Contributing writer at Life After Ministries blog posits the following question in their latest post: Where are the Gold Plates? The writer quotes from Bruce R. McConkie's Mormon Doctrine. Along with quoting from Mormon Doctrine, a quote from Ephesians 4:14 follows with a brief commentary:
There's not a shred of evidence these plates let alone the angel Moroni ever existed except in the mind of Joseph Smith.
Sadly, the Mormon people will never see those plates to prove the existence of their god or even the ancient inhabitants of Mesoamerica. Unlike all the archaeological evidence that have been unearthed showing the existence of cities and people from the bible, nothing has ever been found to back up the stories in the Book of Mormon - not even a pottery shard.
The writer goes on and cites 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 and states how they are praying each and every day the eyes of the Mormon people will be opened to receive the truth that's already been presented to them in the Bible.
Life After Ministry begs the question in their post. Despite this, it's a question our critics typically ask. Unfortunately, it is a loaded question with an implication that there is no archaeological evidence to support the existence of such plates. Given the fact that the plates Joseph Smith received to translate are central to the Book of Mormon and the foundation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Upon completion of the translation, Joseph Smith returned the plates back to the Angel Moroni. While critics question the existence of these plates, the testimony and witnesses and their spiritual significance remain pivotal for Latter-day Saint faith. My attempt, in this post, is to respectfully address Life After Ministry's critique, highlighting faith, historical context, and reason the plates' physical location should not overshadow their divine purpose.
Understanding the Role of the Gold Plates
Joseph Smith proclaimed how the Book of Mormon is the keystone of the Restored Gospel. In his June 26, 1997, address for new mission presidents (published in the July 2020 edition of the New Era), Elder Jeffrey R. Holland shares this:
It is impossible to overstate the role that the Book of Mormon has played from the beginning of this dispensation - and the role it will continue to play as the basic declaration of the truthfulness of the Gospel as restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith.
In his book titled Christ and the New Covenant, Elder Holland shares this:
The Prophet Joseph's expression that the Book of Mormon is 'the keystone of our religion' is a profound and crucial observation. A keystone is positioned at the uppermost center of an arch in such a way as to hold all the other stones in place. That key piece, if removed, will bring all of the other blocks crashing down with it. The truthfulness of the Book of Mormon - its origins, its doctrines, and the circumstances of its coming forth - is central to the truthfulness of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Central to the Book of Mormon and the foundation of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is Joseph Smith's account of receiving these gold plates. For Latter-day Saints, they are not merely artifacts - they are symbols of divine purpose and faith. To better address the question posited by the writer at Life After Ministry - Where are the Gold Plates? - it is quite essential to comprehend both their historical role and their enduring signifiance within the Latter-day Saint faith.
Historical Background of the Gold Plates
Joseph Smith provides a detailed account of receiving the gold plates. According to this narrative, he recounts a visitation by Moroni that began in 1823. In this vision - the Angel Moroni - revealed the location of the plates, buried in a stone box on a hill in Manchester, New York. Joseph Smith described these plates as appearing to be golden, bound by rings, and engraved in what is called reformed Egyptian. And that these plates contained the history and account of Ancient American civilizations.
The narrative describes how Smith had to return to the place annually for four years and receive instructions from Moroni. A time of spiritual preperation for before retreiving the gold plates.
Steven C. Harper provides insight from Joseph's Manuscript History and how the narrative is terse:
"Here Joseph's Manuscript History is terse: "I made an attempt to take them out, but was forbidden by the messenger" (Joseph Smith - History 1:53). That account was composed after a high tide of persecution and "many reports ... put in circulation by evil-disposed and designing persons" (Joseph Smith - History 1:1). Perhaps because of that opposition, Joseph minimized in his Manuscript History parts of the story that could be weaponized against him, including the covetousness Moroni warned him about. According to his brief 1832 autobiography, Joseph, "cried unto the Lord in the agony of my soul why can I not obtain them [the plates]." Moroni appeared and answered,
"You have not kept the commandments of the Lord which I gave unto you therefore you cannot now obtain them for the time is not yet fulfilled therefore thou was left unto temptation that thou mightest be made accquainted of with the power of the advisary therefore repent and call on the Lord thou shalt be forgiven and in his own due time thou shalt obtain them for now I had been tempted by the advisary and saught the Plates to obtain riches and kept not the conndame[n]t that I should have an eye single to the Glory of God therefore I was chastened and saught diligently to obtain the plates"
Harper further observed, based on insights from Joseph Knight, that receiving the plates was contigent on Joseph Smith's choice to "do right according to the will of God" within the next year, "he never would have them". Harper further states that the receiving of the plates depended on how well Joseph Smith responded to the messages God sent him through the messenger named Moroni.
