Joseph Smith's Surrounding Influences in the Book of Mormon | Ep. 1604 | LDS Discussions Ep. 07

Unearthing the Influences on Joseph Smith's Book of Mormon

When discussing the origins of the Book of Mormon, it is essential to consider the environmental and historical factors that may have influenced Joseph Smith. The claimed divine origins of the text are juxtaposed with documented historical sources that potentially inspired its narrative. Unpacking these influences offers a crucial lens for both devout and critical observers to understand its compilation. The question arises: If Smith was a product of his time, how much of his environment seeped into this cornerstone of Mormon faith?

The Historical Context of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon

The early 19th century was rife with religious fervor, myth-making, and attempts to define the identity of the American frontier. Joseph Smith, born in 1805, was surrounded by influences that ranged from the religious revivals of the Second Great Awakening to the deeply embedded myths about Native American history. The King James Bible, first published in 1611, was an undeniable presence in Smith's cultural and spiritual landscape, and its language resonates clearly within the Book of Mormon.

One of the predominant theories discussed in John Dulin's Mormon Stories Podcast is the influence of the "Mound Builder" myth, a narrative concocted to explain the numerous earthen mounds found throughout the American Midwest. This myth posited that an ancient, advanced civilization of white-skinned individuals had crafted these architectural marvels, only to be wiped out by their less sophisticated, darker-skinned counterparts. This tale of civilizations clashing eerily mirrors some of the undertones found within the Book of Mormon.

Core Claims and Historical Evidence