The Last LeafThis is a poem by Ben de Hoyos. It was a finalist in the 2022 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It beautifully explores the natural imagery of a falling leaf.CLICK HERE to read the poem onlineMay 31, 202402:12Stiff-NeckedThis poem by Darlene Young was a finalist in the 2024 BYU Studies Poetry Contest.CLICK HERE to read the poem online.May 17, 202401:41One Week Before KindergartenThis poem by Ali Benson Moulton was a finalist in the 2022 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It examines the complexities of watching a child grow up.CLICK HERE to read the poem online.Apr 26, 202401:53Book Notice: Approaching the Tree: Interpreting 1Nephi8, edited by Benjamin Keogh, Joseph M. Spencer, and Jennifer ChampouxThis is a book notice for Approaching the Tree: Interpreting 1Nephi8, edited by Benjamin Keogh, Joseph M. Spencer, and Jennifer Champoux. It describes a compilation of essays and artwork regarding studying Lehi's dream from multiple angles. This collection is an excellent tool for those interested in diving deeper into this foundational scripture allegory, especially those who have an interest in art as a study tool. It was written by Sydney GeeCLICK HERE to read the article onlineApr 22, 202402:58Mary's AssumptionThis poem by Christopher Bissett won 3rd place in the 2023 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It examines the difficult role of motherhood for Mary in the context of the resurrection. CLICK HERE to read the poem online.Apr 19, 202401:48Building an Innovative “Latter-day Saints without Borders” OrganizationAuthor Warner Woodworth describes what he calls "practical Christianity," that is, actively perusing service by caring for the poor. Woodworth offers many examples of Church members who have started non-profit humanitarian organizations that serve the global community, taking initiative to follow Christ's invitation to live charitably. The systems Woodworth advocates to address inequality are sustainable and empowering, meant to elevate the poor to better support themselves using the privileges and capital granted to us. These bottom-up, grassroot non-profits are crucial to this mission.CLICK HERE to read the print version of this articleApr 17, 202425:48The Stewardship of Our First FreedomThis article by Clark G. Gilbert was originally given as a keynote address at the BYU Religious Freedom Annual Review. It focuses on the value of religious freedom and our responsibility to defend it. While formalized legal protection of this right is crucial, social and interpersonal advocacy is required to maintain true religious freedom. Religious restriction and repression has negative impacts on society. As we defend religious pluralism, we create a better world for all.CLICK HERE to read this article onlineApr 10, 202427:13Book Notice: Mormon Envoy: The Diplomatic Legacy of Dr. John Milton BernhiselThis is a book notice for Bruce W. Worthen's biographyMormon Envoy: The Diplomatic Legacy of Dr. John Milton Bernhisel was written by Matthew B. Christensen. It describes the life and career of Bernhisel, with special emphasis on his diplomatic and political influence on behalf of Latter-Day Saints on the US Government. Worthen's analysis is thorough and clearly rooted in extensive research, creating an engaging work for history enthusiasts and scholars.CLICK HERE to read the notice online.Apr 08, 202403:35“Dumb” Puns in Alma 30: A Mesoamerican Twist on Korihor’s Talionic PunishmentThis article by Mark Alan Wright and Neal Rappleye offers a fascinating look into Korihor being "struck dumb" in Alma 30 from an ancient Mesoamerican cultural lens. Patterns in ancient languages demonstrate instances of word-play connecting punishment to the crime, particularly in and around the Mayans. Wright and Rappleye dive into historical and linguistic clues to not only argue that Korihor's fate demonstrates an example of this, but also that this cultural similarity serves as evidence linking The Book of Mormon to Mesoamerican history.CLICK HERE to read the article onlineApr 05, 202415:42Richard Bushman’s BYU Years: The Beginnings of an Influential CareerThis article by J.B. Haws explores the early career of influential Latter-Day Saint Historian Richard Bushman, whose joint focus on both theology and academics helped to foster a harmony between these two valuable pursuits. Bushman was an incredibly knowledgeable across many fields and found ways to integrate and connect his work across disciplines. Rather than accolades, Bushman found teaching to be his most important calling in life, and was a beloved member of many academic boards and institutions. His work is monumental and his influence cannot be overstated.CLICK HERE to read the article online.Apr 