One Moment Please
image

Book of Mormon

Zarahemla Heartland Model

Doctrine and Covenants 125:3
Let them build up a city unto my name
upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo,
and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.

Close AllOpen All
Table of Contents
See ENTITY RELATIONSHIP TABLE

[Minimum Screen Size Recommended: 1920 x 1080]


Last Updated: 30 November 2024 10:07:17 AM
image

 1 Introduction
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 30 November 2024
image

This website presents the Zarahemla Centric Heartland Model (ZM or Zarahemla Model) of Book of Mormon geography which I started in March of 2015. The Zarahemla Model represents the only model of Book of Mormon Geography in existence that includes all of the cities, lands, journeys, battles, and locations. The Zarahemla Model presents Nephite lands in terms of 150,000 square miles instead of the 800,000 square miles proposed by traditional Heartland models.


    The Zarahemla Model:
  1. Includes 100% of all lands (46), cities (54), topographical locations (18), battles (29), travel routes (35) and other places described (51).
  2. Is a database driven model that has two separate parts created in this order: 1) Logical Model; and 2) Physical Model.
  3. Uses GPS coordinates from Google Earth topography and presents an interactive 3D display in Google Maps.
  4. Is created from the text of the Book of Mormon from which all geographical data points are extracted and placed in a machine readable format using a nomenclature that is also human readable.
  5. Employs custom programs for computer data analytics which validate the 142 unique physical locations that have a total of 781 interrelationships found in the Book of Mormon text. Five different computer algorithms are applied to cross-check referential integrity for each location.
  6. Follows a strict and formal methodology, which is fully published online.
  7. Validates the traditional location of the hill Cumorah of Doctrine and Covenants 128:20Doctrine and Covenants 128:20
    20 And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! Moroni, an angel from heaven, declaring the fulfilment of the prophets--the book to be revealed. ...
    and also proves the location of the Nephite city of Zarahemla to be the same as referred to in Doctrine and Covenants 125:3Doctrine and Covenants 125:3
    3 Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.

After looking at the Physical Model, most people wonder how I can with any confidence place all 142 Book of Mormon locations on a map when some of these locations have only a brief mention in the Book of Mormon. The quick answer is that the Logical Model by itself does not pinpoint locations but it rather defines constraints for where those locations can be. The Logical Model constraints are then applied to real life topography via a set of formalized rules (Rules of Application and Rules of Interpretation (HermeneuticsHermeneutics
The theory and methodology of interpretation, especially of scriptural text.
) to produce a Physical Model than proposes actual locations. Fortunately many Book of Mormon places (like the cities of Zarahemla and Nephi) have so many descriptive references that it is easy to get a good start when analyzing the database programmatically for the 142 locations and 781 total relationships found in the Book of Mormon. For example, there are 148 total mentions of Zarahemla that contain 42 unique Zarahemla clues. As an analogy, each Book of Mormon location can be thought of like it was a jigsaw puzzle piece - each piece has a distinct shape, picture, coloring, and orientation. When the easiest to place puzzle pieces are first added to the puzzle (like Zarahemla) that piece then becomes a clue for pieces that follow. The total number of clues therefore increases at the same time that the total number of puzzle pieces remaining is reduced. Eventually the last more difficult pieces can be placed because there are more and more surrounding clues combined with fewer and fewer eligible placements remaining.

In the title page of the Book of Mormon, the prophet Mormon wrote that the book is for "the convincing of the Jew and Gentile that JESUS is the CHRIST". I here present internal evidence showing the Book of Mormon to be a true and accurate historical account. Real places, real events, real people, and real history with demonstrable proof of internal consistency. Providing the physical evidence opens doors to the convincing of the spiritual evidence.

The Zarahemla model is an active project with improvements ongoing. Any logical model of reality is incomplete and possibly inconsistent – and so must be continuously revised in the face of new observations. I need help with those observations, so I invite your contributions, observations, and insights in the context of the methodology here provided. Please send them to the email address at the top of this page. I respond to every question and suggestion.

- Jay Mackley


PS, A pdf book of this website is available for download. 80.5 MB. Last revised: 29 November 2024.
See also, the interactive 3D Zarahemla Model map.
See also, game development at ZarahemlaQuest.com.

Significant new activity listed below.

  • 18 July 2024: Information added for the Chronology of Mormon and Moroni.
  • 2 July 2024: Zarahemla Productions LLC formed to produce a photo realistic video game called Zarahemla Quest which uses the Zarahemla Model as a template.
  • 23 March 2024: Added new Section 2.7 that includes a very useful paper on the North American climate of 2000 years ago, generated by ChatGPT
  • 01 October 2023: Added beta GANTT chart of Jaredite and Nephite chronology, developed with Scott Willis. The chart includes date estimates based on milestone dates. Also shows overlapping correspondences between Jaredite and Nephite events.
  • 21 July 2023: Added chart of Heartland Geography Model Comparisons of the Physical Model of the Book of Mormon. The chart shows summary information about each model.

 1.1 Table of Contents Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 24 October 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS
(If sections closed then click Open All to enable internal links)

1 Introduction
1.1 Table of Contents
1.2 Questions and Answers
1.3 Mapping The Book of Mormon
1.4 The Translation Process
2 North America Setting
2.1 North_America_Setting
2.2 Issue of The Book of Mormon in North America
2.3 Location of the Hill Cumorah
2.4 Location of Zarahemla
2.5 Joseph Smith
2.6 Central and South America
2.7 Climate and Food
3 Logical Geography Model
3.1 Building the Logical Model
3.2 The Methodology
3.3 Rules of Interpretation
3.4 Rules of Application
3.5 Entity Relationship Table
3.6 Finding a Consensus
3.7 Scoring Book of Mormon maps
3.8 Database Referential Integrity
4 Physical Geography Model
4.1 Building the Physical Model
4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands
4.3 The Lands Near Nephi
4.3.1 From Landfall to the Land of Nephi
4.3.2 Strip of Wilderness
4.3.3 Missionary Journeys of Ammon and Sons of Mosiah
4.3.4 East of Nephi
4.3.5 Alma and the Waters of Mormon
4.3.6 Alma Returns from the Land of Mormon
4.3.7 The People of King Limhi
4.4 The Lands Near Zarahemla
4.4.1 City of Zarahemla
4.4.2 Amlicite War - Battle of Zarahemla
4.4.3 Journeys of Alma II
4.4.4 The People of Ammon - Migrations
4.4.5 Zoramite War - Battle of Jershon
4.4.6 War of Amalickiah - Victory in the Wilderness
4.4.7 War of Amalickiah - Battle of Noah
4.4.8 War of Amalickiah - East Wilderness Campaign
4.4.9 Rebellion of king-men and Pachus
4.4.10 War of Coriantumr
4.4.11 Missionary Travels of Nephi II and Lehi II
4.4.12 Nephite/Lamanite Era of Peace and Free Trade
4.4.13 Nephi II in Zarahemla
4.4.14 Gadianton Robber Rebellion
4.5 The Lands Near Manti
4.5.1 Ammonihah Raid and Battle for the Nephite Captives
4.5.2 Zoramite War - Battle of Manti
4.5.3 War of Amalickiah - Stripling Soldiers
4.6 The Lands Near the East Sea
4.6.1 Conflict in Morionton
4.6.2 War of Amalickiah
4.6.3 The Fall of Nephihah
4.6.4 War of Nephite Dissenters
4.6.5 Migrations to the Land Northward
4.6.6 Fall of Central Government and Jacobite Rebellion
4.6.7 Visit of Jesus Christ to the Temple at Bountiful
4.7 Great Destructions at the Coming of Christ
4.8 Final Conflict: From Zarahemla to Cumorah
4.8.1 Retreat from Zarahemla to Desolation
4.8.2 War in Land of Desolation
4.8.3 Events at Cumorah
4.9 Jaredite Geography
4.9.1 Crossing the Sea
4.9.2 Jaredite Lands
4.9.3 Jaredite Wars
4.9.4 Jaredite Kings
4.9.5 Jaredite Chronology
 1.2 Questions and Answers
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 19 November 2024

The following are my answers to common questions. The Q&A has been updated from time to time and is still open to amendment. Be free to challenge me. I welcome your review.

Q1. How does your Book of Mormon geography vary from other Heartland maps?

A1. Book of Mormon geography is controversial. Most researchers have strong opinions that are held close to the heart emotionally and thus there is a lot of bias. However I believe it is important to strive for humility and to keep an open mind. There is so much yet to learn. Let's work together.

For comparison, below is a chart of the Heartland Models I am aware of.

As a reference for Heartland geography models, I am aware of the four distinct versions in the table below. Please let me know of corrections or additions.

  1. THMx = Traditional Heartland Model:
    These models follow the original heartland model. There are three variants with minor differences: THM1, THM2, THM3.
  2. ZCHM = Zarahemla Centric Heartland Model, also called the Zarahemla Model or ZM for short:
    This is a new model abbreviated as ZM with locations further west than the THM.
  3. NAM = North American Model:
    This is a new model also quite different from the ZM and THM with locations further east than the THM.
  4. WNYMx = Western New York Model:
    WNYM1 is an unique older model concentrated in the western upper New York area. WNYM2 is another more recent and complete version for the same area by a different author.

Heartland Geography Model Comparisons


THM1
THM2
THM3
ZM
NAM
WNYM1
WNYM2
Quick View (click) image
Quick View (click)
image
Quick View (click)
image
Quick View (click)
image
Quick View (click)
image
Quick View (click) image
Quick View (click) image
Author Rian Nelson, Rod Meldrum Wayne May Jonathan Neville Jay Mackley William Peter Midgley Phyllis Carol Olive Arlin Ewald Nusbaum
Website? BookOfMormonEvidence.com No MoronisAmerica.com
WorksOfJoseph.com
Heartland.TheHolyScriptures.info
3Dmap.TheHolyScriptures.info
NorthAmericaModel.com No BookofMormongeography.org
Book?
  • Exploring The Book of Mormon in America's Heartland
  • Zarahemla and the Nephite Nation
  • Only One Cumorah
  • They Came from the EAST
  • America 2,000 B.C. to 500 A.D.
  • Moronis America
  • The Lost City of Zarahemla
  • The North American Model for the Book of Mormon
  • Lost Lands of the Book of Mormon
No
Methodology (rank)
  1. Archeaology sites
  2. Topography
  3. Scripture Text
  1. Archeaology sites
  2. Dowsing
  3. Scripture Text
  1. Archeaology sites
  2. Topography
  3. Scripture Text
  1. Scripture Text
  2. Formal Rules
  3. Computer Data Analytics
  4. GPS Topography
  1. Topography
  2. Scripture Text
  3. Archeaology sites
  1. Topography
  2. Scripture Text
  1. Topography
  2. Scripture Text
Formal Methodology? No No No Yes No No No
Hill Cumorah? Upper New York State Upper New York State Upper New York State Upper New York State Upper New York State Upper New York State Upper New York State
City Zarahemla? At or near Montrose, Iowa At or near Montrose, Iowa At or near Montrose, Iowa At or near Montrose, Iowa At or near Columbus, Ohio Near Buffalo, New York Near Buffalo, New York
City Nephi? Chattanooga, Tennessee Chattanooga, Tennessee Chattanooga, Tennessee St Louis, Missouri Northwest North Carolina Western NY, near Lake Erie Western NY, near Lake Erie
Narrative Land Area 800,000 square miles 800,000 square miles 800,000 square miles 150,000 square miles 650,000 square miles 12,000 square miles 12,000 square miles
% Lands Mapped 12% 10% 10% 100% 12% 8% 16%
% Cities Mapped 30% 15% 15% 100% 12% 8% 16%
% Journeys Mapped 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0%
% Battles Mapped 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0%
% Jaredite Lands 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0%
% Jaredite Cities 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0%
% Jaredite Battles 0% 0% 0% 100% 0% 0% 0%
% Named Topography 25% 2% 17% 100% 48% 0% 30%
Relationship Tracking? No No No Yes No No No
Date Ranges No No No Yes No No No
Active Model? Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Yes
Accessibility Online, scattered. Book. Books, lectures, scattered. Online, books. Books required. Online, pdf book. Online partial. Book required. Book only. Online. In progress.

Q2. Why have you done this Book of Mormon research?

A2. I love the Book of Mormon and it's message of salvation and I recognize its important role in the building up of the latter-day Zion. It contains the "fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ" and is secondarily also an accurate and important historical record. So, I have five primary reasons for doing this research:

  1. I believe it is important to establish the historical veracity of the Book of Mormon as an additional testimony of its truthfulness. Some members of the church have come to believe the Book of Mormon geography and history to be fictional and even at BYU they teach this narrative with a faux map, implying to many that the Book of Mormin is fictional. I think we can and must do better.
  2. I believe it is also important doctrinally to understand the special purposes and destiny of North America in Gods plan for the latter days, and what that means for those who live there. The Book of Mormon says its land comes with a special promise and responsibility attached to it - and that it has an important role to play in the latter days as regards to the New Jerusalem and the return of the Savior. Because of this, knowing where the land is located is important.
  3. Geographical references are found extensively in the Book of Mormon during the time of Alma, Helaman, 3 Nephi, and Mormon (91 BC – 34 AD, 363 – 384 AD). I find it very satisfying to read the Book of Mormon while understanding the geography involved. Everything in the narrative is thereby clarified and becomes more relatable.
  4. On the title page, the stated purpose of the Book of Mormon is for the convincing of Jew and Gentile that Jesus is the Christ. Many people need to first accept the Book of Mormon as historical before they can even consider the message of Christ that is in it. The extensive geography in the Book of Mormon is not just incidental but crucial in establishing the Book of Mormon as real. Not establishing the history and geography as being something real means a closed door to millions of potential investigators of the Book of Mormon. We hold the Bible to be real history but imagine if we could not even agree on the location of Jerusalem? That would be faith damaging for the Bible. I know we can do better for the Book of Mormon.
  5. The Entity Relationship table database provides powerful evidence of the Book of Mormons remarkable consistency regarding geography, and is therefore a testimony of the divine origin of the text. This should be more widely known and be a part of the convincing process.

Q3. Seems like your map is wrong, doesn't the Book of Mormon say the Sidon river flows northward so that Manti is south of Zarahemla?

A3. The Book of Mormon does not say if the Sidon river flows north or south. One reason a northward assumption is made is because the Book of Mormon text says the head of the Sidon is near Manti (Alma 43:22Alma 43
22 Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone.
) and Manti is thought to be south of Zarahemla because of Alma 17:1Alma 17
1 And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying from the land of Gideon southward, away to the land of Manti, behold, to his astonishment, he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla.
. However Alma 17:1Alma 17
1 And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying from the land of Gideon southward, away to the land of Manti, behold, to his astonishment, he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla.
can easily be read to indicate that Alma is starting his journey to Manti from Gideon which is southward. In this view, Manti could be in any direction. I'll refer you to Alma 17:1 in Section 4.4.3 Journeys of Alma II for the details.

Another reason Manti is thought to be south of Zarahemla is the claim that Joseph Smith said that Manti is at Huntsville Missouri, but there is no historical record of Joseph Smith ever saying that. There was a pioneer named Samuel Tyler who wrote in his journal that the Huntsville location was "the ancient site of the City of Manti" but he did not attribute that to Joseph Smith. Another pioneer Elias Smith said Huntsville was "near the place where the city of Manti is to be built", so hearsay evidence indicates a settlement was planned (it never happened) and that may be the source of Samuel Tyler's confusion. Early latter-day saints frequently named new settlements after places in the Book of Mormon, just like they later did for Manti, Utah. It should also be noted that ancient cities absolutely require ready access to a major water source for consumption and for travel. There are no rivers or lakes of any significance near Huntsville, Missouri.

Q4. How come you don't place the Land of Nephi and Bountiful in Indiana/Ohio as do other Heartlanders?

A4. In my opinion thus far, Book of Mormon narrative text says that:

  1. The Land of Nephi is south of Zarahemla and a minimum of 10 days travel distance,
  2. Bountiful is north of Zarahemla,
  3. The head of the Sidon is upstream from Zarahemla*, and
  4. Zarahemla is in the center of the land.

*The common definition for the "head" of a river is the source. This also accords with Book of Mormon usage found in 1 Nephi 8:13-14
13 And as I cast my eyes round about, that perhaps I might discover my family also, I beheld a river of water; and it ran along, and it was near the tree of which I was partaking the fruit.
14 And I looked to behold from whence it came; and I saw the head thereof a little way off...

In my experience, traditional Heartland maps and derivatives overlook much of the geography found in the text of the Book of Mormon (for example: items 1-4 above are a few of many examples) because they are based on the principle of looking secondarily in the Book of Mormon for a name to pin to an archaeological site. I think this process is totally backwards and results in wild guessing based on wishful thinking and not analyzing the text as a whole. Some heartland researchers assume that the text is too vague, does not have that much to offer for geography – and is therefore of secondary importance. However, I take the opposite approach and believe the Book of Mormon text is of primary importance. I believe that the Book of Mormon text has a lot to offer and I point to the Entity Relationship Table in Section 3.5 as empirical proof of that.

Q5. Many maps for the Book of Mormon have been made. Why are you doing it again? What is different about your maps?

A5. In my experience, the many maps and theories for Book of Mormon geography published over the years have been discordant and little has ever been accomplished in the way of consensus or collaboration. When I started this project I had hoped I could help it be otherwise and that a fully defined Logical Model would be a way to collaborate. However the subject of Book of Mormon geography remains discordant. Most researchers refuse to collaborate and many who publish online do not even disclose their name or provide contact information (e.g. See Western New York Model). My experience in analyzing geographical models is that all other models of Book of Mormon geography are incomplete because all the entities and relationships are not included. However, I believe the ZM Logical and Physical Models to be thorough and completely inclusive. The Logical Model definitions are integrated into a database where analytical programs can analyze and cross-check in ways otherwise impossible. Here is a summary of the contents of the ZM database:

           Entity Types (Example: city, land, mount, hill, wilderness)...  23
           Entity Names (Example: Zarahemla, Manti, Bountiful)........... 118
           Named Entity Types (Example: city of Gid, land of Nephi)...... 154
           Relationships (Example: near, borders, south of)..............  26
           
           Partial Entity Relationships (city of Noah near wilderness)...  99
           Full Entity Relationships (city of Noah near city of Melek)... 697
           
           TOTAL Entity Relationships (unique)........................... 796
          

So, after scoring 9 MesoAmerican maps and 7 Heartland maps, I make the following claims:

  1. The ZM formally identifies more geographical features than any other model.
  2. The ZM identifies more geographical relationships than any other model.
  3. The ZM uses database and computer analysis to insure the Logical Model has referential integrity with itself and with the GPS coordinates of the Physical Model. See also, Section 3.2
  4. Every historical event in the Book of Mormon is documented and shown how it best fits within the framework of the ZM.

Q6. How can someone share ideas or ask questions?

A6. One can contribute suggestions, improvements and ideas to the Logical and Physical Model by emailing me directly (use the email address at the top of the page). I promise a response to every query.

Diagram illustrating the procedural methods (Scientific Method) that I follow.
Flow chart for Scientific Method

My goal and purpose is to seek truth with an open mind and to faithfully apply a scientific method to arrive at the best possible answer. The process of inspired experimentation is explained and endorsed by the Book of Mormon itself.

Alma 32
27 But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words.
28 Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves--It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me.
29 Now behold, would not this increase your faith? I say unto you, Yea; nevertheless it hath not grown up to a perfect knowledge.
30 But behold, as the seed swelleth, and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, then you must needs say that the seed is good; for behold it swelleth, and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow. And now, behold, will not this strengthen your faith? Yea, it will strengthen your faith: for ye will say I know that this is a good seed; for behold it sprouteth and beginneth to grow.
31 And now, behold, are ye sure that this is a good seed? I say unto you, Yea; for every seed bringeth forth unto its own likeness.
32 Therefore, if a seed groweth it is good, but if it groweth not, behold it is not good, therefore it is cast away.
33 And now, behold, because ye have tried the experiment, and planted the seed, and it swelleth and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, ye must needs know that the seed is good.

Q7. How are your conclusions specifically different from other Book of Mormon maps? How can you give precise placement when the Book of Mormon does not give specifics?

A7. The proposed Physical Model (the "master map" in Section 4.1 Building the Physical Model) is "Zarahemla Centric" in the sense that the city of Zarahemla is the anchor point for all other locations and it is placed across the river (southwest) from Nauvoo Illinois, the city of Nephi at St Louis Missouri, the city of Manti a little east of Minneapolis Minnesota, and the city of Bountiful is placed at Sault Ste Marie on the border of Michigan and Ontario Canada.

As for specific placements, the Book of Mormon gives cardinal directions and some distances and then this information is combined with topographical information to arrive at the best location that is within the database constraints of the Entity Relationship table and the Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Additional considerations are codified in Section 3.4 Rules of Application. For example, we know cities are not built on mountain tops or in flood plains and that they require a nearby water source for population consumption and for travel. There are limited choices when all these factors are considered. In my opinion it is a testimony to the accuracy of the ZM that a good geographical choice has always been available after the text and topography are fully considered. Sometimes there are two or more choices but the vast majority of instances come down to only one plausible choice. In no instances has the text combined with the topography produced zero plausible choices. This part of it really hasn't been a struggle, thus I think that the shoe really fits.

Q8. How are your conclusions the same as other Heartland models?

A8. That the events described in the Book of Mormon took place in North America. That there is only One Hill Cumorah and it is located at the traditional site in New York as described by Joseph Smith and the Angel Moroni. That Zarahemla is at or near Montrose, Iowa. See also, Section 2.2 The Book of Mormon in North America.

Q9. Why do you think the Traditional Heartland Model (THM) is not correct? Is it close?

A9. Except for Zarahemla and Cumorah the THM is not a good fit when using the text of the Book of Mormon as the guide. Overall, the THM is demonstrably way too large. The ZM and the MAM's (MesoAmerican Models) limit the space (for the main historical narrative between 171 BC to 34 AD) to an area that fits within the distances described in the text, which comes out to be about 150,000 square miles. However the THM expands the Book of Mormon narrative to include 800,000 square miles, so the THM is over 5 times too big. Not too big for the total Nephite and Lamanite civilizations but too big for the Book of Mormon narrative history between 171 BC to 34 AD. Also, in the THM, most of the specific Book of Mormon locations are left out. They are missing because they cannot be made to fit even when ignoring most of the text. In my opinion even the major locations in the THM are incompatible with the Book of Mormon text. The THM also adds seas that were not extent during the time of the Reign of the Judges in the Book of Mormon. The proponents of the THM admit that the text of the Book of Mormon was not the primary consideration when developing the THM. In other words, the THM is like the MAM in the sense that the method is to first try and support archaeological discoveries (be it Ohio or Guatemala).

Q10. What about bias? Isn't it true that your rules are subjective and since you make the "rules" you can configure them to get whatever outcome you prefer?

A10. It is not possible to pre-determine results within the framework of the Zarahemla Model/ZM. I confess to a general bias for North America and for the hill Cumorah in New York because it reflects the scriptures and the teachings of the Prophets in my opinion. However, that does not affect the programming code behind the database analysis and there are no special exceptions built into the code. My strict methodology is to follow the text of the Book of Mormon. To that end, the ZM Logical (internal) Model was developed by converting geographical information from the BOM text into a machine readable format for easy manual review and for database processing. Afterward the physical model was developed, relying only on the pre-existing logical model and upon Google map topography. No one should, in fairness, just assume bias without studying the Logical and Physical models enough to provide specifics. Changing a rule (think of it as a theory or postulate) is normally a matter of refinement and rarely results in a significant change to the model and this is because the ZM model is driven primarily by the text of the Book of Mormon and the majority of the geographical text has no rule for special consideration. Compared to the text, the Rules of Application and Rules of Interpretation are adjunct. I would challenge anyone to change the rules with the idea of manipulating the results to a predetermined outcome. It cannot be done without causing inconsistencies (IOW the database referential integrity will be lost - it won't pass the automated validation tests). However, if someone thinks I am creating, bending, or breaking a rule or textual interpretation to conform to a bias, I would definitely like to hear about it. That's the kind of input and peer review I am seeking.

Q11. In Alma 22, Mormon describes the geography of the Book of Mormon. How does your model reconcile with that? For example, the Zarahemla Model has no nearby sea that is west of Zarahemla and the Book of Mormon has a west sea.

A11. The ZM is fully consistent with Alma 22 — after I make major punctuation changes to the long, confusing run-on sentences. See Section 4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands and especially the comparison table in Section 4.4.14 Gadianton Robber Rebellion where this is done and explained in detail. Some may say that is cheating but I see the Alma 22 punctuation as well intentioned by John Gilbert (the typesetter hired by the printer E. B. Grandin) but incorrect. Since the original manuscript was not punctuated, Gilbert's punctuation we have today is not an inspired part of the text. Also I do not believe Alma 22 can be punctuated to fit just any geography model of choice (but anyone is welcome to try!).

The west sea (Lake Superior) in the Book of Mormon is west of the east sea (i.e. more west than north of Lake Michigan/Huron) but not west of Zarahemla and Nephite lands, which are statedAlma 53:8,22
8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land.
22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea.
as being south of the west sea. See the commentary on Manti in Section 3.5 Entity Relationship Table.

Q12. What about climate? Doesn't the Book of Mormon lack mention of snow and winter conditions? Even in North America wasn't it colder and wetter in Book of Mormon times?

A12. The Book of Mormon mentions distinct seasons (Alma 46:40)Alma 46:40
40 And there were some who died with fevers, which at some seasons of the year were very frequent in the land--but not so much so with fevers, because of the excellent qualities of the many plants and roots which God had prepared to remove the cause of diseases, to which men were subject by the nature of the climate--
, lack of rain during drought (Helaman 11:12-13)Helaman 11:12-13
12 O Lord, wilt thou turn away thine anger, yea, thy fierce anger, and cause that this famine may cease in this land.
13 O Lord, wilt thou hearken unto me, and cause that it may be done according to my words, and send forth rain upon the face of the earth, that she may bring forth her fruit, and her grain in the season of grain.
, and also snow (1 Nephi 11:8)1 Nephi 11:8 (written in the promised land)
8 And it came to pass that the Spirit said unto me: Look! And I looked and beheld a tree; and it was like unto the tree which my father had seen; and the beauty thereof was far beyond, yea, exceeding of all beauty; and the whiteness thereof did exceed the whiteness of the driven snow.
and tornadoes (Helaman 5:12)Helaman 5:12
12 And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.
and hail (Mosiah 12:6)Mosiah 12:6
6 And it shall come to pass that I will send forth hail among them, and it shall smite them; and they shall also be smitten with the east wind; and insects shall pester their land also, and devour their grain.
. The references to snow and hail and tornadoes (written on the Plates of Nephi while in the promised land) favors a North American Midwest locale because the region of Central America is dominated by a hot and humid oceanic climate year around and where snow or hail is extremely rare and tornadoes are uncommonCentral America Climate, by ChatGPT

Central America generally experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and distinct wet and dry seasons. The region is not known for snow and hail, which are extremely rare due to its proximity to the equator and the consistently warm temperatures. Tornadoes are also uncommon but can occur in certain areas under specific conditions, particularly during transitional seasons.

Here's a comprehensive overview of the climate in Central America:

Temperature: Central America typically has warm temperatures throughout the year, with little variation between seasons. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) in most areas. However, temperatures can be cooler in higher elevations, such as in mountainous regions.

Wet Season: Central America experiences a wet season, which generally occurs from May to November. During this period, heavy rainfall is common, particularly in coastal areas and lowland regions. The wet season is influenced by the region's proximity to both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, which can bring tropical storms and hurricanes.

Dry Season: The dry season in Central America typically lasts from December to April. This period is characterized by lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it a popular time for tourism and outdoor activities.

Hurricanes and Tropical Storms: Central America is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially along its Caribbean and Pacific coasts. These weather systems can bring torrential rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, leading to flooding, landslides, and other hazards.

Tornadoes: While tornadoes are relatively rare in Central America compared to regions like Tornado Alley in the United States, they can still occur under specific atmospheric conditions. Tornadoes in Central America are generally less frequent and less intense but can still pose risks to affected areas.
--------------------------
References:
"Central America: Climate" by Encyclopædia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/place/Central-America/Climate
"Climate of Central America" by WorldAtlas: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/what-type-of-climate-does-central-america-have.html
. For North America, the current scientific consensus is that North American climate was much warmer and drier in North America during the period of the main narrative of the Book of Mormon (Mosiah through the Reign of the Judges, 171 BC - 34 AD). The official report to Congress from By Leon M. Carl (Center Director of the U.S. Geological Survey) states that there was a "low water level" period in the Great Lakes from 293 BC - 7 AD. Other studies conclude that the higher temperatures and lower precipitation of the Roman Warm Period in Europe was also manifest in North America, which was most strongly expressed between approximately 100 BC and AD 200. I follow Rule of Application 11 which states: Unless indicated or implied otherwise in scripture, the current scientific consensus is assumed to be pre-eminent in matters of dating, geology, linguistics and climate, etc. For more information on climate, see Section 2.7.

Q13. Is Zarahemla in Iowa compatible with the seeds and plants that would have been brought from Jerusalem?

A13. Nephi does not record what kind of seeds they brought from Jerusalem. However, Mosiah 9:9 tells us what kind of crops they were growing:

Mosiah 9:9
9 And we began to till the ground, yea, even with all manner of seeds, with seeds of corn, and of wheat, and of barley, and with neas, and with sheum, and with seeds of all manner of fruits; and we did begin to multiply and prosper in the land.

Iowa has maybe the best farm land in the world. ChatGPT has this to say:

Question: "Does corn, wheat, barley and fruit grow in Iowa?
Answer: "Yes, corn, wheat, barley, and various fruits all grow in Iowa. Iowa is one of the top producers of corn and soybeans in the United States, thanks to its fertile soil and favorable climate. Wheat is also grown, although in smaller amounts compared to corn. Barley is less common but can be found in some areas. Additionally, Iowa has a range of fruit farms that produce apples, strawberries, grapes, and more. The state's agriculture is quite diverse!"

Q14. What edition of the Book of Mormon do you use for your study and why?

A14. The text I examine is Royal Skousen's edition of the Book of Mormon called The Book of Mormon - The Earliest Text. I also use a formal set of assumptions/postulates called Rules of Interpretation (for the Logical Model) and Rules of Application (for the Physical Model). These are found in Section 3.3 and Section 3.4.

Q15. Do you think the Book of Mormon is internally consistent in regards to geography?

A15. There are two instances of inconsistency in the standard editions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. However these come from copyist errors which are corrected in the Royal Skousen version, The Book of Mormon - The Earliest Text. See Example Comparisons for Interpretation Rule 2. The 100% internal consistency of the complex geography of the Book of Mormon is a testimony to its divine origin.

Q16. What about Central and South America and native stories about a bearded white God who visited them?

