Seer stone (Latter Day Saints)

Seer stone (Latter Day Saints)

Seer Stone in Latter Day Saint theology refers to stones that are believed to have been used by Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), and others to receive revelations from God. These stones are considered sacred and are an integral part of the church's history and doctrine.

History

The use of seer stones predates the establishment of the LDS Church and has roots in early American and Christian folk practices. Joseph Smith is reported to have used at least two main seer stones, which he called "interpreters." The most famous of these is the stone with which he claimed to have translated the Book of Mormon from golden plates. This stone, often referred to as the Urim and Thummim, was described as being white or chocolate-colored and about the size of an egg.

Another well-documented stone was a brown stone Smith found while digging a well in 1822. Smith used this stone in several of his early revelatory efforts, including treasure seeking. It was with this stone that he claimed to have translated most of the Book of Mormon, placing the stone in a hat and reading the words that appeared to him.

Theological Significance

In Latter Day Saint theology, seer stones are considered instruments prepared by God to assist humanity in receiving revelation. The belief in seer stones is part of a broader understanding of divine communication, which includes dreams, visions, and direct inspiration from the Holy Ghost. The use of physical objects in divine communication is seen as a means by which God accommodates human weakness, allowing prophets to receive and interpret God's will.

Controversy and Criticism

The use of seer stones by Joseph Smith has been a subject of controversy and criticism, both from within and outside the LDS Church. Critics argue that the use of such stones is akin to magic or folk magic, practices that are condemned in the Bible. Some members of the church have also struggled with the historical accounts of seer stones, leading the LDS Church to address the topic more openly in recent years. In 2015, the church published photos of one of the seer stones used by Smith, seeking to provide transparency and foster understanding among its members and the public.

Legacy

Today, the seer stones are part of the rich tapestry of Latter Day Saint history and doctrine. They are viewed by believers as evidence of God's direct involvement in the establishment and guidance of the LDS Church. The stones are also symbolic of the broader theme of revelation in Latter Day Saint theology, serving as a reminder of the ways in which God communicates with His children.