Reading Nephi Reading Isaiah
2 Nephi 26–27
Nephi’s adoration of the words of Isaiah has puzzled many readers of the Book of Mormon. What does Nephi’s reading and repurposing of the biblical prophet suggest about the nature of prophecy and scripture study? Six scholars of the Mormon Theology Seminar address these and other questions in Reading Nephi Reading Isaiah. By shedding new light on this particular scriptural text, these essays provide exemplary models for improved scripture study.
"I thoroughly enjoyed this book. My only regret is that I was unable to have the authors present so that I could discuss their ideas—even challenge them in some cases—further...For any fan of Mormon theology this series is a must."
"In these conference proceedings stands the hope of a new kind of Mormon theology, one that brings women and men, academics and independents, philosophers and students of literature into the conversation about the meanings of faith and scripture. These essays are united by their firm commitment to the power of scripture and the possibility that holy writ may be rather more than it first appears. Mormon theologians and literary theorists should welcome the voices contained in this volume into discussions about the complex relationships created between readers and the sacred penmen, between the living and the dead."
About the Author & Editor
Joseph M. Spencer
Joseph M. Spencer is assistant professor of ancient scripture at Brigham Young University. He earned a PhD in philosophy at the University of New Mexico and has published extensively on Latter-day Saint scripture and theology in BYU Studies Quarterly, the Journal of Philosophy and Scripture, and the Journal of Book of Mormon Studies where he serves as editor. Spencer is co-editor of the book series Groundwork: Studies in Theory and Scripture. His other books include Reading Nephi Reading Isaiah and For Zion: A Mormon Theology of Hope.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Summary Report
Nephi, Isaiah, and Europe
How Nephi Shapes His Readers’ Perceptions of Isaiah
Slumbering Voices: Death and Textuality in 2 Nephi
Seals, Symbols, and Sacred Texts: Sealing and the Book of Mormon
On the Moral Risks of Reading Scripture
Works of Darkness: Secret Combinations and Covenant Displacement in the Book of Mormon
Appendix 1: Nephi’s Text and Its Sources
Appendix 2: Isaiah Appropriated
Appendix 3: Isaiah Edited
Appendix 4: Cross-References
Appendix 5: Further Reading
Contributors
Publication Information
Publication Month: March
Publication Year: 2016
Language: English
Edition: 2
ISBN 13: 978-0-8425-2866-5
Page Count: 152
Binding: html
Price: $ 15.95
Sub Site: Laura F. Willes Center for Book of Mormon Studies
Imprint: Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship