3 Simple Explanations for the Skin of Blackness in the Book of Mormon

Is the Book of Mormon racist? It is easy—even natural—for modern readers of the Book of Mormon to intuitively see contemporary sensibilities regarding race and skin color in passages about a “skin of blackness” or “dark skins,” but such interpretations are misplaced when reading an ancient text. In recent years, several theories have given possible explanations of the nature of this artificial mark. 

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Book of Mormon Central, “What Is the “Skin of Blackness” in the Book of Mormon? (2 Nephi 5:21),” KnoWhy 718 (February 14, 2024).

It is easy—even natural—for modern readers of the Book of Mormon to intuitively see contemporary sensibilities regarding race and skin color in passages about a “skin of blackness” or “dark skins,” but such interpretations are misplaced when reading an ancient text. As John W. Welch explained, “when reading ancient historical texts, such as the Book of Mormon, it is absolutely essential not to impose modern ideas of race and cultural identity onto the people of the past.” Such interpretations represent what Sam Wineburg refers to as “an anachronistic reading of the past.”

T. J. Uriona, “‘Life and Death, Blessing and Cursing’: New Context for ‘Skin of Blackness’ in the Book of Mormon,” BYU Studies 62, no. 3 (2023): 121–140.

T. J. Uriona introduces a novel interpretation of the phrase "skin of blackness" in the Book of Mormon. His thesis challenges conventional views by suggesting that this phrase symbolizes death rather than a physical curse, aligning it with ancient Near Eastern motifs. By linking Nephi's narrative to Moses's promise of "life and death, blessing and cursing," Uriona offers a deeper understanding of the Book of Mormon's cultural and theological significance. 

David M. Belnap, “The Inclusive, Anti-discrimination Message of the Book of Mormon,” Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship 42 (2021): 195–370.

Delving into the Book of Mormon, this study uncovers a powerful message of inclusivity and anti-discrimination. It highlights the core belief in love, mercy, and justice for all individuals, irrespective of their background or ethnicity. The central theme revolves around the idea that while certain sections of the Book of Mormon have been viewed in a discriminatory light, the overall narrative promotes kindness and respect towards others. It showcases how the righteous figures in the Book of Mormon did not view themselves as superior, refrained from persecution, and steered clear of conflicts. 

Steven L. Olsen, “The Covenant of the Chosen People: The Spiritual Foundations of Ethnic Identity in the Book of Mormon,” Journal of the Book of Mormon and Other Restoration Scripture 21, no. 2 (2012): 14–29.

Steven L. Olsen explores the recurring theme of "people" in the Book of Mormon, and emphasizes its pivotal role in shaping the narrative and conveying profound spiritual meanings. He argues that Nephi introduces a covenant-based concept of people that is central to understanding the Book of Mormon. Additionally, he illustrates how Mormon and Moroni expand on Nephi's concept of people as a key organizing principle in their writings. This underscores the enduring importance of covenant and chosen people in defining the spiritual and cultural identity of the characters in the Book of Mormon. 

Gerrit M. Steenblik, "Demythicizing the Lamanites’ 'Skin of Blackness'," Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship49 (2021): 167-258.

Gerrit M. Steenblik presents a compelling reevaluation of a contentious element within the Book of Mormon narrative. By delving into the ancient Maya body paint tradition, Steenblik puts forth a thought-provoking thesis that challenges traditional interpretations of the "skin of blackness" mentioned in the text. The author suggests that rather than being a permanent racial curse, this "skin of blackness" could have been a form of removable body paint. This reinterpretation not only provides valuable cultural context to the Book of Mormon but also resonates with its central themes of inclusivity, redemption, and the rejection of racial prejudices. 

Clifford P. Jones, "Understanding the Lamanite Mark," Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship 56 (2023): 171-258.

Clifford P. Jones delves into the symbolic nature of the Lamanite mark described in the Book of Mormon, arguing that it is not a physical characteristic but rather a representation of disobedience to divine laws. He suggests that the mark, a self-imposed tattoo, served as a visible symbol of rebellion against God's commandments for the Lamanites and later the Amlicites. By examining biblical references to marks and curses, Jones posits that the Lamanite mark symbolized spiritual and moral transgression rather than a literal indicator of race or skin color. 

Ethan Sproat, "Skins as Garments in the Book of Mormon: A Textual Exegesis." Journal of Book of Mormon Studies 24 (2015): 138-165.

Ethan Sproat invites readers to question traditional interpretations of passages in the Book of Mormon that touch on skin color changes and cursed skins. He introduces a fascinating perspective with his proposal that the various-colored or cursed skins mentioned in the text might symbolize types of clothing rather than actual changes in skin pigmentation. This reinterpretation offers a more coherent framework that connects the concept of skins to Nephite temples and covenantal inheritance.