Joseph Smith Jr. as a Translator: The Book of Abraham as a Case Study

by Stephen O. Smoot

Overview

Abstract: This paper examines Joseph Smith's approach to translation, using the Book of Abraham as a case study to explore the interplay between divine revelation and human participation in scriptural production. While the Book of Abraham incorporates both ancient and modern elements, its unique synthesis resists simple categorization as either an unblemished Abrahamic autograph or a purely nineteenth-century pseudepigraphon. Drawing on historical evidence and textual analysis, this paper aims to illuminate Joseph Smith's role as both translator and revelator, offering insights into how Latter-day Saints might understand the complex process of producing sacred texts.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940184462554
Publisher:	Interpreter Foundation
Publication date:	05/15/2025
Series:	Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship , #64
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	460 KB

About the Author

Stephen O. Smoot is a doctoral candidate in Semitic and Egyptian Languages and Literature at the Catholic University of America. He previously earned a Master’s degree in Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations from the University of Toronto and Bachelor’s degrees in Ancient Near Eastern Studies and German Studies from Brigham Young University.