A16. I believe such legends have a core element of truth. Consider the following:

  1. The narrative in the Book of Mormon with geographic information is from 91 BC to 34 AD, which is only 125 years of the 1000 years of Nephite history. The Book of Mormon states five times that we have less than 1% of the total history (Jacob 3:13Jacob 3
    13 And a hundredth part of the proceedings of this people, which now began to be numerous, cannot be written upon these plates; but many of their proceedings are written upon the larger plates, and their wars, and their contentions, and the reigns of their kings.
    , Words of Mormon 1:5Words of Mormon 1
    5 Wherefore, I chose these things, to finish my record upon them, which remainder of my record I shall take from the plates of Nephi; and I cannot write the hundredth part of the things of my people.
    , Helaman 3:14Helaman 3
    14 But behold, a hundredth part of the proceedings of this people, yea, the account of the Lamanites and of the Nephites, and their wars, and contentions, and dissensions, and their preaching, and their prophecies, and their shipping and their building of ships, and their building of temples, and of synagogues and their sanctuaries, and their righteousness, and their wickedness, and their murders, and their robbings, and their plundering, and all manner of abominations and whoredoms, cannot be contained in this work.
    , 3 Nephi 5:83 Nephi 5
    8 And there had many things transpired which, in the eyes of some, would be great and marvelous; nevertheless, they cannot all be written in this book; yea, this book cannot contain even a hundredth part of what was done among so many people in the space of twenty and five years;
    , 3 Nephi 26:63 Nephi 26
    6 And now there cannot be written in this book even a hundredth part of the things which Jesus did truly teach unto the people;
    , Ether 15:33Ether 15
    33 And the Lord spake unto Ether, and said unto him: Go forth. And he went forth, and beheld that the words of the Lord had all been fulfilled; and he finished his record; (and the hundredth part I have not written) and he hid them in a manner that the people of Limhi did find them.
    ).
  2. By 40 BC, the people had spread to "cover the face of the whole earth" (Helaman 3:8Helaman 3
    8 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east.
    ). It is likely that descendants of Lehi migrated far to the south over the 1000 years of Nephite history.
  3. When Jesus visited in 34 AD, He told the Nephites there were yet other sheep of the house of Israel in other locales that He was going to visit (3 Nephi 16:1-3). Jesus specifically mentions "in the south" and "the islands of the sea". Jesus told Nephi that there were many lost tribes of Israel with records someday to come forth (2 Nephi 29:11-132 Nephi 29
    11 For I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the books which shall be written I will judge the world, every man according to their works, according to that which is written.
    12 For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the Nephites and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the other tribes of the house of Israel, which I have led away, and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it.
    13 And it shall come to pass that the Jews shall have the words of the Nephites, and the Nephites shall have the words of the Jews; and the Nephites and the Jews shall have the words of the lost tribes of Israel; and the lost tribes of Israel shall have the words of the Nephites and the Jews.
    ).

Q17. So, do you consider the Zarahemla Model as presented on your website to be 100% perfect and complete?

A17. The Zarahemla Model is the only 100% all-inclusive and complete model and map of Book of Mormon geography. It includes all Book of Mormon lands, cities, land features, battles and journeys. However, the ZM is not perfect. Proof-reading, refinement and review is ongoing.

Q18. You claim the Zarahemla Model takes a scientific approach. What do you mean by that?

A18. The scientific method of testing and repeatability. I claim that the logic paths leading to conclusions are precisely defined and documented to be tested by anyone. There are repeatable steps leading to each answer. That doesn't guarantee the right answer but the methodology of the Zarahemla Model provides a framework that programmatically ensures internal consistency – leading to better conclusions and a complete model. See also, the logic diagram in A6.

Q19. Do you think your geography model or some other model will one day find wide acceptance?

A19. The Zarahemla Model of geography with its data analytics and entity relationship model provides empirical proof of the internal consistency of Book of Mormon geography and validates perfectly with the topography of mid-west America. However the model is complicated and few people have read and studied it because few people are data analysts. So for now I believe there will continue to be a wide variance of opinions on the matter. Eventually, additional records will come forth – as is prophesied and promisedEnos 1:15
15 Wherefore, I knowing that the Lord God was able to preserve our records, I cried unto him continually, for he had said unto me: Whatsoever thing ye shall ask in faith, believing that ye shall receive in the name of Christ, ye shall receive it.
16 And I had faith, and I did cry unto God that he would preserve the records; and he covenanted with me that he would bring them forth unto the Lamanites in his own due time.
17 And I, Enos, knew it would be according to the covenant which he had made; wherefore my soul did rest.
18 And the Lord said unto me: Thy fathers have also required of me this thing; and it shall be done unto them according to their faith; for their faith was like unto thine.

1 Nephi 5:16-18
16 And thus my father, Lehi, did discover the genealogy of his fathers. And Laban also was a descendant of Joseph, wherefore he and his fathers had kept the records.
17 And now when my father saw all these things, he was filled with the Spirit, and began to prophesy concerning his seed--
18 That these plates of brass should go forth unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people who were of his seed.

4 Nephi 1:48
48 And it came to pass that when three hundred and twenty years had passed away, Ammaron, being constrained by the Holy Ghost, did hide up the records which were sacred--yea, even all the sacred records which had been handed down from generation to generation, which were sacred--even until the three hundred and twentieth year from the coming of Christ.

President Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, Vol 19, p 38
I lived right in the country where the plates were found from which the Book of Mormon was translated, and I know a great many things pertaining to that country. I believe I will take the liberty to tell you of another circumstance that will be as marvelous as anything can be. This is an incident in the life of Oliver Cowdery, but he did not take the liberty of telling such things in meeting as I take. I tell these things to you, and I have a motive for doing so. I want to carry them to the ears of my brethren and sisters, and to the children also, that they may grow to an understanding of some things that seem to be entirely hidden from the human family. Oliver Cowdery went with the Prophet Joseph when he deposited these plates. Joseph did not translate all of the plates; there was a portion of them sealed, which you can learn from the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. When Joseph got the plates, the angel instructed him to carry them back to the hill Cumorah, which he did. Oliver says that when Joseph and Oliver went there, the hill opened, and they walked into a cave, in which there was a large and spacious room. He says he did not think, at the time, whether they had the light of the sun or artificial light; but that it was just as light as day. They laid the plates on a table; it was a large table that stood in the room. Under this table there was a pile of plates as much as two feet high, and there were altogether in this room more plates than probably many wagon loads; they were piled up in the corners and along the walls. The first time they went there the sword of Laban hung upon the wall; but when they went again it had been taken down and laid upon the table across the gold plates; it was unsheathed, and on it was written these words: “This sword will never be sheathed again until the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our God and his Christ.” I tell you this as coming not only from Oliver Cowdery, but others who were familiar with it, and who understood it just as well as we understand coming to this meeting, enjoying the day, and by and by we separate and go away, forgetting most of what is said, but remembering some things. So is it with other circumstances in life. I relate this to you, and I want you to understand it. I take this liberty of referring to those things so that they will not be forgotten and lost. (Discourse by President Brigham Young, delivered at a Special Conference Held at Farmington, for the Purpose of Organizing a Stake of Zion for the County of Davis, on Sunday Afternoon, June 17, 1877) .

 1.3 Mapping The Book of Mormon
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 14 July 2024

Supporting and promoting the historicity of the Book of Mormon motivates me and geography is a very important part of the Book of Mormon in terms of quantity. It appears that the ancient prophets included geographical information to demonstrate that the history narrative was true and real and to help us relate. Here are some stats on the geography of the promised land of the Book of Mormon from Mormons abridgment and from Moroni:

             TOTAL VERSES EXCLUDING FIRST AND SECOND NEPHI......... 4394
             TOTAL VERSES CONTAINING ANY GEOGRAPHY REFERENCE....... 1434  33%
             
             PLACE NAMES MENTIONED (including duplicates).......... 1743  
             GENERAL GEOGRAPHY MENTIONED (including duplicates)....  394 
                                                                    ----             
             TOTAL GEOGRAPHICAL REFERENCES (includes duplicates)... 2137
             
             BOOK OF MORMON PLACES AND EVENTS TRACKED BY THE ZM

             LANDS NAMED....... 46
             CITIES NAMED...... 54
             LAND FEATURES..... 17
             BATTLES FOUGHT.... 29
             TRIP ROUTES....... 35
             PLACES MENTIONED.. 51
          

There remain some errors in this work - but they are mostly technical and minor and will be fixed in time with ongoing review. There are also additional insights from the Book of Mormon yet to be discovered and included. I appreciate any and all constructive feedback and insights into the Book of Mormon that you have.

The Zarahemla Model of Book of Mormon geography is based on a Logical Model that leads to a Physical Model and both use database driven methodologies. For more info on the database see, Section 3.8 Database Referential Integrity. If you are interested more in the Logical Model and the ontology (logic def: the set of entities presupposed by a theory) of it, I suggest you skip the Physical Model information in sections 1, 2 and 4 and go directly to the Logical Model in Section 3. This may also help avoid developing any bias regarding the Physical Model vs the Logical Model. However, most readers do not study the Logical Model vis-à-vis the Book of Mormon but rather just look only at the physical maps to compare it to their pre-existing worldview – and then quit when it becomes clear there is not a match. I strongly advise against that approach because if you are looking at this to confirm bias then you are missing the whole point of learning. If you just don't have the time or inclination to study the Logical Model then I recommend you simply look at Section 1.2 Questions and Answers, which provides answers to the most relevant questions you are likely to have.

Sections 1, 2, and 4 present the heartland of North America as the Book of Mormon "land of promise" with the city of Zarahemla in the center of the land. I formally call this the Zarahemla Centric Heartland Model for Book of Mormon geography. This Zarahemla Model is based on a series of Entity Relationship definitions of geography (see the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.4) that are taken from the Book of Mormon text (The Book of Mormon - The Earliest Text, Royal Skousen), and put into a condensed form using a human and machine readable standardized nomenclature, and then sorted by location. The Entity Relationship table is the foundation of the Logical Model which also includes a set of working rules/postulates regarding textual interpretation (see also Section 3.2). The Entity Relationships and the Rules of Interpretation together form the Logical Model. The Logical Model entities serve as the reference tool for creating a Physical Model. The Physical Model is represented in pieces as maps on this website but also more comprehensively as a .kml file that is read by Google Maps online and by the Google Earth program. In addition to the physical location of Book of Mormon place names, the maps also detail missionary journeys, military battles, and other places and activity described in the Book of Mormon. See Section 4.

In theory, one could take the ZM Logical Model to support a different Physical Model than the one presented here. That is, if there were better Physical Model than the one I use then the Logical Model would reveal that. Using the Logical Model construct as a container for evaluating physical models (Book of Mormon maps) is a process I call "map scoring" and there are multiple examples of map scoring in Section 3.7

The Logical Model is where some logical consensus might first be found among researchers, which was always my first hope. I encourage those with input and insights to share them with me directly. My email address is found at the top and bottom of this page. My goal is to help establish the Book of Mormon as an accurate historical record and thus widen the audience of those who take the Book of Mormon itself seriously — so it can achieve its ultimate purpose of "the convincing of Jew and Gentile that Jesus is the Christ" (title page of the Book of Mormon). For this purpose I have created a Logical Model of Book of Mormon lands that is rigorous, all-inclusive, formalized, open, and transparent - so that anyone can use it to validate any physical map and to study the Book of Mormon in the context of common reference points.

However, before viewing the details of the Logical ZM, I know you may just want to "skip to the end" to see the overall map (the Physical ZM) for the Nephite, Lamanite, and Jaredite nations of the Book of Mormon.

The ZM map is in Section 4.1. You can also directly open the ZM Google Map.

 1.4 The Translation Process
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 20 August 2024
image

The Zarahemla Model of Book of Mormon geography is based first and foremost directly upon the text of the Book of Mormon — and as close to the original version of the text as possible for technical accuracy (For examples of this see the side-by-side textual comparisons in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation-IR2). Access to a close version to the original text is made possible by Royal Skousen's study of the original manuscripts which has resulted in the publication of The Book of Mormon - The Earliest Text.

Understanding the Book of Mormon translation process reveals that it was (in my opinion) a "tight" translation which is technically important when analyzing the text for geography. A "tight" translation means there should be great respect for each and every word of the Book of Mormon as coming from God.

There is much of controversy and conflicting testimony when it comes to the actual translation process. False accounts come from disaffected former members of the Church with a personal agenda to push (like Emma Smith) and accounts of the process also vary widely from one telling to the next, depending on the audience (like David Whitmer11). However, evidence indicates that only Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery had any direct experience with the translation process. Fortunately their testimony is consistent, clear and concise, as in the Wentworth letter5 and other authoritative statements1. Therefore the testimony of Joseph and Oliver must be paramount. They testified the translation was: 1) Done by the power of God; 2) Included reading the golden plates; and 3) Involved the use of the Urim and Thummim -- also called the Holy Interpreters. The only real question is the role of the Urim and Thummim in the translation process.

Accounts that describe the translation process using a dark "seer stone" in a hat were introduced by the anti-Mormon book "Mormonism Unvailed" and repeated by enemies and disaffected former members of the church in Joseph Smiths lifetime. There are also claims that "seer stone" and "Urim and Thummim" were referred to interchangeably as the same thing. This is patently false in the writings of Joseph and Oliver and the scripture10 is clear. We must take the official testimony of Joseph Smith, Oliver Cowdery, and the Lord Himself and reject the accounts of enemies and apostates – as Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery did in their day9. Below is the official canonized statement on the matter. The seer stone is conspicuously absent and is also not to be found anywhere in the scriptures or in the writings of Joseph Smith or in the writings of Oliver Cowdery as being part of the translation process.

Doctrine and Covenants 17
1 BEHOLD, I say unto you, that you must rely upon my word, which if you do with full purpose of heart, you shall have a view of the plates, and also of the breastplate, the sword of Laban, the Urim and Thummim, which were given to the brother of Jared upon the mount, when he talked with the Lord face to face, and the miraculous directors which were given to Lehi while in the wilderness, on the borders of the Red Sea.
2 And it is by your faith that you shall obtain a view of them, even by that faith which was had by the prophets of old.
3 And after that you have obtained faith, and have seen them with your eyes, you shall testify of them, by the power of God;
4 And this you shall do that my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., may not be destroyed, that I may bring about my righteous purposes unto the children of men in this work.
5 And ye shall testify that you have seen them, even as my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., has seen them; for it is by my power that he has seen them, and it is because he had faith.
6 And he has translated the book, even that part which I have commanded him, and as your Lord and your God liveth it is true.
...
9 And I, Jesus Christ, your Lord and your God, have spoken it unto you, that I might bring about my righteous purposes unto the children of men. Amen.

Oliver Cowderys testimony is also clear and unambiguous. For example, when he returned to the Church, he spoke at Council Bluffs and said:

Millennial Star, Aug. 20 1859, 544
I wrote, with my own pen, the entire Book of Mormon (save a few pages) as it fell from the lips of the Prophet Joseph Smith, as he translated it by the gift and power of God, by the means of the Urim and Thummim, or, as it is called by that book, 'holy interpreters.' I beheld with my eyes, and handled with my hands, the gold plates from which it was transcribed. I also saw with my eyes and handled with my hands the 'holy interpreters.' That book is true. Sidney Rigdon did not write it; Mr. Spaulding did not write it; I wrote it myself as it fell from the lips of the Prophet.

There is very strong evidence, based both on testimony and examination of the original manuscripts, that the translation process consisted of a one-time dictation1a,1b,1c which supports the idea that Joseph read off the English words as displayed on the Urim and Thummim Interpretors. This also makes sense when considering the remarkable speed of the translation. It also provides an explanation as to why Joseph did not revise himself – as Royal Skousen discovered in his study of the original manuscripts. Some have argued for a loose translation and that the young Joseph Smith at age 23 had read many books and translated the Book of Mormon into correct Biblical English using his own lexicon. However, this theory does not match the evidence. There were no do-overs, no narrative revision, no lexicon limited to the 19th century Joseph Smith.

Joseph Smith himself indicated that he could read the hieroglyphics of the plates:

"I translated the Book of Mormon from hieroglyphics, the knowledge of which was lost to the world, in which wonderful event I stood alone, an unlearned youth, to combat the worldly wisdom and multiplied ignorance of eighteen centuries" ... (History of the Church, 6:74).

It is believed, for good reasons, that the young Joseph Smith studied2a the language2b of the plates for as much as six months2c, was tutored by angelic messengers3 and thus could actually read and understand the logographic symbols on the plates2d based on his own study2e which was augmented with queries to the Urim and Thummim2e. I do believe this is true based on the historical record and also Section 9 of the Doctrine and Covenants4. That the translation process involved a personal understanding the engravings on the plates was also reiterated by the Lord to Oliver Cowdery when he said:

Doctrine & Covenants 8
1 Oliver Cowdery, verily, verily, I say unto you, that assuredly as the Lord liveth, who is your God and your Redeemer, even so surely shall you receive a knowledge of whatsoever things you shall ask in faith, with an honest heart, believing that you shall receive a knowledge concerning the engravings of old records, which are ancient, which contain those parts of my scripture of which has been spoken by the manifestation of my Spirit.

However, having a knowledge of the "Reformed Egyptian" characters on the plates does not explain a one-time dictation into a complex Biblical style English with no revisions. This is where, in my opinion, the role of the Urim and Thummim5 comes in. Joseph Smith had a preparation and talent for translating the written meaning to his own understanding and then the role of the Urim and Thummim (also called "Interpreters"6) was to convert/interpret (consecutive interpreting) that understanding into the precise Hebrew-like language constructs and Bible-like vocabulary that is now found in the Book of Mormon. For most people the tendency is to carelessly conflate interpreting and translating to mean the same thing. This is clearly not the case. The 1828 Webster dictionary defines the words "translate" and "interpret" as:

Translate: to turn into one's own or another language (which is exactly what Joseph Smiths study and effort did)
Interpret: to explain or tell the meaning of – present in understandable terms. (which is exactly what the Urim and Thummim interpreters did)

The title page of the Book of Mormon says "The interpretation thereof by the gift (gift: Something that is bestowed voluntarily) of God." Translating and Interpreting are two words conveying two separate processes and they should not be conflated! That the interpretation was a "gift" from God in form of written words is stated in the history of Lucy Mack Smith where she says:

Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1844–1845
In the mean time Joseph was 150 miles distant and knew naught of the matter except an intimation that was given through the urim and thummim for as he one morning applied them to his eyes to look upon the record instead of the words of the book being given him he was commanded to write a letter to one David Whitmer this man Joseph had never seen but he was instructed to say to him that he must come with his team immediately in order to convey Joseph and Oliver back to his house which was 135 miles that they might remain with him there until the translation should be completed ...

This concept of the final wording being "given" as a gift also explains why it was a one-time dictation instead of the normal multiple attempts required to refine the wording. Multiple attempts and revisions would be needed (double interpretation) for interpreting such a complex text without the text being provided by the Urim and Thummim. Nobody, on their own, could get the wording exactly right the very first time with no revision. In my opinion only God could do that7 and I believe God did provide the exact wording via the Urim and Thummim. This was a blessing not only to Joseph Smith but it also fulfilled prophecy given by the Lord to the ancient Nephite prophets8.

Oliver Cowdery also reportedly testified in court that Joseph dictated the text of Book of Mormon by reading in English from the Urim and Thummim:

Evangelical Magazine 1831-04-09: Vol 2 Issue 15, p 120
Oliver Cowdery, one of the three witnesses to the book, testified under oath, that said Smith found with the plates, from which he translated his book, two transparent stones, resembling glass, set in silver bows. That by looking through these, he was able to read in English, the reformed Egyptian characters, which were engraved on the plates. (https://archive.org/details/sim_evangelical-magazine-and-gospel-advocate_1831-04-09_2_15/page/n7/mode/1up)

Therefore the wording as it came from the lips of Joseph Smith was a perfectly accurate interpretation that came for free as a gift from God. However, emendations were nevertheless needed for the following reasons: 1) Errors were introduced in the transcription of the original manuscript (this has been well documented by Royal Skousen); 2) Errors were introduced in the creation of the printers manuscript; 3) punctuation and wording, sometimes incorrect, was introduced by the printers assistant John Gilbert; 4) the perfectly accurate interpretation included Hebrew idioms and sentence constructs of Biblical English that were ungrammatical in modern English; and 5) errors were also introduced by the original writers and abridgers of the Nephite record (they admit this) and so some clarifications were added (rarely for this reason) by Joseph Smith. For all the many details of each of these emendations over the years, I refer you to the 20 year work of Royal Skousen The Book of Mormon, The Earliest Text and the five volumes of The Book of Mormon Critical Text Project

           The Book of Mormon Critical Text Project
               Volume I: The Original Manuscript of the Book of Mormon
               Volume II: the Printer's Manuscript of the Book of Mormon
               Volume III: The History of the Text of the Book of Mormon
                   Volume III Parts 3 and 4: The Nature of the Original Language of the Book of Mormon
               Volume IV: Analysis of Textual Variants of the Book of Mormon
                   Volume IV Part One: 1 Nephi 1--2 Nephi 11
                   Volume IV Part Two: 2 Nephi 12 – Mosiah 13
                   Volume IV Part Three: Mosiah 14 – Alma 17
                   Volume IV Part Four: Alma 18–51
                   Volume IV Part Five: Alma 52 – 3 Nephi 7
                   Volume IV Part Six: 3 Nephi 8 – Moroni 10
               Volume V: A Complete Electronic Collation of the Book of Mormon
           
TITE

I believe the original text of the Book of Mormon to be the ultimate "tight" translation. Every word and every spelling is significant and precise as it came from the lips of Joseph Smith. That is also my experience and testimony as I have studied the text in regard to the geography of the Book of Mormon.

Below is a layout demonstrating the translation process as I have described it and showing the periods for each phase of the translation effort. All translation efforts, inspired or not, go through these phases in order to reach the final product. Only the role of the Urim & Thummim is unique. This process of Book of Mormon translation I call the TITE process: TranslationInterpretationTranscriptionEmendation

.
<-------Translational Activity-----><-----Transcriptional Activity----->
Translation--->Interpretation------>Transcription------->Emendation---->

Joseph Smith-->Holy Interpreters--->Oliver Cowdery------>John Gilbert   
study & prep   Urim & Thummim       others...            Joseph Smith   
                                                         Royal Skousen  
                                                         others...      
          

Within the TITE process, by using the Urim and Thummim for Interpretation, over time Joseph became familiar and fluent with the language of scripture. Because of this training, later revelations in Doctrine & Covenants and the Pearl of Great Price were received and interpreted without the aid of the Urim and Thummim. However in these cases (when not using Urim and Thummim) he manually reviewed the text and made revisions until the interpretation/wording was accurate to the revelation received.

The graphic below shows the origin and contents of each section of the plates and how they made it to the published version of the Book of Mormon.


image

Harmony: Joseph learns "reformed Egyption" from large plates of Nephi: 09/22/1827 to 04/12/1828 Harmony: Joseph translates from the large plates of Nephi, named 116 pages: 04/12/1828 to 06/14/1828 Harmony: Joseph did not have the plates or Urim and Thummim, no translations: 06/15/1828 to 09/22/1828 Harmony: Joseph translates a little of the large plates with misc. scribes: 09/22/1828 to 04/04/1829 Harmony: Joseph finishes the large plates of Nephi with Oliver Cowdery: 04/07/1828 to 05/2?/1829 Fayette: Joseph translates small plates of Nephi with Oliver Cowdery: 06/0?/1829 to 06/2?/1829

The Hill Cumorah plates repository is described by Mormon:

Mormon 6:6
6 And it came to pass that when we had gathered in all our people in one to the land of Cumorah, behold I, Mormon, began to be old; and knowing it to be the last struggle of my people, and having been commanded of the Lord that I should not suffer the records which had been handed down by our fathers, which were sacred, to fall into the hands of the Lamanites, (for the Lamanites would destroy them) therefore I made this record out of the plates of Nephi, and hid up in the hill Cumorah all the records which had been entrusted to me by the hand of the Lord, save it were these few plates which I gave unto my son Moroni.

Orson Pratt, Heber C. Kimball, Wilford Woodruff and Brigham Young all spoke of the Hill Cumorah hill repository and its contents. The most detailed statement comes from Brigham Young who testified of it in 1877.

President Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, Vol 19, p 38
I lived right in the country where the plates were found from which the Book of Mormon was translated, and I know a great many things pertaining to that country. I believe I will take the liberty to tell you of another circumstance that will be as marvelous as anything can be. This is an incident in the life of Oliver Cowdery, but he did not take the liberty of telling such things in meeting as I take. I tell these things to you, and I have a motive for doing so. I want to carry them to the ears of my brethren and sisters, and to the children also, that they may grow to an understanding of some things that seem to be entirely hidden from the human family. Oliver Cowdery went with the Prophet Joseph when he deposited these plates. Joseph did not translate all of the plates; there was a portion of them sealed, which you can learn from the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. When Joseph got the plates, the angel instructed him to carry them back to the hill Cumorah, which he did. Oliver says that when Joseph and Oliver went there, the hill opened, and they walked into a cave, in which there was a large and spacious room. He says he did not think, at the time, whether they had the light of the sun or artificial light; but that it was just as light as day. They laid the plates on a table; it was a large table that stood in the room. Under this table there was a pile of plates as much as two feet high, and there were altogether in this room more plates than probably many wagon loads; they were piled up in the corners and along the walls. The first time they went there the sword of Laban hung upon the wall; but when they went again it had been taken down and laid upon the table across the gold plates; it was unsheathed, and on it was written these words: “This sword will never be sheathed again until the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our God and his Christ.” I tell you this as coming not only from Oliver Cowdery, but others who were familiar with it, and who understood it just as well as we understand coming to this meeting, enjoying the day, and by and by we separate and go away, forgetting most of what is said, but remembering some things. So is it with other circumstances in life. I relate this to you, and I want you to understand it. I take this liberty of referring to those things so that they will not be forgotten and lost. (Discourse by President Brigham Young, delivered at a Special Conference Held at Farmington, for the Purpose of Organizing a Stake of Zion for the County of Davis, on Sunday Afternoon, June 17, 1877)


1 See the Wentworth Letter, also Doctrine and Covenants 3:19Doctrine and Covenants 3:19
19 And for this very purpose are these plates preserved, which contain these records--that the promises of the Lord might be fulfilled, which he made to his people;
, 5:4Doctrine and Covenants 5:4
1 BEHOLD, I say unto you, that as my servant Martin Harris has desired a witness at my hand, that you, my servant Joseph Smith, Jun. , have got the plates of which you have testified and borne record that you have received of me;
2 And now, behold, this shall you say unto him--he who spake unto you, said unto you: I, the Lord, am God, and have given these things unto you, my servant Joseph Smith, Jun. , and have commanded you that you should stand as a witness of these things;
3 And I have caused you that you should enter into a covenant with me, that you should not show them except to those persons to whom I commanded you; and you have no power over them except I grant it unto you.
4 And you have a gift to translate the plates; and this is the first gift that I bestowed upon you; and I have commanded that you should pretend (as in: to presume; venture) to no other gift until my purpose is fulfilled in this; for I will grant unto you no other gift until it is finished.
, 10:38-46Doctrine and Covenants 10:38-46
38 And now, verily I say unto you, that an account of those things that you have written, which have gone out of your hands, is engraven upon the plates of Nephi;
39 Yea, and you remember it was said in those writings that a more particular account was given of these things upon the plates of Nephi.
40 And now, because the account which is engraven upon the plates of Nephi is more particular concerning the things which, in my wisdom, I would bring to the knowledge of the people in this account--
41 Therefore, you shall translate the engravings which are on the plates of Nephi, down even till you come to the reign of king Benjamin, or until you come to that which you have translated, which you have retained;
42 And behold, you shall publish it as the record of Nephi; and thus I will confound those who have altered my words.
43 I will not suffer that they shall destroy my work; yea, I will show unto them that my wisdom is greater than the cunning of the devil.
44 Behold, they have only got a part, or an abridgment of the account of Nephi.
45 Behold, there are many things engraven upon the plates of Nephi which do throw greater views upon my gospel; therefore, it is wisdom in me that you should translate this first part of the engravings of Nephi, and send forth in this work.
46 And, behold, all the remainder of this work does contain all those parts of my gospel which my holy prophets, yea, and also my disciples, desired in their prayers should come forth unto this people.
, 17:1-6Doctrine and Covenants 17:1-6
1 BEHOLD, I say unto you, that you must rely upon my word, which if you do with full purpose of heart, you shall have a view of the plates, and also of the breastplate, the sword of Laban, the Urim and Thummim, which were given to the brother of Jared upon the mount, when he talked with the Lord face to face, and the miraculous directors which were given to Lehi while in the wilderness, on the borders of the Red Sea.
2 And it is by your faith that you shall obtain a view of them, even by that faith which was had by the prophets of old.
3 And after that you have obtained faith, and have seen them with your eyes, you shall testify of them, by the power of God;
4 And this you shall do that my servant Joseph Smith, Jun. , may not be destroyed, that I may bring about my righteous purposes unto the children of men in this work.
5 And ye shall testify that you have seen them, even as my servant Joseph Smith, Jun., has seen them; for it is by my power that he has seen them, and it is because he had faith.
6 And he has translated the book, even that part which I have commanded him, and as your Lord and your God liveth it is true.

1a The work of translation proceeded haltingly through 1828. Joseph's wife, Emma, and others served as scribes until the spring of 1829, when Oliver Cowdery took over, recording the bulk of the 275,000-word text from Joseph's dictation, concluding near the end of June 1829, a period of about 60 days. (see Church History, ChurchOfJesusChrist.org)

1b These were days never to be forgotten-to sit under the sound of a voice dictated by the inspiration of heaven, awakened the utmost gratitude of this bosom! Day after day I continued, uninterrupted, to write from his mouth as he translated" (Messenger and Advocate 1 [Oct. 1834]:14)

1c All witnesses of the translation stated that Joseph Smith dictated the text of the Book of Mormon. This claim is supported by certain errors in the original manuscript which clearly resulted from the scribe mishearing what Joseph had dictated. ... Evidence from the original manuscript supports the traditional belief that Joseph Smith received a revealed text by means of the interpreters. ... In fact, the occurrence of non-English Hebraisms such as the if-and construction strongly suggests that the text was tightly controlled down to the level of the word at least. This tight control is also supported by the consistent phraseology in the original text. And the spelling of names such as Coriantumr suggests that control could be imposed down to the very letter. (How Joseph Smith Translated the Book of Mormon, Royal Skousen, pp 25,30)

2a ...Joseph began to make arrangements to accomplish the translation of the Record; And the first step which he was instructed to take in regard to this matter, was, to take a Fac-Simile of the characters composing the alphabet: which characters were called reformed Egyptian... (Lucy Mack Smith History, 1845, pp 117,122, Joseph Smith Papers)

2b for truth is a matter of fact — and the fact is, by the power of God I translated the book of Mormon from hieroglyphics; the knowledge of which was lost to the world. In which wonderful event, I stood alone, an unlearned youth, to combat the worldly wisdom and multiplied ignorance of eighteen centuries. (James Arlington Bennet letter, Joseph Smith Papers)

2c I commenced copying the characters of all the plates. I copyed a considerable number of them and by means of the Urim and Thummin I translated some of them which I did between the time I arrived at the house of my wife's father in the month of December, and the February following. (Lucy Mack Smith History, 1845, pp 117,122, Joseph Smith Papers)

2d With "true alphabet" languages, like English, one needs to generally speak the language in order to read it. However, for Pictographic and Logographic writing systems, this is not the case. See below. The "Reformed Egyptian" (Mormon 9:32-33Mormon 9:32-33
32 And now, behold, we have written this record according to our knowledge, in the characters which are called among us the reformed Egyptian, being handed down and altered by us, according to our manner of speech.
33 And if our plates had been sufficiently large we should have written in Hebrew; but the Hebrew hath been altered by us also; and if we could have written in Hebrew, behold, ye would have had no imperfection in our record.
) of the plates was likely an altered/customized form of the Egyptian Demotic. The beautiful Egyptian Hieroglyphic's were used for monuments and Demotic was the everyday "cursive" form, much simpler to write – and designed for parchment. Mormon explains that he used "Reformed Egyptian" that had been altered by the Nephites. One reason it had to be altered is that it was designed to be engraven on metal plates rather than parchment. That it may also have been primarily logographic is clear when Mormon explains it was much shorter than the Hebrew (Mormon 9:32-33Mormon 9:32-33
32 And now, behold, we have written this record according to our knowledge, in the characters which are called among us the reformed Egyptian, being handed down and altered by us, according to our manner of speech.
33 And if our plates had been sufficiently large we should have written in Hebrew; but the Hebrew hath been altered by us also; and if we could have written in Hebrew, behold, ye would have had no imperfection in our record.
).

