In this episode, we continue our in-depth series with historian John G. Turner, author of Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet. Covering chapter five of his book, we take a deep dive into the claims of the Three and Eight Witnesses to the golden plates. Did they actually see physical plates—or was it a visionary experience?
We explore the early translation period, the role of the Whitmer family, the revelations guiding Joseph Smith, and the complicated testimonies of Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, and David Whitmer. Were the golden plates material objects, or were they seen with "spiritual eyes"? We also discuss later accounts, contradictions, and the ongoing debate among scholars and believers.
Highlights:
The experiences of the Three and Eight Witnesses
Spiritual vs. physical claims of the plates
Testimonies, contradictions, and controversies
What happened to the plates—and the witnesses—afterward
Subscribe for more episodes exploring Joseph Smith’s life, early Mormonism, and the origins of the Book of Mormon.
00:00:00 Introduction
00:07:34 Why are the Whitmer’s getting involved?
00:14:28 Joseph Smith covering the plates in a barrel of beans
00:20:13 The Whitmer Family
00:25:51 The Melchizedek priesthood
00:31:31 The experience with the three witnesses
00:39:12 Did Gold plates exist?
00:42:49 Spiritual eyes vs physical eyes
00:45:38 Did the witnesses see physical plates?
01:03:17 The eight witnesses
01:10:15 Possible explanation for the witnesses to the golden plates
01:25:26 What became of the Eight Witnesses?
01:28:22 What became of the golden plates?
01:31:43 How the Book of Mormon gets printed
01:49:13 What is coming up next
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