Joseph Smith

In 1823 the 17-year-old Joseph Smith was visited by the angel Moroni, who declared

“that [Joseph’s] name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken among all people” (Joseph Smith—History 1:33).

Nowadays nearly 20 million internet references to the Prophet verify Moroni’s prophecy: Some claim, often with vitriol, that he was a racketeer, a false teacher, an ignoble man. Others honor, defend, and praise him as the founder of their faith, the translator of the Book of Mormon, a prophet especially sent by God to usher in these, the latter days. Still others, says Terryl Givens, including “secular scholars, and Christians, Hindus, Muslims, and presumed atheists—in many nations and in many tongues—speak good of Joseph’s name.”

Joseph’s life was short but remarkable. Born in 1805, he spent most of his youth in Palmyra, New York, then a place of great religious fervor. In 1820 such community fervor caused the 14-year-old Joseph to think deeply about his state before God. While praying out loud for the first time, he experienced what is now known as “The First Vision,” where the Father and his Son, Jesus Christ, visited him. In 1830, ten years later, he formally organized The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, becoming its first president. He was martyred in 1844 at only 38 years old. Though his life was short, he had a profound impact on Christianity. His translation and publication of the Book of Mormon in 1830 has been a source of debate for centuries but, if true, lends further credence to his role as prophet of God.

Who was this Joseph Smith, and why is there such intense interest 200 years later? You’ll find that our rich collection on the Prophet features more than a half century of exploration by professors, philosophers, and prophets about many facets of Joseph’s life and teachings, from his theological enlightenment on the problem of evil to his role as Jesus Christ’s chosen prophet and seer—and even a bit about his humor. This is great material for those seeking inspiration—and answers.

Inspiring Shorts

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By Study & By Faith

Steven C. Harper, Professor of Church History and Doctrine

Steven C. Harper June 8, 2021

David L. Paulsen September 21, 1999

Elder Gary E. Stevenson, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gary E. Stevenson | August 20, 2019

Elder Stevenson shares his testimony of the ongoing Restoration of Christ's gospel. It began with Joseph Smith, and is still happening today.

devotional 2019

Bonnie L. Oscarson | December 6, 2016

Joseph Smith's life teaches us about our potential, standing up to criticism, and repentance. A testimony of this prophet brings us closer to the Savior.

devotional 2016

Alexander L. Baugh | June 24, 2014

Alexander L. Baugh offers an explanation of Joseph Smith’s distinct but complementary roles as seer, translator, revelator, and prophet.

devotional 2014

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Jeffrey R. Holland | September 7, 2008

What lessons does Joseph Smith's experience in Liberty Jail teach us about God's love? How can our trials be both a prison and a temple?

devotional 2008

Terryl L. Givens | November 29, 2005

Joseph Smith ignited something in thousands of men and women that connects them to God and to each other in powerful ways.

forum 2005

President Gordon B. Hinckley, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Gordon B. Hinckley | September 20, 2005

President Hinckley delivers a tribute to the life of Joseph F. Smith and offers the dedicatory prayer for the Joseph F. Smith Building.

devotional 2005

Cecil O. Samuelson | August 30, 2005

Although he had little formal schooling, Joseph Smith left the Church a legacy of asking and answering questions, working hard, and learning all we can.

devotional 2005

Richard C. Edgley | August 16, 2005

Richard C. Edgley delivers a powerful summary of the accomplishments of Joseph Smith, the prophet. His revelations, acts, and trials testify of his calling.

devotional 2005

Cecil O. Samuelson | January 18, 2005

The Lord's commandment to stand by Joseph Smith with true loyalty applies to each of us as builders and defenders of God's kingdom.

devotional 2005

Heidi S. Swinton | November 2, 2004

Heidi Swinton delivers a powerful call to stand by the Prophet Joseph Smith by living for the cause he loved: the cause of Christ.

devotional 2004

Heidi S. Swinton | April 30, 2004

The restoration of the gospel is about hope. Heidi S. Swinton speaks of the restoration and how its message should bring "peace like a river" to our souls.

devotional 2004

Katherine D. Pullins | June 27, 2000

But for Joseph Smith and his contributions, the world and our lives would be vastly lacking the revelations and church he helped bring about.

devotional 2000

Joe J. Christensen | October 20, 1998

The revolutionary and powerful truths revealed by the Prophet Joseph Smith can change the world—and, if we are true to them, each one of us.

devotional 1998

L. Tom Perry | February 11, 1997

The scriptures show the importance that the Lord places in living up to a good name. We carry the namesake of our families and of God.

devotional 1997

Jack H. Goaslind | June 27, 1995

Joseph Smith's Christlike attributes attest to the fact that this his greatest desire was to emulate the Savior and do His will.

devotional 1995

President M. Russell Ballard, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

M. Russell Ballard | November 6, 1994

We owe much to the Kirtland era of Latter-day Saint Church history—this time is rich in visions, revealed doctrine, and essential progression.

devotional 1994

Gordon B. Hinckley | December 10, 1991

Gordon B. Hinckley offers a tribute to the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith and gives the prayer to dedicate the new Joseph Smith Building.

devotional 1991

M. Russell Ballard | November 14, 1989

Despite intense opposition during some of the Church's history, the gospel has been busy unlocking the doors of nations and hearts worldwide.

devotional 1989

Elder Neal A. Maxwell, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ.