In the context of the Book of Mormon it is useful to understand the basics of the following writing systems

Pictographic/ideographic writing systems:

  • There is no single way to read them, because there is no one-to-one correspondence between symbol and language.
  • Only the author of a text can read it with any certainty, and it may be said that they are interpreted rather than read.
  • Such scripts often work best as mnemonic aids for oral texts, or as outlines that will be fleshed out in speech.
  • - Examples: Aztec, Mixtec, other Mesoamerican writing systems with the exception of Maya Hieroglyphs.

Logographic writing systems

  • Glyphs (A symbol, such as a stylized figure or arrow on a public sign, that imparts information nonverbally) represent words or morphemes (meaningful components of words, as in mean-ing-ful), rather than phonetic elements.
  • No logographic script is composed solely of logograms (A written symbol representing an entire spoken word without expressing its pronunciation; for example, 4 is read as "four" in English, "quattro" in Italian.). All contain graphemes that represent phonetic (sound-based) elements as well.
  • Many glyphs are purely phonetic, whereas others function as either logograms or phonetic elements, depending on context.
  • Consonant-based logographies
    - Examples: Hieroglyphic, Hieratic, and Demotic — the writing systems of Ancient Egypt.
  • Syllable-based logographies
    - Examples: Cuneiform, Chinese, Japanese, Mayan.

Abjad writing systems

  • Script containing symbols for consonants only, or where vowels are optionally written with diacritics.
  • - Examples: Arabian, Aramaic, Hebrew.

True Alphabets writing systems

  • A true alphabet contains separate letters (not diacritic marks) for both consonants and vowels..
  • - Examples: Coptic Egyptian, Cyrillic - Eastern Slavic languages, Greek, Latin-Roman (current western and central European languages).

2e PGP, Joseph Smith History 1
62 By this timely aid was I enabled to reach the place of my destination in Pennsylvania; and immediately after my arrival there I commenced copying the characters off the plates. I copied a considerable number of them, and by means of the Urim and Thummim I translated some of them, which I did between the time I arrived at the house of my wife's father, in the month of December, and the February following.

3 And when Joseph Smith was raised up as a Prophet of God, Mormon, Moroni, Nephi and others of the ancient Prophets who formerly lived on this Continent, and Peter and John and others who lived on the Asiatic Continent, came to him and communicated to him certain principles pertaining to the Gospel of the Son of God. (John Taylor, Journal of Discourses, April 8 1875, Vol 17, p 374)

4 (revelation given through Joseph Smith to Oliver Cowdery)
Doctrine and Covenants 9
7 Behold, you have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.
8 But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.
9 But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong; therefore, you cannot write that which is sacred save it be given you from me.
10 Now, if you had known this you could have translated; nevertheless, it is not expedient that you should translate now. (Doctrine and Covenants, 9:7-10).

5 "With the records was found a curious instrument, which the ancients called 'Urim and Thummim', which consisted of two transparent stones set in the rim of a bow fastened to a breast plate. Through the medium of the Urim and Thummim I translated the record by the gift and power of God" (Joseph Smith, Wentworth Letter, History of the Church, 4:537).

6 Ether 4:5
5 Wherefore the Lord hath commanded me to write them; and I have written them. And he commanded me that I should seal them up; and he also hath commanded that I should seal up the interpretation thereof; wherefore I have sealed up the interpreters, according to the commandment of the Lord.

7 2 Nephi 29:2
2 And also, that I may remember the promises which I have made unto thee, Nephi, and also unto thy father, that I would remember your seed; and that the words of your seed should proceed forth out of my mouth unto your seed; and my words shall hiss forth unto the ends of the earth, for a standard unto my people, which are of the house of Israel;

7+8 Ether 12:
23 And I said unto him: Lord, the Gentiles will mock at these things, because of our weakness in writing; for Lord thou hast made us mighty in word by faith, but thou hast not made us mighty in writing; for thou hast made all this people that they could speak much, because of the Holy Ghost which thou hast given them;
24 And thou hast made us that we could write but little, because of the awkwardness of our hands. Behold, thou hast not made us mighty in writing like unto the brother of Jared, for thou madest him that the things which he wrote were mighty even as thou art, unto the overpowering of man to read them.
25 Thou hast also made our words powerful and great, even that we cannot write them; wherefore, when we write we behold our weakness, and stumble because of the placing of our words; and I fear lest the Gentiles shall mock at our words.
26 And when I had said this, the Lord spake unto me, saying: Fools mock, but they shall mourn; and my grace is sufficient for the meek, that they shall take no advantage of your weakness; (Book of Mormon, Ether 12:23-26).

9JS-H: 1
61 The excitement, however, still continued, and rumor with her thousand tongues was all the time employed in circulating falsehoods about my father's family, and about myself. If I were to relate a thousandth part of them, it would fill up volumes. (PGP, Joseph Smith History 1:63).

10PGP, Joseph Smith History 1:35
35 Also, that there were two stones in silver bows—and these stones, fastened to a breastplate, constituted what is called the Urim and Thummim—deposited with the plates; and the possession and use of these stones were what constituted “seers” in ancient or former times; and that God had prepared them for the purpose of translating the book. (PGP, Joseph Smith History 1:35).

11Joseph Smith Foundation
As a disaffected former member of the Church David Whitmer often produced wildly contradicting testimony about the translation process of the Book of Mormon to various newspapers. Apparently he often changed the story to fit the expectations of audiences. Below is a table documenting conflicting testimony from JosephSmithFoundation.org. See David Whitmer: Man of Contradictions for the complete table with all working links.

Table 1.  Various Descriptions of the Instrument of Translation

Footnote Date and Source Instrument used to Translate Description of Instrument
6 1878 P. Wilhelm Poulson Urim and Thummim Two white stones cased in spectacles of silver, stones separated more than normal spectacles
7 1879 Thomas Wood Smith Urim and Thummim
10 1879 J. L. Traughber Jr. Seer Stone Dark colored, opaque stone placed in hat, put face in hat to exclude light
11 1880 Thomas Wood Smith Retraction of Urim and Thummim method described in interview in footnote (see footnote 7)
12 1880 Eri B. Mullin Urim and Thummim Looked like spectacles
9 1881 Kansas City Journal Interpreters Two small stones of chocolate color, egg shaped and perfectly smooth, not transparent
13 1881 David Whitmer to the Kansas City Journal Retracted the Kansas City Journal Story about the Interpreters and said Joseph used a sun stone Not two stones, but one stone was used.  Said he did not say Joseph used the interpreters.
14 1881 Chicago Times Urim and Thummim Small oval kidney-shaped stone called the Urim and Thummim that had marvelous power converting characters on the plates when used by Smith
18 1884 E. C. Briggs Stone Placed stone in hat from which all light was excluded
15 1884 St. Louis Republican Urim and Thummim Two transparent pebbles set in the rim of a bow and fastened to a breastplate.
22 1885 Zenas H. Gurley Seers stone Placed the stone in a hat into which he buried his face.
17 1885 Chicago Tribune Started with Urim and Thummim he also called “magical spectacles”.  Replaced by “seer’s stone” after transgression Urim and Thummim: affixed them to his eyes and translate the plates. Seer’s Stone: Placed in hat and covered his face in the hat
16 1886 Omaha Herald Stone spectacles, Urim and Thummim, magic stone, strange stone The strange stone was described as oval-shaped, chocolate-colored, about the size of an egg only more flat
19 1886, M. J. Hubble Pair of large bound spectacles
25 1887 by David Whitmer Seer stone Seer stone was placed in a hat and Joseph put his face in the hat drawing it closely around his face to exclude the light
23 1888 Richmond Democrat Urim and Thummim, after the 116 pages were lost, Joseph was presented with a stone Urim and Thummim: Pair of transparent stone spectacles

Stone: strange oval-shaped, chocolate colored, about the size of an egg but more flat.

24 1909 Nathan A. Tanner, Jr. Joseph had both the Urim and Thummim and “stone” Stone was chocolate colored

Table 2.  Conflicting Descriptions by David Whitmer of the Method of Translation

Footnote Date and Source Method of Translation
8 1878 David Whitmer Manuscripts of the Book of Mormon were examined and determined to be written by Oliver Cowdery except for a few pages that were in the hand writing of Emma Smith, John Whitmer, and Christian Whitmer.
6 1878 P. Wilhelm Poulson Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery, Emma Smith, John Whitmer wrote words from Joseph at different times
7 1879 Thomas Wood Smith Read from the plates by Joseph Smith and written mainly by Oliver Cowdery and Martin Harris
10 1879 J. L. Traughber Jr. Stone was placed in a hat and Joseph put his face in the hat to exclude light.  Parchment would appear in the hat with a line of characters and the English translation below them.
11 1880 Thomas Wood Smith Retraction of Urim and Thummim method described in interview (see footnote 7)
12 1880 Eri B. Mullin Joseph put them on and looked in a hat with his face in the hat to read.  The plates were not in the hat, but words would appear and not go away until spelled correctly, then another set of words would appear
9 1881 Kansas City Journal Did not use the plates, held interpreters to his eyes and covered his face in a hat to exclude light, a parchment appeared with characters from plates in a line with English translation below.  The Urim and Thummim was taken away from Joseph when the 116 pages were lost and never returned.
13 1881 David Whitmer to the Kansas City Journal Said the interpreters were taken from Joseph when he lost the 116 pages
14 1881 Chicago Times Joseph had no manuscript notes or other means of knowledge save the seer stone and the characters as shown on the plates. On character often would make two lines of manuscript, while others made but a word or two words.
26 1882 William H. Kelly and G. A. Blakeslee Joseph couldn’t translate unless he was humble and possessed the right feelings towards everyone and humble. Tells story about disagreement with Emma that he fixed and then was able to translate.  Information is accurate in this interview
18 1884 E. C. Briggs Characters appeared and under them the English translation. Words remained until the scribe copied them correctly.
15 1884 St. Louis Republican Looked through them and dictated to his scribes.
22 1885 Zenas H. Gurley Original character appeared upon parchment and under it the translation in English.  The Interpreters were taken away because of transgression.
17 1885 Chicago Tribune Urim and Thummim: engraven characters and translation in English would appear under them. Seer’s stone: character and translation would appear on the stone.
16 1886 Omaha Herald Prophet had to be humble in order to see the words in the stone/Urim and Thummim.  Urim and Thummim was taken away when the 116 pages were lost and after fervent prayer was presented with a strange stone which, it was promised, should serve the same purpose as the missing Urim and Thummim.  With this stone all the present Book of Mormon was translated.
19 1886, M. J. Hubble Urim and Thummim was taken away and was not permitted to look at the plates.  The characters would appear before him in the air and when translated correctly they would disappear, and new ones come in their place.
25 1887 by David Whitmer Something resembling parchment would appear on which the writing would appear one character at a time and under it was the translation in English.  Joseph would read it to Oliver who would then repeat it and if correct, the character and English translation would disappear.  Translation was finished in the spring of 1830 before April 6th at which time Joseph gave the stone to Oliver and told David Whitmer and the “rest” that he was through with it.
23 1888 Richmond Democrat Joseph put on the spectacles and a few words of text of the Book of Mormon would appear on the lenses.  When translated correctly the words would disappear and others take their place.  After losing the 116 pages, Joseph translated with the stone which, it was promised, should answer the same purpose.  With this stone, the present book was translated by placing the stone in a hat, then put his face in the hat and read the words that appeared on the stone.
24 1909 Nathan A. Tanner, Jr. Joseph used the Urim and Thummim and stone alternately as suited his convenience.  David Whitmer believed that Joseph could as well accomplish the translation by looking into a hat, or any other stone, as by the Urim and Thummim or the chocolate colored stone.  David believed Joseph had power with God to get any information he wished for and didn’t believe either the Urim and Thummim or stone he had were essential.  Joseph would place the manuscript beneath the stone or Urim and Thummim, and the characters would appear in English, which he would spell out and they would remain until the word was written correctly, then it would disappear, and another take its place.
 2 North America Setting
 2.1 North America Setting
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 16 October 2024

It is necessary for Book of Mormon peoples and events to be located in North America in order to be compatible with scripture and the teachings of the prophet Joseph Smith. This basic premise has rapidly re-gained acceptance as more people learn about ancient North American cultures, the content of the Book of Mormon, Gods covenant with the land of North America, and the teachings of the prophet Joseph Smith.

The Book of Mormon describes its land as including the New Jerusalem that is spoken of so often in the Doctrine and Covenants:

3 Nephi 20:22
22 And behold, this people will I establish in this land, unto the fulfilling of the covenant which I made with your father Jacob; and it shall be a New Jerusalem. And the powers of heaven shall be in the midst of this people; yea, even I will be in the midst of you.

Ether 13:22
2 For behold, they rejected all the words of Ether; for he truly told them of all things, from the beginning of man; and that after the waters had receded from off the face of this land it became a choice land above all other lands, a chosen land of the Lord; wherefore the Lord would have that all men should serve him who dwell upon the face thereof;
3 And that it was the place of the New Jerusalem, which should come down out of heaven, and the holy sanctuary of the Lord.
4 Behold, Ether saw the days of Christ, and he spake concerning a New Jerusalem upon this land.
5 And he spake also concerning the house of Israel, and the Jerusalem from whence Lehi should come--after it should be destroyed it should be built up again, a holy city unto the Lord; wherefore, it could not be a new Jerusalem for it had been in a time of old; but it should be built up again, and become a holy city of the Lord; and it should be built unto the house of Israel.
6 And that a New Jerusalem should be built up upon this land, unto the remnant of the seed of Joseph, for which things there has been a type.
7 For as Joseph brought his father down into the land of Egypt, even so he died there; wherefore, the Lord brought a remnant of the seed of Joseph out of the land of Jerusalem, that he might be merciful unto the seed of Joseph that they should perish not, even as he was merciful unto the father of Joseph that he should perish not.
8 Wherefore, the remnant of the house of Joseph shall be built upon this land; and it shall be a land of their inheritance; and they shall build up a holy city unto the Lord, like unto the Jerusalem of old; and they shall no more be confounded, until the end come when the earth shall pass away.
9 And there shall be a new heaven and a new earth; and they shall be like unto the old save the old have passed away, and all things have become new.
10 And then cometh the New Jerusalem; and blessed are they who dwell therein, for it is they whose garments are white through the blood of the Lamb; and they are they who are numbered among the remnant of the seed of Joseph, who were of the house of Israel.

As for the specifics of the Zarahemla Model, there are four main reasons for being Zarahemla being the key to the ZM map:

  1. The Book of Mormon says that the city of Zarahemla was a great city and the capital city in the heart and center of the land. (
    Helaman 1:18-33Helaman 1
    18 And it came to pass that because of so much contention and so much difficulty in the government, that they had not kept sufficient guards in the land of Zarahemla; for they had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the heart of their lands to attack that great city Zarahemla.
    19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
    20 Therefore Coriantumr did cut down the watch by the entrance of the city, and did march forth with his whole army into the city, and they did slay every one who did oppose them, insomuch that they did take possession of the whole city.
    21 And it came to pass that Pacumeni, who was the chief judge, did flee before Coriantumr, even to the walls of the city. And it came to pass that Coriantumr did smite him against the wall, insomuch that he died. And thus ended the days of Pacumeni.
    22 And now when Coriantumr saw that he was in possession of the city of Zarahemla, and saw that the Nephites had fled before them, and were slain, and were taken, and were cast into prison, and that he had obtained the possession of the strongest hold in all the land, his heart took courage insomuch that he was about to go forth against all the land.
    23 And now he did not tarry in the land of Zarahemla, but he did march forth with a large army, even towards the city of Bountiful; for it was his determination to go forth and cut his way through with the sword, that he might obtain the north parts of the land.
    24 And, supposing that their greatest strength was in the center of the land, therefore he did march forth, giving them no time to assemble themselves together save it were in small bodies; and in this manner they did fall upon them and cut them down to the earth.
    25 But behold, this march of Coriantumr through the center of the land gave Moronihah great advantage over them, notwithstanding the greatness of the number of the Nephites who were slain.
    26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.
    27 But behold, the Lamanites were not frightened according to his desire, but they had come into the center of the land, and had taken the capital city which was the city of Zarahemla, and were marching through the most capital parts of the land, slaying the people with a great slaughter, both men, women, and children, taking possession of many cities and of many strongholds.
    28 But when Moronihah had discovered this, he immediately sent forth Lehi with an army round about to head them before they should come to the land Bountiful.
    29 And thus he did; and he did head them before they came to the land Bountiful, and gave unto them battle, insomuch that they began to retreat back towards the land of Zarahemla.
    30 And it came to pass that Moronihah did head them in their retreat, and did give unto them battle, insomuch that it became an exceedingly bloody battle; yea, many were slain, and among the number who were slain Coriantumr was also found.
    31 And now, behold, the Lamanites could not retreat either way, neither on the north, nor on the south, nor on the east, nor on the west, for they were surrounded on every hand by the Nephites.
    32 And thus had Coriantumr plunged the Lamanites into the midst of the Nephites, insomuch that they were in the power of the Nephites, and he himself was slain, and the Lamanites did yield themselves into the hands of the Nephites.
    )
  2. Zarahemla is mentioned more frequently (424 occurrences in 139 verses) than any other place in the Book of Mormon, indicating its key role in the Book of Mormon narrative from 280 BC onward.
  3. Zarahemla is identified in the Doctrine and Covenants (
    Doctrine and Covenants 125:2-3Doctrine and Covenants 125
    2 Verily, thus saith the Lord, I say unto you, if those who call themselves by my name and are essaying to be my saints, if they will do my will and keep my commandments concerning them, let them gather themselves together unto the places which I shall appoint unto them by my servant Joseph, and build up cities unto my name, that they may be prepared for that which is in store for a time to come.
    3 Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.
    ) as being across the river from Nauvoo so this initial placement, combined with reason #2, is the anchor point for the Physical Model. See Zarahemla in Section 2.3 Location of Zarahemla regarding the interpretation of Doctrine & Covenants 125:2-3. Many gainsay this scripture out of "stiffneckedness and unbelief", however, consider this: The Lord Himself has instructed His Saints to call this location Zarahemla, which the early Saints did not hesitate to do.
  4. I have discovered that placing Zarahemla across the river west from Nauvoo is the only approach that works with the Logical Model as presented in Section 3.

See below for the interactive 3D Zarahemla Model map.

Interactive 3D Google Map presentation [map revised: 19 October 2024] If map icons below are not visible then refresh the page or click here for external 3D Google Map window.
 2.2 Issue of The Book of Mormon in North America
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 27 November 2024

There remains in the church a divide between those who: A) believe the narrative history of the Book of Mormon occurred in North America, USA/Canada (I call it N1C); and B) those who believe it occurred in Mesoamerica (called M2C). The M2C position is that there must be two hill Cumorah's and that the hill Cumorah of the Book of Mormon is really located somewhere in Mesoamerica.

To deflect criticism or controversy it is sometimes argued that Book of Mormon geography "doesn't really matter". However, the Book of Mormon contains prophecies, warnings, and special covenants that apply to the land of the Book of Mormon and the people who inhabit it. The Book of Mormon contains an authentic historical account and prophecies of an historical future. It does matter.

The question of N1C vs M2C has become a litmus test between Book of Mormon researchers. If you are N1C then you are immediately suspect by M2C proponents in anything you write or propose about the Book of Mormon. Also vice-versa. Most M2C promoting groups, when challenged, will claim to be neutral on the question of Book of Mormon geography. However, while M2C models are documented, they avoid presenting information on N1C geographic models, archaeological discoveries, or writings. They are not neutral.

I find that FairLatterDaySaints makes a claim to be neutral, but fails. They are N1C hostile, sometimes openly, but more often by just ignoring and suppressing N1C information.

Scripture Central claims to be neutral, but in practice they are not. They exclude N1C information and perspectives and argue vehemently against anything N1C.".

BYU Studies once led the charge for M2C. Now they privately say they are neutral on all Book of Mormon geography but what they say and what they are is not the same. Their online materials (e.g. continues) to point exclusively to Central America for Book of Mormon geography.

My Book of Mormon Logical Model and Map declares that I am definitely of the N1C persuasion. The reason is not only because of geography or maps. It's because scriptures declare it. The prophets declare it. The M2C people will say "the scriptures are not definitive" and the prophets only did "the best they could with what they knew" but just weren't privy "to the additional information that scholars have since determined". They say "it's the science of archaeology that counts" and that trumps all other considerations, and "not everything the prophets say is doctrine so I am not obligated to accept it". These are weasel words. It is not hyperbole for me to say that a lack of faith in this matter is the general consensus of the M2C folks, from my own personal experience. It is an unwillingness to believe what the prophets have taught and what the Book of Mormon plainly teaches about its locale and how the land of the Nephites is the land of the New Jerusalem.

3 Nephi 20:22
22 And behold, this people will I establish in this land, unto the fulfilling of the covenant which I made with your father Jacob; and it shall be a New Jerusalem. And the powers of heaven shall be in the midst of this people; yea, even I will be in the midst of you.

3 Nephi 21:22-25
22 But if they [the gentiles] will repent and hearken unto my words, and harden not their hearts, I will establish my church among them, and they shall come in unto the covenant and be numbered among this the remnant of Jacob, unto whom I have given this land for their inheritance;
23 And they shall assist my people, the remnant of Jacob, and also as many of the house of Israel as shall come, that they may build a city, which shall be called the New Jerusalem.
24 And then shall they assist my people that they may be gathered in, who are scattered upon all the face of the land, in unto the New Jerusalem.
25 And then shall the power of heaven come down among them; and I also will be in the midst.

Ether 13:4
4 Behold, Ether saw the days of Christ, and he spake concerning a New Jerusalem upon this land.

The scriptures above are the direct words of the Lord and the prophet Ether. Why, oh why is there any doubt?

Luke 24:25
25 Then he [Jesus] said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken

The M2C position is, in my opinion, untenable. By the standard of following only the sciences, the M2C boosters should quickly abandon M2C because the overwhelming consensus of non-LDS archaeologists, the leading experts in Mesoamerican archaeology, is negative. They think it is a joke. They say the written language doesn't match, the evidence on the ground doesn't match, the animals don't match, and the timelines don't match up either. They say the decline of Classic Maya civilization and the abandonment of Maya cities in the southern Maya lowlands of Mesoamerica is between the 8th and 9th centuries at the end of the Classic Maya period, and that pre-classic Maya experienced a similar collapse in the 2nd century. None of this matches up with Book of Mormon time-lines. Not. Even. Close.

Most of the membership of the Church doesn't buy into M2C, with it's 2-Cumorah requirement, either. They cannot fathom the idea that somehow Moroni personally carried the records from Central America to New York and without recording the journey. Absurd. Instead they trend to believing the prophets and the scriptures and Joseph Smith (e.g. the Wentworth letter) and they don't read academic books and papers, especially those members who live outside the US. So now the M2C folks are arrayed against the scientific establishment, the lay members of the church, the Prophets, and the Scriptures. It is what I mean by being untenable.

One of the most serious issues is the censoring and altering the words of the prophets in church publications and manuals. This is caused, I believe, by M2C tainted editors who are promoting their M2C worldview. It is not a systemic policy but it happens. What follows below is an egregious example. Simply deplorable.

Teachings of the Presidents, Brigham Young Manual,
Chapter 47: President Brigham Young's Witness of the Prophet Joseph Smith
Original talk by Brigham Young, delivered June 21 1874,
Journal of Discourses Vol. 18  p. 239
When Joseph first received the knowledge of the plates that were in the hill Cumorah, he did not then receive the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood, he merely received the knowledge that the plates were there, and that the Lord would bring them forth. ... He received the knowledge that [early inhabitants of the Americas] were once in possession of the Gospel, and from that time he went on, step by step, until he obtained the plates, and the Urim and Thummim and had power to translate them. When Joseph first received the knowledge of the plates that were in the hill Cumorah, he did not then receive the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood, he merely received the knowledge that the plates were there, and that the Lord would bring them forth, and that they contained the history of the aborigines of this country. He received the knowledge that they were once in possession of the Gospel, and from that time he went on, step by step, until he obtained the plates, and the Urim and Thummim and had power to translate them.

When Joseph Smith wrote the Wentworth Letter, he made this earnest request:

At the request of Mr. John Wentworth, Editor and Proprietor of the Chicago Democrat, I have written the following sketch of the rise, progress, persecution, and faith of the Latter-day Saints, of which I have the honor, under God, of being the founder. Mr. Wentworth says that he wishes to furnish Mr. Barstow, a friend of his, who is writing the history of New Hampshire, with this document. As Mr. Barstow has taken the proper steps to obtain correct information, all that I shall ask at his hands, is, that he publish the account entire, ungarnished, and without misrepresentation."

Unfortunately, many church publications do not honor Joseph's request by publishing the entire account ungarnished, and without misrepresentation. Instead they use an altered version of the Wentworth letter that deletes and misrepresents Joseph Smiths statement about Jaredites and Nephites being from America, "this country":

The Teachings of Joseph Smith, Priesthood Manual, p 441 The Encylopedia of Mormonism, 1992, Wentworth Letter, Appendix 12
Through the medium of the Urim and Thummim I translated the record by the gift and power of God.
... This book ... tells us that our Savior made His appearance upon this continent after His resurrection; that He planted the Gospel here in all its fulness, and richness, and power, and blessing; that they had Apostles, Prophets, Pastors, Teachers, and Evangelists, the same order, the same priesthood, the same ordinances, gifts, powers, and blessings, as were enjoyed on the eastern continent; that the people were cut off in consequence of their transgressions; that the last of their prophets who existed among them was commanded to write an abridgment of their prophecies, history, etc., and to hide it up in the earth, and that it should come forth and be united with the Bible for the accomplishment of the purposes of God in the last days.
Through the medium of the Urim and Thummim I translated the record by the gift and power of God.
In this important and interesting book the history of ancient America is unfolded, from its first settlement by a colony that came from the Tower of Babel, at the confusion of languages to the beginning of the fifth century of the Christian era. We are informed by these records that America in ancient times has been inhabited by two distinct races of people. The first were called Jaredites, and came directly from the tower of Babel. The second race came directly from the city of Jerusalem, about six hundred years before Christ. They were principally Israelites, of the descendants of Joseph. The Jaredites were destroyed about the time that the Israelites came from Jerusalem, who succeeded them in the inheritance of the country. The principal nation of the second race fell in battle towards the close of the fourth century. The remnant are the Indians that now inhabit this country.
This book also tells us that our Savior made His appearance upon this continent after His resurrection; that He planted the Gospel here in all its fulness, and richness, and power, and blessing; that they had Apostles, Prophets, Pastors, Teachers, and Evangelists, the same order, the same priesthood, the same ordinances, gifts, powers, and blessings, as were enjoyed on the eastern continent; that the people were cut off in consequence of their transgressions; that the last of their prophets who existed among them was commanded to write an abridgment of their prophecies, history, etc., and to hide it up in the earth, and that it should come forth and be united with the Bible for the accomplishment of the purposes of God in the last days.

And so, because of surreptitious M2C editing and M2C stealth promotion, many members are unaware of the teachings of the prophets, and so the M2C position can seem okay to those who buy the books etc. — but I maintain that to contradict the clear pattern of what the of prophets and the scriptures have taught is out of step, doctrinally, with what the Book of Mormon teaches:

2 Nephi 9:28-29,4
28 O that cunning plan of the evil one! O the vainness, and the frailties, and the foolishness of men! When they are learned they think they are wise, and they hearken not unto the counsel of God, for they set it aside, supposing they know of themselves, wherefore, their wisdom is foolishness and it profiteth them not. And they shall perish.
29 But to be learned is good if they hearken unto the counsels of God.
42 And whoso knocketh, to him will he open; and the wise, and the learned, and they that are rich, who are puffed up because of their learning, and their wisdom, and their riches–yea, they are they whom he despiseth; and save they shall cast these things away, and consider themselves fools before God, and come down in the depths of humility, he will not open unto them.

The above scripture is harsher than I would dare to be, so I just quote it. I don't think it would be right to do less. Also, consider that Jesus "upbraided" some of His Apostles for their initial unbelief of the testimonies of his resurrection. Upbraided means "chastised" and "severely criticized". So, in fairness to the dedicated M2C people they are in good company, but if they are wise they will repent of their unbelief as the ancient Apostles did.

Mark 1
14 Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.

"Stiff neckedness and unbelief" also held back the early Apostles from understanding about the "other sheep":

3 Nephi 15
11 And now it came to pass that when Jesus had spoken these words, he said unto those twelve whom he had chosen:
12 Ye are my disciples; and ye are a light unto this people, who are a remnant of the house of Joseph.
13 And behold, this is the land of your inheritance; and the Father hath given it unto you.
14 And not at any time hath the Father given me commandment that I should tell it unto your brethren at Jerusalem.
15 Neither at any time hath the Father given me commandment that I should tell unto them concerning the other tribes of the house of Israel, whom the Father hath led away out of the land.
16 This much did the Father command me, that I should tell unto them:
17 That other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
18 And now, because of
stiffneckedness and unbelief they understood not my word; therefore I was commanded to say no more of the Father concerning this thing unto them.

In support of my position I quote President Oaks below. The complete talk is available here.

image

I maintain that the issue of the historicity of the Book of Mormon is basically a difference between those who rely exclusively on scholarship and those who rely on a combination of scholarship, faith, and revelation. Those who rely exclusively on scholarship reject revelation and fulfill Nephi's prophecy that in the last days men shall teach with their learning, and deny the Holy Ghost, which giveth utterance... (2 Ne. 28:4).

— Dallin H. Oaks, 29 October 1993, The Historicity of the Book of Mormon


Now that I have quoted President Oaks, I could probably end this and be done. However, I also want to document just how strong the case for N1C really is. It is far stronger than most realize, and is definitely not limited to any one "opinion" but is backed up by many prophets, many scriptures, authoritative accounts, and word of the LORD himself. Below are significant testimonies that I have chosen to share because they transcend "opinion".



The scriptures below indicate that missionaries were sent to the "Lamanites" in Missouri. In the Doctrine and Covenants, the city of the future New Jerusalem mentioned by the prophet Ether is also identified as being in Missouri. These are canonized scriptures, with the Lord speaking in the first person and should not be construed by faithful members of the church as "just" the opinion of Joseph Smith. Because of the taint of M2C some LDS visitors centers have labeled the mission as "missionaries sent to the Indians" to hide the reference to Lamanites in Missouri. Some visitors centers have also employed Mayan glyphs in their portrayals.

For more information on these first missionaries of the church, I recommend Lamanites in North America.

image

Doctrine and Covenants  10
45 Behold, there are many things engraven upon the plates of Nephi which do throw greater views upon my gospel; therefore, it is wisdom in me that you should translate this first part of the engravings of Nephi, and send forth in this work.
46 And, behold, all the remainder of this work does contain all those parts of my gospel which my holy prophets, yea, and also my disciples, desired in their prayers should come forth unto this people.
47 And I said unto them, that it should be granted unto them according to their faith in their prayers;
48 Yea, and this was their faith–that my gospel, which I gave unto them that they might preach in their days, might come unto their brethren
the Lamanites, and also all that had become Lamanites because of their dissensions.
49 Now, this is not all–their faith in their prayers was that this gospel should be made known also, if it were possible that other nations should possess this land;
50 And thus
they did leave a blessing upon this land in their prayers, that whosoever should believe in this gospel in this land might have eternal life;
51 Yea, that it might be free unto all of whatsoever nation, kindred, tongue, or people they may be.
52 And now, behold, according to their faith in their prayers will I bring this part of my gospel to the knowledge of my people. Behold, I do not bring it to destroy that which they have received, but to build it up.