03, 202448:30Knit TogetherThis essay by Liz Busby explores a literal and figurative interpretation of Colossians 2:2 through discussion of what it means to be “knit together” in our relationship. The author offers a compelling and introspective at her own relationship with her sister through this lens.CLICK HERE to read the essay onlineApr 01, 202418:32Thoughts, In ThreesThis Poem by Isaac James Richards was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It artfully explores what exists at the intersection of different things.CLICK HERE to read the poem onlineMar 29, 202401:45Book Review: The Mormon Military Experience: 1838 to the Cold War by Sherman L. Fleek and Robert C. FreemanThis is a review by Kenneth L. Alford of Sherman L. Fleek and Robert C. Freeman's Book The Mormon Military Experience: 1823 to the Cold War. Alford lauds the authors' authority on the subject and the comprehensive undertaking they embarked on, though found the lack of a connected theme left him "wanting." Overall, he finds few historical errors, and considers this book a valuable resource for those interested in a "broad-brush historical overview" of American Latter-Day Saint military involvement.CLICK HERE to read the book review onlineMar 27, 202408:47Life and Death Blessing and Cursing New Context for the Skin of Blackness in the Book of MormonThis article by TJ Uriona explores the phrase "skin of blackness" used in 2 Nephi 5:21. Uriona provides evidence in support of the claim that, within an ancient near-eastern context, this phrase can be understood as a motif for death. Uriona pulls from multiple sources to support his claim, including texts contemporary to Nephi's era that use similar phrases, and passages of the Old Testament. He also explores other potential meanings of the phrase, supported by historical evidence. This essay offers a valuable reading of 2 Nephi that enhances the anti-racist effort of the church, as church leaders have clearly rejected a racialized reading of this verse.CLICK HERE to read the article onlineMar 25, 202435:41Book Notice: Both Things Are TrueThis is a book notice by Katie Lewis about Kate Holbrook's essay compilation entitled Both Things are True. These essays explore areas of doctrine in which Holbrook (a renowned gospel scholar and historian focusing on LDS women) from points of tension, or contraries. Holbrook then works through a Christlike approach to find a place of coexistence for ideas that appear, at first glance, to be in opposition. The essays are entitled “IBelong to the True and Living Church,” “Revelation Is a Process,” “Housework Is a Crucible of Discipleship,” “Forgiving and Remembering,” and “The Weight of Legacy.” This essay compilation is a great tool for learning how to compassionately navigate the challenges and contradictions of life and faith. CLICK HERE to read the article onlineMar 22, 202404:49The Psalm of Nephi in an Age of Anxiety and DivisionThis article by Patrick Q. Mason examines one of the most literarily impressive passages of the Book of Mormon: 2Nephi 4:16–35. These verses, often referred to as The Psalm of Nephi, have seen an increased focus over the last few decades, which Mason credits to its unique application to those in our modern world. Mason proposes that a general focus on pursuing happiness, navigating family anxieties, and living through intense divisiveness may account for why this particular portion of the Book of Mormon is so valuable to the modern reader, who likely struggles with the same burdens. He also stresses ways in which a fallible "protagonist" feels more approachable to readers, who connect with Nephi's own insecurity and despair. For myriad reasons, this inspiring portion of 2 Nephi has become a staple favorite for many members, and many important insights can be gleaned from studying it.CLICK HERE to Read the Article OnlineMar 20, 202438:49One Days Return, Long Past ChildhoodThis poem by Dixie L. Partridge was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It explores a pastoral depiction of memory and the beauty of nature.Click Here to Read the Poem OnlineMar 18, 202402:24Book Notice: Restless Pilgrim: Andrew Jenson's Quest for Latter-day Saint HistoryThis is a book notice of Reid L. Neilson and Scott D. Marianno's biography of Andrew Jenson, written by Matthew B. Christensen. Restless Pilgrim: Andrew Jenson's Quest for Latter-day Saint History offers a detailed description of the life of this influential church historian. Though not necessarily a household name, Andrew Jenson is a key figure in LDS history, whose devotion and curiosity can be credited for preserving much of the knowledge we have today.CLICK HERE to Read the Book Notice OnlineMar 15, 202403:31I Have Dreamed with Her The Fruitful Relationship