Delve into Joseph Smith's ambitious Bible translation project, exploring its motivations and revelations that shaped his prophetic journey. Uncover why the Joseph Smith Translation was absent from Latter-day Saint Bibles until 1979 and the meaning of 'translate' in this context. Discover the complexities surrounding the JST and how it influenced both historical and modern interpretations of scripture. The dynamic interplay of prophecy and divine truth offers a fascinating look at the evolution of scriptural understanding within the context of Restorationist beliefs.
Joseph Smith's translation of the Bible, known as the JST, began shortly after the Book of Mormon and aimed to clarify biblical texts.
The JST reflects Smith's belief in a dynamic relationship with scripture, incorporating inspired commentary rather than traditional translation methods.
Significant doctrinal revelations emerged during the JST project, illustrating the intertwined nature of scripture study and theological development in Smith's work.
Deep dives
Joseph Smith's Translation Projects
Joseph Smith undertook several key scripture-related projects, with the first being the Joseph Smith Translation (JST) of the Bible. This significant endeavor began shortly after the completion of the Book of Mormon and was intended to clarify and expand biblical texts. Alongside the JST, Smith produced the Doctrine and Covenants, a collection of his revelations, and translated the Book of Abraham from Egyptian papyrus scrolls. Each project carries points of controversy and importance within the context of Smith's prophetic calling and the evolution of scripture in the Latter-day Saint faith.
Joseph Smith's Relationship with the Bible
Joseph Smith's appreciation for the Bible was profound, deeply embedding it within his sermons and discourses. He viewed the Bible as God's authoritative word but did not regard it as perfect and unalterable. Smith acknowledged the influences of careless transcription and deliberate corruption throughout history, which affected the text of the Bible, and emphasized the need for a critical approach to its reading. His love for biblical scripture contrasts with the lesser reliance on the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants, which he did not often quote, highlighting his base in biblical text.
The Nature of the Joseph Smith Translation
The Joseph Smith Translation is characterized by its unique approach to scripture, where Smith did not claim to translate from ancient Hebrew or Greek texts. Instead, he presented the JST as inspired commentary on biblical passages, sometimes including significant additions and clarifications. For instance, entire chapters were introduced, such as the extensive account of Enoch found in Moses, which does not appear in the original biblical text. This suggests a dynamic relationship with scripture where Smith served as a divinely authorized actor, adding depth and context to the biblical narrative.
The Influence of the JST on Doctrine and Covenants Revelations
The translation of the Bible coincided with a period of prolific revelation in the Doctrine and Covenants, with many revelations emerging directly from Smith's engagement with biblical texts. As he worked on the JST, questions about doctrinal points prompted significant revelations, highlighting the interwoven nature of scripture and revelation in his work. For example, revelations on eschatology and key doctrines came during this time, allowing Smith to deepen his theological understanding and clarify church teachings. The JST project could thus be seen as a catalyst for broader spiritual development within Smith’s prophetic mission.
Evaluating the Changes in the Joseph Smith Translation
The JST includes numerous changes, revisions, and clarifications that offer modern readers a more understandable text while preserving doctrinal integrity. Joseph Smith made alterations to over 3,400 verses, reflecting his intent to address ambiguities and harmonize scriptural teachings. Notably, changes were not limited to grammatical clarity; many were doctrinal corrections aiming to resolve contradictions found within the biblical canon. These modifications have sparked ongoing discussions regarding their implications for modern Latter-day Saint theology and how they redefine the understanding of scripture as a living text.
Aside from his Book of Mormon translation project, Joseph Smith engaged in at least three other scripture production projects that we know of. The first was his ambitious Bible translation project we now know as the Joseph Smith Translation, the second was the printing of his own revelations which we now know as the Doctrine and Covenants, and the third was his project of translation which commenced after he acquired papyrus scrolls from Egypt which we now know as the Book of Abraham. Throughout this new series we will consider each of these fascinating projects in turn, including the points of controversy connected with each.
In this episode of Church History Matters, we begin our exploration of Joseph Smith’s translation of the Bible, or the JST for short. When did it begin? Why didn’t we get this into Latter-day Saint Bibles until 1979? What does the word “translate” mean in this context in light of the fact that Joseph Smith didn’t know Hebrew or Greek during this project? And what are some assumptions Church members often bring to the text of the JST that may not be warranted?
