The Age of Revelation: When Mormons Discover the Truth About the Book of Mormon

As a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the journey to understanding the nature of the Book of Mormon was mine alone. I came to a significant realization at a critical point in life, but it's not the age at which one learns the truth but rather the spiritual insight gained that truly matters.

Ignorance is Bliss

For 35 years, I believed, in faith, that Joseph Smith directly translated the Book of Mormon with divine assistance. It was only after leaving the church did I learn the full truth. Many are never made aware of the process and continue to believe the teachings of Joseph Smith as the absolute truth. They live in blissful ignorance, which, as the saying goes, is sometimes blissful indeed.

The Question of Ages

When do Mormons first learn that Joseph Smith did not use the golden plates to produce the majority of the Book of Mormon? The answer depends on when and how one discovers the truth. It is not a direct result of the church's teachings but rather an individual's journey of faith and introspection. At what age one learns this truth is irrelevant; what matters is gaining a deep spiritual insight into the Church of Jesus Christ.

My Awakening at 12

One exact year for each apostle, at age 12, one is believed to be ready to understand the 12 tropes. Words evolve and morph, and questioning the process becomes a natural part of growth. For me, the awakening came at 12, when I took on a challenge to read the Book of Mormon cover to cover. It was a profound experience that began a lifelong journey of faith.

The Process of Revelation

The nature of the process that brought the Book of Mormon to light is often debated. Terms like translated, transcribed, transliterated, produced, conveyed, and rendered have been used, but perhaps revealed is most fitting. Revealing implies that the process was akin to a divine revelation, providing individuals with an opportunity to consider the book, its message, and the Spirit within it. No one can earn or impart this truth; it must be experienced individually.

Personal Connection

For me, the journey to understanding the Book of Mormon began at 12 and has continued throughout my life. It has been a crescendo of Christ and an increase of inspiration. In my 20s, I found spiritual highs; in my 30s, deeper connections; in my 40s, new nuances; and now, in my 50s, it still reads fresh and pertinent. The challenge to read it cover to cover was a powerful moment, and the experience has remained with me ever since.

Conclusion

The age at which one learns about the process of the Book of Mormon is not as important as the spiritual insight gained. Enlightenment comes through individual introspection and faith. For some, this realization may come at 12, while others may not discover the truth until later in life. The key is to embrace the opportunity to connect with the message and the Spirit of the book, rather than being confined by the age or the terminology used to describe the process.