between Minerva Teichert and Alice Merrill HorneThis essay by Laura Paulsen Howe explores the relationship between prolific LDS painter Minerva Teichert and her agent Alice Merrill Horne. Horne acted as a critical intersection between artists and church leadership in the mid 20th century. Teichert, known for painting pioneer and Book of Mormon scenes, as well as temple interiors, credits Horne a for a great deal of her success. Besides having a valuable business relationship, the two were close friends, as evidence by their correspondence. Howe explores many facets of these two brilliant women and how both together and apart they helped shape the LDS art world.CLICK HERE to read the article online and view corresponding artworkMar 13, 202430:58BoxwoodsThis poem by Andrew Maxfield was a finalist in the 2022 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It explores the love and practices shared between generations in an effort to keep memory alive.Mar 11, 202401:46Book Review: The King Follett Sermon: A BiographyThis a book review by Matthew B. Christensen of William Smith's The King Follett: A Biography. Christensen speaks highly of Smith's work. This compelling book provides a deep look at a landmark source of Latter-Day Saint theology. It is structured as a biography, an original and engaging approach to the genre.CLICK HERE to read the Book Review on our websiteMar 08, 202403:13On Gospel Methodology at Brigham Young UniversityThis essay by Richard D. Osguthorpe and Justin Collings describes President Spencer W. Kimball's “Second Century Address,” and how teachers can pursue its directive of teaching through "gospel methodology, concepts and insights." This means teachers must focus on both the "why" and "how." They must teach not only content that reflects gospel principles, but also through methods that reflect these goals, exhibiting Christ-like attributes. Gospel methodology must avoid "unrighteous dominion" that relies on indoctrination or conditioning as primary means of teaching. When correctly executed, learning experience serves as a way increase capacity to receive personal revelation and exercise agency.CLICK HERE to read the full article online.Mar 06, 202452:33Book Review of Susa Young Gates: Daughter of Mormonism by Romney BurkeThis is a book review of Romney Burke's biography of influential second generation church leader Susa Young Gates was written by Dave Hall. It describes the importance of this biographical work, which filled an important gap in research. Burke drew from troves of primary source materials, including journals and letters. Hall praises Burke's willingness to go into more controversial topics and details, though points out certain topics that received either more or less focus than he would have chosen.CLICK HERE to read the book review online.Mar 04, 202409:47The DanceThis essay by Michelle Forstrom was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Essay Contest. It explores the power of song and dance, with an emphasis on Bulgarian Folkdance. Hope can be found in devastating circ*mstances, especially with the help of familial love.CLICK HERE to read the full essay online.Mar 01, 202408:15Reclaiming the Primary Question A New Beginning for Joseph Smiths First VisionThis article by William G. Perez examines the value of introducing Latter-Day Saints to the multiple accounts of the first vision, a subject that had previously been lesser-known or even controversial. He explains the recently developed resources for members and educators within the church, and examines the reception of this new material via surveys to seminary teachers. His research demonstrates a compelling shift in understanding Joseph Smith's primary concern: how to achieve salvation and ensure his standing before God. This reframing of The First Vision as "more practical" resonates with many modern-day seekers of truth. Seminary teachers provide direct quotations on the value of teaching the multiple accounts and the different principles found within them, finding particular value within the categories of "Confidence, Revelation, and Redemption."CLICK HERE to read the full article online.Feb 28, 202439:53ForgivenessA poem by Erik Jacobsen. This poem was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It explores the relief of forgiveness.Feb 26, 202401:10Embracing Our Highest WorshipThis personal essay by Tyler Johnson discusses temple preparation and making temple worship more meaningful. He addresses the discomfort and confusion some people feel when visiting the temple and ways in which some of this can be overcome, proposing a sort of "meta-approach" that may enhance the experience. Different approaches can be used to allow the temple to function as an experience rather