Neal A. Maxwell | March 30, 1986

Elder Neal A. Maxwell bears powerful testimony of the choice seer Joseph Smith and his role in revealing essential truth about our Savior Jesus Christ.

devotional 1986

David B. Haight | March 2, 1986

The courageous and selfless giving of Joseph Smith's life is evidence of the Prophet's devotion to the Lord and to the Saints.

devotional 1986

Richard Lloyd Anderson | August 9, 1983

Richard Lloyd Anderson shares how Paul and Joseph Smith are similar. Both of them received revelation, demonstrated service, and were ultimately martyred.

devotional 1983

Gordon B. Hinckley | November 4, 1979

Gordon B. Hinckley shares his powerful testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith. The most important evidence of his calling is the witness of the Spirit.

devotional 1979

Mark E. Petersen | September 30, 1979

The scriptures teach that prophets and apostles, called by God, are the foundation of the Church, with Christ as the chief cornerstone.

devotional 1979

Bruce R. McConkie | September 3, 1978

Joseph Smith's most important contribution as a revealer and the Prophet of the Restoration is his testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 25, 1978

Truman Madsen on the lessons learned and taught by Joseph Smith in Nauvoo while the Prophet directed the saints in building the temple.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 25, 1978

Truman Madsen covers the martyrdom of Joseph Smith and the last few months of the Prophet’s life before adding his personal testimony.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 24, 1978

The qualities and experiences that made Joseph Smith a teacher, speaker, and counselor for those around him, focusing on his time in Kirtland.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 24, 1978

Truman Madsen describes the experiences and sacrifices of Joseph Smith and the Saints in Kirtland, Ohio while building the temple.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 23, 1978

Truman Madsen discusses spiritual gifts and how Joseph Smith used them to bless the Saints and teach them the fulness of the gospel.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 23, 1978

An account of Joseph Smith’s trials and the effects of the hardship on his family, his friends, his life, and his character.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 22, 1978

Using quotes and stories from those who personally knew Joseph Smith, Truman Madsen describes the Prophet’s personality and character.

devotional 1978

Truman G. Madsen | August 22, 1978

Truman Madsen speaks on Joseph Smith’s early life, First Vision, and life in the aftermath, including lessons, experiences, and consequences.

devotional 1978

James A. Cullimore | January 4, 1977

In an incredible testament to Joseph Smith’s divine calling, James A. Cullimore retells several events from the life of Joseph Smith, the Mormon prophet.

devotional 1977

Ivan J. Barrett | August 12, 1975

Joseph Smith's character is perhaps one of the best manifestations of his calling. He was not only chosen of God, but a loyal friend of man.

devotional 1975

Leonard J. Arrington | November 19, 1974

Although Joseph Smith was raised in an overly pious society, his jovial nature, sense of humor, and zeal show that life is for men to have joy.

devotional 1974

Bruce R. McConkie | January 4, 1972

The God of Joseph Smith's time is not absent. We can come to know Him, His revelations, and His miracles, just as the Prophet did.

devotional 1972

Gordon B. Hinckley | December 5, 1967

Gordon B. Hinckley shares his testimony that Joseph Smith was called to be a prophet of God. There are many others whose lives testified of his call.

devotional 1967

S. Dilworth Young | January 4, 1966

It can be easy to focus on what happened under Joseph's direction. But it is just as important to learn about the hard working, family oriented man he was.

devotional 1966

William E. Berrett | April 21, 1964

William Berret uses stories from the life of the Prophet Joseph Smith to illustrate that there is no man—save it be Christ—who has done more for the world.

devotional 1964

Preston Nibley | December 3, 1958

Preston Nibley narrates accomplishments of Joseph’s life and proves that he was a man of sincerity who never wearied of the task of spreading the gospel.

devotional 1958

Preston Nibley | April 9, 1957

Preston Nibley offers little-known insights into the history of the Book of Mormon manuscripts which help us appreciate its value as a book of scripture.

devotional 1957

LeGrand Richards | March 27, 1956

Joseph Smith was a choice seer of the Lord, and his prophetic calling is evidenced by the indisputable value of the works which he produced.

devotional 1956

Hugh B. Brown | October 4, 1955

If you had to create the profile of a prophet, what would it look like? Joseph Smith's character and works testify of his prophetic calling.

devotional 1955

A. William Lund | March 6, 1951

Lack of knowledge about specific church events does not mean that we must doubt. We must only keep searching for the truth, whether by history or faith.

devotional 1951