Question
Gramps,
I understand there is four versions of the First Vision. I know about the one in the Pearl of Great Price, but heard that there was one by the Prophet’s own hand earlier. If you know, where can I find it?
Elliot
Answer
Elliot,
Dean C. Jessee has written a paper about early accounts of the First Vision. You can find it here:
Jessee includes the transcript of 3 versions, including the one that has been canonized as Joseph Smith History. These accounts talk about the pillar of light appearing as a pillar of fire. There was even some suprise that the trees around him didn’t catch fire. Not only was Joseph visited by the Father and the Son, but angels prepared him for that appearance.
Another brief account can be found in the Wentworth Letter (which is also the source of the Articles of Faith). It has been reprinted in the Ensign:
LDS.org – Ensign Article – The Wentworth Letter