It was on September 1827, where the Angel Moroni entrusted Joseph Smith with the plates. Per Harper's observation:
In September 1827, Joseph Smith, still far from perfect, had become not only willing but also able to make his eye single to God's glory and to become a choice seer and a great benefit to his fellow beings. Through sore temptations, difficult decisions, and repeated chastening by an angel, he had reached a turning point in his prophetic life. President Dallin H. Oaks described this process: "line upon line, young Joseph Smith expanded his faith and understanding and his spiritual gifts matured until he stood with power and stature as the Prophet of the Restoration (Recent Events Involving Church History and Forged Documents," Ensign, October 1987, p. 69).
Upon receiving these plates, Joseph Smith was able to translate them with teh assistance of a seer stone, dictating the text that would become the Book of Mormon to scribes.
The translation process was remarkable due to the claim of divine assistance and the witnesses attested to the plates physical existence. Eleven individuals signed testimonies regarding the witness of not only the plates, the translation process. Once the translation process was complete, Joseph Smith returned the plates to Moroni, and according to Joseph Smith's narrative, took them back to heaven for safe keeping. This signified the understanding that these plates were not intended to be perpetual but as a temporary vessel for unveiling sacred scripture.
Symbolism of the Plates in Latter-day Saint Faith
It is quite important to move beyond the physical object and delve into the symbolic significance of the Gold Plates to Latter-day Saint Christians. These plates symbolize and ground the profound work and mission of Joseph Smith's prophetic call and the Restoration of the Gospel of Christ. A profound and significant work that brought forth new scripture as another testament of Jesus Christ, his mission, purpose, and the atonement to where humanity may receive grace, forgiveness, and redemption.
The gold plates bridge modern believers to ancient prophets and their teachings. Such teachings preserved by divine intervention across centuries. Their narrative echoes broader biblical themes regardign sacred records. Take for example the tablets of Moses or the Ark of the Covenant, which were similarly temporary yet holding deep symbolism. The plates were not meant to be tangible relic for modern scrutiny; rather, they provide a framework in understanding Joseph Smith's divine mission.
Another aspect of the plates is how they challenge faith and spark introspection among people who are honest and judicious in reading the Book of Mormon. Take for instance the account of the disciple Thomas who doubted the testimony of the other ten disciples regarding the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Fahter hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive the Holy Ghost: Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sinsye retain, they are retained. But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saithin he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and trhust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and My God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, htou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, yet have believed. (John 20:19-29, KJV)
Jesus Christ offered tremendous mercy and grace toward Thomas when he appeared a second time to the disciples. Knowing Thomas desired evidence of his resurrection, he confronted Thomas's doubts. What makes this significant is what Christ said regarding those who are blessed because their faith is not based on material evidence. Today, even the resurrection of Christ is challenged and criticized where the claim argues that there is no evidence exists of a physical resurrection. Yet, as Paul argued in 1 Corinthians 15, Christ's resurrection is the keystone to the Christian faith - without it - one's faith is in vain and useless (cf 1 Corinthians 15:12-19, KJV).
For us today - Christ is expressing that we are to stop doubting and believe the testimony of the Holy Spirit and the confirmation and testimony of others without prejudice and condemnation. Yet, it is our critics who want to sow doubt, cause confusion, and attempt to undermine the testimony and faith of Latter-day Saints. Therefore, the absence of the physical plates is only concerning for our critics who lack faith and understanding of God's plan for humanity. For Latter-day Saints, we are trusting in the spiritual evidence and personal witness of those who read, ponder, and live out the principles taught within the Book of Mormon. This also includes a testimony of Joseph Smith, the reality of the plates whereby Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon, and being transformed by the reading and studying of this sacred record. A transformation sparked by the true value of what lies in its message of hope - that Jesus is the Christ and through him, one receives grace, redemption, and salvation. Not through the bases of material evidence of whether or not the plates exist.
Additionally, many Christians place their faith - not in material evidence - they place their faith in spiritual affirmation and testimonies without physical evidence. Such is the case in trusting and believing that Christ truly rose from the dead physically. Given the reality there is no actual material or archaeological evidence suggesting the reality of a physical resurrection - only the testimonies of those who experienced such an event.