than something to be solved and understood. Johnson also addresses the conflict people may feel over the "changes" temple ordinances have gone through. The temple is a place of learning.CLICK HERE to read the full article online.Feb 23, 202401:08:25Book Review: Vengeance Is MineThis is a book review by Kent P. Jackson of Richard E. Turley Jr. and Barbara Jones Brown's Vengeance Is Mine: The Mountain Meadows Massacre and Its Aftermath. This book focuses on the controversial attack on a group of emigrants moving westward by a group of Southern Utah Militia members and hired Paiutes. Rather than burying the reality of this tragedy, Turley and Brown seek to examine and expose it, considering the many facets that led to it and the fallout in its aftermath. The attack is compelling compared to instances of road rage blown out of proportion and taken to the extreme.CLICK HERE to read the book review online.Feb 21, 202413:07WeavingA poem by Christine Bird. This poem won first place in the 2023 BYU Studies poetry contest. It explores both the figurative and literal act of weaving within Navajo culture.CLICK HERE to read the poem onlineFeb 19, 202402:12A Register Analysis of Public PrayersThis article by Lindsey Newton and Brett Hashimoto presents the findings of an in-depth analysis of language used in General Conference prayers from 2009 to 2019. The researches explore their methodology, results, and the implications of these language patterns. These trends point to the kind of language and sentence structures habitual to those speaking in a public setting, which can be used to help those new to praying in public or the English language feel a sense of linguistic belonging.To access the full article on our website, CLICK HERE.Feb 16, 202429:18What if Id Not Been Raised to Know You?This poem by Darlene Young was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It explores the many places we can sense and see God's hand, even if we were not taught to recognize it.Click here to read the poem on our websiteFeb 14, 202401:53“Show Them unto No Man” Part 2. The Book of Moses and the Early Jewish Christian Esoteric TraditionThis essay by Barry R. Bickmore dives deep into understanding the differences in esoteric and exoteric teachings during Joseph Smith's lifetime. Specifically, Bickmore considers the different audience and purpose of The Book of Mormon vs The Book of Moses. Many details found in the Book of Moses, the esoteric text of the pair, uniquely express key doctrine. Very similar themes and structures are found in texts from primitive Christianity that Smith was seeking to restore. Bickmore examines parallels between the Book of Moses and the ancient Judeo-Christian "Ascent Apocalypses," which Smith could not have had access to in his life-time. This compelling essay provides a much deeper understanding in the art of biblical studies and fascinating biblical insights.Click Here to read the essay on our websiteFeb 12, 202442:11Documents 1 January to 15 May 1844This is a Book Review by Richard E. Bennett examine's Documents, 1 January–15 May 1844,Vol. 14 of the Documents series of the Joseph Smith Papers, Edited by Alex D. Smith, Adam H. Petty, Jessica M. Nelson, and Spencer W. McBride (Salt Lake City: Church Historian’s Press, 2023). Bennett explains the many merits and details provided by the publication, which puts knowledge once held privately into public hands. This includes Joseph's Smith's letters, journals, transcribed addresses, council minutes, and more. The comprehensive history also provides the necessary context to understand these sources. Although Bennett speaks highly of Documents, he offers some criticism at topics not sufficiently covered.CLICK HERE to read the full Book Review on our website.Feb 09, 202423:40To Make the AttemptA poem by Isaac James Richards. This poem won second place in the 2023 BYU Studies poetry contest. Richard's draws inspiration from Joseph's Smith's words: "I retired to the woods to make the attempt," in an exploration of faith and prayer. To read the poem on our website, CLICK HERE.Feb 07, 202401:49The Baptismal ChairThis personal essay by Ellis William LeRoy Jr. explores the author's "house calls" as a physician to an elderly man's home. After years of knowing the man, he expressed the desire to be baptized. Considering the man's poor health, the rite had to be specially performed with the addition of chair and other special accommodations. This inspiring essay explores faith and miracles. It is never too late to experience the blessings of the temple.This essay by Ellis William LeRoy Jr. was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies personal essay contest.Click here to read the Personal Essay.Feb 05, 202413:43The Place—or the Tribe—Called