1009: Folk Magic, Joseph Smith, and Mormon Origins with John Hamer Pt. 2

Nov 16, 2018

John Hamer, a historian of the Latter-day Saint movement, discusses Mormon origins. The podcast explores the Smith family's folk magic background, Joseph Smith's involvement in money digging, beliefs on treasure seeking, and the influence of the myth of the mound builders on the Book of Mormon narrative. It also delves into Joseph Smith's evolving beliefs, religious context, and teases an interesting Mormon story.

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Introduction

00:00 • 4min

Beliefs on Treasure Seeking and Justified Deception

03:47 • 10min

The Magical Elements Surrounding Joseph Smith's Early Experiences

13:25 • 16min

Ancient History, Myth of the Mound Builders, and the Book of Mormon

29:19 • 2min

The Progression of Joseph Smith's Beliefs

31:23 • 10min

Religious Context and Joseph Smith's Vision

41:45 • 25min

Support, Interviews, and a Hint of an Interesting Mormon Story

01:06:55 • 3min