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Without the Mormon Lens

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By Mason

    I have taken a bit of a different direction on this project. At the conclusion of  my most recent post, I was sitting down and going through some notes when it occurred to me that I want to make this project bigger and I don't really like the way my research is presented here. As such, I have stepped away from posting any additions to the Without a Mormon Lens series of articles and am opting instead to write it all out as a book. Whoo! 

    Please feel free to read what I have written so far on my blog. Some of what is here is going to end up in my book. Some won't. Consider this a partial really rough draft.  I will updated this page with additional information once the book has been published as well as where to find it, but I still have a lot of work ahead of me before it's wrapped up. Until then feel free to peruse this blog, or check out my list of reading suggestions if you want something fantastic to read.

    Thank you for your support, and if my book is taking to long to write, just nag me about it on Instagram and maybe consider buying me a coffee to keep those juices flowing.


Without the Mormon Lens


1 -Introduction

I introduce the inspiration for the project.


2 - Changing our Perspective

The idea that deconstruction begins with an openness to fresh perspective, a different lens.


3 - And it Came to Pass

We discuss the Chronicle of the Kings of England


4 -Biblical America

The early fascination of Americans and Biblical language.

See Also:

 A Covenant People - 1: Magnalia Christi Americana


5-Re-contexualization

A brief discussion on a contemporary to the Book of Mormon and its potential literary influence.


5.1 - Consider the Preface

Some additional thoughts on the title page and content of the Book of Mormon


6 - I Nephi

We discuss Nephi's introduction and its potential tie to American history.


7- Lehi

The character of Lehi begins to take shape.


8- The Exodus Begins

The prophet Lehi takes on the role of Moses.


9- Lucy's Dream

We consider Lucy Mack Smith's influence on Joseph Smiths religious and secular education.


10 - Be Strong and of a Good Courage

We are brought back to Nephi and his parallels to Joshua


11 - The First Return to Jerusalem 

Nephi and his bothers return to Jerusalem. Laman is sent in to ask Laban for the plates.

Parallel the to spies sent by Moses to survey the land of Canaan


12 - Attempt to Buy the Brass Plates

Nephi and his brothers offer gold and silver and precious things in exchange for the plates

Events are similar to interactions with the people of Ai as well as more murmurings from the Israelites



Nephi slays Laban

Compared to Joshua conquering the promised land


14 - Zoram

Zoram follows Nephi into the wilderness
Compare to the Gideonites following Joshua



Nephi and his brothers give the plates to Lehi
Compare to Moses' directions to the Israelites in Deuteronomy

...

 - This page will be updated as we continue through our study -

Have you learned a lot from what I've had to share?

Consider buying me a coffee!





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