Doctrine and Covenants 28:9
9 And now, behold, I say unto you that it is not revealed, and no man knoweth where the city Zion shall be built, but it shall be given hereafter. Behold, I say unto you that it shall be on the borders by the Lamanites.

Doctrine and Covenants 28:14
14 And thou shalt assist to settle all these things, according to the covenants of the church, before
thou shalt take thy journey among the Lamanites.

Doctrine and Covenants 54:8
8 And thus you shall take your journey into the regions westward,
unto the land of Missouri, unto the borders of the Lamanites.

Doctrine and Covenants 84
2 Yea, the word of the Lord concerning his church, established in the last days for the restoration of his people, as he has spoken by the mouth of his prophets, and for the gathering of his saints to stand upon Mount Zion, which shall be the city of New Jerusalem.
3 Which city shall be built, beginning at the temple lot, which is appointed by the finger of the Lord, in the
western boundaries of the State of Missouri, and dedicated by the hand of Joseph Smith, Jun., and others with whom the Lord was well pleased.

Doctrine and Covenants 128:20
20 And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! Moroni, an angel from heaven, declaring the fulfilment of the prophets--the book to be revealed. ...

Ether 13
3 And that it was the place of the
New Jerusalem, which should come down out of heaven, and the holy sanctuary of the Lord.
4 Behold, Ether saw the days of Christ, and he spake concerning
a New Jerusalem upon this land.

The scriptures above may seem conclusive however M2C proponents say that some church leaders have occasionally referred to Mesoamericans, South Americans and Pacific Islanders as being of Lamanite descent (and I don’t doubt that the descendants of father Lehi migrated far and wide) so therefore, they say, “Lamanites can be anywhere” and therefore the scriptures cited “don’t mean anything specific”. And yet the scriptures are specific in terms of the Book of Mormon narrative.

The first missionaries carried the message that the Book of Mormon was all about the forefathers of the "aboriginal inhabitants" of "this country" (Wentworth letter). When the missionaries took the Book of Mormon to the Lamanites the message from the Lord was that its history applied to this land (DC 10:49,50). This country or this land means whatever the land or country the hearer is from and not the "entire hemisphere" — despite M2C related sophistry.

image

Oliver Cowdery's Speech to the Delaware Indians about the Book of Mormon

According to Parley P. Pratt they taught the following:

Thousands of moons ago, when the red men's forefathers dwelt in peace and possessed this whole land, the Great Spirit talked with them, and revealed His law and His will, and much knowledge to their wise men and prophets. This they wrote in a Book; together with their history, and the things which should befall their children in the latter days. This Book was written on plates of gold, and handed down from father to son for many ages and generations. It was then that the people prospered, and were strong and mighty; they cultivated the earth; built buildings and cities, and abounded in all good things, as the pale faces now do. But they became wicked: they killed one another and shed much blood; they killed their prophets and wise men, and sought to destroy the Book. The great Spirit became angry, and would speak to them no more; they had no more good and wise dreams ; no more visions ; no more angels sent among them by the Great Spirit; and the Lord commanded Mormon and Moroni, their last wise men and prophets, to hide the Book in the earth, that it might be preserved in safety, and be found and made known in the latter day to the pale faces who should possess the land; that they might again make it known to the red man; in order to restore them to the knowledge of the will of the Great Spirit and to His favor. ... The Book, which contained these things, was hid in the earth by Moroni, in a hill called by him, Cumorah, which hill is now in the State of New York, near the village of Palmyra, in Ontario county.

Autobiography of Parley P. Pratt


image

I include a quote from Joseph Fielding Smith below because he speaks directly to the N1C vs M2C issue. Of course the M2C folks won't accept Joseph Fielding Smith on this subject. They gainsay his teachings.

This modernistic theory of necessity, in order to be consistent, must place the waters of Ripliancum and the Hill Cumorah some place within the restricted territory of Central America, notwithstanding the teachings of the Church to the contrary for upwards of 100 years. Because of this theory some members of the Church have become confused and greatly disturbed in their faith in the Book of Mormon. It is for this reason that evidence is here presented to show that it is not only possible that these places could be located as the Church has held during the past century, but that in very deed such is the case.

Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation, Volume3, Chapter 12, pp 592-597


I include Mark E. Peterson, Marion G. Romney, and Gordon B. Hinckley below because their statements were made publicly in General Conference while teaching in their official capacity as Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ.

image
Mark E Petersen, The Last Words of Moroni, October 1978
Quotes from General Conference talk

Moroni came back from the dead, a resurrected man! He had lived in America some fifteen hundred years ago and was the sole survivor of his people in a series of tragic battles which took many lives.

As the fighting neared its end, Mormon gathered the remnant of his forces about a hill which they called Cumorah, located in what is now the western part of the state of New York. Their enemies, known as Lamanites, came against them on this hill.

When finished with the record, Moroni was to hide it up in that same Hill Cumorah which was their battlefield. It would come forth in modern times as the Book of Mormon, named after Moroni's father, the historian who compiled it.

Mormon then wrote directly to us as modern Americans who now occupy this promised land and said: How can ye stand before the power of God, except ye shall repent and turn from your evil ways?

image
Marion G Romney, America's Destiny, October 1975
Quotes from General Conference talk

Millennia ago he [Jesus] declared: There shall none come into this land, he was speaking of America, save they shall be brought by the hand of the Lord.

It is my purpose in making these remarks to point out from the record of ancient inhabitants of America that the foregoing decrees have been carried out.

In the western part of the state of New York near Palmyra is a prominent hill known as the hill Cumorah.... (Mormon 6:6) On July twenty-fifth of this year, as I stood on the crest of that hill admiring with awe the breathtaking panorama which stretched out before me on every hand, my mind reverted to the events which occurred in that vicinity some twenty-five centuries ago — events which brought to an end the great Jaredite nation.

For behold, this is a land which is choice above all other lands; wherefore he that doth possess it shall serve God or shall be swept off; for it is the everlasting decree of God.... (Ether 2:7-10)

Pursuant to this decree concerning the land of America, the Jaredites were swept off in the manner we have reviewed, because, rebelling against the laws of Jesus Christ — the God of the land — they ripened in iniquity....

This second civilization to which I refer, the Nephites, flourished in America between 600 B.C. and A.D. 400. Their civilization came to an end for the same reason, at the same place, and in the same manner as did the Jaredites'.

image

Gordon B Hinckley,
An Angel from on High, the Long, Long Silence Broke, October 1979
Quotes from General Conference talk

We in this good land of America are now hearing much debate concerning the treaty designed to reduce the likelihood of nuclear attack on this continent. There is much talk of a balance of power and of a balance of terror. In the context of this current discussion I should like to read to you what the God of heaven said long ago concerning this land as recorded in the book of which we are speaking: Behold, this is a choice land , and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ... (Ether 2:12).

Gordon B Hinckley, October Conference, 1979

I include a letter in response to an inquiry regarding the location of the hill Cumorah. The letter was sent by the Secretary to the First Presidency with instructions from the First Presidency.

image

Letter from the Office of the First Presidency,
written by Secretary F. Michael Watson, October 16, 1990

Dear Bishop Brooks:

I have been asked to forward to you for acknowledgment and handling the enclosed copy of a letter to President Gordon B. Hinckley from Ronnie Sparks of your ward. Brother Sparks inquired about the location of the Hill Cumorah mentioned in the Book of Mormon, where the last battle between the Nephites and Lamanites took place.

The Church has long maintained, as attested to by references in the writings of General Authorities, that the Hill Cumorah in western New York state is the same as referenced in the Book of Mormon.

The Brethren appreciate your assistance in responding to this inquiry, and asked that you convey to Brother Sparks their commendation for his gospel study.

Sincerely yours,
F. Michael Watson
Secretary to the First Presidency


The following quote from L. Tom Perry shows that N1C is still relevant. The church leaders give the "academics" all the rope and latitude they ask for and demand – while still themselves teaching the scriptures, the Prophets, and the N1C perspective.

image

The Tradition of Light and Testimony

The United States is the promised land foretold in the Book of Mormon — a place where divine guidance directed inspired men to create the conditions necessary for the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was the birth of the United States of America that ushered out the Great Apostasy, when the earth was darkened by the absence of prophets and revealed light. It was no coincidence that the lovely morning of the First Vision occurred just a few decades after the establishment of the United States.

From a devotional address delivered on January 24, 2012, at Brigham Young University Idaho.


And there is more of evidence for N1C.

In contrast, zero prophets and zero scriptures testify in terms of an M2C perspective.



Postscript:
A disingenuous M2C argument is "there is no archaeological evidence for the Book of Mormon in North America". What this often means is "we don't see any ancient stone temples in North America". I don't understand this because it is a fact that the Book of Mormon does not claim any such thing but rather indicates a preference for wood as a building material (2 Nephi 5:15, Mosiah 11:10, Helaman 3:5-10).

However, when early settlers came to America they found hundreds of thousands of mounds, massive earthworks, and old fortifications long ago abandoned. A number of these were carefully documented in Smithsonian field surveys and published in 1848 as Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley. Personal histories and newspaper accounts are common that describe the artifacts, earthworks, and mass burials that were found by the early settlers.

Below is Heber C Kimball's early experience near the hill Cumorah. It is not atypical.

image

"In the towns of Bloomfield, Victor, Manchester, and in the regions round about, there were hills upon the tops of which were entrenchments and fortifications, and in them were human bones, axes, tomahawks, points of arrows, beads and pipes, which were frequently found; and it was a common occurrence in the country to plow up axes, which I have done many times myself. I have visited the fortifications on the tops of these hills frequently… The hill Cumorah is a high hill for that country and had the appearance of a fortification or entrenchment around it. In the State of New York, probably there are hundreds of these fortifications which are now visible, and I have seen them in many other parts of the United States."

Life of Heber C. Kimball, p. 49

 2.3 Location of the Hill Cumorah
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 20 August 2024

Unfortunately, some LDS scholars actively teach that Book of Mormon lands and the hill Cumorah are in Central America. Since it is absurd that both Lamanites and Nephites would march all the way to New York for the final battle, they propose there must be two hill Cumorahs and that the hill Cumorah of Mormon 6:6 is really in Central America. They gainsay the prophets of the Church on this subject, but the Church has always been clear on the identity of the Hill Cumorah and has never taught the two Cumorahs theory.

image image
  Hill Cumorah Visitors Center: May 22, 2024

Modern day prophets have said repeatedly that the United States is the promised land mentioned in the Book of Mormon and the Hill Cumorah is in New York. Below is a sampling from leaders of the church. For more background on this controversy see Section 2.2 The Book of Mormon in North America.

1 Nephi 2
20 And inasmuch as ye shall keep my commandments, ye shall prosper, and shall be led to a land of promise; yea, even a land which I have prepared for you; yea, a land which is choice above all other lands.

1 Nephi 22
7 And it meaneth that the time cometh that after all the house of Israel have been scattered and confounded, that the Lord God will raise up a mighty nation among the Gentiles, yea, even upon the face of this land; and by them shall our seed be scattered.

L. Tom Perry, "The Tradition of Light and Testimony", January 23, 2012
The United States is the promised land foretold in the Book of Mormon, a place where divine guidance directed inspired men to create the conditions necessary for the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was the birth of the United States of America that ushered out the Great Apostasy, when the earth was darkened by the absence of prophets and revealed light. It was no coincidence that the lovely morning of the First Vision occurred just a few decades after the establishment of the United States.

Even in the case of specific locations, there is one clear exception to "no official position". In my opinion it is the Hill Cumorah. The clearly stated position of modern Prophets, Seers, and Revelators has always been that the Hill Cumorah mentioned in the Book of Mormon is the same as the traditional site that Joseph Smith identified in northern New York State where he received the plates. Joseph Fielding Smith wrote extensively about this. James E. Talmadge, LeGrande Richards, B.H. Roberts, Bruce R McConkie, Marion G. Romney, George Albert Smith, Orson Pratt, and the Dedicatory Prayer of the Angel Moroni Monument have all indicated that the Book of Mormon events occurring at the "Hill Cumorah" is the same site in upper New York where Joseph Smith received the plates.

My faith is to believe in the words of the Prophets. Oliver Cowdery and Joseph Smith himself in their written histories referred to the locale of the final Nephite battles to be at the New York Hill Cumorah.

Doctrine and Covenants 128
And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! Moroni, an angel from heaven, declaring the fulfilment of the prophets--the book to be revealed. ...

According to Lucy Mack Smith, it was the angel Moroni who identified the hill with the plates as the "Hill of Cumorah" the first time he appeared to Joseph Smith. Was Lucy just "backfilling" in this information after the fact? There is no good reason, no evidence whatever for not accepting Lucy's statement at face value. Her testimony and recollection is simply in line with everyone else's understanding. Joseph Smith had kept his family informed, per the angels instructions. They were intensely interested and supportive.

Lucy Mack Smith History
[angel Moroni] "There is a record for you and Joseph, when you have learned to keep the commandments of God but you cannot get it until you learn to keep the commandments of God, for it is not to get gain for, but it is to bring forth that light and intelligence which has been long lost in the Earth. Now Joseph beware, when you go to get the plates your mind will be filled with darkness and all manner of evil will rush into your mind to keep you from keeping the commandments of God that you may not succeed in doing his work, and you must tell your father of this for he will believe every word you say. The record is on a side hill, on the Hill of Cumorah, 3 miles from this place. Remove the grass and moss and you will find a large flat stone. Pry that up and you will find the record under it laying on 4 pillars of cement." Then the angel left him. (See "Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1844–1845" p. 11 bk. 3, The Joseph Smith Papers, https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/lucy-mack-smith-history-1844-1845/41)

Letter VII
Written by Oliver Cowdery and published in the Latter Day Saints' Messenger and Advocate with Joseph Smiths' approval and assistance, Letter VII identifies in detail that the hill Cumorah in New York is the same hill Cumorah of the Book of Mormon where the Nephites and Jaredites had their final battles. (See "History, 1834—1836," p. 86, The Joseph Smith Papers, https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/history-1834-1836/90)

Joseph Fielding Smith
"It is known that the Hill Cumorah where the Nephites were destroyed is the hill where the Jaredites were also destroyed. This hill was known to the Jaredites as Ramah. It was approximately near to the waters of Ripliancum, which the Book of Ether says, "by interpretation, is large, or to exceed all." Mormon adds: "And it came to pass that we did march forth to the land of Cumorah, and we did pitch our tents round about the hill Cumorah; and it was in a land of many waters, rivers, and fountains; and here we had hope to gain advantage over the Lamanites."

It must be conceded that this description fits perfectly the land of Cumorah in New York, as it has been known since the visitation of Moroni to the Prophet Joseph Smith, for the hill is in the proximity of the Great Lakes and also in the land of many rivers and fountains. Moreover, the Prophet Joseph Smith himself is on record, definitely declaring the present hill called Cumorah to be the exact hill spoken of in the Book of Mormon.

Further, the fact that all of his associates from the beginning down have spoken of it as the identical hill where Mormon and Moroni hid the records, must carry some weight. It is difficult for a reasonable person to believe that such men as Oliver Cowdery, Brigham Young, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, David Whitmer, and many others, could speak frequently of the spot where the Prophet Joseph Smith obtained the plates as the Hill Cumorah, and not be corrected by the Prophet, if that were not the fact. That they did speak of this hill in the days of the Prophet in this definite manner is an established record of history... (Joseph Fielding Smith, Doctrines of Salvation , Vol.3, Bookcraft, 1956, p.232-43.)

Marion G. Romney in General Conference
"My beloved brothers and sisters, I invite you to join in a prayer that while I speak you and I may both enjoy the Spirit. I will give you a lesson today that the Lord has taken great pains to bring to us... In the western part of the state of New York near Palmyra is a prominent hill known as the “hill Cumorah.” On July twenty-fifth of this year, as I stood on the crest of that hill admiring with awe the breathtaking panorama which stretched out before me on every hand, my mind reverted to the events which occurred in that vicinity some twenty-five centuries ago—events which brought to an end the great Jaredite nation... This second civilization to which I refer, the Nephites , flourished in America between 600 B.C. and A.D. 400. Their civilization came to an end for the same reason, at the same place, and in the same manner as did the Jaredites’... Now my beloved brethren and sisters everywhere, both members of the Church and nonmembers, I bear you my personal witness that I know that the things I have presented to you today are true—both those pertaining to past events and those pertaining to events yet to come." (Talk given by President Marion G. Romney in General Conference, October 4, 1975, Ensign Nov. 1975 pg. 35) [1] (Cf. CES student manual for Religion 121 and 122, p. 136.)

Elder George Reynolds, The Story of the Book of Mormon
"One of the most noted places in ancient American history was the land in which was situated the hill known to the Jaredites as Ramah and to the Nephites as Cumorah. In its vicinity two great races were exterminated; for it was there that the last battles were fought in the history of both peoples. There also the sacred records of the Nephites found their final resting place." (Elder George Reynolds, The Story of the Book of Mormon, Ch.69, p.325)

Dedicatory Prayer of the Hill Cumorah Monument
"We dedicate the hill itself [Cumorah] and the ground surrounding it and all of the materials that have been used in this monument; and we humbly pray unto Thee that it may be preserved from the elements, and that it may stand here as a testimony of God, of Jesus Christ, and of the dealings of Jesus Christ with the people that lived anciently upon this continent." (Dedicatory Prayer, July 21, 1935. Improvement Era, 1935, Vol. 38. September, 1935. No. 9.)

image

Orson Pratt, Heber C. Kimball, Wilford Woodruff and Brigham Young all spoke of the Hill Cumorah hill repository and its contents. The most detailed statement comes from Brigham Young who testified of it in 1877.

President Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, Vol 19, p 38
"I lived right in the country where the plates were found from which the Book of Mormon was translated, and I know a great many things pertaining to that country. I believe I will take the liberty to tell you of another circumstance that will be as marvelous as anything can be. This is an incident in the life of Oliver Cowdery, but he did not take the liberty of telling such things in meeting as I take. I tell these things to you, and I have a motive for doing so. I want to carry them to the ears of my brethren and sisters, and to the children also, that they may grow to an understanding of some things that seem to be entirely hidden from the human family. Oliver Cowdery went with the Prophet Joseph when he deposited these plates. Joseph did not translate all of the plates; there was a portion of them sealed, which you can learn from the Book of Doctrine and Covenants. When Joseph got the plates, the angel instructed him to carry them back to the hill Cumorah, which he did. Oliver says that when Joseph and Oliver went there, the hill opened, and they walked into a cave, in which there was a large and spacious room. He says he did not think, at the time, whether they had the light of the sun or artificial light; but that it was just as light as day. They laid the plates on a table; it was a large table that stood in the room. Under this table there was a pile of plates as much as two feet high, and there were altogether in this room more plates than probably many wagon loads; they were piled up in the corners and along the walls. The first time they went there the sword of Laban hung upon the wall; but when they went again it had been taken down and laid upon the table across the gold plates; it was unsheathed, and on it was written these words: “This sword will never be sheathed again until the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our God and his Christ.” I tell you this as coming not only from Oliver Cowdery, but others who were familiar with it, and who understood it just as well as we understand coming to this meeting, enjoying the day, and by and by we separate and go away, forgetting most of what is said, but remembering some things. So is it with other circumstances in life. I relate this to you, and I want you to understand it. I take this liberty of referring to those things so that they will not be forgotten and lost." (Discourse by President Brigham Young, delivered at a Special Conference Held at Farmington, for the Purpose of Organizing a Stake of Zion for the County of Davis, on Sunday Afternoon, June 17, 1877)

 2.4 Location of Zarahemla
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 15 April 2024

The location of Zarahemla is the starting point for constructing the Physical Model. The precise location of the city of Zarahemla is known thanks to modern revelation. It starts with the understanding that Zarahemla is in Iowa across the river from Nauvoo, Illinois.

Doctrine and Covenants 125:1-3
1 What is the will of the Lord concerning the saints in the Territory of Iowa? ...
2 Verily, thus saith the Lord, I say unto you, if those who call themselves by my name and are essaying to be my saints, if they will do my will and keep my commandments concerning them, let them gather themselves together unto the places which I shall appoint unto them by my servant Joseph, and build up cities unto my name, that they may be prepared for that which is in store for a time to come.
3 Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.

According to divine instruction, the city and land opposite from Nauvoo is named Zarahemla. Zarahemla as a gathering place did not happen in Josephs day – but the words of God do not expire.

Moses 4:30
30 For as I, the Lord God, liveth, even so my words cannot return void, for as they go forth out of my mouth they must be fulfilled.

Some argue that the Section 125 Zarahemla is not the Book of Mormon Zarahemla – but that is illogical* and irrelevant because Zarahemla is the divinely appointed name by revelation. Period.

More and more evidence of the ancient Zarahemla is being found in the ground due to the efforts of the Heartland Research Group.

*The Lord doesn't designate place names in scripture without a reason. In this case, Occam's Razor certainly applies, and if without bias, the simpler explanation must be taken. There is no other explanation for it. The scriptural pattern is to specify proper names as a teaching device. For example, see Luke 1:11-13Luke 1:11-13
11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John ("God is gracious").
, Matthew 1:20-21Matthew 1:20-21
20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS ("the Lord is salvation"): for he shall save his people from their sins.
, and DC 116:1DC 116:1
1 SPRING Hill is named by the Lord Adam-ondi-Ahman, because, said he, it is the place where Adam shall come to visit his people, or the Ancient of Days shall sit, as spoken of by Daniel the prophet.
. If it was not the original Zarahemla the Lord would have named it the "New" Zarahemla, as He did with the "New" JerusalemEther 13
4 Behold, Ether saw the days of Christ, and he spake concerning a New Jerusalem upon this land.
5 And he spake also concerning the house of Israel, and the Jerusalem from whence Lehi should come--after it should be destroyed it should be built up again, a holy city unto the Lord; wherefore, it could not be a new Jerusalem for it had been in a time of old; but it should be built up again, and become a holy city of the Lord; and it should be built unto the house of Israel.
6 And that a New Jerusalem should be built up upon this land, unto the remnant of the seed of Joseph, for which things there has been a type
.


A Revelation Forgotten; the Naming of Zarahemla
(Anonymous commentary on Doctrine & Covenants 125)

If one searches for the word Zarahemla in the Triple Combination Index, they will discover over 60 references. All of which are located in The Book of Mormon, save one.

In March 1841, the Lord gave a revelation, known as Section 125 of the Doctrine and Covenants, to the Prophet Joseph Smith which was very specific as to the name and location for a city. While the Lord previously named Adam-ondi-Ahman and the New Jerusalem as being in the state of Missouri, this revelation names a third city in America...in Iowa. The revelation goes as follows: "Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it." It is important to note, the Lord did not call the city "New Zarahemla", just Zarahemla.

We wonder about the significance of this revelation which was given over 170 years ago. Let us seek to understand the naming of this land and this city more deeply.

Zarahemla is used in the scriptures in four ways. 1) a land; 2) a city; 3) a people; and 4) the name of a king leader. The majority of the uses of the word Zarahemla referenced herein refer to "the land of Zarahemla" and "the city of Zarahemla." It was the name of the people of Zarahemla, and later the Nephite Capitol city for many hundreds of years before and after the coming of Christ to the Promised Land. The use of Zarahemla occurs only once in the Doctrine and Covenants.

Very early in Church History documents, the name Zarahemla was disassociated with the revelation. Writers of the histories of this period began to attribute the naming of Zarahemla to other persons who were contemporary with the Prophet Joseph or even to the Prophet himself rather than to the Lord. Perhaps it is time to shed new understanding on the fact that the Lord named the place of Zarahemla in 1841 by revelation.

During the Nauvoo period of Church history between 1839 and 1844, Joseph Smith had many dealings with Native American tribes of the area. He was also well acquainted with the Indigenous people of the Eastern United States. He had written in the early 1830’s that: "the Book of Mormon is a record of the forefathers of our western tribes of Indians."1 Even in the 1830’s he had authorized special missions to the Native people of the area (Sections 30 and 32 of the Doctrine and Covenants).

Joseph escaped the Liberty Jail in Missouri on April 16, 1839 and crossed the Mississippi River into Illinois by April 22, 1839. Within days the Prophet again crossed the river back into Iowa for the purpose "of making locations for the Church."2 We can draw upon three different historic accounts from the 1839-1841 era. Approximately eight weeks after his escape from jail, we read from the Joseph Smith Papers an entry as follows,

  • 2 July 1839-Tuesday
  • "Tuesday, Spent this day on the Iowa side of the [Mississippi] river. Forenoon went in company with Elders Rigdon and Smith, Bishops Whitney and Knights and other to visit a purchase lately made by bro Knights as a location for a town,
    Advised that a town be built there,"

Note however, the following entry from Joseph Smith, History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, V. 3:382.3 "Spent the forenoon of this day on the Iowa side of the river. Went in company with Elders Rigdon, Smith, and Bishops Whitney and Knight, and others, to visit a purchase lately made by Bishop Knight as a location for a town, and advised that a town be built there, and called Zarahemla."

Thus we learn that the phrase "and called Zarahemla" was added to the narrative post 1841.

In the Manuscript History account of another early Church leader, Brigham Young, we find a reference as follows: "July 2 (1839). Brothers Joseph, Hyrum, and others came over the river to Montrose, and went out on the prairie and looked out the sight for a city for the Saints, which was called Zarahemla."

Significantly, however, the actual Brigham Young Journal in the possession of the Church History Library, and in the handwriting of Brigham Young, including brief notes in 1839 for only September and October, does not have a reference to Zarahemla. He does mention visits to Montrose and Quincy during this period.

This is a second instance where the phrase "which was called Zarahemla" was added to the narrative post 1841. We can view this journal and read the words penned by Brother Brigham Young in the archives of the Church History Department.

In addition, ready access to entries from two different Elias Smith Journals of 1839-18414 are located in the Church History Library. The first is a small 4x5 inch sheet of paper folded in half and forming a small booklet. He makes brief references in 1839 to October 12 and 19. He then makes entries for 1840. These include "April 6 conference in Nauvoo", "July 12 conference at Ambrosia. chosen Bishop of the branch of the Church in Iowa", and "July 18 ordained to that office." Brief August entries are the 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th. He then makes reference to "Sept 6th meeting in Nashville", "13th fyo" (word not decipherable), "14 Joseph Smith Senior died and buried 15th", and "16th, Des Moines steamer came up from Quincy".

The entries of this small record then skip forward to 1841 with three brief citations. "7 August Conference at Zarahemla. Don Carlos Smith died." "8th Buried." "16 Conference at Nauvoo." There are no further references for 1841 and the record ends.

The reference to the "7 August Conference at Zarahemla" entry seems to be misplaced. The actual journal citing events of 1839 and 1840, appeared to have been written in 1840. As we verify the death date of Don Carlos Smith (cited above), however we then realize that this event occurred in August 1841. The entries on the same page as the 1840 events were actually added to that page as events occurring in August 1841. This is an extremely important finding in this small Elias Smith journal. In addition to the small Elias Smith Journal, there is another and larger-sized journal that can be studied in the Church archives.

This other Elias Smith journal only consists of two 8x12 inch pieces of paper for the year 1841. In this version of his journal he makes a full page of entries for January. He then records entries for February at the bottom of the first page. On the second page he makes reference to more than a dozen days in February. At the end of the references in February 1841, and at the bottom of the same page, he made entries for March 1841, giving notations for 8 days. Among these 8 daily references are: "3rd Zarahemla surveyed about this time. Rained for the first time this spring or for two or three months." "16th First locations made in Zarahemla by the citizens of Ambrosia." These entries certify the revelation did indeed occur in 1841. It is interesting that Brother Smith says "about this time" because this allows for several days in early March in which the revelation could have occurred.

There are no further entries ascribed to this journal. The fact that this journal of 2 full pages illustrates a small block of time (January-March 16, 1841), helps to understand the skipping of approximately a year in the earlier and smaller account (cited above) of 1840-1841.

In a review of the website of Joseph Smith Papers History, Volume C-1, 1838-1856, beginning with 5 October 1839 and dealing with the Church and a stake in Iowa territory, not once is the location referred to as Zarahemla until March 1841.

On page 345 of the website version, we read the following: "20 March 1841, about this time, I received a revelation given in the city of Nauvoo, in answer to the following interrogatory…" Joseph then gives the entire content of Section 125. Every reference thereafter with respect to the location cited above in Iowa is referred to as Zarahemla, including the change of the name of the stake to Zarahemla at a conference of the Church by August 1841. The last reference to Zarahemla in these writings is to the stake being discontinued on 6 January 1842. This finding corresponds to the other three findings mentioned earlier herein.

Finally, we are able to read the John Smith Journals/Papers and the Hardcopy/Manuscript/ Typescript of that material. He was the stake president of the original Iowa Stake in 1839. Please note the following important information:

  1. The typescript of the John Smith Journal is a record dating from January 1833 to 6 March 1840. Brother Smith began living in Iowa in the summer of 1839. He was called to preside over a branch of the Church which was later named the Iowa Stake in October 1839. At no time in this journal is the area or town or Church unit referred to as Zarahemla.
  2. In the small 4 x 7 handwritten journal of John Smith, which includes entries from 1839 and concludes with 6 March 1840, there is no reference to Zarahemla.
  3. In the badly damaged (a hole in the last several pages) handwritten journal of John Smith from 24 October 1838 to early March 1841, we find the following names: Nauvoo, Warsaw, Commerce, Iowa Territory, Nashville, Montrose, Ambrosia, Hawley settlement, Sugar Creek, Micham Branch, and a county seat. Zarahemla is not mentioned.
  4. Zarahemla is mentioned on 6 March 1841 as follows: "Had an interview with Brother Ripley came over to inform me that Joseph said it was the will of the Lord the brethren in generally in Ambrosia should move in and about the city of Zarahemla with all convenient speed which the Saints are willing to do because it is the will of the Lord. The Lord help thy people to gather out of Babylon."

It is clear from Church History sources the use of the name Zarahemla is accurately associated with the March 1841 revelation in Section 125 of the Doctrine and Covenants from the Lord. This is an important piece of information provided by these early journal historians. Therefore, we have learned that previous references to Zarahemla (as cited above), which were pre-March 1841, were inserted by scribes and writers who were not the actual writers- Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, and Elias Smith - after the true date of the revelation.

The heading of Section 125 of the Doctrine and Covenants reads: "Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Nauvoo, Illinois, March 1841, concerning the saints in the Territory of Iowa. HC 4: 311-312." Verse 3 states: "Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it."

The first Stake in Iowa was named the Iowa Stake and organized on 5 October 1839. After the above referenced revelation, the Stake was renamed the Zarahemla Stake in August 1841 and then discontinued on 6 January 18425. Since the dissolution of the Zarahemla Stake, the Revelation, and the importance of the city across from Nauvoo seems to fade from history. But should it have? Is there any relevance or reason to take another look at Zarahemla? Could it possibly be a hint at where the promised land truly is, and the covenants associated with the land?

The Lord only named three cities in the revelations of the Doctrine and Covenants. The New Jerusalem, Adam-ondi-Ahman, and Zarahemla. He revealed the ancient location of Adam-ondi-Ahman and the future location of the New Jerusalem in Missouri. In choosing to name Zarahemla, a city across the river from Nauvoo, is the Lord suggesting the location of the Book of Mormon city? If not, why wouldn't he have called it New Zarahemla in order to distinguish it from the ancient city, similar to Jerusalem, and New Jerusalem? The Lord has given us the revelation for His purposes. We must honor this revelation as we do any and all other revelations He has given in these last days and seek to know His will. We believe the day will come when truth will spring forth from the earth, and we will learn the purposes of the Lord regarding Zarahemla.
1Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 2002, p. 13).
2Joseph Smith Papers, Journals, V. 1, p. 336.
3Smith, Joseph, History of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, V. 3:382.
4Smith, Elias, Journals 1839-1841.
5Joseph Smith Papers, Journals, Volume 2, page 426.

