Question
Gramps,
Are all the stories in the King James version of the Bible completely true? I know that many plain and precious parts were taken out and that the Joseph Smith Translation corrects some of those errors. But there are still some stories in the Bible that make me wonder if the true story has been added to or taken away altogether. This is a question I’ve had for awhile. Any insight you could give me would be much appreciated. Thank you!
Emily
Answer
Emily,
Latter-day Saints believe that the Bible is the word of God. But your question suggests that truth is synonymous with literal historical accuracy. When this definition of truth is used to understand the bible it’s called “biblical literalism.”
In 2008, the Mormon Newsroom clarified that Latter-day Saints do not strictly subscribe to “biblical literalism.” This means Latter-day Saints are free to read some phrases as metaphorical, and some stories as allegories. Would the story of Jonah, for example, be any less valuable if a man named Jonah had not actually existed? Of course not! Its message of redemption, the consequences of sin, and its foreshadowing of Christ’s resurrection teach crucial principles.
In that same statement, however, the Mormon Newsroom clarified that Latter-day Saints also view the Bible as more than simply literature. Latter-day Saints know this better than many. Some of the characters from the Bible appeared as resurrected beings to Joseph Smith. Clearly they are more than allegory.
As you continue your study of the Bible consider these principles.
1) The Bible is not a single book. Rather it is a compilation of many books. While one book may have been written to be historically accurate, another book may have been written to teach an important allegory. This isn’t to say a single book cannot contain both history and allegory, but approaching your study of the Bible as the study of many different books will aid your understanding.
2) Latter-day revelation can add understanding to what is and isn’t historical. There are numerous references in the Doctrine and Covenants, for example, about Noah and Moses. Those references may help you better understand their stories. You may also find the complete absence of certain characters or stories from latter-day revelations instructional.
3) Depending on your purposes in studying, it may not matter whether a Biblical story is historical. Allegorical stories were clearly included because of their great value and ability to teach the truth. We would be wise not to dismiss them simply because they are unlikely to be historically accurate.
Best luck in your continued study of the scriptures.
Gramps