CFM: January 15-21
Videos, Podcasts, & Weekly Lesson Material
Media | Lesson Extension | Additional Materials |
Scripture Central | ||
Follow Him | ||
Line Upon Line | ||
Teaching with Power | ||
Don't Miss This | | |
Book of Mormon Matters with John W Welch and Lynne Hilton Wilson | ||
Unshaken | | |
The Interpreter Foundation | ||
Teaching Helps with John Hilton | | |
Scripture Gems | ||
Latter Day Kids | ||
Come Follow Up | ||
Ponderfun | 1 Nephi 6-10 (not yet posted) | |
Talking Scripture | ||
Saving Talents: Devotionals & FHE for Children |
| |
Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson
An Exciting New Resource:
About a month ago, in one of our Revelation lessons, I share information about a program that I was introduced to called Scripture Notes. I had the opportunity to met an visit with Oak Norton, the developer of that program, and in our discussions I expressed that I desperately wanted to see a lexical cross reference tool that could more effectively link the texts of the Book of Mormon back to its roots in the Hebraic language. I felt that would be an invaluable tool that could really help students better understand the perspective, culture, and context of the Book of Mormon writers.
Imagine my delight when I recently got an email that introduced a new lexicon feature that directly links the Book of Mormon to the lexicons and concordances available on Blue Letter Bible! I am beyond thrilled, I am absolutely giddy, and I have loved exploring the Book of Mormon with this exciting new feature. It is awesome. Oak listened, and in record time, he delivered! I am seriously like a kid in a candy store, Thank You Oak!
The Lexicon tool is labeled with the letter L and is listed along with the other fantastic dictionaries, and etymological features already available on the text toolbar whenever one selects a particular word to research or highlight. Additionally, this feature can be used for any text that is included within the program: Book of Mormon, D&C, Pearl of Great Price, Jesus the Christ, Apocryphal texts, Lectures on Faith, etc.
The following video presentation demonstrates how to use this feature.
Over the years, I've encountered several individuals, myself included, who have expressed a desire for a Hebrew translation of the Book of Mormon. However, I believe the resource provided by Scripture Notes can offer an even greater advantage. Any Hebrew translation crafted by scholars today would be inherently retrospective, as we do not have access to the original records of the Book of Mormon. This absence of original texts means that the precise Hebrew/Egyptian words used by the Book of Mormon authors remain unknown, necessitating that modern translators engage in speculative translations that may not fully capture the original intent. Such translations would inevitably depend on the translator's discretion regarding word choice and interpretation. In contrast, the lexical tools in Scripture Notes enable users to explore a broad spectrum of potential translations. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding, offering multiple perspectives and interpretations of how any particular word in the Book of Mormon might be understood.
The Lexicon tool can offer several significant advantages for those studying the Book of Mormon because it allows for a more nuanced examination of the Book of Mormon's language. In addition, the 1828 link will take the reader directly to Webster's 1828 dictionary, providing time appropriate context for Joseph Smith's translations. These two resources combined can reveal deeper and dynamic insights into word choices, origins, context, and meanings of the Book of Mormon text. The Hebraic roots of many biblical texts have been thoroughly catalogued and researched over centuries, and the opportunity to explore similar connections within the Book of Mormon is truly exciting, as this can offer a richer, more powerful, and multifaceted understanding of the Book of Mormon's narratives and teachings. Here are a just a few of many potential advantages:
Enhanced Linguistic Understanding: By linking the Book of Mormon to Hebraic lexicons and concordances, students of the scripture can delve into the original meanings of words and phrases. This can uncover subtleties that may be lost in translation or may have changed over time.
Cultural and Historical Context: Understanding the Hebraic roots of the Book of Mormon can also provide insights into the cultural and historical context of its writers. This can lead to a more empathetic and accurate interpretation of their messages, poetry, and teachings.
Comparative Study with Biblical Texts: The ability to cross-reference with Hebraic lexicons and biblical texts can illuminate parallels and distinctions between the Book of Mormon and the Bible. Such comparative studies can enrich one's understanding of both texts and their interrelations.
Spiritual Insights: For many, studying scripture is not just an academic exercise but also a spiritual journey. The deeper understanding garnered from this new lexical tool can lead to more profound spiritual insights and personal revelations.
Academic and Theological Research: This tool can be invaluable for scholars and theologians who are exploring the Book of Mormon's origins, structure, and teachings. It opens up new avenues for academic research and theological discourse.
