Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price

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Book of Mormon, The Doctrine and Covenants, Pearl of Great Price

by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

4.44 of 5 stars 4.44 · rating details · 15,141 ratings · 523 reviews

The Book of Mormon contains the writings of men who lived upon the American continent approximately 600 B.C to 400 A.D. They are written to testify of the divinity of Jesus Christ. The Doctrine & Covenants are revelations given to Joseph Smith, Jr. and other prophets & presidents of the Church mostly pertaining to the present day. The Pearl of Great Price contains...more

Paperback, 1310 pages

Published January 1st 1981 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (first published January 1st 1975)

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Jan 09, 2011 Mason rated it 1 of 5 stars Recommends it for: no one who might intend to search for meaning in it

Recommended to Mason by: influental, but misguided individuals from my childhood

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 e...more

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Nov 03, 2012 Melanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints when I was 8-years-old. I read the Book of Mormon for the first time all the way through when I was a young teenager. Since then, I have read this book many times. There is a promise in The Book Of Mormon in Moroni 9:4, "And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with re...more

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May 21, 2008 Nikki Nielsen rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone

There are books I have loved, that I have truly enjoyed, that I have given 5 stars to. I have included my raving review with a lot of those ratings. This book is different. I haven't added a review because it will be so hard to give justice to, but I decided this morning that it is time to try.

First of all, contrary to popular belief, Joseph Smith Jr. is not the 'author' of the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon was written by ancient prophets, just as the Bible was written by prophets and apost...more There are books I have loved, that I have truly enjoyed, that I have given 5 stars to. I have included my raving review with a lot of those ratings. This book is different. I haven't added a review because it will be so hard to give justice to, but I decided this morning that it is time to try.

First of all, contrary to popular belief, Joseph Smith Jr. is not the 'author' of the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon was written by ancient prophets, just as the Bible was written by prophets and apostles of Christ. The writing was done by the spirit of revelation and prophecy. Many authors had contributed directly or were quoted in the final abridgment of ancient records compiled by the prophet, historian, and military leader Mormon near 400 A.D. Mormon recorded these writings on golden plates and they were translated by Joseph Smith Jr. There is an introduction by Joseph Smith explaining how the plates came into his posession so he could translate them, but that is the only part of the Book of Mormon that is truly written by him.

Although I was taught from this book and the Bible my whole life, I didn't read this by myself until I was 27 years old. I attended seminary classes at school and read small sections at a time with my class, but that isn't the same. Before I started reading this on my own, I knew that people I loved and trusted had told me it was written by prophets. They had shared testimony with me that they knew it was really translated by a young un-educated chosen man through a higher power. And I trusted these people. But I needed to learn it for myself.

I am a fast reader, but this book takes study and thought. It can't merely be plowed through. Every day for two weeks while my older children were at school, I sat down with my three year old, my Book of Mormon, and the Book of Mormon Student Study Manual. Before I read anything, I prayed that I would understand what I was about to read. Then I sat my son on my lap, and we read a few chapters at a time. After reading these chapters, I would go through the student manual for guidance, to help me understand. By this time my son would be asleep in my arms and I would sit there for a good hour and just think about the things I had read. What they mean. The direction of the people's lives I was reading about.

On the last day, I changed my routine slightly. After I had finished reading, I put my son down for his nap in his own room, and I went to mine. I knelt by my bed, and I prayed to know for myself, that everything written in this book is true. And I would be un-grateful if I didn't share with the world, that I got my answer. And I am here today to tell you all that this book was really written by prophets. It was really translated by the power of God. It is another testament to the life of Christ.

If anyone wants to read the book, I would be happy to send you one; I have quite a few copies.
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Feb 13, 2013 Heidi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: non-fiction, 5-star-favorites

This year I am studying The Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants. I've read them both several times, but LOVE learning from each of them. The Book of Mormon is an amazing book of scripture containing an account of the ancient inhabitants of the American continent. This book was translated by the power of God through the prophet Joseph Smith. This book also contains a record of the Savior's visit to the American continent. My church rotates a study of the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Cov...more

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Jan 28, 2011 sandy rated it 1 of 5 stars

It's impossible to rate the Book of Mormon because the reader has to either believe it's the word of God or not. There's no in between. As a literary endeavor, it's really repetitive and boring. But, if you read it as scripture, then you can pretty much overlook the archaic writing style. Even as a young Mormon girl growing up, I was confused about the scriptures taken out of Isaiah, but went along with the story that Joseph Smith received direct inspiration from God and it happened to be the ex...more

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Dec 25, 2012 Aaron rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-read-in-2009, books-read-in-2010, books-read-in-2011, books-read-in-2012

I finished the Doctrine and Covenants on Sunday, August 16, 2009. I'm not sure how many times I've read the D&C. My best guess is four or five times. Reading it this time confirmed my testimony that it is in fact what it purports to be: a collection of revelations from God to Joseph Smith (and a few other men).

