This is a perspective I've never considered before. Suddenly scripture study seems less tedious and more of an active pursuit of spiritual truth. Thanks for providing this insight.
Whenever I have applied the "translating" process you describe I have been greatly enlightened. Further, all of us have the ability in various degrees.
You should know though, that the origin of the seer stone in the hat process is from either anti or disaffected members of the Church. The anti-Mormon book "Mormonism unvailed [sic]" was the genesis of the Stone in the hat theory (SITH).
Joseph Smith repeatedly testified that he translated using the Urim and Thummim through the gift and power of God. In other words, Joseph translated through study and prayer. It was translatory not revelatory. A distinction with a difference.
Else why include the Urim and Thummim along with the plates at all? If all he had to do was look and receive?
Yes, I am familiar with this possible gospel topics essay. Of course none of these essays are doctrine.
This particular essay is rife with controversy. There are two camps. Those who believe the Book of Mormon took place in Mesoamerica and those who believe it transpired mostly in the eastern half of what is now the United States. The reason it affects the translation process is rather complicated so I prefer not to go into it here. When (or if) I get time I'll point you to a few articles covering this issue.
This is a perspective I've never considered before. Suddenly scripture study seems less tedious and more of an active pursuit of spiritual truth. Thanks for providing this insight.
Whenever I have applied the "translating" process you describe I have been greatly enlightened. Further, all of us have the ability in various degrees.
You should know though, that the origin of the seer stone in the hat process is from either anti or disaffected members of the Church. The anti-Mormon book "Mormonism unvailed [sic]" was the genesis of the Stone in the hat theory (SITH).
Joseph Smith repeatedly testified that he translated using the Urim and Thummim through the gift and power of God. In other words, Joseph translated through study and prayer. It was translatory not revelatory. A distinction with a difference.
Else why include the Urim and Thummim along with the plates at all? If all he had to do was look and receive?
Yes, I am familiar with this possible gospel topics essay. Of course none of these essays are doctrine.
This particular essay is rife with controversy. There are two camps. Those who believe the Book of Mormon took place in Mesoamerica and those who believe it transpired mostly in the eastern half of what is now the United States. The reason it affects the translation process is rather complicated so I prefer not to go into it here. When (or if) I get time I'll point you to a few articles covering this issue.