S4 E8 I Shall Enlighten Your Mind with Susan Easton Black (D&C 10-11)
Feb 10, 2025
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Susan Easton Black, a pioneer in Church history and a renowned scholar, shares her insights on the pivotal moments in the Doctrine and Covenants. She delves into the revelation to Hyrum Smith and uncovers the intriguing story of Martin Harris and the lost manuscript. Susan brings to life details about these crucial events that many may not know. The conversation also highlights Hyrum's significant role in Joseph Smith's life, emphasizing themes of trust, familial bonds, and the lessons we can learn from their experiences.
Dr. Susan Easton Black highlights the importance of self-reflection and learning from church history to deepen one's faith journey.
The discussion on Hyrum Smith emphasizes the value of patience and preparation in spiritual leadership before taking action.
Deep dives
The Pioneering Spirit of Susan Easton Black
Dr. Susan Easton Black is acknowledged as a groundbreaking figure in church history, having been the first woman to teach religion at BYU. Her passion for church history developed over the years, leading her to more advanced studies while many of her peers ceased their education. She expresses a deep love for teaching, highlighting the connection she felt with students during her tenure and emphasizing the joy that comes from witnessing their understanding of eternal truths. Even after retirement, she remains active in the field, continuing to publish works and engage with church history, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to education and faith.
The Lost Manuscript and Martin Harris
The discussion on the Doctrine and Covenants centers around the significant event involving Martin Harris and the lost manuscript. Harris was tasked with safeguarding the initial translation of the Book of Mormon but ultimately broke a covenant by sharing it with individuals outside the agreed circle. The narrative details the emotional turmoil that ensued after the manuscript's loss, illustrating the weight of responsibility on both Harris and Joseph Smith. This incident highlighted the trials of early church leaders and the divine counsel they received to move forward despite their setbacks, emphasizing the principles of redemption and learning from mistakes.
Hiram Smith's Role and Revelation
Hiram Smith, elder brother to Joseph, sought clarification about his role within the unfolding spiritual events, prompting divine revelation to guide him. The revelation emphasized the importance of waiting and seeking knowledge before taking action, contributing to his development as a steadfast supporter of Joseph. Despite feeling a desire to preach and participate more actively, Hiram was instructed to learn and prepare first, a lesson that resonates with many seeking to serve. Eventually, he became an essential figure in the church, transitioning from a preparatory phase to significant involvement in later developments, including witnessing the Book of Mormon.
A Legacy of Faith and Understanding
Dr. Black's reflections lead to a broader discussion on the complexities of faith, noting how flawed individuals played crucial roles in church history yet were supported by divine guidance. She touches on her personal experiences and the blessings that come from a framework of faith, reinforced by the teachings and experiences of early church figures. In sharing stories of perseverance and the pursuit of understanding, she underscores the importance of self-reflection and growth within the faith community. This perspective encourages listeners to engage with church history and their own spiritual journeys, fostering a continuous pursuit of knowledge and testimony.
Get our fantastic extra content by joining us at TSAR.website. There you will find more from each guest, daily thoughts by me on the scripture content and lots of bonus lectures that get into some deep dives.
In this episode the amazing Susan Easton Black joins Kerry to discuss the revelation to Hyrum Smith. They also explore what the Lord has to say about Joseph Smith and the lost pages and all we can learn from that. They make the story about Martin Harris and the translation pages come to life. There are details about that story that most people don't know that Susan explains well. She also shares stories from her research efforts. Then Kerry and Susan explore who Hyrum is and how important he was in the Smith family and to Joseph in particular. They talk about how the Lord loves Hyrum and what Hyrum is asked to do and how it applies to us.
We are grateful for our generous sponsors, and for Launchpad Consulting Studios for producing the podcast, and for Rich Nicholls, who composed and plays the music for the podcast.
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