Mormon Stories Podcast

Martin & Lucy Harris and the Lost 116 Pages of the Book of Mormon - Dr. John G. Turner | Ep. 2028

Jun 5, 2025
In this insightful discussion, historian John Turner, known for his work on Joseph Smith, delves into the fascinating story of the lost 116 pages of the Book of Mormon manuscript. He examines Martin and Lucy Harris's roles, the complex translation process, and the implications of belief and skepticism within early Mormon history. Turner shares theories about the translation methods and the ethical dilemmas surrounding Joseph Smith's claims. This deep dive reveals the intricate dynamics of faith and the psychological elements driving religious movements.
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INSIGHT

Seer Stone Powers Persuade Martin Harris

  • Joseph's use of his seer stone amazed Martin Harris and primed him to believe in the plates.
  • This fueled Harris's willingness to support the Book of Mormon financially and spiritually.
INSIGHT

Joseph's Skill at Creating Belief

  • Joseph learned to convince people that invisible things had physical reality through treasure digging.
  • This skill helped him create spiritual experiences that inspired financial support for his projects.
INSIGHT

Physicality Enables Belief in Plates

  • Physicality was key for believers who felt the heavy box to infer the plates' reality.
  • Actual contents might have been anything heavy, but the feeling fulfilled religious expectations.
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