Joseph Smith Receives Revelation of Golden Plates
September 22nd, 1823
September 22nd, 1823

How Long Ago?
201 years, 5 months, 21 days ago
Location
Palmyra, New York, United States
Category
Religion & Philosophy
People
- Joseph Smith
- Angel Moroni
Links & References
Tags
Joseph Smith Receives Revelation of Golden Plates
Joseph Smith reported that the Angel Moroni directed him to a hill in New York, where he discovered the buried golden plates containing ancient writings. This event marked a pivotal moment in his life and the establishment of the Latter Day Saint movement, as he believed he was chosen by God to translate these plates into what would become the Book of Mormon, a key text for millions of followers worldwide.
Joseph Smith claimed prophetic guidance from Moroni.
The plates were said to contain ancient American writings.
This revelation led to the creation of the Book of Mormon.
The event marked the formation of a new religious movement.
What Happened?
In upstate New York, Joseph Smith, a young man in his early twenties, claimed to have been visited by the Angel Moroni. According to Smith, Moroni instructed him to go to a particular hill called Cumorah, where he would find a set of golden plates buried in a stone box. These plates were inscribed in a language that Smith believed to be a form of reformed Egyptian. The angel reiterated that the plates contained the history of an ancient people who had lived on the American continent, and they were vital for the restoration of true Christianity.
The visit from Moroni occurred multiple times over the following years, culminating in Smith obtaining the plates in 1827 after years of preparation and guidance. Upon acquiring the plates, Smith began the process of translation. With the help of various associates, he produced the Book of Mormon, which was published in 1830. This text would later serve as the foundational scripture for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which Smith established.
Not only did this revelation lead to the birth of a new religious movement, but it also initiated a series of events that would transform the religious landscape of the United States, attracting followers and engendering both support and opposition. The story of the golden plates became a central part of Smith's life and the larger narrative of the Latter Day Saints, further symbolizing the belief in divine inspiration and prophetic calling.
Why Does it Matter?
The revelation of the golden plates significantly influenced the development of new religious movements in America, particularly the Latter Day Saint movement. Its narratives, centered around the discovery and translation of these plates, offered followers a sense of divine purpose and a new religious identity. This event sparked a broader interest in religion and spiritualism during the early 19th century, contributing to the proliferation of diverse faiths in the United States.
Discover More Historic Events from September 22nd
Anura Kumara Dissanayake Becomes President
Anura Kumara Dissanayake was elected as the 9th President of Sri Lanka in a closely contested election held in September 2024. Promising to address key socio-economic issues, Dissanayake garnered significant support from various political factions. His election marked a pivotal moment for Sri Lankan politics amidst a backdrop of economic challenges and public discontent. Dissanayake's platform focused on transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance, appealing to a diverse electorate across the country.
Continue ReadingDeadly Suicide Bombing at Peshawar Church
A devastating suicide bombing targeted a Christian church in Peshawar, Pakistan, and resulted in the deaths of at least 75 individuals, while injuring many others. The bombing occurred during a Sunday service, with worshippers gathered for prayers. The attack was claimed by a militant group, marking a significant escalation in violence against religious minorities in the region. First responders faced challenges due to the chaos, as they rushed to help the wounded and secure the scene. This event drew widespread condemnation and highlighted the ongoing strife faced by Christians in Pakistan.
Continue ReadingCollision of Maglev Train in Lathen
A maglev train collided with a construction crane in Lathen, Germany, resulting in the deaths of twenty-three individuals. The crash occurred during a test run of the innovative magnetic levitation train. The incident raised significant concerns about safety protocols during test operations and the integration of advanced rail systems into existing infrastructure.
Continue ReadingNagerkovil School Bombing by Sri Lanka Air Force
A bombing in Nagerkovil conducted by the Sri Lanka Air Force targeted a school, resulting in the deaths of at least 34 people, predominantly ethnic Tamil schoolchildren. The military operation aimed at counter-terrorism but ended in catastrophic civilian casualties, raising severe concerns about the tactics employed during the Sri Lankan Civil War. The tragedy highlighted the intense conflict between government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) amidst a struggle for Tamil autonomy.
Continue ReadingE-3B AWACS Crash After Bird Strikes
An E-3B AWACS aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska due to bird strikes that affected two of its engines. All 24 people on board perished in the accident. The incident raised significant concerns about the safety protocols regarding bird strikes near military installations, particularly given the complexity and importance of the aircraft's mission.
Continue ReadingDeadly Amtrak Train Wreck near Mobile
A barge collided with a railroad bridge near Mobile, Alabama, resulting in the deadliest accident in Amtrak's history, claiming the lives of 47 passengers. The incident occurred during the late evening when the Sunset Limited, an Amtrak train traveling from Miami to Los Angeles, derailed as it passed over the bridge. The collision caused the bridge to fail, leading to a catastrophic derailment and the tragic loss of life, alongside many injuries.
Continue Reading