. They seemed to be getting more intense with it as they grew older. I enjoyed the conversations. The reading itself was dry and full of parables that weren't I did actually read the entire book. Each week with some missionaries that discussed it with me. My grandparents are Mormon and after visiting the Temple in Salt Lake City on the way to California, I signed up for discussion. I love my grandparents and if some cult was going to take over their brain, I wanted to know what it was about. They seemed to be getting more intense with it as they grew older. I enjoyed the conversations. The reading itself was dry and full of parables that weren't enlightening. I have a hobby of reading religious books to see which parts could have happened by aliens coming down and making contact with humans. No I don't actually believe it, but it is fun to look for. This one had alot of spots that could be that. We had some good discussions on why black skin was considered Evil and why the belief was changed in modern times. Also good discussions on womens roles, polygamy, homosexuality, and Why their beliefs are constantly mutated. Tried to elaborate on how they can recognize that it is God talking to them and not just their psychosis. Overall it was informative and I walked away with a better understanding of what Mormons believe, most likely better than many Mormons. Once again my belief that religions prey on people who are in search of a quick answer to life the universe, and everything was confirmed. ...more

1

Dec 03, 2007

I'm not Mormon; I know that this book is merely fiction and nothing more. Someone already pointed out the major flaws in credibility (horses, wheath, cities, dozens of events that never happened). This makes this book rather funny than historical. I'm pondering about sorting it under "fiction"... ;)

5

Feb 22, 2008

Having been raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints I was exposed to this book at an early age. Regardless, I did not seriously read this book until my early 20's. At that time I truly wanted to know for myself if it was the word of God as proclaimed by the church I belonged to. Because of my experience with this book and the Spirit of God, my life was enhanced immeasurably - I know that Jesus Christ lives and is the resurrected Savior of mankind. I know that God exists and I Having been raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints I was exposed to this book at an early age. Regardless, I did not seriously read this book until my early 20's. At that time I truly wanted to know for myself if it was the word of God as proclaimed by the church I belonged to. Because of my experience with this book and the Spirit of God, my life was enhanced immeasurably - I know that Jesus Christ lives and is the resurrected Savior of mankind. I know that God exists and I know that He truly loves me because of the gift of His Son's life and atonement. I do not have to guess who I am and what I am here for, this book and the Holy Spirit of God have made it plain to me! Am I fanatical? Delusional? Find out for yourself. Put the book to the test - read it; then ask God the Father in the name of Christ if it is true - He will "manifest the truth of it unto you". This is something between you and your God, only you can do this for yourself, no one can stand in for you here. He does answer sincere prayers and He will speak peace unto your soul! ...more

5

Oct 06, 2007

Two weeks ago I didn't know I was having appendicitis. I thought I was dying. Seriously, as in calling my family from where I lay curled up on the floor. I can walk a few blocks now, so that's great. Go grandma! As for being able to concentrate on things, it pretty much consists of watching Monk reruns, and reading The Book of Mormon before I go to sleep.

I've never had surgery before, and I have a lot more understanding for those who can't take care of themselves. It's like living in a cage, Two weeks ago I didn't know I was having appendicitis. I thought I was dying. Seriously, as in calling my family from where I lay curled up on the floor. I can walk a few blocks now, so that's great. Go grandma! As for being able to concentrate on things, it pretty much consists of watching Monk reruns, and reading The Book of Mormon before I go to sleep.

I've never had surgery before, and I have a lot more understanding for those who can't take care of themselves. It's like living in a cage, only your body is the cage.

I wrote this part several months ago: It is hard for me to know which bookshelf to put this on, because I've read it many times, and I'm currently reading it. Like the Bible, I turn to it all the time. It has an honored place on my bedside table so I can read from it morning and night. It is referred to as a "second testament of Christ".

