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531
Scripture • Nonfiction
Ancient Americas • Pre-Columbian
1830
Adult
12+ years
The Book of Mormon, translated by Joseph Smith, tells the story of ancient Israelites who traveled to the Americas in the sixth century BCE, organized primarily into the Nephite and Lamanite civilizations. Jesus Christ visits the Americas after his resurrection, teaching and establishing a church. The history spans over a millennium, ending with the destruction of the Nephites. The book includes discussions of war and violence.
Inspirational
Contemplative
Mysterious
Informative
Hopeful
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Reviews for The Book of Mormon by Joseph Smith reveal a mix of admiration and critique. Positively, it is praised for its spiritual depth and narrative scope, offering profound inspiration and guidance. However, some find the prose challenging and the historical authenticity contentious. Overall, it is valued for its religious significance despite the debates it incites.
Readers interested in religious texts, spiritual narratives, and historical religious movements will find The Book of Mormon compelling. Comparable to readers of The Holy Bible and The Qur'an, it appeals to those exploring theological doctrines, morality tales, and prophetic literature.
89,531 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nephi
Son of Lehi and a pivotal figure in the early parts of the story, he is central as both a spiritual leader and a practical guide in his family’s ventures.
Jacob
A son of Lehi, who plays a key role as a prophetic voice, delivering significant sermons that influence theological and ethical themes in the narrative.
Mosiah I
A seer and king who leads his people to a new settlement, recognizing the importance of preservation and translation of sacred records.
Mosiah II
Grandson of Mosiah I, a transitional figure who influences religious and political developments, including setting the stage for a major shift in governance.
Benjamin
A king known for his wise and spiritual leadership, delivering significant teachings on service and prophecy during his tenure.
Alma the Elder
Begins as a convert in a hostile environment, ultimately leading a religious movement that finds refuge and growth in a critical settlement.
Alma the Younger
Initially opposed to his father’s beliefs, he becomes an influential judge and religious leader after a transformative personal experience.
Jesus Christ
Central to the story’s climax, his prophesied arrival and subsequent teachings play a crucial role in shaping the narrative’s spiritual context.
Mormon
A prophet and military leader known for compiling the sacred records that form the backbone of the larger narrative, lending his name to the text.
Moroni
The final guardian of the sacred records and the author of significant concluding texts, who also plays a key role in later traditions.
Nephites
A group descending from Lehi, known for their spiritual endeavors and intricate history, who face various challenges throughout the narrative.
Lamanites
Named for Lehi’s elder son, they comprise a civilization distinct from the Nephites, often portrayed in conflict with them but with their own cultural significance.
Jaredites
An ancient group detailed in a separate section of the text, whose rise and fall parallel the experiences of other groups within the narrative.
531
Scripture • Nonfiction
Ancient Americas • Pre-Columbian
1830
Adult
12+ years
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