Addressing the Criticisms of Life After Ministry's Post
It is not uncommon for Latter-day Saints to read or hear criticisms regarding the narrative of the gold plates, the translation, and the narrative of Angel Moroni's visitation. Like many other counter-cult ministry groups, Life After Ministry consistently raise the same arguments, challenging the existence of the plates, reality of the Angel Moroni's visitation to Joseph Smith, and even questioning and criticizing the translation process of the Book of Mormon. Typically, they fall on the argument regading the lack of archaeological evidence to support the authenticity and historocity of the Book of Mormon. Let's examine the key issues the writer of the post Where are they Gold Plates? and see if they provide sound and reasonable objections.
Critique of the Plates Existence
Life After Ministry, like all other critics of the Latter-day Saint Christian Faith, claim that the plates were fabricated. This is typically assumed by citing absence of any phyiscal evidence. This dismissive attitude ignores the wealth of historical testimonies from those closest to Joseph Smith. Specifically, the eleven witnesses who publicly confirmed seeing or handling the plates.
Their testimonies are not vague or ambigious. Each individual gave witness to specific aspects of the plates description, engravings with intricate characters, and the gold-like appearance. Martin Harris faced faced personal and public ridicule for his testimony and declaration. Yet, he stood by his own personal testimony without waver or doubt. Such consistency among the witnesses, despite moments of personal apostasy and estrangement from Joseph Smith - adds substantial credibility. It begs the question: are all these accounts easily dismissed as conspiracy or delusional? It's a question our critics attempt to reason out.
Such fabrication theory does not hold when one considers the context of America in the 1820's. Ability to produce intricately engraved, metallic plates takes considerable skill, time, energy, and significant resources. Let alone - ability to do so secretively without anyone noticing. Such an advanced understanding of metallurgy, ancient languages, and significant resources was something Joseph Smith lacked.
Another issue is the narrative of what happened when Joseph Smith received the plates from the Angel Moroni. This account is recorded in Saints, Volume 1: 31-44. His story of Moroni's visitation and the nature of supposed gold plates seemed to be in circulation. If, according to the writer at Life After Ministry, that the visitation of Moroni and the Gold Plates merely existed in the mind of Joseph Smith, how is it that many wanted to seek out the plate for themselves, or even chased Joseph Smith through the woods:
After the fall harvest, Josiah Stowell and Joseph Knight traveled to the Manchester area on business. Both men knew that the fourth anniversary of Joseph's visit to the hill was at hand, and they were eager to know whether Moroni would finally trust him with the plates.
Local treasure seekers also knew it was time for Joseph to get the record. Lately one of them, a man named Samuel Lawerance, had been roaming the hill, searching for the plates. Worried that Samuel would cause trouble, Joseph sent his father to Samuel's house on the evening of September 21 to keep an eye on him and confront him if it looked like he was going to the hill.
Joseph then readied himself to retrieve the plates. His yearly visit to the hill was to take place the next day, but to keep ahead of the treasure seekers, he planned to arrive at the hill shortly after midnight - just as the morning of September 22 was beginning - when no one expected him to be out.
But he still needed to find a way to project the plates once he got them. After most of the family had gone to bed, he quietly asked his mother if she had a lockbox. Lucy did not have one and got worried.
What is interesting is that Emma went with Joseph and waited in the carriage while he went to retrieve the plates from the Angel Moroni. Upon the angelic visitation and retrieving the plates - Joseph was reminded to show the plates to no one except those the Lord appointed, promising him that the plates would be protected if he did all within his power ot preserve them.
According to the narrative:
"You will have to be watchful and faithful to your trust," Moroni told him, "or yu will be overpowered by wicked men, for they will lay every plan and scheme that is possible to get them away from you. And if you do not take heed continually, they will succeed."
Joseph carried the plates down the hill, but before he reched the carriage, he secured them in a hollow log where they would be safe until he obtained a lockbox. He then found Emma, and they returned home as the sun began to rise.
It was not until after Joseph Smith was able to retrieve and bring the plates home that treasure seekers attempted to steal the plates from him. Further narrative and historical records show that Joseph Smith consistently moved the plates around, hiding them from potential treasure seekers and curious neighbors.
What is telling is that if the plates and Moroni's various visitations were merely of Joseph Smith's fabrication and imagination - as the writer at Life After Ministries attempts to concude - how is it that treasure seekers and curious individuals consistently sought them out, requesting to pay in order to see them? One may argue that the motivations were to prove the plates existence - however, given the study of these historical narratives - those who sought out the plates were desiring to get gain from them. Something Moroni counseled Joseph Smith to avoid personally - and reason he had to meet annually for four years before retrieving them.
No one will consistently go after someone, or something of value, if they did believe such items did not exist. Imagine telling people you have something of great value at home and it sparks interest of many people to seek it out; mainly to take it for themselves. Those individuals will not spend time and energy to consistently come after you if there was no sustenance of truth to one's claim.
