Key Points

The Making of a Prophet

This book examines the early life of Joseph Smith and his journey to becoming a prophet. It explores his religious convictions, involvement in treasure seeking, and family dynamics, offering a fresh perspective on his motivations.

Want to understand the complexities of Joseph Smith's early life? Curious about the cultural and spiritual influences that shaped him? Eager to dive into the psyche of a founder of a major religious movement?

Core Content:

1. Smith was a "pious deceiver" or "sincere fraud."

He genuinely believed in his divine calling but occasionally engaged in fraudulent activities to effectively preach God's word.

2. Smith's inner moral conflicts should be explored.

Smith recorded his inner thoughts and prayers, revealing a spiritual dimension to his character that cannot be ignored.

3. Smith's treasure seeking activities were significant.

He was a leader among treasure seers and used the same seer stone for both treasure seeking and translating the Book of Mormon.

4. Unconscious delusion is a possible explanation.

Smith may have been a victim of his own delusions, genuinely believing he was receiving revelations that originated in his subconscious.

5. Smith may have been both convinced and deceptive.

He might have sincerely believed in his ability to see treasures but also provided additional proof through nefarious means to satisfy followers or silence enemies.

Q&A:

Q: What is the "pious deceiver" theory?

A: The "pious deceiver" theory suggests that Joseph Smith was genuinely religious but occasionally used deception to effectively preach God's word.

Q: Why is Smith's involvement in treasure seeking important?

A: Smith was a leader among treasure seers, and he used the same seer stone for both treasure seeking and translating the Book of Mormon, suggesting a connection between the two activities.

Q: What is the unconscious fraud theory?

A: This theory suggests that Smith may have been a victim of his own delusions, genuinely believing he was receiving revelations that originated in his subconscious.

Q: What does the book suggest about Smith's family dynamics?

A: The book argues that Smith's family, particularly his parents, were dysfunctional, and that Smith's religious career was, in part, an attempt to resolve family conflict.

Target Audience

This book is intended for readers interested in Mormon history, religious studies, and 19th-century American history. It appeals to those seeking a critical and in-depth examination of Joseph Smith's life and the origins of Mormonism. The book is suitable for scholars, students, and general readers with an interest in religious history and biography. It offers a balanced and nuanced perspective on a complex and controversial figure, encouraging readers to consider the various interpretations of Smith's actions and claims. The book is also relevant to those interested in the history of folk magic, treasure seeking, and the occult in 19th-century America.

Author Background

Dan Vogel is an independent historian specializing in early Mormon history. He is known for his critical approach and extensive research into primary source documents. Vogel's work often explores the complexities and controversies surrounding Joseph Smith and the origins of Mormonism. He is the author and editor of several books and articles on the subject, contributing to a deeper understanding of the historical context and personalities involved.

Historical Context

The book is set against the backdrop of 19th-century America, a period marked by religious revivals, social change, and westward expansion. The Second Great Awakening, a Protestant religious movement, swept through the country, leading to the emergence of new denominations and religious leaders. This era was also characterized by a fascination with folk magic, treasure seeking, and the occult. These elements influenced Joseph Smith's early life and the development of his religious ideas. The book explores the historical context of the Book of Mormon's creation, including the social and intellectual currents that shaped its content and message.

Joseph Smith: The Making of a Prophet (A Biography)