For anyone who thinks that Mormon's are not Christian people, it might be helpful to read this book before coming to that conclusion ;o) Like all books of scripture, such as the Quran or the Dhamapada, it is uplifting, it brings peace and it helps me have a sense of my place in the universe. There is no greater peace in my life than to know that I am loved and known by God.
...more

1

Jul 20, 2008

The LDS (Mormon) church does everything it can to instill the idea that if a person reads this book, prays with “real intent” and “faith in Christ” (and other loaded phrases) that she/he will receive a burning euphoric feeling. We are expected to believe that an experience like this is sufficient evidence to prove that the church behind this book is “true”. However, experiences like this are not exclusive to any one religion, and it is an astounding claim that powerful euphoric experiences are The LDS (Mormon) church does everything it can to instill the idea that if a person reads this book, prays with “real intent” and “faith in Christ” (and other loaded phrases) that she/he will receive a burning euphoric feeling. We are expected to believe that an experience like this is sufficient evidence to prove that the church behind this book is “true”. However, experiences like this are not exclusive to any one religion, and it is an astounding claim that powerful euphoric experiences are exclusive to religion at all.

If you are looking for meaning in life, begin by understanding what genuine science and open-mindedness are ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T69TOu... ). You may just find that the natural universe has more meaning than you had previously expected ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyjNXd... ; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-eo_K... )

I do not recommend reading this book with the intent of receiving this religion’s idea of a “testimony”. With the tools that this church provides (phobias, behavior control, thought stopping, and cognitive biases) and some determination, the human mind is very capable of concocting such a thing. The fact that this is possible does not make this church or any other church’s claims true. Mind control is a very real danger.

Subjective experience and its applied value should always be assessed with a critical mind. Bold demands for personal sacrifice must be made to stand up to scrutiny.

"Irreverence is a most necessary ingredient of religion. Not to speak of its importance in philosophy. Irreverence is the only way left to us for testing our universe."
-Frank Herbert, "Children of Dune"

If you are looking for a meaning in life, begin by understanding yourself. Suspending such crucial parts of yourself that are screaming out with incredulity may only obliterate your self esteem over time ( http://www.blairwatsontribute.net/Psy... ). ...more

5

Aug 21, 2008

A MUST READ!

Count Leo Tolstoy, the great Russian author, statesman, and philosopher, held [this] opinion as to the possible future destiny of the "American religion" founded under the instrumentality of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Thomas J. Yates related an experience he had while a student at Cornell University in 1900. He had the privilege of meeting Dr. Andrew D. White, former president of Cornell and, at the time, U.S. Ambassador to Germany. Upon learning that Mr. Yates was a Mormon, Dr. White A MUST READ!

Count Leo Tolstoy, the great Russian author, statesman, and philosopher, held [this] opinion as to the possible future destiny of the "American religion" founded under the instrumentality of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Thomas J. Yates related an experience he had while a student at Cornell University in 1900. He had the privilege of meeting Dr. Andrew D. White, former president of Cornell and, at the time, U.S. Ambassador to Germany. Upon learning that Mr. Yates was a Mormon, Dr. White made an appointment to spend an evening with him, at which time he related an experience he had had with Count Tolstoy while serving as U.S. Foreign Minister to Russia in 1892. Dr. White visited often with Count Tolstoy, and upon one occasion they discussed religion. We quote from Elder Yates' account of this discussion, as related to him by Dr. White:

“Dr. White," said Count Tolstoy, "I wish you would tell me about your American religion."

"We have no state church in America," replied Dr. White.

"I know that, but what about your American religion?"

Patiently then Dr. White explained to the Count that in America there are many religions, and that each person is free to belong to the particular church in which he is interested.


To this Tolstoy impatiently replied: "I know all of this, but I want to know about the American religion. Catholicism originated in Rome; the Episcopal Church originated in England; the Lutheran Church in Germany, but the Church to which I refer originated in America, and is commonly known as the Mormon Church. What can you tell me of the teachings of the Mormons?"


"Well," said Dr. White, "I know very little concerning them. They have an unsavory reputation, they practice polygamy, and are very superstitious."

Then Count Leo Tolstoy, in his honest and stern, but lovable, manner, rebuked the ambassador. "Dr. White, I am greatly surprised and disappointed that a man of your great learning and position should be so ignorant on this important subject. The Mormon people teach the American religion; their principles teach the people not only of Heaven and its attendant glories, but how to live so that their social and economic relations with each other are placed on a sound basis. If the people follow the teachings of this Church, nothing can stop their progress -- it will be limitless. There have been great movements started in the past but they have died or been modified before they reached maturity. If Mormonism is able to endure, unmodified, until it reaches the third and fourth generation, it is destined to become the greatest power the world has ever known."