Commentary on Section 125
(by Jay Mackley)

The words of the Lord in Section 125 have not yet come to pass, but they surely will.

Moses 4:30
30 For as I, the Lord God, liveth, even so my words cannot return void, for as they go forth out of my mouth they must be fulfilled.

Doctrine & Covenants 1:30
38 What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken, and I excuse not myself; and though the heavens and the earth pass away, my word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same.

Doctrine & Covenants 125 (March 1 1841)
1 What is the will of the Lord concerning the saints in the Territory of Iowa?

This question was posed to the Lord by Joseph Smith. British converts were coming in and starting to settle in Nauvoo and wherever else they could. There were concerns for their safety and exactly what to do with the incoming Saints.

2 Verily, thus saith the Lord, I say unto you, if those who call themselves by my name and are essaying to be my saints,

That should be all of us.

if they will do my will and keep my commandments concerning them,

This should be us too.

let them gather themselves together unto the places which I shall appoint unto them by my servant Joseph, and build up cities unto my name,

More than one city is named in verses 3 and 4.

that they may be prepared for that which is in store for a time to come.

Here the Lord is speaking of the future. I think it is our time.

3 Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo,

It has not happened yet but this is where Moses 4:30 comes in. Directly across Nauvoo are lots owned by Heartland groups today. Just a small start.

and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.

The angel Moroni specified the Hill of Cumorah but Adam-Ondi-Ahman, the New Jerusalem, and Zarahemla are the only three place names specified by the Lord himself. Therefore faithful latter-day saints honor the location as Zarahemla whether they believe it is the same as the Book of Mormon Zarahemla or not.

4 And let all those who come from the east, and the west, and the north, and the south,

Early 1841 is when the British converts were arriving. They came in three ways: 1) via Quebec and the St Lawrence Seaway to the Great Lakes; 2) via the Erie Canal to the Great Lakes; and 3) up the Mississippi via New Orleans. The first two ways still required a land journey to get to Nauvoo. The New Orleans route required 19 more days on the Atlantic but then it was Mississippi river travel nearly all the way. The New Orleans route was the most popular for those who could get it. Interestingly the Saints came from the west when fleeing attack and persecution but that was concluded in 1839. There was no one coming from the west in 1841. Not until the reverse exodus which is happening in our day.

that have desires to dwell therein, take up their inheritance in the same,

It is an open invitation. Not an edict.

as well as in the city of Nashville,

There is a Nashville in eastern Iowa but it was founded about 1870 and is 139 miles north of Fort Madison. The Nashville being referred to in section 125 is what is now known as the unincorporated community of Galland, Iowa which is near the Mississippi River Road and about 3.5 miles south of Montrose.

or in the city of Nauvoo, and in all the stakes which I have appointed, saith the Lord.

Nauvoo and other stakes were also approved as gathering places. There are currently 12 church units in the Nauvoo Stake, with two new wards including the Fort Madison Ward.

- Jay Mackley
Edward Phillips

From the Autobiography of Edward Phillips

"I was standing by the temple talking to Brother Woodruff and he pointed out a spot to me on the opposit[e] side of the river about a mile and a half above Montrose, and said there would be a city and a temple built there and the place would be called Zarahemla. I was at Nauvoo when the temple was finished and dedicated. I went up into the tower and wrote my name there. As I understand, the wicked have burned that temple to the ground and it is all destroyed like the Jerusalem temple. But I expect to see that temple re-erected and the one built on the opposite side of the river to match."

Lands purchased in Zarahemla, 1839
The Church had a lot of land holdings in Zarahemla before the trek west.

The west side of the river in Lee County is a fertile ground for arrow head hunters, especially in the Montrose area. Here is one account:

Quote from: Upcoming archeological survey may yield fascinating artifacts

Although the climate of the Midwest is not conductive to the preservation of wood, leather or bone, an abundance of stone remnants of past Indian cultures, arrowheads, axe heads, knives, pestles, and other stone implements -- were once easily found in the smaller streams and freshly plowed fields along the Mississippi, Skunk and Des Moines river valleys.

Three or four generations ago nearly every young boy owned a cigar box full of such treasures. Many were broken pieces or arrowheads, shards of pottery, spear points and effigy good luck stones. Perfect, unbroken pieces were true collectors items, and many a boy or young man who was an avid artifact hunter, and perhaps bit of a shrewd trader to boot, built impressive collections of Indian implements.

There are still many such collectors around. But with the passing years actually finding an artifact is becoming harder and harder. Many collectors now depend upon trading or buying the choice specimens needed to complete a display.

Perhaps one of the most plentiful sources of Indian artifacts in this area has been the area around Montrose. Because of its location along the rapids of the Mississippi, and the excellent fishing there, it is believed that Indian villages of one sort or another have been there for a thousand years. When the white settlers first appeared here it was the location of a Sac and Fox encampment called "Cut Nose Village." Until they were driven out by the Sac and Fox, it was thought to be the location of an Illini Indian village. Before that it was probably once occupied by the Iowa tribe, and even earlier, by the prehistoric Woodland Indian civilizations who disappeared so mysteriously.

In the late 19th century nearly everyone in Montrose had a collection or Indian artifacts. Fred Green found a 15 pound stone axe head in such perfect condition that it is now in a British museum.

J.B. Kiel collected dozens of stone axe heads, and more than a thousand arrowheads, spear points, knives and grinding stones. He sold and gave hundreds of them to the Smithsonian Institute and the Davenport Academy of Science.

Manessa Reeves was digging a trench in front of his store at Montrose and unearthed a war axe weighing over seven pounds but it was an imperfect specimen because a sizable chunk had been broken off. Ray Rigby found a four pound stone pestle that had probably been used to grind hominy, a favorite Indian food.

Among the more unusual finds was one by Fred Barker. His was a large double-edged axe with a hole drilled through it for a handle. Most stone axes were grooved on either side so that the split end of a handle could be tied to it.

On his farm just below Montrose, Jerry Anderson collected 20 hatchets, axes and mortars as well as a large number of stone knives, spear points and arrowheads. They were found in such a small area that Anderson believed it must have been either a manufacturing location or a storage place.

The Montrose area was so rich in Indian artifacts that they can still be found in numbers there. When Paul Hellige built a new house in the Schlotter addition near Montrose a couple of dozen years ago, he found many arrowheads while digging the basement.

Lands purchased in Zarahemla, 1839
Location of Zarahemla and "Nashville"

 2.5 Joseph Smith
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 29 February 2024

From Moroni and also from visions he received, the Prophet Joseph Smith knew about the ancient lands of the Book of Mormon. Latter-day Saints should take Joseph Smith at his word. He is not only a prophet, he is THE Prophet and Seer of the latter days. Joseph Smith knew specifics about Book of Mormon civilizations, their customs, and the location of their lands. In the famous Wentworth letter, written directly by Joseph Smith, he states:

Wentworth Letter

Joseph Smith, Wentworth Letter
I was also informed concerning the aboriginal inhabitants of this country, and shown who they were, and from whence they came; a brief sketch of their origin, progress, civilization, laws, governments, of their righteousness and iniquity, and the blessings of God being finally withdrawn from them as a people was made known unto me: I was also told where there was deposited some plates on which were engraven an abridgment of the records of the ancient prophets that had existed on this continent. The angel appeared to me three times the same night and unfolded the same things. ...

So here we have the angel Moroni himself informing Joseph about his people, "the aboriginal inhabitants of this country". Not once, but three times repeated in one night. That seems pretty clear. Note especially that Joseph was not just told about the ancient inhabitants of this land but also "shown".

Joseph Smith, Wentworth Letter
Through the medium of the Urim and Thummim I translated the record by the gift and power of God. In this important and interesting book the history of ancient America is unfolded, from its first settlement by a colony that came from the Tower of Babel, at the confusion of languages to the beginning of the fifth century of the Christian era. We are informed by these records that America in ancient times has been inhabited by two distinct races of people. The first were called Jaredites, and came directly from the tower of Babel. The second race came directly from the city of Jerusalem, about six hundred years before Christ. They were principally Israelites, of the descendants of Joseph. The Jaredites were destroyed about the time that the Israelites came from Jerusalem, who succeeded them in the inheritance of the country. The principal nation of the second race fell in battle towards the close of the fourth century. The remnant are the Indians that now inhabit this country.

Here the same information is repeated. Again it is "America" "this country".

A careful reading of Joseph Smiths' History account of what happened the next morning also reveals that Moroni did not just talk to the young Joseph regarding the latter-day events and fulfillment of scripture, but he also was "informed concerning the aboriginal inhabitants of this country". There was at least one vision given to him and and perhaps more:

Joseph Smith History
I left the field, and went to the place where the messenger had told me the plates were deposited; and owing to the distinctness of the vision which I had had concerning it, I knew the place the instant that I arrived there.

Urim and Thummim

Doctrine and Covenants 130
6 The angels do not reside on a planet like this earth; But they reside in the presence of God, on a globe like a sea of glass and fire, where all things for their glory are manifest, past, present, and future, and are continually before the Lord. The place where God resides is a great Urim and Thummim. ...

Joseph Knight
"He (Joseph Smith) seemed to think more of the glasses or the Urim and Thummim than he did of the plates for says he, I can see anything. They are Marvelous."

Mosiah 8
13 Now Ammon said unto him: I can assuredly tell thee, O king, of a man that can translate the records; for he has wherewith that he can look, and translate all records that are of ancient date; and it is a gift from God. And the things are called interpreters, and no man can look in them except he be commanded, lest he should look for that he ought not and he should perish. And whosoever is commanded to look in them, the same is called seer.



Artist rendition of Urim and Thummim based on accounts of Lucy Mack and William Smith (Joseph's mother and brother)
Urim and Thummim

Joseph Smith had the Urim and Thummim that came with the gold plates, which allowed him to see into the past and view ancient Book of Mormon civilizations.

Emma Smith and Lucy Mack Smith

Excerpt from Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1844-1845. See Joseph Smith Papers
Excerpt from history written by Emma Mack Smith

Lucy Mack Smith

According to Joseph's mother, Lucy Mack Smith, Joseph had a detailed knowledge of the ancient Americans that he wrote about in the Wentworth Letter.

Lucy Mack Smith
In the course of our evening conversations Joseph would give us some of the most amusing recitals which could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress, their manner of traveling, the animals which they rode, the cities that were built by them, the structure of their buildings, with every particular of their mode of warfare, their religious worship, as particularly as though he had spent his life with them.

Joseph Smith to Emma Smith

Joseph Smith wrote the following in a letter to Emma Smith, during the Zions Camp march to Missouri:

Joseph Smith
The whole of our journey, in the midst of so large a company of social, honest and sincere men, wandering over the plains of the Nephites, recounting occasionally the history of the Book of Mormon, roving over the mounds of that once beloved people of the Lord, picking up their skulls & their bones, as a proof of its divine authenticity, ...

Excerpt from June 4, 1834 letter to Emma Smith from Joseph Smith, written during the Zions Camp march (commencing May 4, 1834) to western Missouri. See Joseph Smith Papers
Excerpt of letter from Joseph Smith to Emma Smith

We have the statement above in Joseph's own handwriting. Also, there is no evidence whatever that Joseph Smith authored or approved the Times and Seasons articles in 1842 that erroneously linked discoveries in Central America to the Book of Mormon. He did not contradict himself as regards to the location of Book of Mormon lands. All of Joseph Smiths' personal and signed writings are very clear.

 2.6 Central and South America
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 27 June 2024

Chronologically, the only time period in the Book of Mormon that contains significant detail as regards to history and geography is between 91 BC and 34 AD. That's only 125 years of the approximate 1000 year Nephite time span, so it's not appropriate to project the 91 BC to 34 AD historical time period to the overall geographical extent of the people. However, even from the time of Helaman the people were reported to have spread to "to cover the face of the whole earth" (Helaman 3:88 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east.) and most of this expansion is not reported on in the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon states plainly six times that not even "a hundredth part" of the history is being related (Jacob 3:1313 And a hundredth part of the proceedings of this people, which now began to be numerous, cannot be written upon these plates; but many of their proceedings are written upon the larger plates, and their wars, and their contentions, and the reigns of their kings., Helaman 3:1414 But behold, a hundredth part of the proceedings of this people, yea, the account of the Lamanites and of the Nephites, and their wars, and contentions, and dissensions, and their preaching, and their prophecies, and their shipping and their building of ships, and their building of temples, and of synagogues and their sanctuaries, and their righteousness, and their wickedness, and their murders, and their robbings, and their plundering, and all manner of abominations and whoredoms, cannot be contained in this work., 3 Nephi 5:88 And there had many things transpired which, in the eyes of some, would be great and marvelous; nevertheless, they cannot all be written in this book; yea, this book cannot contain even a hundredth part of what was done among so many people in the space of twenty and five years; , 3 Nephi 26:66 And now there cannot be written in this book even a hundredth part of the things which Jesus did truly teach unto the people;, Words of Mormon 1:55 Wherefore, I chose these things, to finish my record upon them, which remainder of my record I shall take from the plates of Nephi; and I cannot write the hundredth part of the things of my people. , Ether 15:3333 And the Lord spake unto Ether, and said unto him: Go forth. And he went forth, and beheld that the words of the Lord had all been fulfilled; and he finished his record; (and the hundredth part I have not written) and he hid them in a manner that the people of Limhi did find them. ).

From the perspective of archaeology the internal dating for Book of Mormon history does not match what is known to have occurred in Central America. For example, Wikipedia says:

In archaeology, the classic Maya collapse is the decline of Classic Maya civilization and the abandonment of Maya cities in the southern Maya lowlands of Mesoamerica between the 8th and 9th centuries, at the end of the Classic Maya Period. Preclassic Maya experienced a similar collapse in the 2nd century.

None of this comes even close to matching up with the chronology given to us in the Book of Mormon. Nevertheless, I believe there is a great history of the peoples of Central and South America and the islands of the Pacific, as yet untold. I believe they have the blood of the House of Israel in their ancestry. Some descendants of Laman and Lemuel and sons of Ishmael surely migrated south to Mexico, Central and South America as well as north to Canada. The distance from the mouth of the Mississippi to Ontario Canada is the same as to Mexico City: 1400 miles. Additionally, other peoples and descendants of Israel were also led by the hand of God to Central and South America, according to 3rd Nephi:

3 Nephi 16
1 And verily, verily, I say unto you that I have other sheep, which are not of this land, neither of the land of Jerusalem, neither in any parts of that land round about whither I have been to minister.

2 Nephi 29
11 For I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the books which shall be written I will judge the world, every man according to their works, according to that which is written.
12 For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the Nephites and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the other tribes of the house of Israel, which I have led away, and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it.
13 And it shall come to pass that the Jews shall have the words of the Nephites, and the Nephites shall have the words of the Jews; and the Nephites and the Jews shall have the words of the lost tribes of Israel; and the lost tribes of Israel shall have the words of the Nephites and the Jews.
14 And it shall come to pass that my people, which are of the house of Israel, shall be gathered home unto the lands of their possessions; and my word also shall be gathered in one. And I will show unto them that fight against my word and against my people, who are of the house of Israel, that I am God, and that I covenanted with Abraham that I would remember his seed forever.

It appears that these words are written as an indication that the peoples of Central America and of South America "in the south" are of the House of Israel also. Jesus specifically says "all nations" and I do not believe He is given to hyperbole. Therefore I believe their traditions of a bearded God who came to their forefathers are true. We just don't have their sacred records, yet - but the records exist, or can be restored, and are promised to come forth.

Joseph Smith was reported to say the following. One likely context the Northern and Southern states but it could also be the continents of North and South America:

... [Joseph] said speaking of the land of Zion it consists of all N & S America but that any place where the Saints gather is Zion which every righteous man will build up for a place of safety for his children. (See Joseph Smith Papers, by Martha Jane Corey, Joseph Smith's July 19, 1840 Discourse)

Jesus said that with faith we can understand and accept these things and that it is only our unbelief that keeps us from the truth.

3 Nephi 15
14 And not at any time hath the Father given me commandment that I should tell it unto your brethren at Jerusalem.
15 Neither at any time hath the Father given me commandment that I should tell unto them concerning the other tribes of the house of Israel, whom the Father hath led away out of the land.
16 This much did the Father command me, that I should tell unto them:
17 That other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
18 And now, because of stiffneckedness and unbelief they understood not my word; therefore I was commanded to say no more of the Father concerning this thing unto them.
19 But, verily, I say unto you that the Father hath commanded me, and I tell it unto you, that ye were separated from among them because of their iniquity; therefore it is because of their iniquity that they know not of you.
20 And verily, I say unto you again that the other tribes hath the Father separated from them; and it is because of their iniquity that they know not of them.

 2.7 Climate and Food
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 24 October 2024
image
LiDAR image showing the bare topography of Zarahemla and Nauvoo with original river size.

Book of Mormon Lands and Climate

The Book of Mormon mentions distinct seasons (Alma 46:40)Alma 46:40
40 And there were some who died with fevers, which at some seasons of the year were very frequent in the land--but not so much so with fevers, because of the excellent qualities of the many plants and roots which God had prepared to remove the cause of diseases, to which men were subject by the nature of the climate--
, lack of rain during drought (Helaman 11:12-13)Helaman 11:12-13
12 O Lord, wilt thou turn away thine anger, yea, thy fierce anger, and cause that this famine may cease in this land.
13 O Lord, wilt thou hearken unto me, and cause that it may be done according to my words, and send forth rain upon the face of the earth, that she may bring forth her fruit, and her grain in the season of grain.
, and also snow (1 Nephi 11:8)1 Nephi 11:8 (written in the promised land)
8 And it came to pass that the Spirit said unto me: Look! And I looked and beheld a tree; and it was like unto the tree which my father had seen; and the beauty thereof was far beyond, yea, exceeding of all beauty; and the whiteness thereof did exceed the whiteness of the driven snow.
and tornadoes (Helaman 5:12)Helaman 5:12
12 And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.
and hail (Mosiah 5:6)Mosiah 5:6
6 And it shall come to pass that I will send forth hail among them, and it shall smite them; and they shall also be smitten with the east wind; and insects shall pester their land also, and devour their grain.
. The references to snow and hail and tornadoes (written on the Plates of Nephi while in the promised land) attests to a North American Midwest locale. By contrast, the region of Central America is dominated by a hot and humid oceanic climate without changing seasons and where snow or hail is extremely rare and tornadoes are uncommon. Also, the current scientific consensus is that North American climate was much warmer and drier in North America during the period of the main narrative of the Book of Mormon (Mosiah through the Reign of the Judges, 171 BC - 34 AD).

The map to he right shows the Zarahemla plain topography and the highland areas surrounding it as mapped by LiDAR imaging. Also shown is the narrower width of the Mississippi river as it existed prior to the Keokuk dam when the mean depth between Nauvoo and Montrose was only 2.4 feet. One could actually walk across the Mississippi near Nauvoo where the Des Moines Rapids begin. 1800 years earlier in Book of Mormon times, the river flow volume and depth was even less due to the "Roman Warm Period" that also affected North America. Zarahemla is strategically located at the best crossing point. A good travel and trade route. The Book of Mormon narrative of the Amlicite war mentions the Nephite army crossing of the Sidon/Mississippi river on foot. All of that is obscured now because of the dam at Keokuk.

For support of warmer temperatures 2000 years ago we have official statements from the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Department Of The Interior, By Leon M. Carl, Center Director. In summary, the findings are:

  1. That there are lots of short term variability and cycles in the great lakes -- but there have been three main high water phases in the last 4700 years with the last one from 800 years ago to the present time
  2. We are currently in an historic high water phase
  3. There was a "low water level" period from 293 BC - 7 AD.

There is also another study here that concludes:

  1. ... there were similar periods of equivalent warmth [in North America] during the Roman Warm Period, which was most strongly expressed between approximately 100 BC and AD 200.
  2. In addition to its high temperatures, the Roman Warm Period in North America was often accompanied by drier conditions.
  3. The first of these periods of lower precipitation (200 BC-AD 300) occurred during the Roman Warm Period
  4. In conclusion, in reviewing the results of the several studies described above, it is clear that the Roman Warm Period was a very real phenomenon throughout much, if not most, of North America, manifesting itself in the form of both warmer temperatures and -- in certain locations -- drier moisture conditions

The city of Zarahemla itself occupied the plains area across the river, west from Nauvoo. The bean shaped flatlands have natural boundaries seen as bluffs shown clearly on the map. The bean shaped Zarahemla plain has about 23 square miles.

There are some remains of earthen berms still in the areas bordering the ancient city of Zarahemla (especially near the "bluff" south of Montrose) that pre-date white settlers. According to Book of Mormon descriptions these would have originally been topped with wooden palisades for defense.

Title: The Roman Warm Period: Impacts on the Midwest USA and Great Lakes (by ChatGPT)

Abstract: The Roman Warm Period (RWP), occurring approximately between 250 BCE to 400 CE, was a climatic anomaly characterized by elevated temperatures across Europe, North Africa, and parts of North America. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the Roman Warm Period, focusing on its implications for the Midwest USA and the Great Lakes region. Drawing upon a synthesis of paleoclimatological, archaeological, and historical evidence, this study elucidates the environmental changes during the RWP and their effects on local ecosystems and human societies.

Introduction: The Roman Warm Period represents a significant climatic episode in Earth's history, marked by relatively warmer temperatures compared to preceding and subsequent periods. While the causes of the RWP are multifaceted and not fully understood, natural climatic variability, including fluctuations in solar radiation, volcanic activity, and oceanic circulation patterns, likely played a role (Mann et al., 1999; Büntgen et al., 2011). The RWP is of particular interest due to its potential impacts on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and human settlements.

Characteristics of the Roman Warm Period: Proxy data from various sources, including sediment cores, tree rings, and historical records, provide insights into the climatic conditions during the Roman Warm Period. Büntgen et al. (2011) note that the RWP was characterized by higher temperatures across Europe, with evidence of extended growing seasons and altered precipitation patterns. In North America, particularly in the Midwest region, similar trends of warmer temperatures and potential shifts in precipitation regimes have been observed (Booth & Roos, 2012).

Impacts on the Midwest USA: The effects of the Roman Warm Period on the Midwest USA were diverse and multifaceted. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns likely influenced vegetation dynamics, agricultural practices, and water resources. Booth & Roos (2012) suggest that the extended growing seasons during the RWP may have positively impacted agricultural productivity in the Midwest, leading to increased yields of staple crops such as maize and beans. However, the altered climate variability may have also posed challenges, with evidence of periodic droughts affecting local communities (Booth & Roos, 2012).

Impact on the Great Lakes: The Great Lakes, comprising Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, are sensitive indicators of climate variability and change. During the Roman Warm Period, changes in temperature and precipitation likely influenced the water levels of the Great Lakes. Lenters & Verhamme (2011) report that warmer temperatures may have increased evaporation rates from the lakes, potentially leading to declines in water levels, particularly during the summer months. Reduced ice cover and earlier spring thaws may have further exacerbated evaporation, impacting water availability for navigation, recreation, and ecosystem health (Stanley, 1994).

Conclusion: The Roman Warm Period, spanning roughly from 250 BCE to 400 CE, represents a crucial period in Earth's climatic history with significant implications for the Midwest USA and the Great Lakes region. Through interdisciplinary research combining paleoclimatology, archaeology, and historical ecology, scholars have gained valuable insights into the environmental changes during the RWP and their impacts on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Understanding the dynamics of past warm periods like the RWP is essential for informing future climate projections and developing adaptive strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on vulnerable regions and ecosystems.

References:
  • Büntgen, U., Tegel, W., Nicolussi, K., McCormick, M., Frank, D., Trouet, V., ... & Esper, J. (2011). 2500 years of European climate variability and human susceptibility. Science, 331(6017), 578-582.
  • Mann, M. E., Bradley, R. S., & Hughes, M. K. (1999). Northern hemisphere temperatures during the past millennium: Inferences, uncertainties, and limitations. Geophysical Research Letters, 26(6), 759-762.
  • Booth, A. L., & Roos, C. I. (2012). Late Holocene drought and population dynamics in the northern Great Plains. Quaternary Research, 77(1), 40-49.
  • Lenters, J. D., & Verhamme, E. M. (2011). A record of climate and water level change in Lake Michigan from isotopic composition of authigenic carbonate. Journal of Great Lakes Research, 37(3), 523-532.
  • Stanley, J. D. (1994). Late Holocene water levels of Lake Erie: Evidence for two periods of mid-continent aridity. Quaternary Research, 41(2), 231-235.

Book of Mormon Lands and Crops

Mosiah 9:9
9 And we began to till the ground, yea, even with all manner of seeds, with seeds of corn, and of wheat, and of barley, and with neas, and with sheum, and with seeds of all manner of fruits; and we did begin to multiply and prosper in the land.

Iowa has maybe the best farm land in the world. ChatGPT has this to say:

Question: "Does corn, wheat, barley and fruit grow in Iowa?
Answer: "Yes, corn, wheat, barley, and various fruits all grow in Iowa. Iowa is one of the top producers of corn and soybeans in the United States, thanks to its fertile soil and favorable climate. Wheat is also grown, although in smaller amounts compared to corn. Barley is less common but can be found in some areas. Additionally, Iowa has a range of fruit farms that produce apples, strawberries, grapes, and more. The state's agriculture is quite diverse!"

 3 Logical Geographical Model
 3.1 Building the Logical Model
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 20 September 2024
image

The Logical Model is the foundation for the Physical Model. It was created first. This is kind of a big deal because all other maps of Book of Mormon geography either lack a Logical Model or derive an incomplete Logical Model from a Physical Model – which is backwards. However the purpose of having a full and complete Logical Model is to build a solid logical foundation for the Physical Model which is based on the Book of Mormon itself and to help prevent confirmation bias. Whenever the Logical Model is improved, due to ongoing textual analysis of the Book of Mormon, the Physical Model is afterwards changed to match. So far this has worked very smoothly with the topography, which is a testimony to the accuracy of the Logical Model. The Logical Model mirrors the text Book of Mormon using a nomenclature for geography that is computer readable.

The ontology (logic def: the set of entities presupposed by a theory) of the Logical Model is a representation of all the geographical information contained in the Book of Mormon, which is both systemic (integral to the whole) and systematic (organized to a set plan), — and it does not include a map. The purpose for having a Logical Model is to facilitate thoroughness, completeness, and to help compartmentalize information for the purpose of reducing bias. In it's final form, the Logical Model is also a quick reference and a working tool to validate Physical Models.

When evaluating the Logical Model, please throw away your old ideas and start from scratch. And be patient because it takes some serious time and study of the Logical Model (Section 3.5 Entity Relationship Table) to arrive at a level of confidence. The Logical Model is very complex with 796 total entity relationships defined from the text but it yields wonderful fruit - the physical world of the Book of Mormon.

Below are the building blocks of the Logical Model. See Section 3.5 Entity Relationship Table for how these components tie together to form the Logical Model.