I encourage everyone to take some time to explore these updated features and tools. They are particularly beneficial for our current and upcoming studies, especially as we delve into the symbolic themes present in Lehi and Nephi's visions and dreams. These resources can significantly enhance ones understanding and interpretation of these complex and rich narratives.
The Book of Mormon and the Old Testament: A Cultural and Religious Dialogue
The Exodus
The narrative of Lehi and his family's departure from Jerusalem and their subsequent journeys, as recounted in the Book of Mormon, present striking parallels to the Exodus story and the primary themes of the books of the Torah. This investigation explores some of these parallels, observing how each return of Nephi and his brothers to Jerusalem corresponds with the overarching themes of the Torah's five books: Genesis (Be'reshit "beginning"), Exodus (Shemot "names"), Leviticus (Vayikra "and he called"), Numbers (Bamidbar: midbar "wilderness", from the root - davar "speech, sayings, promises, things,"), and Deuteronomy "Second/Repeated Law (logoi)" (Devarim "words, answer, response, rehearse").
Genesis (Bereshit) - The Family Origin and Roots in Jerusalem:
The Book of Genesis details the origins of the world and the beginnings of the Hebrew people. Similarly, the early chapters of the Book of Mormon focus on Lehi’s family, their origins and life in Jerusalem, and the revelations that set their journey in motion. Just as Genesis introduces the patriarchs and matriarchs of Israel and their relationship with God, the Book of Mormon introduces Lehi as a prophet and patriarch, establishing his family’s spiritual lineage and divine calling.
Exodus (Shemot) - The Hasty Departure into the Wilderness:
The second book of the Torah, Exodus, describes the Israelites' escape from Egyptian bondage and their journey through the wilderness. In the Book of Mormon, Lehi’s family makes a hasty departure from Jerusalem, which is under threat from Babylonian forces. This escape into the wilderness is necessitated by divine warning, much like Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt following God's command.
Leviticus (Vayikra) - The Retrieval of the Plates and Observance of the Law of Moses:
In Hebrew, the second book of the Bible is Va'yikra, maning "and he called". This is a reference to Moses, as Moses was called to be a prophet and spokesperson for the Lord. The Greek name Leviticus refers to the Levites, as they were the ones who were called to officiate in the priesthood ordinances and temple services. In the Bible, the book of Leviticus focuses on laws, rituals, and priesthood, highlighting the Israelites’ need to live in accordance with God’s commandments. The return of Nephi and his brothers to Jerusalem to obtain the brass plates parallels this theme. The brass plates contain the law that Lehi's family needs to observe the Law of Moses correctly, emphasizing the importance of scripture and adherence to divine law in their journey, akin to the Israelites' adherence to the laws given at Sinai.
Numbers (Bamidbar) - Returning to Jerusalem for Spouses:
He Hebrew name for what is interpreted as "Numbers" is Bamidbar, which actually means "wilderness." The book of Numbers narrates the Israelites' wanderings in the wilderness and the challenges they face as a community. The Greek name Numbers comes from the Greek λάβετε ἀρχὴν πάσης συναγωγῆς υἱῶν Ισραηλ, which means to "take or count the heads of all of the the sons of the families in Israel." This has to do with accounting for and including all of the families in Israel as part of God's united family. In a parallel fashion, Nephi and his brothers return to Jerusalem to ensure the future of their own families and community by taking spouses to ensure the welfare of their seed. This act was crucial for the preservation of the family, both physically and spiritually, allowing them to maintain their cultural and religious identity in a new land, akin to how the Israelites had to preserve their identity while wandering in the wilderness.
Deuteronomy (Devarim) - Commencing the Journey to a New Promised Land:
Finally, Deuteronomy is a book of reflection and anticipation, as Moses recounts the Israelites' journey and prepares them for entering the Promised Land. Similarly, after fulfilling the necessary preparations represented in the previous sections of the account, Lehi’s family is adequately prepared to take the next step, to cross the sea and reach their own promised land. This part of their journey parallels the Israelites’ final approach to the land of Canaan, where their seas once again parted, and they crossed over the Jordan River into the Promised Land. In Greek, Deuteronomy means "second law", or a repetition of the Law, and it emphasizes the the importance and reception of God's oath and covenant with Israel, outlining the laws affixed to that contract, and anticipates a new life in a new promised land.