The Question of Archaeological Evidence
Another, albeit recurring, criticism is when they highlight the lack of archaeological evidence for the gold plates. The rests on the presupposition that the plates never actually existed. Either that, or no ancient civizilation wrote on any metal plates, especially gold like plates. However, archaeology is not always capable of providing absolute answers. In fact, the lack of archaeological evidence is not unique to the Book of Mormon.
When critics present the argument that there is a lack of, or zero archaeological, evidence to support the people, places, or even events written in the Book of Mormon (let alone the existence of the plates); it is always compared to the Bible and how it is supported by archaeology:
Sadly, the Mormon people will never see those plates to prove the existence of their god or even the ancient inhabitants of Mesoamerica. Unlike all the archaeological evidence that have been unearthed showing the existence of cities and people from the bible, nothing has ever been found to back up the stories in the Book of Mormon - not even a pottery shard.
There are two problems with this assumption. First, it negates an understanding of how archaeology actually works within a defined framework as it relates to the investigation and discovery of artifacts associated with ancient civilizations and people. Second, any evidence discovered within specific time periods does not transform to acceptance and belief. Here is what Faithful Answers, Informed Response (FAIR) shares:
Some people might suggest that finding the existence of horses or chariots would constitute proof for the Book of Mormon. This is doubtful. Finding such items would merely demonstrate that such things existed in the ancient New World, and while such discoveries may be consistent with the Book of Mormon, they hardly amount to "proof".
Another issue with the critic's argument, resting upon the idea that archaeology may prove the authenticity of the Book of Mormon, is that any evidence providing support is categorically dismissed. Instead, critics tend to move the goalposts in an ongoing discussion. Critics will change the rules and requirements as to what is acceptable archaeological evidence. By doing this, the critic hopes to present a situation where it is difficult answer their demands for evidence.
Not only do critics dismiss any plausible corrolation that offers credibility to the authenticity of the Book of Mormon, move the goalpost in what is deemed acceptable and irrefutable proof to the authenticity of the Book of Mormon, they tend to compare that the Bible has strong archaeological evidence to support it as authentic and true. From the plethora of New Testament manuscripts, to archaeological evidence supporting specific people, places, and even events written in the Bible. This type of argument is a blanket statement without sufficient understanding.
Understanding Archaeology and the Bible
First, critics make the assumption that all evidence, without question, is validation and proof of the Bible. However, they tend to forget that there is diverse interpretations regarding any archaeological findings related to the Bible. These findings may be interpreted differently by scholars that lead toward varying conclusions as to their relevance to the Biblical text. Where some scholars may see supportive evidence, others may view the same evidence as either inconclusive or contradictory.
Second, critics fail to understand the scope of the Bible when it comes to the broad range of historical, geographical, and cultural contexts that take place over centuries of the Ancient Near East. While there is strong evidence to support certain Biblical narratives, there is also less conclusive or no evidence supporting other Biblical narratives.
Third, concerns the very nature of evidence itself. Granted, archaeological evidence confirms the existence of places, people, or events mentioned within the Biblical text, however, it does not necessarily provide exact validation regarding theological or miraculous narrative details. While archaeological evidence provides historical accuracy of King David as a real person, the same evidence does not sufficiently affirm all biblical accounts involving him.
What this means is that archeology does exist to confirm over 50 individuals within given Biblical narratives. This includes kings and other officials. Along with this comes the historical accuracy regarding geography, customs, and identifiable historical figures. Regardless, significant portions of biblical narratives are less documented or non-existence. Take for instance the exact location of the Garden of Eden. While some assume probably locations within the Ancient Near East, no real archaeological evidence exists of an Angel standing guard with a flaming sword protecting the tree of life. Yet, many faithful Christians accept this without evidence.
Another example is the lack of evidence supporting a mass migration of a people from Egypt to the land of Canaan. According to the biblical narrative, it is estimated that 2 million Israelites left Egypt and journeyed into the Sinai desert under Moses. Certainly, if we accept the argument that the Bible has sufficient evidence to support it as credible and authentic - one certainly will find evidence to support such a mass migration. Unfortunately, there is no documented evidence supporting such a mass migration - given that a generation of Israelites had to pass away prior to the people were allowed to enter into Canaan.
Are we to consider that because there is a lack of evidence regarding such a mass migration that the Biblical narrative is to be dismissed? Furthermore, there is no sufficient evidence to prove that Egypt enslaved Hebrew people for 400 years. This is based on the following factors:
- Chronology: Different scholars debate the exact timeline of Hebrew enslavement, and the mass exodus, at differing periods. This timeline ranges from the Middle Kingdom to the New Kingdom.