Because of his discussion with Count Tolstoy, upon his return to the United States Dr. White secured a set of the Church works and placed them in the Cornell University Library.

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5

Jan 23, 2008

This book has facilitated greater change in my life than any other book making it my all-time favorite book! It testifies of God's goodness and love. It better clarifies His whole plan for us: where we came from, why in the world we are alive, and what happens after we die. It is written by God's ancient prophets in the American continents (whereas the Bible is written by God's ancient prophets mainly in the Middle East). The inspiring words in The Book of Mormon, along with the words in The This book has facilitated greater change in my life than any other book making it my all-time favorite book! It testifies of God's goodness and love. It better clarifies His whole plan for us: where we came from, why in the world we are alive, and what happens after we die. It is written by God's ancient prophets in the American continents (whereas the Bible is written by God's ancient prophets mainly in the Middle East). The inspiring words in The Book of Mormon, along with the words in The Bible, testify of Christ and teach His gospel. That He died for us that we will live again (be resurrected) and that He made a unique sacrifice for us that we can repent and live with God again (atonement).

The reason why I feel that The Book of Mormon is essential along with The Bible for testifying of Christ is because some parts of the Bible are understood differently probably because through time many important parts of The Bible were changed (I guess to oppress the people and teach them what the leaders wanted them to know). So, sometimes it may be confusing (good thing the Holy Spirit helps us understand truth). Whereas The Book of Mormon is exactly the message the ancient prophets wrote (I think that some grammar/punctuation has been added since that's how we write now in English).

For example, the beautiful message of the creation found in the beginning (pun) of The Bible is better understood with the additional clarification found in The Book of Mormon. As far as I understand, every other Christian religion besides The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes that when Adam took of the forbidden fruit he somehow thwarted God’s plan for us and that’s why we live in this terrible state of living. Whereas with the additional explanations from the revelations of other ancient prophets we understand that the fall was an essential part of God’s plan of happiness. Eve understood this when she said “Were it not for our transgression we never should have had seed, and never should have known good and evil, and the joy of our redemption, and the eternal life which God giveth unto all the obedient” (Moses 5:11). Adam and Eve knew that they couldn’t be obedient to God’s first commandment without transgressing the barrier between the bliss of the Garden of Eden and the terrible trials and amazing growth of mortal life. “The fall could not happen without a transgression—an exercise of moral agency amounting to a willful breaking of a law” (Dallin H. Oaks & Moses 6:59). Everything must have its opposite to provide us free agency. And without free will, salvation is impossible. It is so great to know that God sent us here for a reason and that by struggling through learning and growing here on Earth we are becoming closer to Him.

My favorite chapter in the Book of Mormon is 2 Nephi chapter 2 and it isn’t just because its reference is easy to remember (favorite verse is 22 te he). My favorite verses are really 21-29 (I could just eat them up). I love the explanation of what the fall caused and how relevant it is in our lives!

The chapter is about an ancient prophet named Lehi explaining to his son about Christ redeeming us from our sins, why it is necessary that there is evil and pain in the world, and of course the fall.

Without understanding “the fall” (when Adam ate the fruit and caused both physical and spiritual death to happen on Earth), how can we really understand why we need Christ (the only way we can live again after we die both physically and spiritually). By the way, we die spiritually (meaning we can’t be with Heavenly Father again) when we sin because no unclean thing can be in the presence of God. Christ can make us clean again. Even though it’s work; it’s a good feeling and way worth any sacrifice.

Here is what Mormon.org it says about The Book of Mormon:

"The Restoration of Truth
The Book of Mormon

"As part of the Restoration of the gospel, God brought forth the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. By the power of God, Joseph Smith translated this book from an ancient record written on gold plates. The Book of Mormon is “a record of God’s dealings with the ancient inhabitants of the Americas and contains, as does the Bible, the fullness of the everlasting gospel” (Introduction to the Book of Mormon).

