What Is The Book Of Mormon?

Moroni hiding the Golden Plates from enemies.

I've heard and read lots of descriptions of the Book of Mormon or parts of it.  Some of the most inaccurate descriptions come from those who have never read it beyond a few cherry-picked verses taken out of context, but still want to assure you they're positive it is something evil.

It's not possible to draw that conclusion by reading it yourself.  However, some try to cast such dark aspersions on it, that you'll never venture.

I loved President Eyrings short description of the Book of Mormon last October during Worldwide General Conference.

He said:

"It can draw you closer to God than any other book. It can change a life for the better. I urge you to do what a missionary companion of mine did. He had run away from home as a teenager, and someone had placed a Book of Mormon in a box he carried with him in his search for more happiness."

"Years passed. He moved from place to place across the world. He was alone and unhappy one day when he saw the box. The box was filled with things he had carried with him. At the bottom of the box, he found the Book of Mormon. He read the promise in it and tested it. He knew it was true. That witness changed his life. He found happiness beyond his fondest dreams."

"Your copy of the Book of Mormon may be hidden from your view by cares and attention to all you have accumulated in your journey. I plead with you to drink deeply and often from its pages. It has in it the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the only way home to God."

"I leave you my sure witness that God lives and will answer your prayers. Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. The Book of Mormon is a true and sure witness that He lives, that He is our resurrected and living Savior."

"The Book of Mormon is a precious witness. I now leave with you my witness in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen."

The principal and primary purpose of the Book of Mormon is to testify of Jesus Christ. It mentions the Lord every 2.7 verses on average.  It is a wonderful text.  I hope you have the chance to judge it personally some day, without the agenda of distractors.

You can read it online or get a copy here.