Entity Types, 23
border, city, feature, forest, fountain, hill, land, land area, mount, mountain, ocean, passage, place, place of arms, plains, river, sea, tower, travel route, valley, village, waters, wilderness
Entity Names, 119
Aaron,Ablom,Agosh,Akish,Alma,Ammonihah,Amnihu,Amulon,Angola,Ani-Anti,Antionum,Antiparah,Antipas,Antum,Boaz,BordersOfNephites,Bountiful,CityBySeashore,Comnor,Corihor,Cumeni,Cumorah,David,Desolation,Desolation2,EastSea,EastWilderness,Ephraim,Gad,Gadiandi,Gadiomnah,Gid,Gideon,Gilgal,Gilgal2,Gimgimno,GreatJarediteCity,Hagoth,Helam,Hermounts,Heshlon,Heth,HillManti,HillNorthOfShilom,Ishmael,Jacob,Jacobugath,JarediteLandSouthward,Jashon,Jershon,Jerusalem,Jordan,Josh,Joshua,Judea,Kishcumen,Laman,Lehi,Lehi-Nephi,LehiLand,Lemuel,LineBountifulDesolation,Manti,Melek,Middoni,Midian,Minon,Mocum,Moriantum,Morionton,Mormon,Moron,Moroni,Moronihah,Mulek,MulekLand,NarrowPass,NarrowPassage,NarrowStrip,NeckOfLand,Nehor,Nephi,Nephihah,Noah,Ogath,Omner,Oneidah,Onidah,Onihah,OreMines,Ramah,Riplah,Ripliancum,SeaEast,SeaNorth,SeaSouth,SeaWest,Sebus,Shem,Shemlon,Sherrizah,Shilom,Shim,Shimnilom,Shurr,Sidom,Sidon,SidonHead,Siron,SouthWilderness,Teancum,WatersOfMormon,WestSea,WestWilderness,WhereNephitesDestroyed,WhereSeaDividesLand,Zarahemla,Zeezrom,Zerin
Entity Name Types, 142
Aaron city,Aaron land,Ablom place,Agosh plains,Akish wilderness,Alma valley,Ammonihah city,Ammonihah land,Amnihu hill,Amulon land,Angola city,Ani-Anti village,Antionum land,Antiparah city,Antipas mount,Antum land,Boaz city,BordersOfNephites feature,Bountiful city,Bountiful land,CityBySeashore city,Comnor hill,Corihor valley,Corihor land,Cumeni city,Cumorah hill,Cumorah land,David land,Desolation land,Desolation2 city,Desolation2 land,EastSea sea,EastWilderness wilderness,Ephraim hill,Gad city,Gadiandi city,Gadiomnah city,Gid city,Gideon city,Gideon land,Gideon valley,Gilgal valley,Gilgal2 city,Gimgimno city,GreatJarediteCity city,Hagoth place,Helam city,Helam land,Hermounts wilderness,Heshlon plains,Heth land,HillManti hill,HillNorthOfShilom hill,Ishmael land,Jacob city,Jacobugath city,JarediteLandSouthward land,Jashon city,Jashon land,Jershon land,Jerusalem city,Jerusalem land,Jordan city,Josh city,Joshua land,Judea city,Kishcumen city,Laman city,Lehi city,Lehi land,Lehi-Nephi city,Lehi-Nephi land,LehiLand land,Lemuel city,LineBountifulDesolation passage,LineBountifulDesolation border,Manti city,Manti land,Melek land,Middoni land,Midian land,Minon land,Mocum city,Moriantum place,Morionton city,Morionton land,Mormon land,Moron land,Moroni city,Moroni land,Moronihah city,Mulek city,MulekLand land,NarrowPass place,NarrowPassage passage,NarrowStrip wilderness,NeckOfLand land,Nehor city,Nehor land,Nephi land,Nephi city,Nephihah city,Nephihah land,Noah city,Noah land,Ogath place,Omner city,Oneidah place-of-arms,Onidah hill,Onihah city,OreMines place,Ramah hill,Riplah hill,Ripliancum waters,SeaEast ocean,SeaNorth ocean,SeaSouth ocean,SeaWest ocean,Sebus waters,Shem city,Shem land,Shemlon land,Sherrizah tower,Shilom city,Shilom land,Shim hill,Shimnilom city,Shurr valley,Sidom land,Sidon river,SidonHead place,Siron land,SouthWilderness place,Teancum city,WatersOfMormon fountain,WestSea sea,WestWilderness land,WhereNephitesDestroyed place,WhereSeaDividesLand feature,Zarahemla city,Zarahemla land,Zeezrom city
Entity Keywords, 26
borders, contains, desolate of, destroyed, distance, east of, has, has not, is, is extent of, is in, leads to, near, north of, northernmost, northwest of, not in, route to, same as, sea journey to, separated by, separates, south of, southeast of, west of
Partial Entity Relationships, 92
Ablom place borders seashore,Akish wilderness near seashore,Ammonihah land near wilderness-side-borders,Antionum land borders wilderness-south,Antionum land near seashore,Antionum land has gathering-place,Antipas mount borders valley,Antum land near seashore,Bountiful land has fortified-line,Bountiful land has Temple,Desolation land has-not timber,Desolation land has Jaredite-destruction,Desolation land has mass-migration,Desolation land north-of Nephite-lands,Desolation2 land borders the-sea,EastSea sea borders Lamanite-land,EastSea sea borders Nephite-land,EastWilderness wilderness north-of Lamanite-lands,Gad city destroyed by-fire,Gadiandi city destroyed sunk-into-the-earth,Gadiomnah city destroyed sunk-into-the-earth,Gid city north-of Nephite-lands,Gilgal2 city destroyed sunk-into-the-earth,Gimgimno city destroyed sunk-into-the-earth,Helam land borders wilderness,Helam land has pure-water,Hermounts wilderness has wild-beasts,HillManti hill has execution-of-Nehor,HillNorthOfShilom hill near wilderness,Ishmael land near wilderness,Jacob city destroyed sunk-and-buried,Jacobugath city destroyed by-fire,Jacobugath city northernmost land,Jerusalem city destroyed waters-coming-up,Jerusalem land has Amlicites,Jerusalem land has Amulonites,Jerusalem land has Lamanites,Josh city destroyed by-fire,Joshua land borders the-west-seashore,Kishcumen city destroyed by-fire,Kishcumen city near wilderness,Kishcumen city not-in Nephite-lands,Laman city destroyed by-fire,Lehi-Nephi city has walls,Lemuel city destroyed by-fire,LineBountifulDesolation passage has fortified-line,LineBountifulDesolation passage route-to land-northward,LineBountifulDesolation passage route-to land-southward,Melek land west-of the-borders-of-wilderness,Mocum city destroyed waters-coming-up,Moron land desolate-of timber,Moron land near seashore,Moron land has throne,Moroni city borders Lamanite/Nephite-border,Moroni city borders seashore,Moroni city destroyed sinking-into-the-sea,Moroni city near people-of-Ammon,Moroni land borders wilderness-east,Moroni land borders wilderness-south,Moronihah city destroyed covered-with-earth,NarrowPass place leads-to land-northward,NarrowPass place leads-to land-southward,NarrowPassage passage leads-to land-southward,NeckOfLand land borders land-northward,NeckOfLand land borders land-southward,NeckOfLand land separates lands-south-from-north,Nephi land near wilderness,Nephi land south-of wilderness,Nephi city has walls,Noah land near wilderness,Noah city fortified-by Moroni,Onihah city destroyed waters-coming-up,Riplah hill near valley,SeaEast ocean is-extent-of Lamanite-lands,SeaEast ocean is-extent-of Nephite-migrations,SeaNorth ocean is-extent-of Nephite-migrations,SeaSouth ocean is-extent-of Lamanite-lands,SeaWest ocean is-extent-of Lamanite-lands,SeaWest ocean is-extent-of Nephite-migrations,Shemlon land near wilderness,Shilom land borders hill,Shilom land near wilderness,Sidon river leads-to to-the-sea,SidonHead place is-in northern-lands,Siron land borders Lamanites,Teancum city borders seashore,WatersOfMormon fountain borders forest,WestSea sea borders Nephite-land,WestSea sea borders fortified-line,Zarahemla city borders Nauvoo-Illinois,Zarahemla city destroyed by-fire,Zarahemla land is-in center-of-the-land
Full Entity Relationships, 691
Aaron city borders EastSea sea,Aaron city near Moroni city,Aaron land borders Nephihah land,Aaron land borders Moroni land,Aaron city distance Ammonihah city,Ablom place east-of WhereNephitesDestroyed place,Ablom place near Antum land,Ablom place near Desolation2 land,Ablom place near Shim hill,Agosh plains near Akish wilderness,Akish wilderness is-in Desolation land,Akish wilderness near Agosh plains,Akish wilderness near Moron land,Alma valley near Amulon land,Alma valley near Shemlon land,Alma valley near Shilom land,Alma valley distance Helam city,Alma valley distance Zarahemla city,Alma valley distance Nephi city,Ammonihah city near Noah city,Ammonihah city near Noah land,Ammonihah city north-of Melek land,Ammonihah city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Ammonihah city distance Melek land,Ammonihah city distance Aaron city,Ammonihah land borders Zarahemla land,Ammonihah land near Noah land,Ammonihah land near Sidom land,Ammonihah land north-of Melek land,Amnihu hill east-of Sidon river,Amnihu hill near Sidon river,Amnihu hill near Zarahemla land,Amulon land near Alma valley,Amulon land near Helam land,Amulon land near Jerusalem city,Amulon land near Jerusalem land,Amulon land near Midian land,Amulon land near Mormon land,Amulon land near Nephi land,Amulon land near Shemlon land,Amulon land south-of Shemlon land,Amulon land near Shilom land,Angola city north-of Zarahemla land,Angola city south-of Joshua land,Angola city near David land,Ani-Anti village distance Jerusalem city,Ani-Anti village near Middoni land,Antionum land borders Jershon land,Antionum land contains Onidah hill,Antionum land east-of Zarahemla land,Antionum land near EastWilderness wilderness,Antionum land near Siron land,Antionum land south-of Jershon land,Antionum land separated-by Manti land,Antiparah city near CityBySeashore city,Antiparah city near Cumeni city,Antiparah city near Judea city,Antiparah city near Manti city,Antiparah city near SidonHead place,Antiparah city near Zeezrom city,Antiparah city north-of Judea city,Antiparah city north-of Manti city,Antiparah city north-of Zeezrom city,Antiparah city south-of CityBySeashore city,Antiparah city south-of WestSea sea,Antiparah city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Antipas mount is-in Oneidah place-of-arms,Antipas mount is-in Nephi land,Antum land north-of Zarahemla land,Antum land contains Shim hill,Antum land near Ablom place,Antum land near Teancum city,Antum land near Jashon land,Antum land near Jordan city,Antum land near Desolation2 city,Antum land near Desolation2 land,Antum land near Boaz city,Boaz city is-in WhereNephitesDestroyed place,Boaz city near Antum land,Boaz city near Shim hill,Boaz city near Jordan city,Boaz city near Desolation2 city,Boaz city near Desolation2 land,BordersOfNephites feature contains Ammonihah city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Antiparah city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Bountiful city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Cumeni city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Gid city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Lehi city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Manti city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Morionton city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Moroni city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Mulek city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Nephihah city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Noah city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Omner city,BordersOfNephites feature contains Zeezrom city,Bountiful city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Bountiful city near Gid city,Bountiful city near Mulek city,Bountiful land borders LineBountifulDesolation passage,Bountiful land borders EastSea sea,Bountiful land borders Desolation land,Bountiful land borders Hagoth place,Bountiful land borders Jershon land,Bountiful land borders NarrowPass place,Bountiful land borders WestSea sea,Bountiful land contains NeckOfLand land,Bountiful land near WestSea sea,Bountiful land north-of Jershon land,Bountiful land north-of Zarahemla land,Bountiful land south-of Desolation land,CityBySeashore city borders WestSea sea,CityBySeashore city near Antiparah city,CityBySeashore city near Cumeni city,CityBySeashore city near Judea city,CityBySeashore city near Manti city,CityBySeashore city near Zeezrom city,CityBySeashore city north-of Antiparah city,Comnor hill near Shurr valley,Comnor hill is-in Corihor land,Corihor valley borders Shurr valley,Corihor land contains Shurr valley,Corihor land contains Comnor hill,Corihor land contains Corihor valley,Corihor valley is-in Corihor land,Cumeni city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Cumeni city near Antiparah city,Cumeni city near CityBySeashore city,Cumeni city near Judea city,Cumeni city near Manti city,Cumeni city borders Zeezrom city,Cumeni city south-of WestSea sea,Cumorah hill near Ogath place,Cumorah hill south-of Ripliancum waters,Cumorah land near Ripliancum waters,David land near Angola city,David land north-of Zarahemla land,David land south-of Joshua land,Desolation land borders Bountiful land,Desolation land borders LineBountifulDesolation passage,Desolation land borders EastSea sea,Desolation land borders NeckOfLand land,Desolation land borders WestSea sea,Desolation land contains Moron land,Desolation land contains Akish wilderness,Desolation land contains GreatJarediteCity city,Desolation land contains NarrowPass place,Desolation land near Hagoth place,Desolation land north-of Bountiful land,Desolation2 city is-in WhereNephitesDestroyed place,Desolation2 city near Antum land,Desolation2 city near Boaz city,Desolation2 city near Jordan city,Desolation2 city near Moriantum place,Desolation2 city near Sherrizah tower,Desolation2 city near Shim hill,Desolation2 city near Teancum city,Desolation2 land borders NarrowPass place,Desolation2 land near Ablom place,Desolation2 land near Moron land,Desolation2 land near Boaz city,Desolation2 land near Antum land,Desolation2 land near Jordan city,Desolation2 land near Shim hill,Desolation2 land near Teancum city,EastSea sea borders Aaron city,EastSea sea borders Bountiful land,EastSea sea borders Desolation land,EastSea sea borders Gid city,EastSea sea borders Lehi city,EastSea sea borders Lehi land,EastSea sea borders Morionton city,EastSea sea borders Morionton land,EastSea sea borders Moroni city,EastSea sea borders Mulek city,EastSea sea borders NeckOfLand land,EastSea sea borders Nephihah city,EastSea sea borders Nephihah land,EastSea sea borders Omner city,EastSea sea contains NarrowPass place,EastSea sea near Jershon land,EastSea sea near WestSea sea,EastWilderness wilderness east-of Zarahemla land,EastWilderness wilderness near Antionum land,EastWilderness wilderness near Zarahemla land,EastWilderness wilderness north-of Nephi land,Ephraim hill near Nehor city,Gad city near Josh city,Gad city near Kishcumen city,Gadiandi city near Gadiomnah city,Gadiomnah city near Gadiandi city,Gadiomnah city near Jacob city,Gid city borders EastSea sea,Gid city near Bountiful city,Gid city near Morionton city,Gid city near Mulek city,Gid city near Omner city,Gid city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Gideon city east-of Sidon river,Gideon city is-in Gideon valley,Gideon city east-of Zarahemla land,Gideon city east-of Zarahemla city,Gideon city near Zarahemla land,Gideon land east-of Zarahemla land,Gideon land near Sidon river,Gideon land near Zarahemla land,Gideon land south-of Manti land,Gideon valley contains Gideon city,Gideon valley east-of Sidon river,Gideon valley east-of Zarahemla city,Gideon valley near Minon land,Gideon valley near Sidon river,Gideon valley near Zarahemla city,Gideon valley near Zarahemla land,Gilgal valley near Heshlon plains,Gimgimno city near Jacob city,GreatJarediteCity city is-in Desolation land,GreatJarediteCity city is-in Moron land,GreatJarediteCity city north-of JarediteLandSouthward land,GreatJarediteCity city same-as Nehor city,GreatJarediteCity city borders LineBountifulDesolation passage,GreatJarediteCity city borders NeckOfLand land,GreatJarediteCity city borders WhereSeaDividesLand feature,GreatJarediteCity city near OreMines place,Hagoth place borders Bountiful land,Hagoth place borders NeckOfLand land,Hagoth place borders WestSea sea,Hagoth place near Desolation land,Hagoth place north-of Zarahemla land,Hagoth place distance NarrowPass place,Helam city distance Alma valley,Helam city distance WatersOfMormon fountain,Helam land near Amulon land,Helam land near Jerusalem land,Helam land near Midian land,Helam land near Nephi land,Hermounts wilderness near Sidon river,Hermounts wilderness west-of Sidon river,Hermounts wilderness near Zarahemla city,Hermounts wilderness northwest-of Zarahemla city,Heshlon plains near Gilgal valley,Heth land near Moron land,HillManti hill near Zarahemla land,HillNorthOfShilom hill near Nephi city,HillNorthOfShilom hill north-of Shilom land,Ishmael land contains Sebus waters,Ishmael land near Lemuel city,Ishmael land near Middoni land,Ishmael land near Midian land,Ishmael land near Nephi city,Ishmael land near Nephi land,Ishmael land near Shemlon land,Ishmael land near Shilom land,Ishmael land near Shimnilom city,Jacob city near Gimgimno city,Jacob city near Gadiomnah city,JarediteLandSouthward land contains Zarahemla land,JarediteLandSouthward land south-of LineBountifulDesolation passage,JarediteLandSouthward land south-of NeckOfLand land,JarediteLandSouthward land south-of OreMines place,JarediteLandSouthward land south-of GreatJarediteCity city,Jashon city north-of Joshua land,Jashon land near Antum land,Jashon land near Joshua land,Jashon land north-of Joshua land,Jershon land borders Antionum land,Jershon land borders Bountiful land,Jershon land near EastSea sea,Jershon land near Melek land,Jershon land north-of Antionum land,Jershon land separated-by Nephi land,Jershon land south-of Bountiful land,Jerusalem city near Amulon land,Jerusalem city near Middoni land,Jerusalem city near Mocum city,Jerusalem city near Mormon land,Jerusalem city near Onihah city,Jerusalem city distance Ani-Anti village,Jerusalem land borders Mormon land,Jerusalem land near Amulon land,Jerusalem land near Helam land,Jerusalem land near Midian land,Jerusalem land near Nephi land,Jordan city near Boaz city,Jordan city near Desolation2 city,Jordan city near Desolation2 land,Jordan city near Teancum city,Jordan city near Shim hill,Jordan city near Antum land,Josh city near Laman city,Josh city near Gad city,Joshua land near Jashon land,Joshua land north-of Angola city,Joshua land north-of David land,Joshua land south-of Jashon city,Joshua land south-of Jashon land,Judea city near Manti city,Judea city near Zeezrom city,Judea city near Cumeni city,Judea city near Antiparah city,Judea city near CityBySeashore city,Judea city south-of Antiparah city,Judea city south-of WestSea sea,Kishcumen city near Gad city,Laman city near Josh city,Lehi city borders EastSea sea,Lehi city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Lehi city near Morionton city,Lehi city near Moroni city,Lehi city near Nephihah city,Lehi city near Nephihah land,Lehi city south-of Morionton city,Lehi city south-of Morionton land,Lehi land borders EastSea sea,Lehi land borders Morionton city,Lehi land borders Morionton land,Lehi land near Morionton city,Lehi land near Moroni city,Lehi land near Nephihah city,Lehi land near Nephihah land,Lehi land sea-journey-to NarrowPass place,Lehi land south-of Morionton land,Lehi-Nephi city same-as Nephi city,Lehi-Nephi land same-as Nephi land,Lehi-Nephi city borders Shilom land,Lehi-Nephi land borders Shilom land,LehiLand land south-of MulekLand land,Lemuel city near Ishmael land,Lemuel city near Lemuel city,Lemuel city near Middoni land,Lemuel city near Nephi city,Lemuel city borders Shemlon land,Lemuel city near Shilom land,Lemuel city near Shimnilom city,LineBountifulDesolation border same-as NarrowPassage passage,LineBountifulDesolation passage borders Bountiful land,LineBountifulDesolation passage borders Desolation land,LineBountifulDesolation passage borders GreatJarediteCity city,LineBountifulDesolation passage borders NeckOfLand land,LineBountifulDesolation passage contains NarrowPass place,LineBountifulDesolation passage north-of JarediteLandSouthward land,Manti city borders Zeezrom city,Manti city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Manti city near Antiparah city,Manti city near CityBySeashore city,Manti city near Cumeni city,Manti city near Judea city,Manti city south-of Antiparah city,Manti land borders Sidon river,Manti land contains SidonHead place,Manti land near Riplah hill,Manti land near Sidon river,Manti land near SouthWilderness place,Manti land north-of Gideon land,Manti land north-of Zarahemla land,Manti land south-of SouthWilderness place,Manti land south-of Riplah hill,Manti land south-of WestSea sea,Manti land separated-by Antionum land,Melek land near Jershon land,Melek land near Zarahemla land,Melek land south-of Ammonihah city,Melek land south-of Ammonihah land,Melek land west-of Sidon river,Melek land distance Ammonihah city,Middoni land near Ani-Anti village,Middoni land near Ishmael land,Middoni land near Jerusalem city,Middoni land near Lemuel city,Middoni land near Nephi land,Middoni land near Shemlon land,Middoni land near Shilom land,Middoni land near Shimnilom city,Midian land near Ishmael land,Midian land near Nephi land,Midian land near Amulon land,Midian land near Helam land,Midian land near Jerusalem land,Minon land borders Zarahemla land,Minon land near Gideon valley,Minon land south-of Zarahemla land,Mocum city near Jerusalem city,Mocum city near Onihah city,Moriantum place near Sherrizah tower,Moriantum place near Desolation2 city,Morionton city borders EastSea sea,Morionton city borders Lehi land,Morionton city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Morionton city near Gid city,Morionton city near Lehi city,Morionton city near Lehi land,Morionton city near Moroni city,Morionton city near Nephihah city,Morionton city near Omner city,Morionton city north-of Lehi city,Morionton land borders EastSea sea,Morionton land borders Lehi land,Morionton land north-of Lehi city,Morionton land north-of Lehi land,Mormon land borders Jerusalem land,Mormon land borders Nephi land,Mormon land near Jerusalem city,Mormon land contains WatersOfMormon fountain,Mormon land near Amulon land,Moron land contains GreatJarediteCity city,Moron land north-of Zarahemla land,Moron land is-in Desolation land,Moron land borders Nehor land,Moron land near Desolation2 land,Moron land near Akish wilderness,Moron land near Heth land,Moroni city borders EastSea sea,Moroni city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Moroni city near Aaron city,Moroni city near Lehi city,Moroni city near Lehi land,Moroni city near Morionton city,Moroni city near Nephihah city,Moroni land borders Aaron land,Moroni land borders Nephihah land,Mulek city near Bountiful city,Mulek city borders EastSea sea,Mulek city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Mulek city near Gid city,MulekLand land north-of LehiLand land,NarrowPass place borders WestSea sea,NarrowPass place borders Bountiful land,NarrowPass place borders Desolation2 land,NarrowPass place is-in EastSea sea,NarrowPass place is-in LineBountifulDesolation passage,NarrowPass place is-in Desolation land,NarrowPass place sea-journey-to Lehi land,NarrowPass place distance Hagoth place,NarrowPassage passage same-as LineBountifulDesolation border,NarrowPassage passage near Shem city,NarrowPassage passage near Shem land,NarrowStrip wilderness borders Nephi city,NarrowStrip wilderness borders Zarahemla city,NarrowStrip wilderness borders Nephi land,NarrowStrip wilderness borders Zarahemla land,NeckOfLand land borders Desolation land,NeckOfLand land borders Hagoth place,NeckOfLand land borders LineBountifulDesolation passage,NeckOfLand land borders EastSea sea,NeckOfLand land borders WestSea sea,NeckOfLand land borders GreatJarediteCity city,NeckOfLand land borders WhereSeaDividesLand feature,NeckOfLand land is-in Bountiful land,NeckOfLand land near OreMines place,NeckOfLand land north-of JarediteLandSouthward land,Nehor city same-as GreatJarediteCity city,Nehor city near Ephraim hill,Nehor land borders Moron land,Nephi city same-as Lehi-Nephi city,Nephi city near HillNorthOfShilom hill,Nephi city near Ishmael land,Nephi city near Lemuel city,Nephi city near Shemlon land,Nephi city near Shilom land,Nephi city near Shimnilom city,Nephi city borders NarrowStrip wilderness,Nephi city distance Alma valley,Nephi city distance Zarahemla city,Nephi land borders Mormon land,Nephi land borders Shilom land,Nephi land contains Antipas mount,Nephi land contains Oneidah place-of-arms,Nephi land borders NarrowStrip wilderness,Nephi land near Amulon land,Nephi land near Helam land,Nephi land near Ishmael land,Nephi land near Jerusalem land,Nephi land near Middoni land,Nephi land near Midian land,Nephi land near Sebus waters,Nephi land near Shemlon land,Nephi land near Shilom city,Nephi land near Shilom land,Nephi land near WestWilderness land,Nephi land east-of WestWilderness land,Nephi land same-as Lehi-Nephi land,Nephi land south-of EastWilderness wilderness,Nephi land south-of Zarahemla land,Nephi land separated-by Jershon land,Nephi land separated-by Zarahemla land,Nephihah city borders EastSea sea,Nephihah city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Nephihah city near Lehi city,Nephihah city near Lehi land,Nephihah city near Morionton city,Nephihah city near Moroni city,Nephihah city near Omner city,Nephihah land near Lehi city,Nephihah land near Lehi land,Nephihah land borders Aaron land,Nephihah land borders EastSea sea,Nephihah land borders Moroni land,Noah city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Noah city near Ammonihah city,Noah land near Ammonihah city,Noah land near Ammonihah land,Noah land near Sidom land,Ogath place near Ramah hill,Ogath place near Cumorah hill,Ogath place south-of Ripliancum waters,Omner city borders EastSea sea,Omner city near Gid city,Omner city near Morionton city,Omner city near Nephihah city,Omner city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Oneidah place-of-arms contains Antipas mount,Oneidah place-of-arms is-in Nephi land,Onidah hill is-in Antionum land,Onihah city near Jerusalem city,Onihah city near Mocum city,OreMines place near GreatJarediteCity city,OreMines place near NeckOfLand land,OreMines place north-of JarediteLandSouthward land,Ramah hill near Ogath place,Ramah hill south-of Ripliancum waters,Riplah hill east-of Sidon river,Riplah hill near Manti land,Riplah hill near Sidon river,Riplah hill north-of Manti land,Ripliancum waters near Cumorah land,Ripliancum waters north-of Ogath place,Ripliancum waters north-of Ramah hill,Ripliancum waters north-of Cumorah hill,SeaEast ocean east-of SeaWest ocean,SeaNorth ocean north-of SeaSouth ocean,SeaSouth ocean south-of SeaNorth ocean,SeaWest ocean west-of SeaEast ocean,Sebus waters is-in Ishmael land,Sebus waters near Nephi land,Shem city near NarrowPassage passage,Shem land near NarrowPassage passage,Shemlon land borders Lemuel city,Shemlon land near Shilom land,Shemlon land near Alma valley,Shemlon land near Amulon land,Shemlon land near Ishmael land,Shemlon land near Middoni land,Shemlon land near Nephi city,Shemlon land near Nephi land,Shemlon land near Shimnilom city,Shemlon land north-of Amulon land,Shemlon land north-of Shimnilom city,Sherrizah tower near Moriantum place,Sherrizah tower near Desolation2 city,Shilom city near Nephi land,Shilom land borders Lehi-Nephi city,Shilom land borders Lehi-Nephi land,Shilom land borders Nephi land,Shilom land near Shemlon land,Shilom land near Alma valley,Shilom land near Amulon land,Shilom land near Ishmael land,Shilom land near Lemuel city,Shilom land near Middoni land,Shilom land near Nephi city,Shilom land near Nephi land,Shilom land near Shimnilom city,Shilom land south-of HillNorthOfShilom hill,Shim hill is-in Antum land,Shim hill near Teancum city,Shim hill near Desolation2 city,Shim hill near Desolation2 land,Shim hill near Boaz city,Shim hill near Ablom place,Shim hill near Jordan city,Shim hill north-of Zarahemla land,Shimnilom city near Shilom land,Shimnilom city near Ishmael land,Shimnilom city near Lemuel city,Shimnilom city near Middoni land,Shimnilom city near Nephi city,Shimnilom city near Shemlon land,Shimnilom city south-of Shemlon land,Shurr valley borders Corihor valley,Shurr valley is-in Corihor land,Shurr valley near Comnor hill,Sidom land near Ammonihah land,Sidom land near Noah land,Sidon river borders Manti land,Sidon river borders Zarahemla city,Sidon river borders Zarahemla land,Sidon river east-of Melek land,Sidon river east-of Zarahemla city,Sidon river east-of Zarahemla land,Sidon river east-of Hermounts wilderness,Sidon river near Amnihu hill,Sidon river near Gideon land,Sidon river near Gideon valley,Sidon river near Hermounts wilderness,Sidon river near Manti land,Sidon river near Riplah hill,Sidon river near Zarahemla city,Sidon river west-of Amnihu hill,Sidon river west-of Gideon city,Sidon river west-of Gideon valley,Sidon river west-of Riplah hill,Sidon river west-of SouthWilderness place,SidonHead place is-in Manti land,SidonHead place borders SouthWilderness place,SidonHead place near WestSea sea,SidonHead place near Antiparah city,Siron land near Antionum land,SouthWilderness place borders SidonHead place,SouthWilderness place near Manti land,SouthWilderness place east-of Sidon river,SouthWilderness place north-of Manti land,SouthWilderness place south-of WestSea sea,Teancum city near Antum land,Teancum city near Jordan city,Teancum city near Shim hill,Teancum city near Desolation2 land,Teancum city near Desolation2 city,Teancum city is-in WhereNephitesDestroyed place,WatersOfMormon fountain is-in Mormon land,WatersOfMormon fountain distance Helam city,WestSea sea borders CityBySeashore city,WestSea sea borders Bountiful land,WestSea sea borders Desolation land,WestSea sea borders Hagoth place,WestSea sea borders NeckOfLand land,WestSea sea borders NarrowPass place,WestSea sea near Bountiful land,WestSea sea near EastSea sea,WestSea sea near SidonHead place,WestSea sea north-of Antiparah city,WestSea sea north-of Cumeni city,WestSea sea north-of Judea city,WestSea sea north-of Manti land,WestSea sea north-of Zeezrom city,WestSea sea north-of SouthWilderness place,WestWilderness land near Nephi land,WestWilderness land west-of Nephi land,WhereNephitesDestroyed place contains Desolation2 city,WhereNephitesDestroyed place contains Teancum city,WhereNephitesDestroyed place contains Boaz city,WhereNephitesDestroyed place west-of Ablom place,WhereSeaDividesLand feature borders NeckOfLand land,WhereSeaDividesLand feature borders GreatJarediteCity city,Zarahemla city southeast-of Hermounts wilderness,Zarahemla city borders NarrowStrip wilderness,Zarahemla city borders Sidon river,Zarahemla city near Gideon valley,Zarahemla city near Hermounts wilderness,Zarahemla city near Sidon river,Zarahemla city west-of Gideon city,Zarahemla city west-of Gideon valley,Zarahemla city west-of Sidon river,Zarahemla city distance Alma valley,Zarahemla city distance Nephi city,Zarahemla land borders Ammonihah land,Zarahemla land borders Minon land,Zarahemla land borders Sidon river,Zarahemla land is-in JarediteLandSouthward land,Zarahemla land borders NarrowStrip wilderness,Zarahemla land near Amnihu hill,Zarahemla land near EastWilderness wilderness,Zarahemla land near Gideon valley,Zarahemla land near Gideon city,Zarahemla land near Gideon land,Zarahemla land near HillManti hill,Zarahemla land near Melek land,Zarahemla land north-of Minon land,Zarahemla land north-of Nephi land,Zarahemla land south-of Angola city,Zarahemla land south-of Antum land,Zarahemla land south-of Bountiful land,Zarahemla land south-of David land,Zarahemla land south-of Hagoth place,Zarahemla land south-of Moron land,Zarahemla land south-of Manti land,Zarahemla land south-of Shim hill,Zarahemla land west-of Antionum land,Zarahemla land west-of EastWilderness wilderness,Zarahemla land west-of Gideon city,Zarahemla land west-of Gideon land,Zarahemla land west-of Sidon river,Zarahemla land separated-by Nephi land,Zeezrom city borders Cumeni city,Zeezrom city borders Manti city,Zeezrom city is-in BordersOfNephites feature,Zeezrom city near Antiparah city,Zeezrom city near CityBySeashore city,Zeezrom city near Judea city,Zeezrom city south-of Antiparah city,Zeezrom city south-of WestSea sea
 3.2 The Methodology
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 02 May 2024

The most obvious question to ask is: Why do I think the Zarahemla model of geography for the Book of Mormon is more correct than previous efforts that have been made? The answer is: I am not guessing! For example, there are 34 relationship clues for the land & city of Nephi and 776 relationship clues overall for the 141 locations in the text of the Book of Mormon — many of which affect 2 or more locations at the same time. In short, it is far too error prone to manually keep all these constraints in mind when determining a location on the map. Without a knowledge of databases and how to write the software programs to validate all the constraints, it is not possible to review all the possibilities. Another major problem with the traditional approach is the assumptions that are made. They are not written down and formalized. They too need to be validated. These assumptions include how the text is interpreted and how the land topography is to be interpreted. So, the reason I say I am not guessing is because for each Book of Mormon location I follow a computer enhanced fixed methodology that leads to the result. It is not a guess. It is data analytics. If the Book of Mormon was not totally consistent about its geography then the methodology I use would quickly expose that.

The Methodology is the systematic application of procedures used to create the components of the Logical Model and the Physical Model. The methodology outlined below was used to construct a Logical Model of Book of Mormon geography AND the Zarahemla Model Google map of the Book of Mormon. Yes, the Logical Model was actually created in it's entirety first, then the Physical Model was afterwards created. After the initial construction of a Physical Model, subsequent iterative improvements always start with the Logical Model first.

Definitions:

  1. Entity: A named or described geographical reference in the Book of Mormon.
  2. Entity Relationships: How one entity relates to another. Example relationships: "is near to", "borders", "is a", "is located", etc
  3. Entity Relationship Nomenclature: A set of terms and symbols that help describe the Entity Relationships (see Section 3.5 Entity Relationship Table).
  4. Rule of Interpretation: A working theory on the meaning of Book of Mormon words or phraseology. Used when building the Logical Model. Example: The phrase "round about" indicates "circuitous or indirect, as a road, journey, method, statement or person."
  5. Rule of Application: A guiding principle used when constructing the Physical Model. Example: When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
  6. Logical Model = Entities + Entity Relationships + Rules of Interpretation.
  7. Physical Model = Maps consistent with: Logical Model + Rules of Application.
  8. Entity Relationship Table: The working list of all the entities and their relationships and presented with the Entity Relationship Nomenclature. For each Entity the table includes scripture citations, Entity-to-scripture cross references, Rules of Interpretation, Rules of Application, maps/graphics, and commentary. The components in the Entity Relationship Table referring to the Physical Model are for convenience in constructing the Physical Model. Originally, the Physical Model references were added only after the all the Entity Relationships were first defined.

Methodology:

  1. The Entity Relationships (Section 3.5 Entity Relationship Table) are created by examining only the text of the Book of Mormon. The information that is contained within the text is extracted and put into a standardized machine readable format. The Logical Model defines a set of constraints for the Physical Model and never vice-versa. The goal is to totally compartmentalize the logical from the physical and deal with the logical first. This helps reduce bias and simplifies the overall tasks.
  2. For the Logical Model, formalize a set of Rules of Interpretation. If a Rule conflicts with any Entity Relationship, then it is changed or removed. "Rules" are working theories. A Rule of Interpretation is not made invalid simply because it is not "proven" (it is a theory) or because it does not work with a given map - because a Physical Model map is never the source information for the Logical Model. In other words, Rules are working theories that guide research. The process is known as "Inference to the Best Explanation" and uses both Rules of Application and Rules of Interpretation to guide inferences. A Rule of Interpretation may be replaced by a better Rule. A Rule of Interpretation is removed if it is found to be conflicting with an Entity Relationship.
  3. For the Logical Model, define every known geographical Entity in the Book of Mormon. Leave nothing out. Every scrap of information is useful, contributes towards the whole, and must not be overlooked. This also eliminates the bias that comes of leaving things out intentionally.
  4. For the Physical Model create a list of Rules of Application. Entities are first placed on the Physical Model map to be consistent with the Entity Relationships Table and, secondarily, according to the Rules of Application. See Section 4.1 Building the Physical Model.
  5. To ensure consistency, the Entity Relationship table is parsed and the contents are placed into a database. Then a program is run to scan the database looking for any inconsistencies and also implied relationships that should be added. The results of the scan is used to validate the table and ensure updates to the table are appropriate.