"The Book of Mormon is a powerful witness of Jesus Christ. It helps us understand His teachings, including those in the Bible. Examples of Book of Mormon witnesses of Christ include:

"Nephi, who saw the birth and death of Christ in a vision (1 Nephi 11:13–15).
The brother of Jared, who saw the Lord because of his great faith (Ether 3:7–16).
The prophet Samuel the Lamanite, who prophesied of Christ’s coming and gave the signs of His birth and death (Helaman 13–14).
Christ Himself, who, after His Resurrection, appeared to the people of ancient America and invited them to come forward one by one to see and touch Him until “they had all gone forth and had witnessed for themselves” (3 Nephi 11:13–17).

"In the Bible, Jesus told His Apostles, “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd” (John 10:16). Soon after He was resurrected, the Lord visited these “other sheep”—the inhabitants of ancient America. During this visit to the American continent (recorded in the Book of Mormon), Jesus Christ:
Invited people to feel the wound marks in His hands and feet and side.
Taught His gospel.
Called twelve disciples to teach His gospel.
Healed the sick.
Prayed for the people.
Performed miracles.

"In September 1823, Joseph Smith was visited by a heavenly messenger named Moroni, in the same way that angels often appeared to Church leaders in the New Testament. Moroni informed Joseph that God had a work for him to do and told him that a record of the ancient inhabitants of the American continent was buried in a nearby hill. He stated that the record contained the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Joseph Smith—History 1:27–34).

"In September 1827, Joseph received the record, which was written on thin plates of gold. Joseph translated the book into English by the inspiration of God and called the book the Book of Mormon. It is named after Mormon, an ancient prophet who compiled the sacred record. The book verifies, as another testament of Christ, the reality and divinity of Jesus Christ. It is, then, a second witness that affirms the truth of the Bible. Since its publishing in 1830, the Book of Mormon has blessed the lives of millions of people through its powerful message about Jesus Christ and His gospel."

Mormon.org has tons of great links too.

I will always have this book on my "currently-reading" shelf along with the Bible because I read daily from these books. When I choose to study them straight through, the very day I finish the book, I start it again. It is really cool that God can teach different or more powerful truths to you the more you read it. Otherwise, how boring would that be to keep re-reading the same books? I've heard it said by many that they hadn't noticed certain passages before even though they had read that chapter many times. The Lord teaches line upon line. When you are ready for another truth to build upon what you know, He blesses you with that knowledge often by you reading the scriptures and have a passage teach you something new. ...more

5

Aug 04, 2008

I don't know what I can say more than has been said, but I wish to add my voice to those who know this book to be true. I would like to issue a challenge to everyone--regardless whether or not you have read it:

1. Obtain a brand new, unmarked copy of the Book of Mormon. One of the free copies that missionaries give out works great. You will also need a colored pencil.

2. Over a period of ~60 days (10 pages/day) scan read the book doing three things:
1. Circle any reference to Christ's names. i.e. I don't know what I can say more than has been said, but I wish to add my voice to those who know this book to be true. I would like to issue a challenge to everyone--regardless whether or not you have read it:

1. Obtain a brand new, unmarked copy of the Book of Mormon. One of the free copies that missionaries give out works great. You will also need a colored pencil.

2. Over a period of ~60 days (10 pages/day) scan read the book doing three things:
1. Circle any reference to Christ's names. i.e. Savior, Redeemer, Lamb of God, Messiah, etc.
2. Shade in any of His attributes. i.e. mercy, omnipotent, omniscient, etc.
3. Underline any of His direct words (i.e. 1 Ne 14:7- I will work a great and marvelous work among the children of men...)

This isn't meant to be an in-depth study of the book, but rather to show a person that this book really does testify of Christ.

Some of my favorite passages:

1 Nephi 1:20 (pg 3) - I, Nephi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them might even unto the power of deliverance.

2 Nephi 25:23, 26 (pg 99) - For we labor to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is grace that we are saved, after all we can do...And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our phophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission or their sins.

Jacob 4:6 (pg 124) - Wherefore, we search the prophets, and we have many revelations and the spirit of prophecy; and having all these witnesses we obtain a hope, and our faith becometh unshaken, insomuch that we truly can command in the name of Jesus and the very trees obey us, or the mountains, or the waves of the sea.

