Why Does the Book of Mormon Use Elizabethan English?

The Book of Mormon, published in 1830, is often noted for its use of a seemingly archaic English style, reminiscent of the King James Bible (KJV) of 1611. This has led to questions about why it was written in such an old-fashioned manner. To address this curiosity, let's delve into the historical and theological context behind this decision.

Joseph Smith's Familiarity with the King James Version

Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter-day Saint movement, was heavily influenced by the King James Version of the Bible. According to various accounts, he was quite familiar with this translation and likely had it among his spiritual references. This familiarity led many to believe that the Book of Mormon sounds like it was translated with the KJV in mind.

The Translation Process

The translation of the Book of Mormon was a deeply spiritual and time-sensitive process. Joseph Smith is said to have taken phrases or sentences, studied them in his mind, and then, upon receiving divine confirmation from God, dictated them to scribes. Over the course of this translation, four scribes, including Joseph's wife Emma, worked to record the text. The style and phrasing of the Book of Mormon reflect the mindset and literary style of its translator, who was heavily influenced by what he knew and was familiar with.

Hebrew Versus Elizabethan English

Unlike the KJV, which often modified or changed original Hebrew phrases for grammatical or stylistic reasons, the Book of Mormon consistently maintains the integrity of Hebrew meanings. This is an impressive feat for a figure raised on a farm in New York who had little formal education. Scholars of the Book of Mormon often note this as evidence of its divine authenticity, as it suggests a precise understanding of the original texts without the modernizing influence of later translations.

Controversies and Scholarly Perspectives

Some critics argue that Joseph Smith merely copied from the KJV rather than creating an original work. They point to the striking similarities between the two texts, suggesting a lack of originality. However, others argue that the use of Elizabethan English was a deliberate choice, inspired by God, to make the Book of Mormon accessible to those most familiar with the King James Version.

Modern Translations and Adaptations

If one looked into the world of modern biblical translations, they might find that the KJV remains a significant influence. Even in contemporary times, new translations often strive to capture the feel and tone of the original. For instance, the Book of Mormon has been translated into numerous languages, including the fictional Klingon language, demonstrating its enduring appeal and adaptability.

Ultimately, the choice to use Elizabethan English in the Book of Mormon reflects a complex interplay of cultural, spiritual, and linguistic factors. While some see it as an indicator of a lack of originality, others interpret it as a divine inspiration, linking the new scripture to a familiar and well-loved source text.

Frequently Asked Questions

How was the Book of Mormon translated? Joseph Smith is said to have translated the Book of Mormon from golden plates using the Urim and Thummim, a seer stone, and a hat. He dictated the text to scribes as he received it from God. Why does it sound like the KJV? Joseph Smith's familiarity with the KJV likely influenced the style of the Book of Mormon, as he was translating from a scriptural perspective familiar to many in the early 19th century. Is the use of Elizabethan English a flaw or a strength? This is a matter of perspective. Some see it as a flaw due to the potential lack of originality, while others view it as a strength, as it maintains the integrity of the original Hebrew texts.

In conclusion, the use of Elizabethan English in the Book of Mormon is a complex issue that has sparked much debate and discussion. Whether seen as a cultural relic or a divine inspiration, it remains a crucial aspect of the text's legacy.