Joseph Smith

Definition

Joseph Smith was the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as Mormonism, in the early 19th century. He is regarded as a prophet by followers who believe he translated the Book of Mormon, a sacred text that recounts the history and teachings of ancient American civilizations, establishing a major new religious movement in the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Joseph Smith was born on December 23, 1805, in Vermont and later moved to upstate New York, where he began receiving revelations that led to the founding of Mormonism.
2. In 1823, Smith claimed to have been visited by an angel named Moroni who guided him to buried golden plates, which he translated into what became known as the Book of Mormon.
3. He organized the Church of Christ on April 6, 1830, in Fayette, New York, marking the official establishment of the Latter-day Saints movement.
4. Smith faced significant opposition and persecution throughout his life due to his religious beliefs and practices, including polygamy, which led him to move multiple times across the United States.
5. He was killed by a mob on June 27, 1844, in Carthage, Illinois, which led to a succession crisis and further growth of the Latter-day Saints movement under leaders like Brigham Young.

Review Questions

• How did Joseph Smith's early life experiences influence his role as a religious leader?
  • Joseph Smith's early life was marked by a quest for religious truth in a period known as the Second Great Awakening. Growing up in a time of intense religious fervor and revivalism influenced his beliefs and ultimately led him to seek divine guidance. His encounters with religious figures and his claims of visions set the stage for his later role as a prophet and founder of Mormonism.
• Discuss the significance of the Book of Mormon in shaping the identity and beliefs of Latter-day Saints.
  • The Book of Mormon serves as a foundational text for Latter-day Saints, offering an alternative narrative to traditional Christian scriptures. It is viewed as a companion to the Bible and provides teachings about Jesus Christ's visit to ancient American civilizations. This text has played a crucial role in forming the distinct religious identity of Latter-day Saints and has influenced their beliefs about revelation, prophecy, and modern-day guidance.
• Evaluate the impact of Joseph Smith's death on the future development of the Latter-day Saints movement and its leadership structure.
  • Joseph Smith's death created a power vacuum within the Latter-day Saints movement, leading to various factions claiming leadership. The crisis prompted key figures like Brigham Young to solidify their roles and continue Smith's vision, leading to significant migration westward to Utah. This event shaped not only the organizational structure but also established principles that guided future revelations and governance within the church. The resulting unity under Young helped ensure the survival and growth of Mormonism despite challenges.

Related terms

Book of Mormon:

A sacred text of the Latter-day Saints, which Joseph Smith claimed to have translated from golden plates, containing writings of ancient prophets in the Americas.

Latter-day Saints: Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a religious group founded by Joseph Smith that emphasizes restorationist beliefs and modern-day revelation.

First Vision: An event described by Joseph Smith in which he claimed to have seen God and Jesus Christ in a vision, marking the beginning of his prophetic calling and the restoration of true Christianity.