Alma 58:10-11 (pg 355) - Therefore we did pour out our souls in prayer to God, that he would strengthen us and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies, yea, and also give us strength that we might retain our cities, and our lands, and our possessions, for the support of our people. Yea, and it came to pass that the Lord our God did visit us with assurances that he would deliver us; yea, insomuch that he did speak peace to our souls, and did grant unto us great faith, and did cause us that we should hope for our deliverance in him.

All of Moroni 7 (pg 521)

There are many more that I am not able to post. I encourage everyone to read this book many many times!

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5

Sep 02, 2007

I've read some of the other reviews of this book that point out some intellectual garbage that they say can't be proved (without actually looking at the evidence) or the literary problems with the book. They're missing the whole point of it. This book can only be understood with a spiritual sense that many people ignore or fight against to justify their lifestyles. I have been reading this book every night ever since I was in High School. It continually reminds me to be a better person. You I've read some of the other reviews of this book that point out some intellectual garbage that they say can't be proved (without actually looking at the evidence) or the literary problems with the book. They're missing the whole point of it. This book can only be understood with a spiritual sense that many people ignore or fight against to justify their lifestyles. I have been reading this book every night ever since I was in High School. It continually reminds me to be a better person. You can't understand it without reading the book and paying attention to a spiritual sense you may not yet be familiar with. ...more

5

Sep 19, 2007

A must read each day. Hope for the helpless and those willing to do what is right no matter what the challenge. Writing by individuals and church representatives anciently who were willing to live by the higher law (charity, not just Moses' 10 commandments: an eye for an eye; equal justice). I memorized the Beatitudes as a member of my Baptist Church's 66 club (66 books in the Bible ... join by memorizing the books' names, stay a member by memorizing scriptures.) And love to read about the same A must read each day. Hope for the helpless and those willing to do what is right no matter what the challenge. Writing by individuals and church representatives anciently who were willing to live by the higher law (charity, not just Moses' 10 commandments: an eye for an eye; equal justice). I memorized the Beatitudes as a member of my Baptist Church's 66 club (66 books in the Bible ... join by memorizing the books' names, stay a member by memorizing scriptures.) And love to read about the same sermon given to descendants of those who fled Jerusalem before it feel. So nice to have a volume of books by those who successfully sufficiently sacrificed and grew to learn more of God's eternal plan. ...more

2

Dec 23, 2007

I read this as part of a grand (unfinished) project to read all the major world religious texts. I also read it because a Mormon suggested I should read it and pray about it to see if God would reveal to me that it was true. I did, but God made no such revelation. I did find some parts of the book interesting, and I did find a few insights, but, on the whole, I did not get as much from it even as I have gotten from many non-Christian works, and I was not, on the whole, poetically moved by it. At I read this as part of a grand (unfinished) project to read all the major world religious texts. I also read it because a Mormon suggested I should read it and pray about it to see if God would reveal to me that it was true. I did, but God made no such revelation. I did find some parts of the book interesting, and I did find a few insights, but, on the whole, I did not get as much from it even as I have gotten from many non-Christian works, and I was not, on the whole, poetically moved by it. At times it seems as if entire chunks were taken straight from the King James Bible, but the parts that weren't lack literary power.

It was enlightening to me to discover in the Book of Mormon absolutely none of the weird doctrines attributed to Mormons by so many evangelical Christians—such as belief in the rightness of polygamy (the book supports monogamy and condemns polygamy); belief that Jesus is Satan's brother; belief that people will become gods, etc. I'm still told Mormons really do believe this stuff, but I guess I'll have to move on to the Doctrines and Covenants or The Pearl of Great Price to see if it's true.

The Mormons are a remarkable and admirable people, some of the most moral and family-oriented people I've ever met. So I'm glad I've given their book of scriptures a go, but I won’t ever be plodding through it again, unlike some of the other classics of world religion, which I will re-read for their beauty alone.
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1

May 10, 2010

I have read this book. Really. It took more than a year, laying at my bedside (the book, not me). Mark Twain was spot on when he called it "anesthesia in print." I have rarely been so underwhelmed. I only wish it were possible to give it less than one star.

