Summary: First Vision Accounts In this talk show I discuss the early accounts of Joseph Smith's First Vision - those recorded during his lifetime, 1830 to 1844. One was written by Joseph Smith in 1832, two others were dictated by him in 1835 and 1838, and another was written by him for publication in 1842. The other six are second hand accounts. Five of the accounts had not been published until after 1969. I am specifically interested in the allegation that an examination of these accounts demonstrates that Joseph Smith fabricated the First Vision and changed it to fit new circumstances and his developing views about God. I approach the topic by resorting to common sense and comparing some variations in the several accounts. I discuss the publication history of several of the accounts and the remarkable fact that it seems Joseph Smith was reluctant to publish an account of his First Vision until 1842. I responded to several callers and email on the topic, and to one caller, who would not affirm or deny that he is an American, but who startlingly encourages that Mormons be wiped of the earth by any means possible. I did not get to the main point I wanted to discuss, but will pursue it next week or the week following. I believe early documents, 1830-1832, persuasively support my argument that Joseph Smith's theological views during those two years are consistent with his claim to have seen the Father and the Son. Talk Show host: Van Hale, LDS Official website: www.mormonmiscellaneous.com Podcast address: www.mormonmisc.podbean.com Talk Show Blog: www.mormonmiscellaneous.com/radioprogramblog This is the 20 May 2007 episode of the Mormon Miscellaneous Worldwide Talk Show, now in its 27th year. To listen to future Talk Shows live, go to www.k-talk.com Sunday evenings 5:00 - 7:00 pm MST. If you have a question or comment, your participation is invited, regardless of your point of view. Your voice will be heard around the world.
