Mormon Stories Podcast Did the Book of Mormon Witnesses Really See Golden Plates? - John Turner Part 5 | Ep. 2033
Jun 20, 2025
Historian John Turner, author of "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," dives deep into the complex testimonies of the Three and Eight Witnesses of the golden plates. He examines whether their encounters were physical or visionary, raising intriguing questions about the nature of their experiences. The discussion touches on personal struggles, social influences on belief, and the challenges faced by early figures like Martin Harris. Furthermore, Turner navigates the evolving narratives and skepticism surrounding these foundational testimonies in Mormon history.
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Move to Whitmers Without Plates
- Joseph Smith moved translation to the Whitmers' home likely due to opposition in Harmony and to gain additional support.
- Crucially, this move occurred without the plates, emphasizing their diminished role in the translation process.
Three Witnesses Had Visionary Experience
- The Three Witnesses experienced a visionary encounter, not a physical interaction with golden plates.
- Martin Harris initially couldn't see the plates, highlighting the spiritual rather than material nature of this witness.
Joseph Shared Visions With Others
- Joseph Smith uniquely enabled others to share his visionary experiences, not just having private visions himself.
- This collective visionary leadership is rare and noteworthy in religious contexts.