- Archaeological Records: Direct archaeological evidence to support Ancient Hebrews to ancient Egypt as slaves, and time period of enslavement, is scant. Out of the abundance of Egyptian records discovered and trasnslated - none have distinct and clear documentation of an enslavement of people identifiable as Hebrews.
- City of Ramses and Pithom: The Biblical narrative explicitly mentions that the enslaved Hebrews built the store cities of Pithom and Ramses. It is assumed that this is connected to Pharaoh Ramesses II, suggesting a New Kingdom timeline for Hebrew enslavement. Yet, out of the abundance of archaeological evidence of Egypt - there is no direct support of Hebrews being enslaved and building these cities.
- Semites in Egypt: The discovery of the Brooklyn Papyrus lists several Semetic slaves in Egypt. Along with this, there is evidence of various Semetic peoples in Egypt working in a variety of capacities - which includes labor. Given this, the question is whether or not these Semetic people are Hebrew or another Semetic group.
- Plagues of Egypt: Probably one of the other distinct features of Hebrew enslavement and mass exodus is the divine plagues of Egypt. According to the Biblical Narrative, YHWH, through Moses, divinely interevened with a various plagues as judgment against Pharaoh. There are some who argue that these plagues were not divine in nature - and are a result of natural phenomena and natural disaster. From the Nile turning red due to a specific algea that resulted in the frogs, flies, and lice. These plagues resulted in pestilence and toxic bacteria that caused boils. As for the hail, locusts, and darkness - it is believed that a volcano, Thera, of the Mediterranean islands of Santorini, erupted 3500 years ago. One of the biggest volcanic eruptions (referred to as a plinial eruption) in human history. As a result, it impacted climate, caused the growth of locusts due to atmospheric release of water, and subsequent darkness due to the ash cloud blocking out the sunlight. Evidence for this is pumice found during excavations of Egyptian ruins despite there not being any volcanoes in Egypt. Analysis of the pumice shows the origination is the Santorini Volcano and the fallout having reached Egyptian shores.
- Pillar of Cloud by Day - Pillar of Fire by Night: Another aspect of the Exodus narrative is that the Israelites were guided by a pillar of cloud and fire. Again, scholars suggest that this was not something of divine nature. Instead, some suggest that the Israelites wandered the desert because they were following an actual volcano erupting - and it is suggested that this volcano was Mount Sinai. The very mountain Moses led Israelites too and then ascended to receive the commendments from God.
Point here is to show the incongruence of applying Biblical Archaeology as an end-all consensus for supporting the Bible as credible and then compare such evidence against the Book of Mormon. Doing so is intellectually dishonest. Holding to strict adherence to an archeological argument - our critics, who claim to be faithful Christians, ought to concede to dismiss certain Biblical narratives as false.
Again, due to lack of or no evidence to support those narratives. Critics are unwilling to use the same logic and criticism. For them, to deny certain biblical narratives entails to deny the inerrant and infallible word of God. It is an issue of black and white rigid thinking. Either the Bible is true and supported by archaeological evidence or it is entirely false where there is no archaeological evidence to support the totality of the Bible. It all comes down to faith without evidence.
Essentially, they have to concede the following:
- Biblical narrative of the geographical location of the Garden of Eden is ambiguous and no evidence presents a real paradasical garden with an Angel standing guard holding a flaming sword - therefore the Bible is false
- No physical or archaeological evidence exist of a Semitic Hebrew people were enslaved by Egypt and their mass exodus. Thus, the Bible is not credible and the story is fictitious.
- No physical evidence exist of people coming back to life after being in the grave for some time and most likely a concoction of literary ingenuity.
Here is an interesting note: mentioning this to critics as a response to their notion that becuase there is a lack of or no evidence to substantiate the Book of Mormon - they always fall on the sword of "you are attacking the authenticity of the Bible and deny its infallibity and truth" They do not realize that it is employing the very logic and criticsm used to dismiss and deny the authenticity of the Book of Mormon. In other words - they don't apply the same standard and logic in criticizing the Bible and the narratives contained therein.
Ancient Metallurgical and the Plates
The unique challenge the gold plates present correlates to their preservation and history. If, according to Latter-day Saint belief, the plates were returned to the angel Moroni - upon Joseph Smith's purpose in translating the record - then it becomes a moot point searching for physical remnants. Despite this, critics focus on wanting substantial evidence, that through divine design, was never intended to remain. Regardless, even if the records existed - the question remains - will critics still accept Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon as authentic and credible? Most likely not.