Five thousand 5-star ratings? Come on, people. The church may have suggested such an obvious ratings campaign as a means for proselytizing. But a 4.57 rating is unlikely to make me read it again: this is hardly a popularity contest. Far more I have read this book. Really. It took more than a year, laying at my bedside (the book, not me). Mark Twain was spot on when he called it "anesthesia in print." I have rarely been so underwhelmed. I only wish it were possible to give it less than one star.

Five thousand 5-star ratings? Come on, people. The church may have suggested such an obvious ratings campaign as a means for proselytizing. But a 4.57 rating is unlikely to make me read it again: this is hardly a popularity contest. Far more important is what this says about the critical abilities of 12 million people who believe what is propounded here and in other official church dogma. I am embarrassed that so many of my fellow citizens are so gullible. How desperate must their spiritual lives be to find succor here!

For those of you intrepid enough to have got through The Book of Mormon once, let me recommend an antidote: Who Really Wrote the Book of Mormon by Wayne L. Cowdrey, Howard A. Davis, and Arthur Vanick.

Update 12/06/11: I continue to be fascinated by the Mormon phenomenon and check now and then the reviews of the BofM. The spread of votes doesn't concern me, since it is obviously a public relations manoeuvre on the part of the LDS church. Look instead at the paltry number of votes at 2, 3 or 4 stars: apparently you either worship this book (literally) or see it as a very human creation and not a very good one, at that.

Someone felt compelled, in the spirit of openness, to suggest that my review was harsh. I took a look at their reading list and remain unconvinced. ...more

5

Jan 22, 2008

This is the most stunning, life-changing book. I am a Bible fan, and so I am quite familiar with the principles taught by Jesus Christ. This book is a similar book, but it was written by prophets in the ancient Americas, instead of Palestine/Middle-East area.
The prophets likewise taught of the coming of Jesus Christ, and lobbied for improved Christian morals among the people, and were lead by the Spirit of Lord.
I find the language very New Testament (Old English) style, but very clear, and its This is the most stunning, life-changing book. I am a Bible fan, and so I am quite familiar with the principles taught by Jesus Christ. This book is a similar book, but it was written by prophets in the ancient Americas, instead of Palestine/Middle-East area.
The prophets likewise taught of the coming of Jesus Christ, and lobbied for improved Christian morals among the people, and were lead by the Spirit of Lord.
I find the language very New Testament (Old English) style, but very clear, and its easy to cross-reference with the Bible (since there are cross-references throughout).
I have actually read this book a number of times, and I actually am not getting tired of it. It seems to invite the Spirit of God into my day, so I have been reading it in the morning. Its a very inspiring book. I highly recommend it. ...more

5

Jan 15, 2008

Hands down, the best book I've ever read. I make a point to read it everyday.

5

Oct 25, 2007

This set of scriptures is the best way to learn about the core beliefs of the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (aka the Mormons). This book, like the Holy Bible, help us to learn more about our Savior, Jesus Christ and his mission and role in our Heavenly Fathers Plan of Salvation as well as in our own lives. This book, coupled with prayer, will help, as Joseph Smith Jr. said, any person grow closer to Christ as well as better come to know him.

As I continually read and This set of scriptures is the best way to learn about the core beliefs of the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (aka the Mormons). This book, like the Holy Bible, help us to learn more about our Savior, Jesus Christ and his mission and role in our Heavenly Fathers Plan of Salvation as well as in our own lives. This book, coupled with prayer, will help, as Joseph Smith Jr. said, any person grow closer to Christ as well as better come to know him.

As I continually read and reread this book, it helps be to better become a disciple of Christ and strive to live a better and happier life. After I read this book, through sincere pray and asking God if this book was really true, I came to find out for myself, through the Holy Ghost, that this book is true and was written and prepared by ancient prophets of God for us.

I would recommend this book to everyone and would be willing to discuss or answer any questions that someone might have. ...more

5

Sep 08, 2007

This book was voted one of the top ten life-changing books by readers of Parade Magazine. Each time I read it I understand something new and find something profound and relevant to my life. If you understand the context of how the book was translated and appreciate the fact that an uneducated teenager could never have "written" it (especially in about 90 days) you cannot deny that it is another true testament of Jesus Christ.