In conclusion, the narrative of Lehi and his family in the Book of Mormon resonates deeply with the themes and structure of the Torah. Each phase of their journey mirrors a corresponding book of the Torah, illustrating a profound connection between the two sacred texts. This parallel not only highlights the shared spiritual heritage and themes of journey, covenant, and divine guidance, but also emphasizes the universality of these experiences in the religious narratives of both the Jewish and Latter-day Saint traditions.
Modern Application
The patterns outlined in the Torah and mirrored in Lehi's family's experiences in the Book of Mormon offer profound insights applicable to individuals on their own faith journeys, particularly as they strive for Celestial exaltation and the promised land of salvation through Jesus Christ. These narratives, rich with symbolism and teachings, serve as a roadmap, illustrating the principles and challenges inherent in the path towards spiritual fulfillment and divine communion.
Firstly, the story of Lehi's family, like the journey of the Israelites in the Torah, begins with a call to leave the familiar behind and venture into the unknown, guided by faith. This mirrors the initial steps of an individual's faith journey, where one must often leave behind former ways of life, comfort zones, and sometimes physical locations, to follow Christ. This leap of faith is the first step towards spiritual growth and is a recurring theme in both the Torah and the Book of Mormon.
Secondly, the journey through the wilderness, as experienced by Lehi's family and the Israelites, represents the trials, temptations, and learning experiences that refine faith. Just as these ancient peoples faced physical and spiritual challenges, modern believers encounter personal trials that test and strengthen their faith. These experiences, while often difficult, are essential for spiritual growth and preparation for receiving the full blessings of the Lord.
Moreover, the emphasis on obedience to God's commandments, as highlighted in both the Torah and Lehi's narrative, is crucial. The journey towards Celestial glory is marked by adherence to divine laws and ordinances. This obedience is not merely a rigid following of rules but an expression of love and commitment to God, aligning one's will with the divine.
The concept of a 'promised land' in these scriptures can be seen as a symbol of the ultimate goal of salvation through Jesus Christ. Just as the Israelites and Lehi's family endured hardships with the hope of reaching a physical promised land, believers today journey through life with the hope of attaining celestial glory. The promised land represents not only a place of rest and peace but a state of being in communion with God, achieved through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
In conclusion, the patterns observed in the Torah and the Book of Mormon provide valuable lessons for individual faith journeys today. They teach the importance of faith-driven departure from the influences of the fallen world, endurance through trials, obedience to divine commandments, and the hopeful pursuit of the promised salvation through Jesus Christ. These narratives offer more than historical or spiritual accounts; they are a blueprint for personal spiritual progression towards Celestial exultation.
Outlines & Overviews for this Week's Materials
1 Nephi 6: Nephi's explanation of the purpose and focus of his writings, emphasizing spiritual matters and the fulfillment of God's promises. Topics: the role of prophets, and the significance of scripture in ancient Jewish culture. (“Reading 1 Nephi with Wisdom,” "Nephi’s Small Plates: A Rhetorical Analysis.")
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Ancient Israelite and Nephite Record-Keeping Practices: Continue exploring the parallels and differences in record-keeping between these cultures. How can these practices relate to contemporary society and to individuals today?
The Focus on Spiritual Matters in Scriptural Writings: Explore the prioritization of spiritual teachings within sacred texts.
The Focus and Value of Secular Records and Histories: How do the secular histories and context support the spiritual writings? Why and how is this context valuable and applicable to modern readers?
The Role of Scripture in Guiding Believers: Analyze how scriptural teachings have historically influenced and guided religious individuals and communities. How do these accounts continue to guide believers today?
Scripture | Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
1 Nephi 6 | |||
Verses 1-6 | I. Nephi's Purpose in Writing | ||
Verses 4-6 | II. Focus on Spiritual Teachings and Prophecies | 4-6: Nephi's dedication to writing for the spiritual benefit of his people.
| |
III. The Role of Scripture in Preserving Truth | Verses 1-6: Understanding the purpose of scripture in conveying and preserving divine truths and teachings.
|
1 Nephi 7: The journey of Nephi and his brothers back to Jerusalem to convince Ishmael and his family to join them, and the ensuing challenges and manifestations of faith. (Key Themes: Ancient Near Eastern family dynamics, the challenges of migration, and the role of faith and divine intervention in overcoming adversity.)
