Mormon Stories #1104: The Spaulding Theory with Bryce Blankenagel Pt. 1

The Intrigue of the Spaulding Theory in Mormon History

No exploration of Mormon history is complete without confronting the Spaulding Theory, a hypothesis that questions the origin of the Book of Mormon. This topic not only captivates historians and scholars but also stirs curiosity among members who seek to understand the roots of their faith. Why does the Spaulding Theory persist as a tantalizing piece of religious history, and what does it reveal about Mormonism's foundational narrative?

The Spaulding Theory centers around the alleged influence of Solomon Spaulding's manuscript on the creation of the Book of Mormon. Initially, it suggests that Joseph Smith's scripture was inspired, or even borrowed, from Spaulding's unpublished work. Historical critic Bryce Blankenagel, in an enlightening discussion on the Mormon Stories Podcast, delves into the theory’s implications, guiding us through this labyrinthine saga.

Unraveling the Spaulding Theory: Historical Context

Solomon Spaulding was a former minister whose novel "Manuscript Found" was allegedly read by several people in his small Ohio circles. These individuals later claimed that Spaulding's work bore remarkable similarities to the Book of Mormon, which Joseph Smith published in the 1830s. Critics surmise that Sidney Rigdon, an influential figure in early Mormonism, obtained Spaulding's manuscript and passed it to Smith, who then incorporated its themes and narratives into Mormon scripture. This theory challenges the orthodox claim that the Book of Mormon was divinely revealed to Joseph Smith via golden plates.

While direct evidence remains scant, the theory persists due to historical accounts and circumstantial evidence that suggest Rigdon may have been involved in the Book of Mormon’s authorship long before its public release.