I finished the Pearl of Great Price on Thursday, September 10, 2009. Re-reading the PoGP this time (probably my fourth or fifth time reading it) has revealed to me that I need to stren...more I finished the Doctrine and Covenants on Sunday, August 16, 2009. I'm not sure how many times I've read the D&C. My best guess is four or five times. Reading it this time confirmed my testimony that it is in fact what it purports to be: a collection of revelations from God to Joseph Smith (and a few other men).

I finished the Pearl of Great Price on Thursday, September 10, 2009. Re-reading the PoGP this time (probably my fourth or fifth time reading it) has revealed to me that I need to strengthen my testimony of this book (especially of the Book of Abraham). I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet, and thus, I know that the Pearl of Great Price is what it purports to be, but my testimony of the PoGP is derivative of my testimony of Joseph Smith. I'd like to be able to say that I've had independent confirmation of the truthfulness of the PoGP. That is something that I will need to work on.

My family and I finished reading the Book of Mormon (after a nearly two-year effort) on October 27, 2009. To celebrate, we had rootbeer floats and talked about the best parts of the Book. My two middle children both liked the Jaredites travelling to the New World in airtight ships. My oldest liked the story of Nephi and Laban. As we talked, my children asked me how many times I've read the Book of Mormon. I can't say definitively. I haven't really kept track. But my best guess is somewhere around 15 times. My wife and I ended our "party" with the kids by telling them that we both know that the Book is true, and that they can know it is true to by doing what Moroni said in the last chapter. It was a very special night for us.

I finished the Pearl of Great Price (I'm re-reading it with a commentary book) on March 18. I hope to finish the commentary book this weekend.

The Tady family finished the Book of Mormon this evening (May 22, 2011), doing it this time in just less than a year. This time we celebrated by having mini-chip brownie sundaes and talking about our favorite Book of Mormon heroes. Mine is Mormon, Christa's is Alma the Elder, Lincoln's is Teancum, Sonoma's is Ammon, Lorin's is Captain Moroni, and Eliza just ate her ice cream while we talked (maybe next time we read she'll be a little better at paying attention). Our next pursuit? The Doctrine and Covenants.

We finished the D&C as family on Saturday, reading OD2 on the way down to hand out backpacks, food, and hot chocolate to some homeless people in downtown Atlanta. I really enjoyed reading the D&C this time. Having just read several books on church history, I was able to spot connections and see insights that I haven't noticed before. I think my children enjoyed it, although I don't think they liked that there weren't very many "stories." We are now going to read the Pearl of Great Price and then read the Book of Mormon again. Our goal is to finish the Book of Mormon by the end of the year.

Finished the Pearl of Great Price as a family on Friday, January 20. It may be a while before we read that one with our kids again. Too disjointed and over their heads.

We read Moroni 10 while driving to Kansas for Christmas (12/21/12). I've really enjoyed reading the scriptures as a family. I think we will try to do the entire New Testament (and not just the Gospels and Acts) next. (less)

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Mar 26, 2008 Sherry rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book has taught me and teaches me of the things that will happen to a people who will not listen to the Lord. It is one book that lifts me up and helps me be a better person. It gives me insite as to how life can be if I will do what I know to be right and true. It takes me from darkness into light about the true nature of God.

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Dec 17, 2012 Kerrie rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is the best book ever written!! I learn something new every time I reread this book, but it always affirms my testimony of Jesus Christ. He lives!

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Feb 20, 2008 Sara rated it 5 of 5 stars

Interesting who they have the author as--I prefer God as the author.

