Friday, September 19, 2008

More Changes in the Doubleday Book of Mormon

The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus ChristAbout a year ago a small, but significant one word change was identified in the introduction of the new Doubleday version of the Book of Mormon. Later other changes were found. Now Christopher at Juvenile Instructor has identified modifications to chapter headings that remove links between dark skin and sin. However, some chapter headings still link white skin to righteousness (see the last example). The text has not changed and still contains racial implications. Below are comparisons provided by Christopher between the 1981 standard LDS version and the Doubleday version.
2 Nephi 5 (1981 version) Because of their unbelief, the Lamanites are cursed, receive a skin of blackness, and become a scourge unto the Nephites. 2 Nephi 5 (Doubleday version) Because of their unbelief, the Lamanites are cut off from the presence of the Lord, are cursed, and become a scourge unto the Nephites.
Mormon 5 (1981 version) The Lamanites shall be a dark, filthy, and loathsome people... Mormon 5 (Doubleday version) Because of their unbelief, the Lamanites will be scattered, and the Spirit will cease to strive with them
3rd Nephi 2 (1981 version) Converted Lamanites become white and are called Nephites. 3rd Nephi 2 (Doubleday version) Converted Lamanites become white and are called Nephites.

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