Mormon church says Book of Abraham likely not a literal translation, but inspired scripture
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A new article from the Mormon church says the Book of Abraham is inspired scripture and probably not a literal translation from ancient Egyptian scrolls by Mormon founder Joseph Smith
Mormon scholars say the essay marks a departure from past explanations by officials with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and embraces the widely-held view from religious scholars and historians that Smith's work isn't a direct translation.
The article suggests God may have helped Smith understand what was in the scrolls. Smith never claimed to know the language it was in.
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It is the latest in a series of recent online pieces posted on the church website that explain, expand or clarify on some of the more sensitive gospel topics.