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Mar 19, 2012 seth coleman rated it 2 of 5 stars

The Book of Mormon claims to be an affirmation of the Bible and Christian doctrine, but with a closer read, I think the core teachings of who God is and how man experiences salvation is quite different. It seems to me one central point of the LDS literature seems to be focused on man's exaltation, showing how man can attain or earn his glory. Whereas the Bible is focused on how eternal life cannot be earned through obedience, but by realizing our personal failure to obey God's law, and fully de...more

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Dec 30, 2009 David Menzies rated it 5 of 5 stars

When I read the Book of Mormon for the first time I felt a profound sense of divinity such as I had never before experienced. My life beforehand had been one of selfishness and self-concern. I didn't care how I lived or even if I lied, cheated, or acted immorally; however, upon reading the Book of Mormon, and learning of The Saviour Jesus Christ, I began to feel a responsibility to both Him and His Father. I literally began to feel that I had been lacking the most valuable knowledge that existed...more

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Oct 19, 2007 Andrea rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: religious

The Book of Mormon
The story of a civilization from beginning to end and the interactions between the people and God. There is a large section in the middle describing warfare strategies. Some thematic elements such as genocide, racism, corruption like the mafia, murder,etc. Some chapters of pure theology. Full of little gems of truth. A book that requires thinking.
The Doctrine and Covenants
The compiled revelations Joseph Smith received from God. Many start with something like "Thus saith the Lor...more

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Dec 12, 2008 Jenna rated it 5 of 5 stars

HAHAHAHA!!! I saw this on here and just had to mark that I'd read it. I couldn't have all those others on here and not the best of the best of the best, right????

I've read the entire Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price (many a time) and I LOVE THEM ALL!!!

The Bible was slowest for me after Exodus but picks up again after Leviticus. (Wow...lots of detail about the tabernacle.) But the Bible has the best lessons to be learned and many stories that are truly insp...more

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Dec 11, 2012 Brandi Snyder rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Christians, Truth Seekers,

My eyes are continually opened.... This NON Fiction book is so dear to my heart. I am so grateful for the enlightenment given us from our Heavenly Father!

And what a read.... It's got action, adventure, love, war, truth... I mean, even if it weren't so obviously inspired by so many different authors, it would still be an awesome book!

Today we were studying in Alma where Captain Moroni and the Nephites are fighting against Zarahemnah and the Lamanites.... Wow! What bravery, what faith these people...more

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Jul 31, 2012 Arthur rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Book of Mormon is powerfully written and should make anybody who has a foundation at all in Christianity feel a profound sense of awe and warmth. But when the person who revealed this book, from gold plates, has anything at all cast doubt on his character or ability to translate, then the magnificence of the BOM (its light) seems to be placed under a bushel. I urge those who believe wholeheartedly in Joseph Smith and his work to take a serious study into the Egyptian Papyrus scrolls connecte...more

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Dec 30, 2011 Vanni rated it 1 of 5 stars

The Doctrine and Covenants is an interesting read for those who are interested in seeing how early Mormon leaders used "revelation" to control various members. It's also interesting for the study of the confusion in the early development of Mormon doctrine as Joseph Smith received "line upon line" as necessity dictated.

The Pearl of Great Price is one of the more interesting books of Mormon scripture. The books of Moses and Matthew are Joseph Smith's rewriting and expansion of sections of Genesis...more

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Sep 08, 2011 Doris rated it 4 of 5 stars

I should start by saying that I am not Mormon, and in no way religious.
I read this book because I really wanted to understand my ex-boyfriend's religion. I have never been very religious, but religion has always fascinated me. He gave me this book, and really wanted me to read it. I did. It was interesting. In several cases it makes perfectly sence what is written, and would to anybody reading - mormon or not. But I don't think I could ever believe in any religion, enough to believe uncondition...more

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Dec 12, 2010 Harrison Jensen rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Anyone who is seeking the love of God

Recommended to Harrison by: My parents who I am thankful for and love

This book is the gateway to feeling the spirit of Christ. It has lead me through the darkest times and increased my light of understanding by a billion. I love this book. I find it impossible to pick it and not have the spirit fill the whole room and guide me through what it says. the inspiration that I receive because of this book has been endless. I declare that I am honored that I will have the opportunity to serve a mission for the LDS church within the next year to share my testimony with p...more

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Jul 13, 2010 Bre Cregor rated it 5 of 5 stars

Modern revelation rocks!

Section 122:

( When times get tough...these are the verses I read.)