Nahom?This article examines the “NHM” naming pattern in Near Eastern Language to find evidence that the “place… called Nahom” described in the Book of Mormon is the "Nahm" region of the Arabian Peninsula. The author Neal Rappleye uses evidence from historical sources, such as maps and inscriptions, and linguistic studies of Near Eastern language to identify “Nahom" within its correct historical context. Despite arguments from some historians that “Nahm” should be used exclusively to refer to a tribe rather than place, Rappleye introduces a rich history of Near Eastern naming conventions, demonstrating precedence for tribal names being linked with the land they inhabited almost interchangeably. This deep-dive into history takes listeners on an educational journey, ultimately sharing compelling evidence for the historical soundness of the Book of Mormon.Click here to read the article online.Feb 02, 202432:44“The Gospel of Intelligence and Culture”: Literature and Literary Instruction in the Twentieth-Century MIA CurriculumThis article by Michael Austin and Rachel Meibos Helps details the cultural significance of literature in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Beginning in 1888, a movement headed by Bishop Orson F. Whitney introduced education programs for male and female youth of the church. These included recommended booklists, traveling libraries, and formal lessons. Over the course of the twentieth-century, the programs underwent many changes. The ultimate goal of the curriculum was to encourage the youth of the Church to remain well-read, intelligent, and morally upright, driven by the belief that "Latter-day Saints had to be in the world before they could derive any value from not being of it."Read the Article Here!Jan 31, 202457:34Book Notice: Let's Talk About SeriesThis book notice by BYU studies editor Matthew B. Christensen explains the series of short books published by Deseret Books: The Let's Talk About series. This series examines interesting and difficult topics including: Let's Talk about Polygamy, Let's Talk about Religion and Mental Health, Let's Talk about the Book of Abraham, Let's Talk about Faith and Intellect, Let's Talk about the Law of Consecration, Let's Talk about Temples and Ritual, Let's Talk about Race and Priesthood, Let's Talk about the Translation of the Book of Mormon, and Let's Talk about Science and Religion. Each book in the series is written by a leading authority on their subject.Read the Book Notice Here!Jan 29, 202408:58A Close Look at Scriptural Teachings Regarding Jesus Feeling Our Pains as Part of His AtonementThis article, written by Scott C. Woodward, explores the scriptural evidence of Christ experiencing not only sin, but also individual physical and emotional pain as part of his Atonement. This is termed by Woodward as the "Empathetic Atonement." Although Woodward acknowledges that there is significant support for the fact that Christ does understand us perfectly, his analysis forwards the claim that the scriptures do not provide support that this was acquired through the act of the Atonement.CLICK HERE to read the article onlineOct 23, 202357:39Wild FruitIn this personal essay, Victoria Webb Rutherford shares her experience of fostering and adopting two boys who had suffered from complex trauma. She reflects on the challenges and joys of parenting children with unique challenges, and how her faith and family history helped her along the way. She also explores the meaning of grafting wild branches into a tame olive tree, as described in the Book of Mormon.This essay by Victoria Webb Rutherford received first place in the 2023 BYU Studies personal essay contest.You can read this personal essay for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/article/wild-fruit/Oct 05, 202319:53A Prophet’s Journey: The Journals of Spencer W. KimballThis article by Brandon J. Metcalf and Jeffery L. Anderson explores the life and legacy of President Spencer W. Kimball, the twelfth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His journals span decades and document his personal growth, his health challenges, his ministry as an Apostle and a prophet, and his role in some of the most significant events in Church history. His journals rank among the very best kept by Church leaders and compare in importance to the Wilford Woodruff journals. The Woodruff journals stand as an essential source for nineteenth-century Latter-day Saint history, just as the Kimball journals do for the twentieth century. Both journal collections compare not only in chronological length but also in detail, insight, and ability to capture the personalities of their authors.You can read this article for free at https://byustudies.byu.edu/article/a-prophets-journey/Oct 