One of the inherint difficulties associated with archaeological evidence and the gold plates is the nature in how ancient metallurgical artifacts are discovered. This is true when one considers areas without persistent excavation or in areas where errosion occurs due to certain climate. There are numerous civilizations that have passed where there is no written or recorded history. One reason may be do to assimiliation of cultures from one people group into another. Take for instance when the Conquestador's arrived to the New World. From historical records, one of the things that the conquestador's did was destroy the records of the people they encountered. Another is the renaming of certain areas from native languges and tongues to Spanish names.
The battle of Tenochtitlan (May 22-August 13, 1521) involved the Spanish army and indigenous allies coming against the Aztecs under Hernan Cortez. Tenochtitlan was renamed to Mexico and the colonization of Mesoamerica by Spanish conquistadors became New Spain.
Spanish conquestadors and Catholic priests who were present also burned many pre-Columbian codices as part of their efforts to destroy indigenous culutre and convert native peoples to Christianity. Much of these codices were made of bark paper or deerskin and painted with elaborate images and texts, recorded the history, beliefs, and customs of the Aztecs, Maya,s and other Mesoamerican civilizations. Reason for the Spainards burning these records was an attempt to eradicate the native religion and replace it with Christianity.
Destruction of ancient pre-Columbian codices resulted in the loss of valuable information of the indigenous culture. Not only that - it also had long lasting effects in how we are able to understand the historical culture and narratives of these civilizations.
The Catholic priests who accompanied the Spanish Conquestadors saw these codices as works of the devil and sought to destroy them in order to eradicate the native religion and replace it with Christianity.
The Spainards also saw the destruction of the codices as a way to assert their dominance and control over the native peoples and to demonstrate their superiority of Spanish culture and religion.
Destroying these records was not only a tragedy for the descendants of ancient Aztec, Mayan, and Inca cultures - it became a tragedy for humanity as a whole.
Along with the Spainards and Catholic priests destroying records, there was also the issue of taking metal artifacts, specifically anything gold, and melted down. Part of this was sent back to the Spanish Monarch as tax, and others were supposedly given as gifts to appease the Spainards. No one knows exactly how much and what type of gold artifacts Spainards taken and melted down.
Regardless, it comes back to the nature of faith. Not one that is based on evidence or archaeological evidence. It is a system of belief without evidence. Archaeology may help complement our understanding of historical cultures and people of ancient and sacred texts; it does not dictate spiritual truths. Essentially, critics asking for evidence for the existence of the gold plates to prove the authenticity of Joseph Smith's account and message of the Book of Mormon is misplaced and arrogant. The plates' divine purpose served as a medium to deliver the Book of Mormon's teachings - as another testament of Christ - and not an eternal exhibit for skeptical and critical eyes.
Evidence of Ancient Metal Plates Support Joseph Smith's Narrative
Critic's questioning, and skepticism, of the gold plates may cause some to experience a faith crisis. Questioning Joseph Smith's account and experience with the Angel Moroni and even questioning the 11 witnesses' testimony. However, there is an interesting aspect worth exploring regarding archaeology and evidence for metal plates. Ancient records written on metal plates, and preserved in peculiar ways, is not something of speculation and fanciful imagination. There is real, documented archaeological discoveries that parallel Joseph Smith's narrative of metal plates with ancient writings. This offers significant context to the plausibility of the Book of Mormon being of ancient origin and not a 19th century construct.
Discoveries of Metal Records in Antiquity
The Darius plates from Persia stand out as a prime example of metal plates inscribed with writing. Unearthed from the Achaemenid Empire, these artifacts were made of gold and silver, inscribed with royal decrees and dated approximately around the 6th century BCE - roughly around the same time as Nephi records making his records on metal plates. These plates are described as being bound by metal rings, thin in metal, with small iconographic engravings that comprise 6 metal sheets.
Bronze plates from the Temple Dodona in ancient Greece have inscribed prophetic inscriptions. And lead plates recently found in Jordan, bearing inscriptions thought to date back to early Christianity. In fact, pre-Columbian copper and gold plates have been uncovered, particularly in the Andean and Mesoamerican sites.
What these findings suggest is that there is a demonstrative history where durable materials like metal were used in preserving sacred or legal texts as part of ancient practices. So, when critics attempt to argue that there exists an "unlikelihood" of Joseph Smith's claims, it is worth asking - are they ignoring or dismissing archaeological and historical precedence related to the discoveries of metal plates?