5 If thou art called to pass through tribulation; if thou art in perils among false brethren; if thou art in perils among robbers; if thou art in perils by land or by sea;
6 If thou art aaccused with all manner of false accusations; if thine enemies fall upon thee; if they tear thee from the society of thy father and mother and brethren and sisters; and if with a drawn sword thine enemies tear thee from th...more

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Apr 08, 2010 Amy Sanders rated it 1 of 5 stars

The Book of Mormon:
How does this book make a list as a recommend?
Fiction cloaked as truth? And we wonder at our politics. The emperor is nude.
If you are looking at it for literary purpose, it had over 5000 grammatical errors. The book of Isaiah is plagiarized, right down to the italics in the King James. Yes, God must speak King James.
As for accuracy, where Isaiah is plagiarized, I am sure it is accurate. Watch for context errors. There are some serious errors though, ie: "Jesus was born in J...more

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Jun 16, 2009 Brooke rated it 5 of 5 stars

Of course this is my most favorite book! Words cannot do this book justice. It is another testament of Jesus Christ, going hand in hand with the Bible. I have read the Book of Mormon and continue to read it regularly. It is the most powerful and true book on the earth! I know it to be true without a doubt. If you have not read it, I challenge you to do so. If you doubt its truthfulness, or if you want to find out for yourself its truthfulness, follow the counsel of Moroni in Moroni 10:3-7 which...more Of course this is my most favorite book! Words cannot do this book justice. It is another testament of Jesus Christ, going hand in hand with the Bible. I have read the Book of Mormon and continue to read it regularly. It is the most powerful and true book on the earth! I know it to be true without a doubt. If you have not read it, I challenge you to do so. If you doubt its truthfulness, or if you want to find out for yourself its truthfulness, follow the counsel of Moroni in Moroni 10:3-7 which says:

3 Behold, I would exhort you that when ye shall read these things, if it be wisdom in God that ye should read them, that ye would remember how merciful the Lord hath been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that ye shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts.
4 And when ye shall receive these things, I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost.
5 And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.
6 And whatsoever thing is good is just and true; wherefore, nothing that is good denieth the Christ, but acknowledgeth that he is.
7 And ye may know that he is, by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore I would exhort you that ye deny not the power of God; for he worketh by power, according to the faith of the children of men, the same today and tomorrow, and forever.

A couple of my favorite scriptures in the Book of Mormon are:

2 Nephi 25:26, which says:

And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.

Alma 26: 11-12

11 But Ammon said unto him: I do not boast in my own strength, nor in my own wisdom; but behold, my joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God.
12 Yea, I know that I am nothing; as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things; yea, behold, many mighty miracles we have wrought in this land, for which we will praise his name forever.
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Sep 19, 2010 Ann Katrine Kristensen rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: own

I should start by saying that I am not Mormon, and in no way religious.

I read this book because I really wanted to understand my ex-boyfriend's religion. I have never been very religious, but religion has always fascinated me. He gave me this book, and really wanted me to read it. I did. It was interesting. In several cases it makes perfectly sence what is written, and would to anybody reading - mormon or not. But I don't think I could ever believe in any religion, enough to believe uncondition...more

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Nov 08, 2009 Varda94 rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: everybody, then call the missionaries

PURE DOCTRINE!

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Sep 17, 2009 Rachel rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: anyone searching for truth

Recommended to Rachel by: My parents

This book more than any other has built my relationship with God the Father and his son Jesus Christ. It has given me peace in times of difficulty and testifies to me that God loves his children here on earth. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to atone for my sins and open up the way to eternal life. This book has taught me to turn to God in prayer when I need his help, understanding, or peace. It has taught me to follow the living prophet and to ask for a personal witness that he is a prophet of G...more

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Jul 14, 2012 Lora rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: a-re-read-for-me, books-i-couldn-t-wait-to-read-to-my, lds, inspirational

This is a re-read for me throughout the years. Right now I'm reading in my favorite part, The Pearl of Great Price. I think it's my favorite part because it is so emotional, which appeals to the tissue gripper that I sometimes can be.
I can't imagine my life without these books, on so many levels. The truth and spiritual nutrition I receive from the scriptures transcends mortal sensibilities. In our world today it is easy to ignore one's own soul until it shrivels up and submits to worldly pressu...more

