Studies of the Book of Mormon

Studies of the Book of Mormon compiles three essays written by B.H. Roberts, a prominent LDS Church authority, in the early 1900s but published posthumously in 1985. The work contains Roberts' research and analysis examining the Book of Mormon's authenticity as an ancient American text. The book includes correspondence related to these essays, plus supplementary material including a biographical sketch by Sterling McMurrin and an introduction by Brigham Madsen. Roberts applied his background as a scholar and church historian to investigate various questions about the Book of Mormon's origins and historical claims. The publication sparked debate within Mormon studies circles, particularly regarding Roberts' personal conclusions and their implications for LDS theology. The work represents a detailed internal examination of foundational Mormon texts by one of the faith's most respected early scholars. The collection raises fundamental questions about the relationship between faith, historical inquiry, and religious authority - themes that remain relevant to contemporary discussions of religious scholarship and belief.

Readers note Roberts' intellectual honesty in examining difficult questions about Book of Mormon historicity. The published manuscript represents his personal research and doubts while serving as a Mormon leader. Readers appreciate: - Roberts' methodical analysis of archeological evidence - Clear documentation of parallels between View of the Hebrews and Book of Mormon - Roberts' willingness to follow evidence even when challenging his faith - The historical importance of a senior LDS leader questioning Mormon origins Common criticisms: - Repetitive writing style - Dense academic language - Lack of clear conclusions - Some readers find it too scholarly for casual reading Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (52 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (31 ratings) One reader noted: "Roberts showed remarkable courage in pursuing these difficult questions." Another commented: "Important historical document but dry reading." Several Mormon readers expressed disappointment that Roberts' doubts were published posthumously without his consent.

An Insider's View of Mormon Origins by Grant H. Palmer A former LDS educator examines Mormon foundational events through historical documents and primary sources.

Early Mormonism and the Magic World View by D. Michael Quinn The book explores connections between 19th-century folk magic practices and early Mormon history through historical records.

American Crucifixion: The Murder of Joseph Smith and the Fate of the Mormon Church by Alex Beam The text presents historical research about Joseph Smith's final days and death through primary sources and contemporary accounts.

By His Own Hand Upon Papyrus by Charles M. Larson The work analyzes the Book of Abraham translation process through examination of original documents and historical evidence.

The Lost Book of Abraham: Investigating a Remarkable Mormon Claim by Robert K. Ritner A scholarly examination of the Egyptian papyri connected to the Book of Abraham through linguistic and historical analysis.

1. ✦ The manuscript remained unpublished for over 60 years after Roberts' death, only coming to light when his grandson discovered it among family papers. 2. ✦ B. H. Roberts served as both a General Authority of the LDS Church and as a chaplain during World War I, making him one of few Mormon leaders to serve in the U.S. military. 3. ✦ The book examines parallels between the Book of Mormon and "View of the Hebrews," a contemporary text published in 1823 that also proposed Native Americans were descended from ancient Israelites. 4. ✦ Though Roberts remained faithful to his church until his death in 1933, his scholarly work demonstrated a willingness to engage with challenging historical and archaeological evidence. 5. ✦ The publication of this work in 1985 by the University of Illinois Press marked one of the first times a major academic publisher released a critical scholarly examination of Book of Mormon origins.