    The database is programmatically examined to insure data integrity. At a macro level (not fully detailed here) there five processes that check for:
    1. Relationship Compatibility: Each relationship must be compatible with other relationships. For example, if A borders B and B borders A then that is compatible and consistent. However, if A borders B and B is two days travel from A then that is not consistent and it is reported as a Relationship Compatibility error.
    2. Implied Relationships Missing: If the text of the Book of Mormon says that A is north of B, then we also know that B is south of A. In this example, the Book of Mormon does not say that B is south of A explicitly but it says so implicitly. Implicit relationships are just as valid as explicit relationships, however it is easy to overlook them. Therefore the Implied Relationships Test scans the database and reports any implied relationships that are missing.
    3. Rules are Complementary: Each geographical relationship has a source, a relation and a target. Optionally, Rules of Interpretation and Rules of Application can be attached to the relationship. If there is an explicit relationship, then complimentary rules should apply to the implicit relationship as well. Most rules are complement to themselves but some rules are complementary to other rules. For example, a travel rule for upstream travel between two locations would be complemented by a rule for downstream travel. The two rules are different but complement each other. This test validates that the rules between an explicit relationship and an implied relationship are complementary and compatible.
    4. Directional Compatibility: Using the GPS coordinates for each physical location, the Physical Model is checked against the Logical Model for compatible cardinal directions. For example, if the Logical Model says A is north of B then the cardinal direction is calculated from the GPS coordinate of A vs B to verify that the Physical Model conforms to the Logical Model. If, for example, the GPS coordinates of the Physical Model say that A is east of B then a Directional Compatibility error is reported.
    5. Distances Compatibility: Using the GPS coordinates for each physical location, the Physical Model is checked against the Logical Model for Distances Compatibility. For example, if the Logical Model says A is eight days travel to B then the Book of Mormon distance in miles is calculated based on the applicable Rules of Application and compared to the actual map distance (using google earth map tracing). Discrepancies beyond 25% of the expected distance are reported as a Distances Compatibility error.
  6. Test the result! This is done by reading the Skousen "Earliest Text" version of the Book of Mormon, including punctuation revisions outlined for Alma 22 (see Section 4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands) and with the Physical Model map "in hand". Each reference to Book of Mormon geography, while reading and comparing to the map, must be understandable, plausible and non-contradictory to the reader.

Nomenclature:

There are several different varieties of Entity Relationship modeling, which was originally invented for modeling business processes. My version of ER modeling is adapted for the task of defining geographical entities for the Book of Mormon Logical Model. Here are some samples and explanations of the notation used:

Examples:
 ∥ [Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Sidon]{river14,16,18>
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city1,2}
∑ [Alma]{valley}~[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {12 days2} ≈ IR4 AR7

  1. Square brackets [ ] specify the Entity Name, which is a geographical proper noun or feature. The Entity Name must include a Type in curly brackets, except when associating a Type with an Entity for the first time. For each Relationship line, the first Entity is the Object Entity and the second Entity is the Target.

  2. The Object is followed by a Relationship in angle brackets < >. Relationships are separated from Entities and Types by a operator which means "indicates". Following the Relationship operator is the Target.

  3. The Relationship operator is followed by the Target which is a Type in curly brackets { } or another Entity Name and Type in square brackets and curly brackets [ ]{ }. The cardinality is normally 1 to 1 but if 1 to N then additional Targets are simply added on the end. Target Types may also have numeric superscripts which reference specific scripture citations.

  4. As a special case, distances are specified between two entities with the distance operator ~. And finally, the entire Relationship line may optionally be suffixed with the "according to" operator of following by the Interpretation or Application rule number, prefixed with an IR or AR.

  5. The first character is a symbol representing the Relationship Type. The relationship type symbols are:

    1.   ∥  Borders
    2.  ➢ Cardinal Direction
    3.  ⊚ Contains
    4.  ⊗ Destroyed
    5.  ∑  Distance
    6.   ≡  Equivalence
    7.  ⥅ Has
    8.  ⤼ Has not
    9.  ↹ Near To

  6. Each Entity name, as shown above, is also highlighted with a color tint, indicating early Nephite (Reign of Judges), late Nephite, Jaredite, or land feature.

 3.3 Rules of Interpretation
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 08 August 2024

Rules of Interpretation are set of Rules (postulates) governing how the text of the Book of Mormon is interpreted. They are working theories, not facts, on how to best read the Book of Mormon as regards to geographical references. To be accepted and remain valid, a Rule must be unanimously consistent with the ER Table — and thus, the text of the Book of Mormon itself. If not, then the Rule is changed or removed.

Rule Description Comments Examples
IR1 When a modern place-name is associated with an ancient place-name in scripture then that association is always honored.

REASON:
I believe in holy scripture. I follow it as the rod of truth, exactly the same as it is expressed by Joseph Field Smith:

... the Standard Works of the Church are the measuring rods the Lord has given us by which we are to measure every doctrine, every theory and teaching, and if there is anything that does not conform to that which is given to us in the revelations, we do not have to accept it. Whether I say it or anyone else says it, whether it comes through the philosophy of men, or whenever a statement is made, that is in conflict with what the Lord has revealed, you know what course to take. So far as I am concerned, I will just put it aside. And I don't care how many men may believe it. I don't care how much backing it has in the world of so-called science or philosophy. If it does not harmonize with what the Lord has revealed, to me it is not worth anything. (Joseph Fielding Smith, 1942, The Signs of the Times, A Series of Discussions, pp 21-22)

We have two examples in scripture (see below) and many more in the writings of Joseph Smith and other modern prophets. For the many examples, see all of Section 2, and especially Section 2.2 The Book of Mormon in North America. This rule for scripture applies in two direct cases in the Book of Mormon: Cumorah and Zarahemla:

Doctrine and Covenants 128
20 And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! Moroni, an angel from heaven, declaring the fulfilment of the prophets--the book to be revealed. A voice of the Lord in the wilderness of Fayette, Seneca county, declaring the three witnesses to bear record of the book! The voice of Michael on the banks of the Susquehanna, detecting the devil when he appeared as an angel of light! The voice of Peter, James, and John in the wilderness between Harmony, Susquehanna county, and Colesville, Broome county, on the Susquehanna river, declaring themselves as possessing the keys of the kingdom, and of the dispensation of the fulness of times!.

Doctrine and Covenants 125
2 Verily, thus saith the Lord, I say unto you, if those who call themselves by my name and are essaying to be my saints, if they will do my will and keep my commandments concerning them, let them gather themselves together unto the places which I shall appoint unto them by my servant Joseph, and build up cities unto my name, that they may be prepared for that which is in store for a time to come.
3 Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.

image
Topographical view of the hill Cumorah.
image
1839. The Church had a lot of land holdings in the land and city of Zarahemla before the trek west.
IR2 Assume a tightly controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
REASON:
See the exegesis on the TITE methodology employed by Joseph Smith in the translation process of the Book of Mormon.

The tremendous speed of the Book of Mormon translation is strong evidence for a "tight" translation process and that God was directly involved via the Urim and Thummim - because when left to the skill of men only the translation and interpretation process takes a long long time. For example, it took Royal Skousen 21 years to determine the Book of Mormon emendations for the "Earliest Text". For the King James Version of the Bible, 6 committees of 52 learned men took 7 years. For the Book of Mormon, it was transcribed in the main in only 65 working days (85 day span) from between 7 April and 30 June 1829. There are 268,163 words in the Book of Mormon so 65 days at 8 hours a day (conjectured) is 515 words an hour or 8.5 words a minute. So the Book of Mormon translation was obviously not like when scholars normally translate texts. The process was for Joseph Smith to translate the meaning from the plates, speak the Bible like English from the Urim and Thummim, then Oliver Cowdery to transcribe the words in long hand and then repeat back to Joseph to correct any errors. They were going just about a fast as possible while still being careful. See also Section 1.4 The Translation Process

President Russell M. Nelson has said basically the same thing, that the translation involved far more than the capability of Joseph Smith.

The King James Version of the Bible, for example, was produced by 50 English scholars who accomplished their work in seven years, translating at the rate of one page per day. Expert translators today do well if they can also translate scripture at the rate of one page per day. In contrast, Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon at the rate of about 10 pages per day, completing the task in about 85 days! (Many of us feel good if we can read the book in that time.)
(Russell M. Nelson | "A Testimony of the Book of Mormon," Conference October 1999)

A tight translation means that after Joseph learned to understand the writing on the plates through his own inspired efforts and angelic tutelage, then the actual English Bible-like language found in the Book of Mormon came from God via the "Holy Interpreters". See Section 1.4 The Translation Process. In this scenario the dictation was absolutely error free, in terms of translation accuracy, as it came forth from the lips of Joseph Smith. Some errors were introduced by scribes and also by the printer but almost all of these have now been corrected based on careful studies of the original manuscripts. The evidence for a "tight translation" is significant:

Joseph Smith
I told the brethren, that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.

The Book of Mormon itself indicates God's direct involvement in a tight translation:

2 Nephi 29
2 And also, that I may remember the promises which I have made unto thee, Nephi, and also unto thy father, that I would remember your seed; and that the words of your seed should proceed forth out of my mouth unto your seed; and my words shall hiss forth unto the ends of the earth, for a standard unto my people, which are of the house of Israel;

Ether 12
23 And I said unto him: Lord, the Gentiles will mock at these things, because of our weakness in writing; for Lord thou hast made us mighty in word by faith, but thou hast not made us mighty in writing; for thou hast made all this people that they could speak much, because of the Holy Ghost which thou hast given them;
24 And thou hast made us that we could write but little, because of the awkwardness of our hands. Behold, thou hast not made us mighty in writing like unto the brother of Jared, for thou madest him that the things which he wrote were mighty even as thou art, unto the overpowering of man to read them.
25 Thou hast also made our words powerful and great, even that we cannot write them; wherefore, when we write we behold our weakness, and stumble because of the placing of our words; and I fear lest the Gentiles shall mock at our words.
26 And when I had said this, the Lord spake unto me, saying: Fools mock, but they shall mourn; and my grace is sufficient for the meek, that they shall take no advantage of your weakness;

An example of the exact wording of the text being significant is the "east sea" vs the "sea east". Instead of being random and non-significant (as one might assume with a loose translation) these two names are instead treated as separate and distinct geographical entities (seas) under IR2.

Because of its technical accuracy, where it effects geographical or historical references, The Book of Mormon, The Earliest Text version of the Book of Mormon is used on this website as shown below.

— land of the Nephites —
Standard Text Emended Text (Earliest Text)
Alma 53:6 Alma 53:6
6 And it came to pass that Moroni had thus gained a victory over one of the greatest of the armies of the Lamanites, and had obtained possession of the city of Mulek, which was one of the strongest holds of the Lamanites in the land of Nephi; and thus he had also built a stronghold to retain his prisoners. 6 And it came to pass that Moroni had thus gained a victory over one of the greatest of the armies of the Lamanites, and had obtained possession of the city of Mulek, which was one of the strongest holds of the Lamanites in the land of the Nephites; and thus he had also built a stronghold to retain his prisoners.

— Oneidah —
Alma 47:5 Alma 47:5
5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Onidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Onidah, to the place of arms. 5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Oneidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Oneidah, to the place of arms.

— between the land —
Alma 22:32 Alma 22:32
32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward. 32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite: On the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water; there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
— King Benjamin —
Mosiah 21:28 Mosiah 21:28
28 And now Limhi was again filled with joy on learning from the mouth of Ammon that king Mosiah had a gift from God, whereby he could interpret such engravings; yea, and Ammon also did rejoice. 28 And now Limhi was again filled with joy on learning from the mouth of Ammon that king Benjamin had a gift from God, whereby he could interpret such engravings; yea, and Ammon also did rejoice.

— City of Moroni —
Alma 51:23-26 Alma 51:23-26
23 And it came to pass that the Nephites were not sufficiently strong in the city of Moroni; therefore Amalickiah did drive them, slaying many. And it came to pass that Amalickiah took possession of the city, yea, possession of all their fortifications.
24 And those who fled out of the city of Moroni came to the city of Nephihah; and also the people of the city of Lehi gathered themselves together, and made preparations and were ready to receive the Lamanites to battle.
25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it.
26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Nephihah, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morianton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore.
23 And it came to pass that the Nephites were not sufficiently strong in the city of Moroni; therefore Amalickiah did drive them, slaying many. And it came to pass that Amalickiah took possession of the city, yea, possession of all their fortifications.
24 And those who fled out of the city of Moroni came to the city of Nephihah; and also the people of the city of Lehi gathered themselves together, and made preparations and were ready to receive the Lamanites to battle.
25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it.
26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore.

— Amlicites — Also: Alma 23:14 Alma 24:1,28,29 Alma 27:2,12 Alma 43:6,13,29,44
Alma 21:2-4,16 Alma 21:2-4,16
2 Now the Lamanites and the Amalekites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem.
3 Now the Lamanites of themselves were sufficiently hardened, but the Amalekites and the Amulonites were still harder; therefore they did cause the Lamanites that they should harden their hearts, that they should wax strong in wickedness and their abominations.
4 And it came to pass that Aaron came to the city of Jerusalem, and first began to preach to the Amalekites. And he began to preach to them in their synagogues, for they had built synagogues after the order of the Nehors; for many of the Amalekites and the Amulonites were after the order of the Nehors.
16 And they went forth whithersoever they were led by the Spirit of the Lord, preaching the word of God in every synagogue of the Amalekites, or in every assembly of the Lamanites where they could be admitted.
2 Now the Lamanites and the Amlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem.
3 Now the Lamanites of themselves were sufficiently hardened, but the Amlicites and the Amulonites were still harder; therefore they did cause the Lamanites that they should harden their hearts, that they should wax strong in wickedness and their abominations.
4 And it came to pass that Aaron came to the city of Jerusalem, and first began to preach to the Amlicites. And he began to preach to them in their synagogues, for they had built synagogues after the order of the Nehors; for many of the Amlicites and the Amulonites were after the order of the Nehors.
16 And they went forth whithersoever they were led by the Spirit of the Lord, preaching the word of God in every synagogue of the Amlicites, or in every assembly of the Lamanites where they could be admitted.

For Mormon's "dissertation on geography" in Alma 22, versification and punctuation changes have been made to emphasize discrete descriptions rather than a long run-on sentence.

Versification for subject grouping (verses 28-29). Punctuation - use : and ;
Alma 22:27-29,32 Alma 22:27-29,32
27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about, which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west, and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness, which ran from the sea east even to the sea west, and round about on the borders of the seashore, and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla, through the borders of Manti, by the head of the river Sidon, running from the east towards the west--and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided.

28 Now, the more idle part of the Lamanites lived in the wilderness, and dwelt in tents; and they were spread through the wilderness on the west, in the land of Nephi; yea, and also on the west of the land of Zarahemla, in the borders by the seashore, and on the west in the land of Nephi, in the place of their fathers' first inheritance, and thus bordering along by the seashore.

29 And also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them. And thus the Nephites were nearly surrounded by the Lamanites; nevertheless the Nephites had taken possession of all the northern parts of the land bordering on the wilderness, at the head of the river Sidon, from the east to the west, round about on the wilderness side; on the north, even until they came to the land which they called Bountiful.
...

32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west. And thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided.

28 Now, the more idle part of the Lamanites lived in the wilderness, and dwelt in tents; and they were spread: through the wilderness on the west in the land of Nephi; Yea, and also on the west of the land of Zarahemla; in the borders by the seashore; and on the west in the land of Nephi; in the place of their fathers' first inheritance and thus bordering along by the seashore. And also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them.

29 And thus the Nephites were nearly surrounded by the Lamanites. Nevertheless, the Nephites had taken possession of all the northern parts of the land: bordering on the wilderness at the head of the river Sidon; from the east to the west round about on the wilderness side; on the north even until they came to the land which they called Bountiful.
...

32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite: On the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water; there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.

3 Nephi 3:22-24 is contradictory, as it appears to indicate the Nephites gathered together into the lands between Zarahemla and Bountiful whereas every other indication is that the entire population was concentrated into one central fortified location. The conflict is resolved with simple punctuation and versification changes shown below and to the right. It is important to understand the use of the word and as a Hebrew construct in the Book of Mormon. According to Royal Skousen*: "One interesting example of this Hebrew-like usage is the frequent occurrence in the earliest text of an extra and between the initial subordinate clause and its following main clause." The extra and is ungrammatical in Modern English and so is usually removed in new editions or, as in the case to the left, the extra and is hidden by the use of punctuation that is actually incorrect but has the sole virtue of hiding ungrammatical and connectives.

* The Book of Mormon - Earliest Text, Editor's Preface, p xxxvi


Emended versification for subject grouping (verses 22-24).
3 Nephi 3:22-24 3 Nephi 3:22-24 (emended versification)
22 And it came to pass in the seventeenth year, in the latter end of the year, the proclamation of Lachoneus had gone forth throughout all the face of the land, and they had taken their horses, and their chariots, and their cattle, and all their flocks, and their herds, and their grain, and all their substance, and did march forth by thousands and by tens of thousands, until they had all gone forth to the place which had been appointed that they should gather themselves together, to defend themselves against their enemies.
23 And the land which was appointed was the land of Zarahemla, and the land which was between the land Zarahemla and the land Bountiful, yea, to the line which was between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation.
24 And there were a great many thousand people who were called Nephites, who did gather themselves together in this land.
Now Lachoneus did cause that they should gather themselves together in the land southward, because of the great curse which was upon the land northward.
22 And it came to pass in the seventeenth year, in the latter end of the year, the proclamation of Lachoneus had gone forth throughout all the face of the land, and they had taken their horses, and their chariots, and their cattle, and all their flocks, and their herds, and their grain, and all their substance, and did march forth by thousands and by tens of thousands, until they had all gone forth to the place which had been appointed that they should gather themselves together, to defend themselves against their enemies. And the land which was appointed was the land of Zarahemla.
23 And the land which was between the land Zarahemla and the land Bountiful, yea, to the line which was between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation and there were a great many thousand people who were called Nephites, who did gather themselves together in this land.

24 Now Lachoneus did cause that they should gather themselves together in the land southward, because of the great curse which was upon the land northward.
IR3 When determining the meaning of a word, use the Oxford English Dictionary and word definitions that date prior to 1700 AD.
REASON:
The vocabulary used in the Book of Mormon is King James like "Bible English", sometimes called "Early Modern English". EME vocabulary is used throughout the Book of Mormon. However the sentence structure and idioms in the Book of Mormon are typically Hebraic in nature. For example the phrase "it came to pass" is Hebraic in origin as are the many examples of chiasmus. However, chiasmus and other Hebrew constructs do not help much with geography — but the correct Bible/EME word definitions can be very important. One example is "away" (as in "away to" or "away up") which in Early Modern English should be interpreted as "on the way". See also, examples from Royal Skousen in the next column.
Here is what Royal Skousen says about Early Modern English regarding his work The Book of Mormon, The Earliest Text:

Use of Early Modern English

One of the most remarkable findings of the Critical Text Project is the frequent occurrence of vocabulary from Early Modern English. This older form of English, dating approximately from 1500 to 1700, is familiar enough from the language of the King James Bible. Yet the vocabulary of the Book of Mormon is not simply lifted from the King James Bible. In virtually all cases, the words in the Book of Mormon are still used in English, but their meanings are often different. For the most part, these meanings can be found in the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), where we often find that the citations for those meanings date to the 1500s and 1600s but do not extend into the 1700s or 1800s. Some of these word uses can be found in the King James Bible, such as require with the meaning 'to request'.


Enos 1:18
   and the Lord said unto me
   thy fathers have also required of me this thing

OED, with citations from 1375 to 1665
   William Shakespeare, Henry VIII (1613)
      Most gracious sir,
      In humblest manner I require your Highness
      That it shall please you to declare ...

King James Bible (1611)
   Ezra 8:22
      for I was ashamed to require of the king
      a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us
      against the enemy in the way

Yet other word meanings in the Book of Mormon occurred in Early Modern English but are not found in the King James Bible, such as the following:


   • but if with the meaning 'unless, except'

      Mosiah 3:19 (edited to 'unless' in the 1920 LDS edition)
         for the natural man is an enemy to God
         and has been from the fall of Adam and will be forever and ever
         but if he yieldeth to the enticings of the Holy Spirit

      OED, with citations from about 1200 to 1596
      Philip Sidney, Arcadia (1580)
         He did not like that maids should once stir
         out of their fathers' houses but if it were to milk a cow.

   • counsel with the meaning 'to consult with'

      Alma 37:37 (edited to 'counsel with' in the 1920 LDS edition)
         counsel the Lord in all thy doings

      Alma 39:10 (edited to 'counsel with' in the 1920 LDS edition)
         take it upon you to counsel your elder brothers in your undertakings

      OED, with citations from 1382 to 1547
      John Hooper (1547)
         Moses ... counseled the Lord
         and thereupon advised his subjects what was to be done

   • depart with the meaning 'to part, divide, separate'

      Helaman 8:11 (emended to 'parted' in the 1830 edition)
         God gave power unto one man even Moses
         to smite upon the waters of the Red Sea
         and they departed hither and thither

      OED, with citations from 1297 through 1677
      Geneva Bible, 1557 translation of John 19:24
         they departed my raiment among them

      [the King James Bible reads "they parted my raiment among them"]

detect with the meaning 'to expose'
      Helaman 9:17 (unchanged in all textual sources)

         and now behold we will detect this man
         and he shall confess his fault and make
         known unto us the true murderer of this judge

      OED, with citations from 1449 to 1645
      Richard Hooker, Of the lawes of ecclesiastical politie (1594)
         The Gentlewoman goeth forward, and detecteth herself of a crime.

IR4 "Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. Taking a journey into the "wilderness" means river travel. "March" means traveling by land.

REASON:
An understanding of how the word "wilderness" is used is essential to understanding Book of Mormon geography. The Old English root of the word is "wild deer-ness" where ness indicates a state of being and the Early Modern English definition of wilderness is: "uninhabited region" or inhabited only by wild animals. A wilderness is therefore a term relating to the state of an area for permanent human habitation and not associated with a particular climate. The Book of Mormon follows that definition. When Lehi leaves Jerusalem they travel down the Arabian peninsula in an arid desert which they call a wilderness. Later in America, there are no arid areas in the heartland of North America, yet there are frequent mentions of "wilderness". A good example of the usage of the word "wilderness" is Ether 10:21 (And they did preserve the land southward for a wilderness, to get game...) where the whole land southward becomes a "wilderness" simply because they choose to designate it as a game preserve instead of for human habitation. Also in Alma 2:37 it names a region "called Hermounts; and it was that part of the wilderness which was infested by wild and ravenous beasts". From the Book of Jacob onward, a wilderness is either an uninhabited forest region or river bottom-lands. It is much more frequently the latter case because there are lots of rivers in North America and their bottom lands are flood plains unsuitable for permanent habitation. In the Book of Mormon traveling is frequently done "in" the wilderness after departing "into" the wilderness. River wilderness travel is the norm in the Book of Mormon and is mentioned several hundred times. When travel includes herds, grains, and supplies then flatboats or large keel boats are assumed. Flatboats for animals that are made of logs are simple to construct and probably readily available at any common departure point.

image
Large flatboat made completly of logs.
image
Flatboat with multiple oars and tiller.
It is wrong to think that "wilderness" refers to mountains and hills, because the Book of Mormon refers to these two types of terrain as distinct entities and does not conflate the two. See also IR2 (tight translation).

3 Nephi 3:20
20 Now the people said unto Gidgiddoni: Pray unto the Lord, and let us go up upon the mountains and into the wilderness, that we may fall upon the robbers and destroy them in their own lands.

3 Nephi 4:1
(see also Helaman 11:25,28,31 - 3 Nephi 4:1)
1 And it came to pass that in the latter end of the eighteenth year those armies of robbers had prepared for battle, and began to come down and to sally forth from the hills, and out of the mountains, and the wilderness, and their strongholds, and their secret places, and began to take possession of the lands, both which were in the land south and which were in the land north, and began to take possession of all the lands which had been deserted by the Nephites, and the cities which had been left desolate.

Travel by marching is also frequently mentioned in the Book of Mormon. 52 times. Often it is armies that march forth but sometimes civilians too.

Examples of traveling into the wilderness...
  • Nephi makes journey from the land of first inheritance to the land of Nephi by traveling into the wilderness. Mosiah 10:16
  • Lamanites wander about in the wilderness dwelling in tents and feeding upon beasts of prey. Lamanites travel in the wilderness. Enos 1:20 - Mosiah 23:30,35
  • Nephites depart the land of Nephi and go into the wilderness to Zarahemla. Omni 1:1 - Mosiah 8:7 - Mosiah 19:23 - Mosiah 21:25 - Mosiah 21:34 - Mosiah 22:2,6,8,11,12,13,15,16 - Mosiah 22:2 - Mosiah 23:1,3 - Mosiah 24:24,25 - Mosiah 25:2
  • Nephites journey into the wilderness to go to the land of Nephi. Omni 1:27,28,29 - Mosiah 7:4 - Mosiah 9:3,4 - Mosiah 28:9
  • Nephites journey from land of Nephi in the wilderness to Jaredite lands. Mosiah 8:8
  • Alma and his people travel in the wilderness on their way to Zarahemla. Mosiah 18:34 - Mosiah 23:1,3 - Mosiah 24:20
  • King Noah and his people flee from the Lamanites by fleeing into the wilderness. Mosiah 19:9 - Mosiah 19:18,23 - Mosiah 20:4,5,18,23 - Mosiah 21:20
  • Amlicites are slain and driven, until they had reached that part of the wilderness which was infested by wild and ravenous beasts. Alma 2:37
  • Jaredites "preserve" the land south as a "wilderness" to get game. Ether 10:21
  • Et cetera, there are 248 references to "wilderness", most frequently in reference to travel.

Examples of travel by marching forth...
  • Lamanites marching to the land of Manti. Mosiah 43:24
  • Lamanites march forth to the land of Bountiful. Alma 54:30
  • Lamanites abandon their design of marching into the land northward. Alma 52:2
  • Nephites march to the land of Zarahemla. Alma 58:24
  • Moroni marches to the land of Zarahemla. Alma 62:15
  • Amalikiah marches through the most capital parts of the land. Helaman 1:27
  • Nephites marching out by day and by night, and falling upon the armies of Gadianton robbers. 3 Nephi 4:21
  • Nephites behold the armies of the Lamanites marching towards them. Mormon 6:7
image
Flatboat carrying supplies, with oars.
image
Flatboat with animals aboard.
IR5 Use the phrase "go up" for travel to a place that is apparently higher and the phrase "down to" to indicate travel to a place that is apparently lower. One common phrase used in the Book of Mormon is to go "down to" and to go "up to" places of some distance apart. These phrases are used very consistently for each place-name and the list to the right summarizes all the occurrences and variations of going "up" and "down".
"Higher" and "Lower" is determined by what would be most apparent to a traveler, especially a river traveler. So for example, city A downriver from city B would "to go down to A" (from B) and "to go up to B" (from A). If a city is located on a hill or valley then it may be also be consider 'up' or 'down' in that context. The further away two cities or lands are away from each other the more emphasis should be placed on local features in determining "up" or "down".
  • Go up to Jerusalem (after they have departed). 3 Nephi 3:9,10,23,29 - 1 Nephi 4:1,2,3,4 - 1 Nephi 5:6 - 1 Nephi 7:1,3,4,15
  • From Zarahemla: go up to Nephi or into the wilderness towards Nephi. Omni 1:27,28 - Mosiah 7:1,2,3,4,9,13 - Mosiah 8:2 - Mosiah 9:3 - Mosiah 10:1,8 - Mosiah 28:1,5,6,7,9 - Mosiah 29:3 - Alma 17:8 - Alma 20:2 (from Ishmael) - Alma 26:9,3 - Helaman 4:4
  • From Nephi: go down to Zarahemla. Omni 1:13 - Mormon 1:13 - Alma 27:5,7,8,9 - Alma 49:10 - Alma 51:11 - Alma 51:10 - Alma 53:12 - Alma 56:3,25 - Helaman 5:5 - Helaman 6:1
  • Go down to Zarahemla from Cumeni. Helaman 1:15.16.20
  • Gadianton robbers go down to attack Nephites. 3 Nephi 3:3,4,8,12,17,25 - 3 Nephi 4:1
  • Go down to Jershon from Nephi. Alma 27:26
  • Lamanites come down to Moronihah. Alma 63:13
  • Lamanites armies pursue Teancum down by the seashore, northward. Alma 52:23
  • Go down to Zarahemla from Cumeni. Alma 57:15,16,28,29,30
  • Lamoni and Ammon go down to Middoni from Ishmael. Alma 20:7
  • Come up to Nephi from Middoni. Alma 22:3
  • Lamanites come up to land of Nephi to replace the King. Alma 24:20
  • Lamanites came up on the north of the hill. Alma 43:34
  • Went down to some place south from Jerusalem. 1 Nephi 2:5 - 1 Nephi 3:15,16,22 - 1 Nephi 4:33,34,35 - 1 Nephi 5:1,5 - 1 Nephi 7:2,5,22
  • Lamanites come down to Desolation to battle. Mormon 3:7,8 - Mormon 4:17,18
  • Ether goes down, which is northward, to the valley of Nimrod. Ether 2:1,4
IR6 The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. When one has a journey it is consistent with the Book of Mormon word usage to say that it is a process, taking some time. The word "journey" originally comes from the French, meaning "day". So, if someone "takes a journey" it means 1 or more days travel. This usage is consistent and compatible with the rest of the Logical Model.
  • Took their journey back to Jerusalem. 1 Nephi 3:9
  • Took their journey into the wilderness. 1 Nephi 7:5,21 - 1 Nephi 16:9,16 - 1 Nephi 17:1 - 2 Nephi 5:7 - Mosiah 10:13 - Mosiah 22:12
  • Took their journey into the wilderness towards Nephi. Omni 1:29
  • Took their journey into the wilderness towards Zarahemla. Mosiah 8:7 - Mosiah 9:3
  • Alma fled eight days journey into the wilderness to Waters of Mormon. Mosiah 23:3
  • Alma fled twelve days journey into the wilderness to Zarahemla (from the Valley of Alma). Mosiah 23:3
  • Sons of Mosiah II take journey into the wilderness to Nephi. Mosiah 28:9
  • Alma takes his journey to Melek from Nephi. Alma 8:3
  • Alma travels three days journey from Melek to Ammonihah. Alma 8:6
  • Alma takes his journey to Aaron. Alma 8:13
  • Ammon and Lamoni proceeded on their journey towards Middoni. Alma 20:28
  • Aaron takes his journey to land of Jerusalem which borders Mormon. Alma 21:1
  • Lamanites take their journey from Antionum round about in the wilderness to the head of the Sidon in Manti. Alma 42:22
  • Alma went over the river to Gideon. Alma 6:7
  • Korihor went over to Jershon from Zarahemla. Alma 30:19
  • Corihor goes over to Nehor from Moron. Alma 30:19
  • Woman fled and came over to the camp of Moroni. Alma 50:31
  • Lamanites came over to dwell in the land of Ishmael. Alma 25:13
  • Aaron came over to Ani-Anti. Alma 21:11
  • Alma came over to Zarahemla. Alma 15:18
IR7 When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). This Application Rule may be a controversial rule because it is not obvious – except that it's logical and works consistently well in actual application. Since all the examples for this are quotations from Jesus, IR7 logically presupposes that His language patterns are consistent and not random. The TITE translation process and IR2 also support making this kind of interpretation. Examples:

3 Nephi 9:7
7 Yea, and the city of Onihah and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Mocum and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Jerusalem and the inhabitants thereof; and waters have I caused to come up in the stead thereof, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints shall not come up any more unto me against them.