Use of Stone Boxes in Ancient Cultures
When Joseph Smith was guided to the Hill Cumorah - he describes the plates, and other artifacts, hidden in a stone box. Something that may sound strange to 19th-century perspective and understanding. However, archaeological evidence suggests that Joseph Smith's description of a stone box is nothing new in Ancient cultural context. Stone boxes, or other similar enclosures, were frequently used to protect sacred or valuable items from decay. The Darius plates mentioned earlier were not merely laying around - they were stored in a sealed stone container, designed to last for centuries.
While not contained in stone box, the Dead Sea Scrolls were placed in clay and stone jars and hidden in desert caves. And the Ugaritic texts, written on clay tablets (while not metal plates) were only discovered in a tomb by a farmer in Ras Shamra. This discovery was in 1928, predating the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls between 1946 and 1956.
The practicality of stone containers rests on the knowledge of protection and preservation of ancient records. Protection and preservation from water, pests, and natural erosion. This begs the question - why wouldn't the gold plates benefit from the same kind of preservation? Such notion aligns well with what we know about ancient societies and their methods of safeguarding knowledge.
Durability and Practicality of God Plates
Utilizing gold as a metal for recording important texts suggests its durability and practicality. God was not merely valued for its unique physical properties; it makes for a logical choice for recording important texts. Consider the Voyager Golden Record that contains 117 images and a variety of sounds. Selected by a committee headed up by Carl Sagen for NASA, this intergalactic "message in a bottle" is a 12-inch phonograph record that is gold plated copper disk. I mention this due to the practicality and durability of recording text.
Unlike other metals, gold resists tarnish, oxidation, and corrosion. Additionally, its malleability allows for detailed engraving, making gold an ideal medium in preserving intricate writings.
Despite this, critics often dismiss the idea of gold plates as impractical. One such impractical criticism is the false notion that critics presume that the plates Joseph Smith described present an implausibility of being carried, running from individuals seeking to obtain them. They argue that such an artifact may weigh up to 200 plus pounds. They infer that the plates were made of pure gold.
Herein lies the issue - they dismiss the narrative that most likely refers to the gold plates as being gold in appearance yet made of some metal alloy with gold covering. Most likely a copper alloy. Again, the Voyager Gold Record is not actually pure gold, it is a copper alloy with gold covering. And contrary to critics claim of the gold plates - if they existed by their assertion - weighing around 200 some pounds; realistically, the plates most likely weighed around 40-60 lbs.
Regardless, another issue critics dismiss is the rich symbolic meaning. In ancient texts and cultures, gold symbolized divinity, purity, and eternal value. Considering the sacred intent of the plates, a reasonable understanding is that the plates were preserved because of the sacred nature contained within them.
Logical Fallacies in Anti-Latter-day Saint Arguments
One of the common aspects of the argument's critics, like the writer at Life After Ministries, presents is a logical fallacy called argument from silence. A type of argument where an inference is made that because there appears to be absence of any statements or historical documentation - the event or fact is not true. This implication where the lack of evidence of the plates, or historical and archaeological evidence proves that the Book of Mormon is not credible, and Joseph Smith is supposedly a fraud.
Another fallacy utilized by critics, and evident in the post by Life After Ministries, is one called false dilemma or false dichotomy. Here, critics assume that because there is a lack of evidence supporting the historicity of the Book of Mormon is false; they turn and argue that the Bible is supported by historical, archaeological, and other supporting evidence.
Arguing from silence and false dilemma fallacies is utilized to dismiss the wealth of historical testimonies of those individuals closest to Joseph Smith. It also pits the need to have physical and material evidence before believing something to be true over faith. The reality is that nowhere is it prescribed that a person needs to have physical and material evidence prior to believing something to be true or not. In fact, to make such an assumption undermines the reality of individuals testimony. Meaning, if one requires a physical manifestation of Christ having been physically resurrected prior to believing in God and seeking redemption and salvation - most people will not come to faith and follow Christ. This is exactly the argument used by critics like Life After Ministries - in order to believe the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith's account of the Angel Moroni's visitation and receiving the plates from him - they need to see physical evidence.
It also begs the question - even if there exists substantial archaeological evidence, evidence of the plates very existence - does not necessitate a movement to accept it faithfully. Individuals will always attempt to find a way to dismiss and discredit such evidence.
Lastly, the argument that the Angel Moroni and the plates themselves being fabricated by Joseph Smith, does not hold up when an honest examination of the context of the 1820's of America is considered. For instance, to produce intricately engraved, metallic plates of this size requires advanced knowledge and understanding of metallurgy, access to significant resources, and dedicated time. All maintaining a high level of secrecy. All of which Joseph Smith lacked at that time. Applying standard rules of logic exposes the inconvenient truth regarding our critic's claims. Namely, their premise and arguments fall short and are intellectually dishonest. Exposing them to be lacking credibility and integrity.