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Dynamics and Culture in the Ancient Near East: Explore the complexities of cultural and family dynamics and decisions in the context of Nephi’s narrative. (Lehi's Jerusalem, What was Life Like?, Joseph Smith and Pre-exilic Israelite Religion, "That My Family Should Partake"
Challenges of Migration in Ancient Times: Discussion on the logistical, social, and spiritual challenges faced during migrations like those of Nephi and Ishmael's family.
Faith and Divine Intervention: Analyzing instances in the scriptures where faith leads to divine intervention and guidance.
Application to Contemporary Life: Handling conflicts within families and communities, staying faithful in difficult circumstances, and recognizing the importance of divine guidance in life decisions.
Scripture | Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
1 Nephi 7 | |||
Verses 1-5 | I. The Return to Jerusalem | ||
3-5: The journey back to Jerusalem and the persuasion of Ishmael and his family to join Lehi's family in the wilderness.
| |||
Verses 6-21 | II. Rebellion and Nephi's Response (Verses 6-21) | 6-14: Laman and Lemuel's rebellious and hard hearts and the decision to return to Jerusalem.
| |
Verses 22-24 | III. The Journey Back to the Wilderness | 22-24: The journey of Ishmael's family with Nephi and his brothers back to the wilderness. |
1 Nephi 8: Lehi's vision of the tree of life, its rich symbolic representations, and the reactions of his family and others to the vision. Key Themes: The vision as a representation of the journey of life an the Plan of Salvation, the importance of holding to the gospel, and the impact of spiritual choices on individuals and families. (The Double Nature of God’s Saving Work: The Plan of Salvation and Salvation History,” “Lehi’s Dream and Nephi’s Vision as Apocalyptic Literature,” “Lehi Dreamed a Dream: The Report of Lehi’s Dream in Its Biblical Context,” “Prophetic Perspectives and Prerogative: How Lehi and Nephi Applied the Lessons of Lehi’s Dream,” “‘Even as Our Father Lehi Saw’: Lehi’s Dream as Nephite Cultural Narrative,” “Sacrifice and Condescension: Types and Shadows for Latter-day Living,” “Lehi’s Dream and Nephi’s Vision as Used by Church Leaders,” "Lehi’s Vision of the Tree of Life: Understanding the Dream as Visionary Literature," "The Narrative of Zosimus and the Book of Mormon," "A New Testament Parallel to Lehi's Tree of Life Vision," "Lehi’s Dream and the Garden of Eden," "The Book of Mormon as an Ancient Book.")
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Symbolism in Scriptural Teachings: Explore the use of symbols in scripture to convey deep spiritual truths. (Lehi's Dream of the Tree of Life: Springboard to Prophecy, Lehi's Vision of the Tree of Life: Understanding the Dream as Visionary Literature, Lehi’s Dream and the Garden of Eden, Lehi’s Dream and the Plan of Salvation, The Tree of Life, a Personification of Christ, The Ancient Temple is Associated with the Tree of Life, Rod and Sword as the Word of God, The Rod of Iron in Lehi's Dream, Straight (Not Strait) and Narrow,Was the Path Nephi Saw “Strait and Narrow” or “Straight and Narrow”?", Straightening Things Out: The Use of Strait and Straight in the Book of Mormon)
Mesoamerican Connections to the Tree Of Life: "The Sacred Tree of the Ancient Maya," "A New Artistic Rendering of Izapa Stela 5: A Step toward Improved Interpretation," "Stela 5, Izapa: A Layman's Consideration of the Tree of Life Stone," "The History of an Idea: The Scene on Stela 5 from Izapa, Mexico, as a Representation of Lehi’s Vision of the Tree of Life."
Spiritual Journeys in Scripture: Discussion on various scriptural accounts that mirror the journey depicted in Lehi's vision. (several articles listed in The Things Which My Father Saw: Approaches to Lehi’s Dream and Nephi’s Vision, We Did Again Take Our Journey, 'Behold, I Have Dreamed a Dream', The Power of Inspired Invitations, Stay by the Tree)
Family Dynamics and Spiritual Choices: Analyzing the impact of individual spiritual decisions within the context of family relationships in scriptural narratives That My Family Should Partake, Not Partaking of the Fruit: Its Generational Consequences and Its Remedy, .
