Timing the Translation of the Book of Mormon: “Days [and Hours] Never to Be Forgotten”

Title

Timing the Translation of the Book of Mormon: “Days [and Hours] Never to Be Forgotten”

Publication Type

Journal Article

Year of Publication

2018

Authors

Welch, John W. (Primary)

Journal

BYU Studies Quarterly

Pagination

10-50

Volume

57

Issue

4

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.

Bibliographic Citation

Abstract

We know many details about the timing of the translation of the Book of Mormon. We have firm evidence that Oliver Cowdery began working as Joseph Smith’s scribe on April 7, 1829, and that Joseph began dictating to Oliver at about Mosiah chapter 2. First in Harmony, Pennsylvania, and then at the home of Peter Whitmer in Fayette, New York, the translation progressed quickly and was finished by June 30, 1829. By pinpointing anchor dates along the way (May 15, the visit from John the Baptist; May 31, the title page was translated; June 11, the copyright was secured) we can estimate where Joseph was in the translation and how the unfolding text of the Book of Mormon led Joseph to seek more knowledge and receive further revelation. Understanding the pace of and events surrounding the translation of the Book of Mormon increases our appreciation for this inspired text.

Table of Contents

Journal

BYU Studies Quarterly 57/4 (2018)
Early Church History
Translation
Revelation
Smith, Joseph, Jr.
Cowdery, Oliver

© 2024 Scripture Central: A Non-Profit Organization. All rights reserved. Registered 501(c)(3). EIN: 20-5294264