03, 202332:32“He Is God and He Is with Them”: Helaman 8:21–23 and Isaiah’s Immanuel Prophecy as a Thematic Scriptural Concept“He Is God and He Is with Them”: Helaman 8:21–23 and Isaiah’s Immanuel Prophecy as a Thematic Scriptural Concept by Matthew L. BowenHow does the Book of Mormon’s Immanuel Prophecy Connect the Nephites, the Mulochites, and Jesus Christ?The Book of Mormon contains many prophecies about the coming of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. One of these prophecies is the Immanuel prophecy from Isaiah 7:14, which was fulfilled in a miraculous way by Christ’s birth to a virgin. But did you know that this prophecy also had an earlier fulfillment in the eighth century BCE, when Isaiah promised that God would be with the house of David and protect them from their enemies? And did you know that this prophecy had implications for the Nephites and the Mulochites, who were descendants of King David through Zedekiah and his son Muloch? In this article, Matthew L. Bowen explores how the Immanuel prophecy and its meaning of “God with us” became a key theme in the Book of Mormon, especially in the writings of Nephi2 and in the account of Christ’s visit to the Americas. You will learn how the Book of Mormon shows that God was with his people in ancient times, and how he is still with us today through his Spirit and his covenant.Sep 22, 202301:24:50Book Notice: Perspectives on Latter-day Saint Names and Naming: Names, Identity, and BeliefThis book notice by BYU Studies editor, Matthew B. Christensen, examines the recent book edited by Dallin D. Oaks, Paul Baltes, and Kent Minson. The book is an exploration of the significance and practices surrounding names within the context of the faith and culture of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Read the book notice here.Sep 21, 202303:04Book Notice: Every Needful Thing: Essays on the Life of the Mind and the Heart, edited by Melissa Wei-Tsing Inouye and Kate HolbrookThis book notice is about "Every Needful Thing: Essays on the Life of the Mind and the Heart," which was edited by Melissa Wei-Tsing Inouye and Kate Holbrook. It is a collection of essays by Latter-day Saint women scholars from various disciplines and countries. The essays explore how writers balance their faith, scholarship, family, and community, and how they learn by both study and faith.Read Susan Elizabeth Howe's book notice, "Every Needful Thing: Essays on the Life of the Mind and the Heart, edited by Melissa Wei-Tsing Inouye and Kate Holbrook" on byustudies.byu.edu by clicking here.Sep 15, 202304:09After AngerA poem by Daniel Teichert. This poem won third place in the 2022 Clinton F. Larson Poetry Contest, sponsored by BYU Studies.To read the poem on our website, click here.Sep 14, 202302:14The Book of Mormon Art Catalog: A New Digital Database and Research ToolThe Book of Mormon Art Catalog is a digital database of over 3,000 images inspired by the Book of Mormon. It aims to recover the full history of art based on this book of scripture and inspire new and varied artistic production to further illuminate the scriptures and bring viewers closer to Christ.Sep 12, 202327:58Joseph Smith and the Mormons by Noah Van Sciver (book review)Scott Hales reviews Joseph Smith and the Mormons, a graphic novel by Noah Van Sciver. Of the book, he wrote, "While no reader may be wholly satisfied withJoseph Smith and the Mormons,the book is unquestionably a landmark text in Latter-day Saint literature—it is, perhaps, the best Mormon graphic novel to date—and an important touchstone in artistic representations of Joseph Smith."Sep 08, 202314:31Salad Days"Salad Days," is a poem by Alixa Brobbey. It won second place in the 2022 Clinton F. Larson Poetry Contest, sponsored by BYU Studies.Sep 07, 202302:01Charity as an Exegetical Principle in the Book of MormonCharity is more than a Christlike virtue we show towards others. It is a virtue we should employ in reading the scriptures as well. In his article "Charity as an Exegetical Principle in The Book of Mormon," Matthew Scott Stenson explains that when we read the scriptures with an open mind, real intent, and the love of God in our hearts, we are reading with charity as we are slow to judge and critique. He teaches us that while we need to be cautious of our own fallacies, we can learn to find more joy and receive unique revelation in the scriptures if we interpret with the Spirit of God.Sep 05, 202301:18:21Recorded in Heaven: The Testimonies of Len and Mary HopeThe testimonies of Len and Mary Hope are among the earliest audio-recorded testimonies of Black Latter-day Saints. In this article, learn more about these faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and how they came to be baptized.Sep 01, 202342:48
