"Skin" or "Scales" of Blackness? Semitic Context as Interpretive Aid for 2 Nephi 4:35 (LDS 5:21)
Title
"Skin" or "Scales" of Blackness? Semitic Context as Interpretive Aid for 2 Nephi 4:35 (LDS 5:21)
Publication Type
Journal Article
Year of Publication
2018
Authors
Stokes, Adam Oliver (Primary)
Pagination
278–289
Volume
27
Abstract
Few verses in the Book of Mormon are as problematic and controversial as 2 Nephi 4:35 (LDS 5:21). Critics of the Book of Mormon have routinely pointed to this verse and its reference to Lamanites receiving a "skin of blackness" as evidence of racism and racist theology in Mormonism's sacred scriptures. The verse has also failed to escape ridicule in pop-cultural depictions of Mormonism, as seen most recently in the hit Broadway musical, The Book of Mormon. The verse and its interpretation are of perennial interest to readers of the Book of Mormon, believing or not, since the racial stance of the volume seems to center around the interpretation of the passage.
Subject Keywords
Bibliographic Citation
Terms of use
Items in the BMC Archive are made publicly available for non-commercial, private use. Inclusion within the BMC Archive does not imply endorsement. Items do not represent the official views of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or of Book of Mormon Central.