Mormon Stories Podcast New Church Essays on Translation and Polygamy - LDS Discussions w/ Sandra Tanner | Ep. 2063
Sep 17, 2025
Sandra Tanner, a longtime critic of early LDS history, joins researchers Julia and Nemo to explore new church essays on translation and polygamy. They dissect Joseph Smith's 'translation' methods versus 'revelation' claims, examining his use of seer stones and the Eight Witnesses. The panel also delves into the controversial polygamy manifestos, addressing institutional memory and changes in scriptural texts. Intriguing discussions on Emma's role and the Nauvoo Expositor's impact add depth to their critical analysis of church history.
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Framing Presumes Miracles
- The church frames the Book of Mormon as miraculous from the outset, which presumes facts rather than presenting evidence.
- Sandra Tanner and panelists argue this framing stacks the deck and avoids addressing foundational historical questions.
Translation Model Vs. Text Changes
- The tight translation model and observed text changes conflict: if every word appeared on a stone, nearly 4,000 subsequent edits are inexplicable.
- Panelists say this forces reinterpretation toward "thought translation" or revelation, shifting problems onto God or Joseph.
Seer Stones Sanitized In Essay
- The essay admits Joseph used a seer stone but downplays its cultural context and occult associations.
- Panelists argue churches generally condemned such practices and the essay sanitizes treasure-digging origins.