Strawmanning Latter-day Saint Doctrine
Another fallacy critics, like Life After Ministry, consistently employ is creating a straw man argument. They do this in a manner that distorts and presents a bias and prejudicial version of the beliefs in order to easily dismantle and attack such beliefs. In the case of the gold plates, the writer at Life After Ministry portrays the gold plates as an object Latter-day Saints hinge their entire faith on. This suggests that without any tangible proof, our faith and testimony collapse. This is disingenuous and misrepresents Latter-day Saint Faith and teachings entirely.
The plates merely served a divine and temporary purpose - to bring about the message of the Book of Mormon as a testament to the reality of who Christ is, the plan of redemption and salvation for humanity, and how to draw closer to God. One's faith in the Book of Mormon is not the evidence of the gold plates, one's faith in the Book of Mormon is how it transforms one's life. This is succinctly summed up in Moroni 10:1-23.
False Dilemma Between Archaeologies
As mentioned earlier, critics like Life After Ministries tend to compare the presupposed lacking, or zero, evidence of archaeological evidence for the Book of Mormon with that of evidence supporting the Bible. This is known as the fallacy of False Dilemma or False Dichotomy. It is assuming that there are only two possibilities. For the critics, the two possibilities are that either there is sufficient evidence to prove the authenticity of the Book of Mormon or there is not and therefore disproving it.
Critics argue that because Biblical archaeology has yielded certain evidence, the Book of Mormon ought to have the same type of evidence before any consideration of it being valid and credible. This tends to oversimplify situations and ignores differences in historical and cultural contexts.
The Bible and the Book of Mormon are different sacred texts that emerge from vastly different civilizations. The Biblical narratives center in regions where continuous habitation and archaeological study has been prominent. Whereas the ancient cultures of the Americas often left few lasting footprints in climates less conducive to preservation. Comparing the two directly is akin to comparing apples to oranges and claim that because an orange is not an apple it is therefore not a fruit.
Another aspect of the conversation critics fails to consider is how the Book of Mormon describes events that predate European colonization and significant technological developments in the Americas. Expecting identical evidence for both records ignore these nuances. A way to shift away from this binary thinking rests upon the question regarding how other cultural or historical contexts may support the plausibility of the gold plates. Instead, it ought to be an invitation to explore faith, history, and belief systems rather than rely solely on binary "proof". Meaning, critics argue from an atheistic point of view; "Prove that God actually exists and then I will believe". In this context - critics literally are asking: "Prove that the plates are real and there is evidence to support the people, places, and events recorded in the Book of Mormon and then I will accept and believe".
My question - if there did not exist any evidence to support the Bible - are you willing to still believe it to be divinely inspired? Critics won't answer that question, and if they do - tend to focus on the reality that it is not evidence that ought to build up faith. Similarly, they don't hold to the same rule and reasoning that one ought to have faith when it comes to the Book of Mormon without basing it on evidence.
When critics employ logical fallacies - it merely serves to muddy the water of discussion and detracts from meaningful discussions. Employing discernment and recognizing these tactics in arguments against Latter-day Saint beliefs helps us to refocus the conversation on sincerity, understanding, and respect. However, critics often rely more on flawed arguments and not concerning themselves with sincerity, understanding, and respect. They either want to cause derision, confusion, faith crisis, and sow seeds of doubt under the guise of leading Latter-day Saints to the "Real" Jesus.
Conclusion
Where are the Gold Plates? What does it matter and what does it have to do with genuine and authentic faith? Nothing because the gold plates are far more than historical artifact. They symbolize divine intervention and the sacred mission of Joseph Smith and the Restoration of the Gospel in these last days. Despite critics' narrow focus on questioning the whereabouts and existence of the gold plates - the plates purpose was never to remain as proof for skeptics. The plates only served as a conduit for the testimony and truthfulness of the Gospel, of Christ, and the teachings contained within the Book of Mormon.
Faith - from a Latter-day Christian perspective - thrives not on material evidence alone. Evangelical Christians ought to agree on this point. If they do not - which is evidenced in how critics like Life After Ministry raises - then what point is there one to exercise faith?
A more appropriate question - and one which I invite the writer and those associated with Life After Ministry, and other Evangelical Christians - to consider is this: How do we engage in the truths the Book of Mormon establishes about Christ, his teachings, and living the Gospel where one is drawn closer to God?