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Jun 01, 2011 Dad rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: lds

I did read the three books listed but I have listed individual summaries of the Book of Mormon and also the Doctrine and Covenants in earlier reviews. This review was for the Pearl of Great Price. I value the clarity of the books contained here. I find them much easier to understand than the Bible or the Doctrine and Covenants.
I especially value the account of Joseph Smith in Joseph Smith - History.
I know that the Pearl of Great Price is the word of God as are the other books in this triple c...more

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Nov 13, 2009 John rated it 1 of 5 stars

I mean no religious disrespect by rating this book so low but do so only from a literary standpoint. Honestly, how many times do you need to say "and it came to pass."? Here's one of my favorites:

And it came to pass that when Lehonti received the message he durst not go down to the foot of the mount. And it came to pass that Amalickiah sent again the second time, desiring him to come down. And it came to pass that Lehonti would not; and he sent again the third time.
Alma 47:11

I found the book unr...more

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Mar 30, 2013 Wayne Goodworth rated it 5 of 5 stars

I've written my reviews on the Book of Mormon and The Doctrine and Covenants separately. Please read them.

This review is specifically about the Pearl of Great Price. I love the information and greater understanding of God I gain from the Pearl of Great Price. I am convinced that it contains sacred writings that must be read with an open heart, and with a desire to learn more about God, and His will for us. At times, I have shared parts of it with individuals who's hearts are not honestly seekin...more

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Mar 28, 2012 David S. T. rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: religion, read-in-2012, own-kindle

My goal to read most of the major religions scriptures lead me to read the Mormon scriptures, sheer will and stubbornness were the only reasons why I finished. Its been a while since the last time I read something I disliked this much and didn't stop. I rated this two stars only because I gave it an extra star for its importance in the lives of millions.

A few years ago two Mormon missionaries stopped by my house to talk about a new testament of Jesus Christ, at the time I was too busy to have an...more My goal to read most of the major religions scriptures lead me to read the Mormon scriptures, sheer will and stubbornness were the only reasons why I finished. Its been a while since the last time I read something I disliked this much and didn't stop. I rated this two stars only because I gave it an extra star for its importance in the lives of millions.

A few years ago two Mormon missionaries stopped by my house to talk about a new testament of Jesus Christ, at the time I was too busy to have any real discussion with them, but they left me the book of Mormon, they asked me pray to the holy spirit to reveal himself and the truth to me while reading the BoM. I honestly assumed that the BoM would be more persuasive and challenging, I wasn't ready though for the boredom, repetitiveness, blatant racism, and plagiarism. The BoM is full of later stuff which makes me think that it surely was written in the 18th century and definitely not before the conquest of Babylon in the 6th century BCE. For example in the Hebrew bible, we have vague references to a future messiah, with the BoM we not only direct messianic mentions, they're actually told his name would be Jesus Christ (does Joesph Smith not know that Christ isn't Jesus's surname?). There are zero mentions of a church in the old testament, but the book of mormon is full of references to the great abdominal church, how on earth do they know what the church will be called? I mean honestly, I think all three Jewish based religions can agree that the Jews were (are) god's chosen people, you'd think if god gave this much information to the Nephites he wouldn't have been so vague with his chosen people (we can also agree that we have latter BCE evidence of the Hebrew scripture, but only Joseph Smith's word about the BoM). I can't imagine that if God told the old testament people that his only begotton son Jesus Christ is coming, he'd be god incarnate and to follow him, we'd have the division between the Jews and Christians today. Why would god trick his chosen people but reveal so much to a people he knew would be completely killed off?

The most surprising thing to me was just how racist the LDS scriptures are. First with the BoM, god gets pissed at the Lamanites for being evil so he “curses” them with dark skin while he's pleased with the Nephites so he gives them an exceeding white skin. God seems to repeat this dark skin cursing several times, another example is found in the Pearl of Great Price where god once again gets mad at a decedent of Noah and curses him with black skin (which leads to the Egyptians). In the doctrines and covenants god has many things to say about slaves, nothing about slave ownership being wrong but more about how the white man should fear if the slaves have an uprising.

An example 2 Nephi 5:21 “And he had caused the cursing to come upon them, yea, even a sore cursing, because of their iniquity. For behold, they had hardened their hearts against him, that they had become like unto a flint; wherefore, as they were white, and exceedingly fair and delightsome, that they might not be enticing unto my people the Lord God did cause a skin of blackness to come upon them”.

