The Annotated Book of Mormon

The first fully annotated, academic edition of the Book of Mormon in its 200-year history, provides readers with the information they need to understand this classic text of American religious history. It reformats the complete scriptural text in the manner of modern Bible translations with paragraphs, quotation marks, poetic stanzas, and section headings, making it more accessible and readable. Annotations explain the meaning and context of specific passages, delineate extended arguments, identify rhetorical patterns, explore theological implications, highlight ancient and modern parallels, and point out intertextual connections. The book is subdivided into internal books, each preceded by an introduction that discusses its key themes and literary features. There are also twelve general essays that introduce readers to various ongoing conversations about the text, as well as maps, charts, and a comprehensive list of biblical quotations and allusions. The editorial material is informed by contemporary biblical and historical scholarship, treating the Book of Mormon as a sacred text worthy of careful study and respect.

Format: Hardback
Length: 856 pages
Publication date: 09 December 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The Book of Mormon, a timeless masterpiece of American religious history, has reached a new milestone with its first fully annotated, academic edition. Drawing inspiration from the esteemed Oxford line of annotated Bibles, this edition aims to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of this classic text. By reformatting the complete scriptural text in a modern, reader-friendly manner, with paragraphs, quotation marks, poetic stanzas, and section headings, the book's intricate narrative structure is clarified, making it more accessible and engaging than ever before.

An extensive array of annotations accompanies the text, offering profound insights into the meaning and context of specific passages. These annotations delve into extended arguments, identify rhetorical patterns, explore theological implications, highlight ancient and modern parallels, and point out intertextual connections, particularly with the Bible. Each internal book of the Book of Mormon is preceded by an introduction that discusses its key themes and literary features, providing a concise overview of major figures, events, and sermons. The three primary narrators, Nephi, Mormon, and Moroni, receive special attention, as their journeys unfold through the pages of this sacred text.

In addition to the annotations, this edition includes twelve general essays that introduce readers to various ongoing conversations about the Book of Mormon. These essays cover a wide range of topics, from historical and cultural contexts to theological interpretations and artistic representations. Several maps and charts further enhance the reader's understanding of the book's geographical and historical setting. A comprehensive list of biblical quotations and allusions is also provided, allowing readers to trace the connections between the Book of Mormon and the Bible.

The editorial material in this edition is grounded in contemporary biblical and historical scholarship, yet it treats the Book of Mormon with the utmost respect and reverence. While acknowledging its strengths and weaknesses, the editors aim to provide a balanced and objective analysis of the narrative. They recognize the Book of Mormon as a sacred text, worthy of careful study and contemplation.

In conclusion, this fully annotated, academic edition of the Book of Mormon is a groundbreaking achievement in the realm of religious scholarship. It offers readers a comprehensive and immersive experience, enabling them to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of this timeless masterpiece. With its meticulous attention to detail, engaging annotations, and insightful essays, this edition serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone seeking to understand the significance of the Book of Mormon in American religious history.

Weight: 1392g
Dimension: 240 x 160 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190082208