Scripture | Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
1 Nephi 8 | BoM VIDEOS | ||
Verses 1-35 | I. Lehi's Vision of the Tree of Life | 1-12: Lehi's dream and journey in a dark and dreary waste and his encounter with the tree of life.
| |
19-27: The vision of the rod of iron, the strait and narrow path, and the great and spacious building.
| |||
II. The Responses to the Vision (Verses 28-35) | 28-30: Observations of people holding to the rod of iron and partaking of the fruit, some were ashamed (confused, guilty, confounded, exhausted), others were continually holding fast to the rod of iron.
| ||
34-35: Some do not heed to the scorn of those pointing fingers. Those who heed the scorn fall away. Lehi is concerned for Laman and Lemuel, because they refuse to partake of the fruit.
| |||
III. Reflections on the Symbolism of the Vision | 1-35: Deepening understanding of the vision's symbols: the tree, the fruit, the rod of iron, the strait and narrow path, and the spacious building.
|
1 Nephi 9: Nephi explains the purpose of the two sets of plates he is making – the larger plates for a secular history and the smaller plates for spiritual matters.
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Ancient Record-Keeping Practices: Explore the historical background of Nephi’s record-keeping methods and their significance. (The Book of Mormon Plates, Nephi's Literary Endeavor, The Jewish/Nephite Lunar Calendar)
Secular vs. Spiritual Records in Scripture: Discuss the different purposes of various scriptural records. (A Record of Our Kingdoms, Nephi’s Political Testament, The Political Dimension in Nephi’s Small Plates)
Divine Foresight in Scriptural Commands: Analyze instances in scripture where divine commands reveal a higher wisdom and purpose.
Application to Contemporary Life: Valuing both secular history and spiritual teachings, understanding the importance of obedience to divine guidance, and trusting in God's foresight and wisdom. (Nephi’s Use of Lehi’s Record, American Proto-Zionism and the ‘Book of Lehi’: Recontextualizing the Rise of Mormonism)
Scripture | Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
1 Nephi 9 | |||
Verses 1-6 | I. Nephi's Creation of Two Sets of Plates | 1-2: Nephi's obedience in making two sets of plates as commanded by the Lord.
| |
3-6: The purpose for the account: distinction between the larger plates for the history (remembrance) of his people and the smaller plates for ministering spiritual teachings.
| |||
Verses 3-6 | II. The Purpose of the Smaller Plates | 3-6: Nephi's focus on spiritual matters in the smaller plates, the wise purpose of God: the Lord knoweth all things from the beginning; wherefore, he prepareth a way to accomplish all his works among the children of men; for behold, he hath all power unto the fulfilling of all his words.
| |
Verses 1-6 | III. Reflections on the Wisdom of God | 1-6: Nephi's acknowledgment of God's wisdom in commanding him to make two sets of records.
|
1 Nephi 10: Lehi prophecies about the coming of the Messiah, the scattering and gathering of Israel, and the role of a prophet like Moses who will prepare the way of the Lord.
References and Cultural Contexts for Investigation, Contemplation, and Discussion:
Messiah in Jewish and Christian Beliefs: Exploring the concept of the Messiah and its interpretations in different faith traditions (Notes and Communications: Knowledge of Christ to Come, The First Coming of the Lord to the Jews: A Book of Mormon Perspective, The Messiah, The Book of Mormon, and the Dead Sea Scrolls, Messianism in the Pseudepigrapha and the Book of Mormon)
Historical Scattering and Gathering of Israel: Analyzing the historical events related to the scattering and gathering of the Israelite tribes.
Role of Prophets in Scriptural Revelations: Discussing how prophets like Nephi and John the Baptist contribute to our understanding of spiritual truths.
Scripture | Major Topics/ Themes | Summary | Cross-References, Videos & Resources |
|---|---|---|---|
1 Nephi 10 | BoM Videos:
| ||
Verses 1-10 | I. Prophecies of the Coming Messiah | 1-4: Lehi speaks of the coming Messiah and his baptism.
| |
5-10: The prophecy of John the Baptist preparing the way for the Messiah.
| |||
Verses 11-14 | II. The Scattering and Gathering of Israel | 11-14: Lehi speaks of the scattering of Israel and their eventual gathering.
| |
Verses 17-22 | III. Nephi's Desire to See, Hear, and Know | 17-22: Nephi expresses his desire to see, hear, and know the things his father saw.
|
Church Videos & Resources
Scripture Central
Know Why's
Evidences
Written Commentary
Reading Plan
Maps & Charts
Images
Bibliography & Additional Resources
BYU’s RSC
Additional Videos, Articles, & Insights
S. Kent Brown, “The Hunt for the Valley of Lemuel”
David Rolph Seely, “Lehi’s Altar and Sacrifice in the Wilderness”
Books
Comments