Next the whole LDS scriptures are highly plagiarized, for example about half of the book of 2 Nephi is a word for word copy of King James's version of Isaiah. When Jesus comes to America to talk to the Nephites, people whom will be shortly killed off, he says nothing new, just somewhat repeats what's already in the KJV, why not at least throw something new in there? (You also get even bigger attempts to out do the new testament, for example when Jesus dies the sun stops shining for three days over the entire continents of the Americas).

Next the entire LDS scriptures are a very dry read, the attempt at King James English only makes the read harder. This is pretty surprising because the story sounds somewhat interesting on paper, you have a group of Israelites whom God sends away because of the depravity in Israel and they happen to land somewhere in America where they quickly multiple into a massive civilization stretching from coast to coast. Later Jesus, after his crucifixion, shows up and allows all one million plus of them to touch the holes in his hands and delivers a few messages to them. Later the evil god hating Lamanites brutally kill all of the god fearing (but back sliding) Nephites and one Nephite named Mormon survives, and hides while he spends the rest of his life compiling the history of his peoples. His son buries the plates only to return as an angel 1400 years later to deliver them to Joseph Smith.

The execution of this story is extremely boring though. Its long and extremely repetitive. Over and over again the Nephites and Lamites fight, someone preaches they repent then backslide and fight all over again. Sections are repeated over and over again to the point of frustration. The phrase “And it came to pass” is literally used over a thousand times. Commands and instructions are repeated over and over again hardly anything new is ever said.

The doctrine and covenants seem very much like they're words from Joseph Smith. Repeatedly people question Joseph and all of a sudden god has a special word to them delivered by Joseph Smith. Someone wants the ability to translate scriptures also, Smith ask god, god tells Smith to tell them that only Smith can translate at this time. Someone gripes about spending too much money, Smith asks god, god tells Smith to tell them they're giving the money to god and god will bless them. I mean its really hard for me to believe that people actually believe this stuff. The most absurd one occurs in #132, Emma Smith is mad that Joseph Smith has taken other wives, god gives Joseph Smith a message, god commanded all of his great prophets to have multiple wives, Abraham, David, Solomon, and Smith should take many wives also. If Emma Smith doesn't accept this she'll be destroyed, so does this mean god allows Emma to take another husband, nope instead he says “And I command mine handmaid, Emma Smith, to abide and cleave unto my servant Joseph, and to none else. But if she will not abide this commandment she shall be destroyed, saith the Lord; for I am the Lord thy God, and will destroy her if she abide not in my law.” (Also notice the destroy part is repeated, this type of repetition happens over and over again in the LDS scripture, far worse than this mild example). I mean seriously does this seem like the work of Smith getting what he wants or a divine sexist / racist being.

The only halfway redeeming work in the LDS scriptures is the Pearl of Great Price, I disliked it the first time I read it, but after slogging through the other stuff, this was easy to get through and way more interesting. In this, I have to think Smith was getting bored with his other stuff and just jumped off the deep end. In the book of Abraham, you have god talking to Abraham and god tells him about how god has his own planet circling a star Kolob where god sends spirits to earth, at least this absurd stuff was slightly interesting and its short which is odd for LDS stuff.

In the end, obviously I'm not even close to becoming a Mormon. The holy spirit didn't speak to me through the LDS stuff and there wasn't any type of bubbling in my bowels. Having read some other scriptures, I can imagine that Paul, Mohammad, Siddhattha, ect all actually believed that they were having a spiritual vision (every person needs to decide for themselves how true they think these visions were), but I don't believe the same for Smith. I truly believe that he was disillusioned with the churches of his day so he completely made up the book of Mormon and claimed it was ancient to get followers. This 'holy book' gave me nothing but a couple months of torture.
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Dec 29, 2010 Elias James rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone

This book has the power to bring souls closer to Christ. It works with the Bible, in the same way as the Bible. Both book were written by prophets of God, under the direction of the Holy Ghost. Because of the nature of the books, there is no scale that is able to rate the qualities or the power of the words written therein. Read it and you will have a greater knowledge of the Gospel of Christ.

Don't take my word for it, read it and pray about it to have the Lord tell you it is correct. If you don...more

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