3 Nephi 9:8
8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.

3 Nephi 9:10
10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishkumen, have I caused to be burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof, because of their wickedness in casting out the prophets, and stoning those whom I did send to declare unto them concerning their wickedness and their abominations.
IR8 In the context of traveling, the phrase "round about" indicates "circuitous or indirect, as a road, journey, method, statement or person." This definition goes back to the mid 1500's and is still commonly used. Mosiah 22
11 And it came to pass that the people of king Limhi did depart by night into the wilderness with their flocks and their herds, and they went round about the land of Shilom in the wilderness, and bent their course towards the land of Zarahemla, being led by Ammon and his brethren.

Alma 43
22 Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone.
24 And it came to pass that the word of the Lord came unto Alma, and Alma informed the messengers of Moroni, that the armies of the Lamanites were marching round about in the wilderness, that they might come over into the land of Manti, that they might commence an attack upon the weaker part of the people. And those messengers went and delivered the message unto Moroni.

IR9 The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is synonym for "mountain". The definition for mount, when in the context of a man-made earthwork or military structure is "mound". The Oxford English Dictionary definition of hill is: "A naturally raised area of land, not as high or craggy as a mountain." The distinction can be ambiguous in normal usage but a consistent Book of Mormon distinction for these words is reinforced by IR2IR2
Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
and the typical Early Modern English as found in the Bible.
Also, under this definition a man made "mount" in the EME is called a "mound" in modern American English.
Related word usage:

Miriam Webster dictionary
Mount
1 : a high hill : mountain - used especially before an identifying name
   Mount Everest
2 : archaic : earthwork 1
3 : mound 2a(1)

Websters Dictionary, 1828
MOUNT, noun [Latin mons, literally a heap or an elevation.]

1. A mass of earth, or earth and rock, rising considerably above the common surface of the surrounding land. mount is used for an eminence or elevation of earth, indefinite in highth or size, and may be a hillock, hill or mountain. We apply it to mount Blanc, in Switzerland, to mount Tom and mount Holyoke, in Massachusetts, and it is applied in Scripture to the small hillocks on which sacrifice was offered as well as to mount Sinai. Jacob offered sacrifice on the mount or heap of stones raised for a witness between him and Laban. Genesis 31:21.

2. A mound; a bulwark for offense or defense.

Hew ye down trees and cast a mount2 Nephi 26
15 After my seed and the seed of my brethren shall have dwindled in unbelief, and shall have been smitten by the Gentiles; yea, after the Lord God shall have camped against them round about, and shall have laid siege against them with a mount, and raised forts against them; and after they shall have been brought down low in the dust, even that they are not, yet the words of the righteous shall be written, and the prayers of the faithful shall be heard, and all those who have dwindled in unbelief shall not be forgotten.
against Jerusalem. Jeremiah 6:6.

Wikipedia: Place of Arms

The term place-of-armsAlma 47:5-14,18-20
5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Oneidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Oneidah, to the place of arms.
6 And they had appointed a man to be a king and a leader over them, being fixed in their minds with a determined resolution that they would not be subjected to go against the Nephites.
7 And it came to pass that they had gathered themselves together upon the top of the mount which was called Antipas, in preparation to battle.
8 Now it was not Amalickiah's intention to give them battle according to the commandments of the king; but behold, it was his intention to gain favor with the armies of the Lamanites, that he might place himself at their head and dethrone the king and take possession of the kingdom.
9 And behold, it came to pass that he caused his army to pitch their tents in the valley which was near the mount Antipas.
10 And it came to pass that when it was night he sent a secret embassy into the mount Antipas, desiring that the leader of those who were upon the mount, whose name was Lehonti, that he should come down to the foot of the mount, for he desired to speak with him.
11 And it came to pass that when Lehonti received the message he durst not go down to the foot of the mount. And it came to pass that Amalickiah sent again the second time, desiring him to come down. And it came to pass that Lehonti would not; and he sent again the third time.
12 And it came to pass that when Amalickiah found that he could not get Lehonti to come down off from the mount, he went up into the mount, nearly to Lehonti's camp; and he sent again the fourth time his message unto Lehonti, desiring that he would come down, and that he would bring his guards with him.
13 For they knew not that Moroni had fortified, or had built forts of security, for every city in all the land round about; therefore, they marched forward to the land of Noah with a firm determination; yea, their chief captains came forward and took an oath that they would destroy the people of that city.
14 But behold, to their astonishment, the city of Noah, which had hitherto been a weak place, had now, by the means of Moroni, become strong, yea, even to exceed the strength of the city Ammonihah.
...
18 Now behold, the Lamanites could not get into their forts of security by any other way save by the entrance, because of the highness of the bank which had been thrown up, and the depth of the ditch which had been dug round about, save it were by the entrance.
19 And thus were the Nephites prepared to destroy all such as should attempt to climb up to enter the fort by any other way, by casting over stones and arrows at them.
20 Thus they were prepared, yea, a body of their strongest men, with their swords and their slings, to smite down all who should attempt to come into their place of security by the place of entrance; and thus were they prepared to defend themselves against the Lamanites.
is used in the Book of Mormon. The term refers to an enlarged area designed as an assembly point for soldiers, or a square in the center of a fortress. It is also a parade ground.

There is a lot of warfare described in the Book of Mormon, including some detail on the fortifications which included ditches, walls, heaps of earth, and guard towers.Alma 50:1-6
1 And now it came to pass that Moroni did not stop making preparations for war, or to defend his people against the Lamanites; for he caused that his armies should commence in the commencement of the twentieth year of the reign of the judges, that they should commence in digging up heaps of earth round about all the cities, throughout all the land which was possessed by the Nephites.
2 And upon the top of these ridges of earth he caused that there should be timbers, yea, works of timbers built up to the height of a man, round about the cities.
3 And he caused that upon those works of timbers there should be a frame of pickets built upon the timbers round about; and they were strong and high.
4 And he caused towers to be erected that overlooked those works of pickets, and he caused places of security to be built upon those towers, that the stones and the arrows of the Lamanites could not hurt them.
5 And they were prepared that they could cast stones from the top thereof, according to their pleasure and their strength, and slay him who should attempt to approach near the walls of the city.
6 Thus Moroni did prepare strongholds against the coming of their enemies, round about every city in all the land.
Another sample below. The Nephite fortifications as described are built on the same principle of English "motte-and-baily" fortifications, about a thousand years later (circa 900 AD - 1300 AD). I believe the majority of the 1000's of mounds found by the early European settlers in America were the remains of ancient fortifications. Just a sampling of the many fortifications that once existed are documented in Ancient Monuments of the Mississippi Valley: Comprising the Results of Extensive Original Surveys and Explorations (1848) by the Americans Ephraim George Squier and Edwin Hamilton Davis.
image
The Bass of Inverurie in Scotland, a large mid-12th century motte-and-bailey castle. Now just a mound.

image
Plan of Topcliffe Castle in England, a classic motte-and-bailey design.

image
A vliedburg motte in the Netherlands.

image
The motte (left) and bailey (right) of Clough Castle in Ireland

image
Criel mound in South Charleston West Virginia.

image
From Etowah mounds in Cartersville Georgia.

image
From Angel Mounds State Historic Site in Indiana

image
North American mound on Tumblr, location not stated.

image
Defensive ditch at Etowah Mounds in Cartersville, Georgia

IR10 Cardinal directions always refer to the destination and not the travel route. Of particular note is Alma 17:1 which gives the cardinal direction of Manti to both Gideon and Zarahemla. Gideon and Zarahemla are SOUTH. Manti is NORTH. Alma 17:1 is frequently misinterpreted as indicating Alma is traveling south to Manti however Alma is not traveling southward but is traveling FROM Manti and Manti is located southward. Obviously in normal English Alma 17:1 can be interpreted either way and the sentence is indeterminate. However, in Book of Mormon English, at least in the large plates of Nephi, one is never stated as traveling in a direction but is always stated as the location which has a direction. See examples, to the right. Mosiah 8:6
6 So that when he had finished his work at Melek he departed thence, and traveled three days' journey on the north of the land of Melek; and he came to a city which was called Ammonihah.

Mosiah 7:16
16 And now, king Limhi commanded his guards that they should no more bind Ammon nor his brethren, but caused that they should go to the hill which was north of Shilom, and bring their brethren into the city, that thereby they might eat, and drink, and rest themselves from the labors of their journey; for they had suffered many things; they had suffered hunger, thirst, and fatigue.

Alma 4:7
7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country.

Alma 22:32
32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.

Helaman 4:7
7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country.

Alma 8:3
3 And it came to pass in the commencement of the tenth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, that Alma departed from thence and took his journey over into the land of Melek, on the west of the river Sidon, on the west by the borders of the wilderness.
IR11 When seas are mentioned, when the cardinal direction comes first it is a global reference, otherwise it is a local reference. Example: Sea West vs West Sea. See also IR2.
 3.4 Rules of Application
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 30 October 2024

Rules of Application are a set of Rules (postulates) governing how the Physical Model is built after the Entity Relationships have been considered. They are working theories, on how topography, trade routes, distances, borders and other physical features are considered when constructing a map based on the Entity Relationships.

Rule Description Comments Examples
AR1 When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. This has always been true of all civilizations, for travel, trade, and defense, especially in the era before mechanized transportation. New York City, Chicago, Detroit, St Louis, Los Angeles.
AR2 Water means everything and is the first and primary source of consideration when placing cities and lands. For large cities, water had to be close by since it had to be carried for washing, drinking, and cooking. Water was also essential for travel and trade. Therefore, cities, lands, and travel routes are strategically placed on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This also applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. This follows logically from AR1. Anciently rivers were the great highways. When armies travel on land, they still follow rivers because they need to live off the land where there is game and water for men and draft animals. Rivers are the best way to provide provisions, reinforcements, communications, and evacuation for the wounded. Additionally, the alluvial plains are flat for ease of travel and building roads. Rivers typically lead naturally to populated areas that need defending. On topographical maps the alluvial plains of large rivers are very visible. This is notable for the Missouri, Mississippi, Illinois, and Ohio rivers.
AR3 Present day cities, towns, or features serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. Besides AR1, there are a variety of complicated factors in choosing land for a city, including the lay of the land, the depth of water channels, the quality of the soil, and how militarily defensible the location is. These factors did not vary much between the early settlers in America and the ancient Nephites.
AR4 Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders. Just like in modern times where large rivers form state boundaries, it would have been the same in Nephite times, only more so, because their "lands" were smaller than our states in the region of the midwest.
AR5 Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model. Using archaeology is important but always a secondary consideration when compared to the Book of Mormon text.
AR6 Average civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 1.5 mph. Distances in the Book of Mormon is always given in days, so it is necessary to have a set of travel formulas for land and water, for civilian, for military etc. Civilian travel distance is gauged from the accounts of pioneers who recorded that 15 miles a day was good time, better than average. It is a walking speed, with draft animals, and herds, with some baggage. Maximum travel time is eight hours after subtracting time for sleep, food preparation, camp set up and take down, and various emergencies that happen. So, for example, a 10 day journey is 10*8*1.5 = 120 miles. A 120 mile trip is 120/(8*1.5) = 10 days
AR7 Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph. Soldiers travel faster, without women and children, the elderly, herds, and extra baggage. Civilian groups can travel at this speed also if emergency conditions require, like being chased by an enemy. So, for example, a 10 day journey is 10*8*2.5 = 200 miles. A 200 mile trip is 200/(8*2.5) = 10 days.
AR8 Maximum water travel with no current, as in the Great Lakes, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph. This is the average speed one could expect with a sail and/or rowing. This should be considered a maximum in perfect conditions with vessels powered by wind and/or oars and with an adequate hull length*.

*Hull Speed is the speed at which the ship's waterline length equals its bow wave's wavelength. It is a factor of the size of the ship or, more precisely the length of the hull at the water line. This applies to ships with a full hull displacement. Basically it means bigger ships can go faster. The formula is "1.34 times the square root of the length of ship at the waterline".
So, for example, a 10 day journey is 10*8*5 = 400 miles. A 400 mile trip is 400/(8*5) = 10 days.

For optimum efficiency at 5 mph, the length of the ship at the waterline needs to be at least 10 feet. See Hull Speed calculation.
AR9 Maximum water travel going with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours of traveling per day at 6 mph. Water river current averages about 1 mph so this is AR8 plus the water current speed. This should be considered a maximum in perfect conditions with vessels powered by wind and/or oars and with an adequate hull length*.

**Hull Speed is the speed at which the ship's waterline length equals its bow wave's wavelength. It is a factor of the size of the ship or, more precisely the length of the hull at the water line. This applies to ships with a full hull displacement. Basically it means bigger ships can go faster. The formula is "1.34 times the square root of the length of ship at the waterline"".
So, for example, a 10 day journey is 10*8*6 = 480 miles. A 480 mile trip is 480/(8*6) = 10 days. For optimum efficiency at 5 mph (plus 1 mph for current), the length of the ship at the waterline needs to be at least 10 feet. See Hull Speed calculation.
AR10 Maximum water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 4 mph. Water river current averages about 1 mph so this is AR8 minus the water current speed. This should be considered a maximum in perfect conditions with vessels powered by wind and/or oars and with an adequate hull length*.

*Hull Speed is a factor of the size of the ship or, more precisely the length of the hull at the water line. This applies to ships with a full hull displacement. Basically it means bigger ships can go faster. The formula is "1.34 times the square root of the length of ship at the waterline".
So, for example, a 10 day journey is 10*8*4 = 320 miles. A 320 mile trip is 320/(8*4) = 10 days. For optimum efficiency at 5 mph (minus 1 mph for current), the length of the ship at the waterline needs to be at least 10 feet. See Hull Speed calculation.
AR11 Unless indicated or implied otherwise in scripture, the current scientific consensus is assumed to be pre-eminent in matters of dating, geology, linguistics and climate, etc. This is just another way of saying that the interpretation of physical evidence is not to be disregarded for convenience in building the Logical Model.

So, in following this rule, climate must be assumed to be somewhat warmer in Book of Mormon times. Lakes, rivers, and mountains must be considered to be essentially the same as now unless contraindicated by direct physical evidence for the dating period.
Based on the best information currently available the Great Lakes had lower water levels in Book of Mormon times. The Book of Mormon classic period (the narrative from 282 BC to 34 AD) corresponds to the "Roman Warm Period" of 280 BC to 400 AD. Studies I have seen indicate that the grain/pollen of sediment cores indicate North America was also warmer and drier during this period. Warmer and drier = lower lake levels.

For lake water levels in the recent prehistoric past we have official statements from the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Department Of The Interior, By Leon M. Carl, Center Director. The findings are that there are lots of short term variability and cycles in the great lakes -- but there have been three main "high water" phases in the last 4700 years, with the last one from 800 years ago to the present time. We are currently in an historic high water phase. There was a "low water level" period from 293 BC - 7 AD which corresponds to the Book of Mormon classic period.
Dm Dm - Indicates distance in miles (m) of the actual travel path between two geographical locations. In the Book of Mormon, distance is always given in terms of days so the expected distance m (miles) is determined by Application Rules 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10. For verification, The number of actual miles is determined by tracing out the path using the Google Earth ruler tool. A 25% margin of error is allowed. m is the number of miles. Example: D70.
The distance is useful memo information but is also used as part of programmed referential integrity checks performed on the ZM database. The Logical Model information is compared with the Physical Model information, looking for discrepancies.

About Travel Times

The distance rules for the Zarahemla Model have been validated for specific travel routes, both land and water. With Google Earth, it is pretty easy to do. I have map traced many a meandering river to check actual distances.

The American pioneers considered traveling 15 miles a day to be very good, and typically their traveling was on established routes and relatively flat land. Average group speed is not very fast - there is fatigue, accidents, lost animals, weather and a host of possible issues to slow the average speed. Often a group can only go as fast as the slowest member. If everything goes well there is still only about 8 hours in a day for travel after stops to set up camp, take down camp, hunt, sleep, prepare food, eat food, find lost animals, tend to the sick, and fix whatever is broken. Traveling means avoiding rugged terrain and dense forests and following the rivers and their alluvial plains as much as possible both on the water and for land travel. Humans and animals need lots of water and it's easier not to carry it. Nearby water is better for hunting too. Alluvial plains are flat and more conducive to forming trails and roads. Water routes connect and lead to cities.

All these factors are especially true in the East and Mid-West and also anciently when dense forest was the rule.

 3.5 Entity Relationship Table
Close AllOpen AllTable of Contents
Section Revised: 11 October 2024

Entity Relationships for geography are represented with a nomenclature as defined in Section 3.1.2 Entity Relationship Nomenclature. An Entity Relationships distills the textual information from the Book of Mormon into a discrete standardized form that can be easily analyzed. Entity Relationship definitions come from the Book of Mormon text according based on the Rules of Interpretation (Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation).

imageNavigation helps:

  • Links with the dotted underline are actually pop-up windows. To activate a pop-up window click once on the link. If you are on a tablet with no mouse, then touch --or-- touch-swipe and hold.
  • In the first column, underlined Entity names in [] brackets are internal links that take you directly to that Entity in the table.
  • The camera icon in the last column is a pop-up window for pictures. To activate the picture pop-up window, click and hold. If you are on a tablet with no mouse then touch, swipe and hold.

Period : Relationships Notes References
(Click to view)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Aaron
 ≡ [Aaron] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2} ≈ AR1 AR3
 ≡ [Aaron] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2}
 ∥ [Aaron]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea2} ≈ AR1 AR3
↹[Aaron]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moroni]{city2}
 ∥ [Aaron]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephihah]{land2} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [Aaron]{land}} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Moroni]{land2} ≈ IR7
∑ [Aaron]{city}~[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {20 days1} ≈ AR6 AR8 AR9 AR10 D451

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR6Average civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 1.5 mph.
AR8Maximum water travel with no current, as in the Great Lakes, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph.
AR9Maximum water travel going with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours of traveling per day at 6 mph.
AR10Maximum water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 4 mph.
D451To travel from Ammonihah to Aaron means Alma must take a southwest water route going southeast on the Iowa River (86 miles, AR9) and then going north up the Mississippi (Sidon) and then up northeast further via the Rock River all the way to Jefferson Wisconsin (251 miles, AR10). Finally a land journey going east from Jefferson (60 miles, AR6) to reach Milwaukee (Nephihah) and then the final journey on the Lake Michigan/East Sea (54 miles, AR8) to reach Sheboygan Wisconsin (Aaron). This journey is 451 miles total with 391 miles by water and 60 miles over land and calculates to a minimum time of 23.5 days travel.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The key verse is which gives information on the coastal cities along the "east sea"/Lake Michigan, and indicates the relative order of the cities which are from bottom to top: (1) Moroni; (2) Nephihah; and (3) Aaron (Lehi comes later). Since both Moroni and Nephihah are specified as bordering the East Sea, then Aaron which borders both Moroni and Nephihah would also border the East Sea. Note that these cities are founded and populated as part of a pre-determined plan by Moroni.

Modern City Location: Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 43.7507333,-87.7168776

Modern Land Location: Plymouth, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 43.525696,-87.784670

Placement Rational: There are five Nephite cities described as being on the borders of the east sea. The seas in the Book of Mormon are relative in direction to each other. From the perspective of the West Sea (Lake Superior) the East Sea (Lake Michigan/Huron) is more east than south and the Book of Mormon rarely uses intermediate directions. Thus it is the East Sea. It also happens to be east of Zarahemla but that is of no significance to its named cardinal direction. Lake Michigan/Huron is really the only choice for the East Sea and Lake Michigan/Huron is a good choice. It fits perfectly. We also know from the Book of Mormon what the relative placement is for three cities on the south end of the East Sea. Aaron is above (north), Nephihah in the middle and Moroni on the bottom (south). So then the final placement for city names on the map is to match the major rivers which empty into Lake Michigan. Water being the all important consideration then - as it is now. The lands are determined by placing the cities in the center by the sea and assigning the lands in a more or less equidistant manner vertically. I also have the lands going from 20-30 miles inland which is an arbitrary guess that looks good on a map and fits with interior lands described in the Book of Mormon. These interior lands are the East Wilderness, Antionum and Jershon.

  1. Alma 8:6-13 Alma 8
    6 So that when he had finished his work at Melek he departed thence, and traveled three days' journey on the north of the land of Melek; and he came to a city which was called Ammonihah.
    7 Now it was the custom of the people of Nephi to call their lands, and their cities, and their villages, yea, even all their small villages, after the name of him who first possessed them; and thus it was with the land of Ammonihah.
    8 And it came to pass that when Alma had come to the city of Ammonihah he began to preach the word of God unto them.
    9 Now Satan had gotten great hold upon the hearts of the people of the city of Ammonihah; therefore they would not hearken unto the words of Alma.
    10 Nevertheless Alma labored much in the spirit, wrestling with God in mighty prayer, that he would pour out his Spirit upon the people who were in the city; that he would also grant that he might baptize them unto repentance.
    11 Nevertheless, they hardened their hearts, saying unto him: Behold, we know that thou art Alma; and we know that thou art high priest over the church which thou hast established in many parts of the land, according to your tradition; and we are not of thy church, and we do not believe in such foolish traditions.
    12 And now we know that because we are not of thy church we know that thou hast no power over us; and thou hast delivered up the judgment-seat unto Nephihah; therefore thou art not the chief judge over us.
    13 Now when the people had said this, and withstood all his words, and reviled him, and spit upon him, and caused that he should be cast out of their city, he departed thence and took his journey towards the city which was called Aaron.
  2. Alma 50:7-9,13-14 Alma 50
    7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla.
    8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west.
    9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land.
    ...
    13 And it came to pass that the Nephites began the foundation of a city, and they called the name of the city Moroni; and it was by the east sea; and it was on the south by the line of the possessions of the Lamanites.
    14 And they also began a foundation for a city between the city of Moroni and the city of Aaron, joining the borders of Aaron and Moroni; and they called the name of the city, or the land, Nephihah.


Icon
image
Aerial view of Aaron and other Nephite cities on the west coast of Lake Michigan (looking west).
Icon
image
Up close view of the site for Aaron. Typically, the location for cities is where rivers and lakes meet. The Sheyboygan river is visible.
Icon
image
Route of Alma traveling from Ammonihah to Aaron (red line).

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Ablom
 ≡ [Ablom] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place3} ≈ AR3 AR1
 ∥ [Ablom]{place} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {seashore4} ≈ AR1
➢[Ablom]{place} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [WhereNephitesDestroyed]{place2+4}
↹[Ablom]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1+4}
↹[Ablom]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land2+3+4}
↹[Ablom]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill4}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Ablom is a Jaredite location associated with a Nephite location. It is stated as being east of "where the Nephites were destroyed". This statement is not referring to the final battle at Cumorah but rather to the Bountiful/Desolation area where the war was originally lost (see also Section 4.8.1 Retreat from Zarahemla to Desolation). This, along with topography, makes it easier to identify. Thessalon Ontario is the best candidate and it has a natural topography for shipping and trade.

Modern Place Location: Thessalon, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.2556268,-83.5700562

Placement Rational: In abridging the Jaredite record, Moroni describes Ablom as being east of where the Nephites were destroyed, which was in the land of Desolation. This was written before Cumorah, so Moroni is referring to the battles in Desolation where the war was lost. Later, Cumorah was a last stand gathering of Nephites that the Lamanite king allowed, as it furthered his goal of Nephite extinction. So, considering that the Desolation battles took place on St Joseph Island – east of there we have Thessalon Ontario as by far the most prominent candidate based on the topography. There is a nearly 2 mile long jetty that projects into Lake Huron and terminates at Lighthouse Point. Adjacent to the jetty is the 200 foot wide Thessalon River, that empties into Lake Huron. These are the kind of land features that would attract a settlement anciently, just as it does today. Ablom is fairly close to the Jaredite capital city and so was probably more populated in Jaredite times than in Nephite times or modern times.

  1. Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1
    1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon.
    2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe;
    3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people.
    4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people.
    5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me.
  2. Mormon 4:1-3,6-23Mormon 1
    1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation.
    2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners.
    3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation.
    ...
    6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum.
    7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also.
    8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation.
    13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites.
    14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods.
    15 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and seventh year, the Nephites being angry because the Lamanites had sacrificed their women and their children, that they did go against the Lamanites with exceedingly great anger, insomuch that they did beat again the Lamanites, and drive them out of their lands.
    16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year.
    17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number.
    18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun.
    19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites.
    20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time.
    21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols.
    22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages.
    23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord.
  3. Ether 7:5,6,15-17Ether 7
    5 And when he had gathered together an army he came up unto the land of Moron where the king dwelt, and took him captive, which brought to pass the saying of the brother of Jared that they would be brought into captivity.
    6 Now the land of Moron, where the king dwelt, was near the land which is called Desolation by the Nephites.
    ...
    15 And it came to pass that Noah rebelled against Shule, the king, and also his father Corihor, and drew away Cohor his brother, and also all his brethren and many of the people.
    16 And he gave battle unto Shule, the king, in which he did obtain the land of their first inheritance; and he became a king over that part of the land.
    17 And it came to pass that he gave battle again unto Shule, the king; and he took Shule, the king, and carried him away captive into Moron.


  4. Ether 9:3Ether 9
    3 And the Lord warned Omer in a dream that he should depart out of the land; wherefore Omer departed out of the land with his family, and traveled many days, and came over and passed by the hill of Shim, and came over by the place where the Nephites were destroyed, and from thence eastward, and came to a place which was called Ablom, by the seashore, and there he pitched his tent, and also his sons and his daughters, and all his household, save it were Jared and his family.

Icon
image
The land of Ablom, east of Desolation.
Icon
image
Thessalon Ontario Canada, proposed to be in the land of Ablom.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Agosh
 ≡ [Agosh] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {plains1} ≈ AR3
↹[Agosh]{plains} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Akish]{wilderness1} ≈ IR4 AR3 AR4
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The plains of Agosh are mentioned in the Book of Mormon narrative that describes the last battles of the Jaredite civilization. There is enough detail in this part of the book of Ether to determine a good location for the plains of Agosh. The location for Agosh is tied closely to the wilderness of Akish. See Akish and the Goulais River. See also Section 4.9.2. Since Agosh is close to Akish, if one accepts the location of Agosh then there is only one possible location available for Akish and it is a very good fit.

Modern Plains Location: South of Goulais River, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.700810,-84.390168

Placement Rational: This spot is chosen for the Plains of Agosh based primarily on the topography of the region and it depends on being in close proximity (only 15 miles north) to the throne city of the Jaredites. The Jaredite wars were all about gaining power and they placed great weight on who actually sat on the throne and so it appears the strategy for war included possession of the capital city (the unnamed "great city" of the Jaredites) where the throne was located, so the armies were often near the throne, attacking or defending. The great city of the Jaredites is placed at or near Ste. Sault Marie Ontario where the flow of traffic from Lake Superior to Lake Huron/Michigan was then (and is now) controlled. If all of this is correct then the plains area south of the Goulais river wilderness and north of the Great City is the most likely candidate for the plains of Agosh. The land of the Jaredites was described by the Nephites as being devoid of timber due to the large population of Jaredites who had cleared all of the land. So today, the Plains of Agosh are timbered again but anciently were cleared off and suitable for large armies to face off with each other.
So, in summary, there are four main reasons to choose this spot:
  1. Close to the Great City (15 miles) where the throne was located.
  2. Flat land or plains, cleared of timber at the time of the Jaredites.
  3. Borders a wilderness area (bottomlands of the Goulais River) that is mentioned.
  4. Close to the seashore (of Lake Superior) which is mentioned.
There is no other place anywhere near Ste. Sault Marie Ontario that meets these criteria.

  1. Ether 14:3-16Ether 14
    3 And now, after the space of two years, and after the death of Shared, behold, there arose the brother of Shared and he gave battle unto Coriantumr, in which Coriantumr did beat him and did pursue him to the wilderness of Akish.
    4 And it came to pass that the brother of Shared did give battle unto him in the wilderness of Akish; and the battle became exceedingly sore, and many thousands fell by the sword.
    5 And it came to pass that Coriantumr did lay siege to the wilderness; and the brother of Shared did march forth out of the wilderness by night, and slew a part of the army of Coriantumr, as they were drunken.
    6 And he came forth to the land of Moron, and placed himself upon the throne of Coriantumr.
    7 And it came to pass that Coriantumr dwelt with his army in the wilderness for the space of two years, in which he did receive great strength to his army.
    8 Now the brother of Shared, whose name was Gilead, also received great strength to his army, because of secret combinations.
    9 And it came to pass that his high priest murdered him as he sat upon his throne.
    10 And it came to pass that one of the secret combinations murdered him in a secret pass, and obtained unto himself the kingdom; and his name was Lib; and Lib was a man of great stature, more than any other man among all the people.
    11 And it came to pass that in the first year of Lib, Coriantumr came up unto the land of Moron, and gave battle unto Lib.
    12 And it came to pass that he fought with Lib, in which Lib did smite upon his arm that he was wounded; nevertheless, the army of Coriantumr did press forward upon Lib, that he fled to the borders upon the seashore.
    13 And it came to pass that Coriantumr pursued him; and Lib gave battle unto him upon the seashore.
    14 And it came to pass that Lib did smite the army of Coriantumr, that they fled again to the wilderness of Akish.
    15 And it came to pass that Lib did pursue him until he came to the plains of Agosh. And Coriantumr had taken all the people with him as he fled before Lib in that quarter of the land whither he fled.
    16 And when he had come to the plains of Agosh he gave battle unto Lib, and he smote upon him until he died; nevertheless, the brother of Lib did come against Coriantumr in the stead thereof, and the battle became exceedingly sore, in the which Coriantumr fled again before the army of the brother of Lib.

Icon
image
The plains of Agosh, vis-a-vis land of Moron.
Icon
image
The plains of Agosh close-up.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Akish
 ≡ [Akish] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {wilderness1} ≈ IR4 AR3
↹[Akish]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {seashore1} ≈ IR4 AR1
⊚[Akish]{wilderness} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1} ≈ IR4 AR1 AR3
↹[Akish]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Agosh]{plains1} ≈ IR4 AR3 AR4
↹[Akish]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moron]{land1} ≈ IR4 AR3

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: To make a placement for Akish one has to find a large river near Moron that provides a distinct wilderness floodplain (see IR4 in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation) that can sequester an army for two years (food, water, and supplies are easier to obtain near a river). The river that fits this description is the Goulais River which is only about 10 miles north of Moron. Not only is the Goulais the largest river near Moron but it also has very distinct flood plain (wilderness) with broad plains (Agosh) to the south of it and also a seashore where it empties into the West Sea (Lake Superior). The addition of the plain and the seashore nearby make this placement for Akish a perfect fit.

Modern Place Location: Goulais River bottom lands, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.721296,-84.368030

Modern Wilderness Location: Goulais River bottom lands, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.721296,-84.368030"

Placement Rational: This spot is chosen for the Wilderness of Akish based primarily on the topography of the region since it borders the Plains of Agosh. See placement note for the Wilderness of Akish.

So, in summary, there are three reasons to choose this spot:
  1. Close to the Great City (15 miles) where the throne was located.
  2. Borders the Plains of Agosh.
  3. It fits perfectly as is and there are no other candidates to consider.
There is no other place anywhere near Ste. Sault Marie Ontario that meet these criteria.

  1. Ether 14:3-16Ether 14
    3 And now, after the space of two years, and after the death of Shared, behold, there arose the brother of Shared and he gave battle unto Coriantumr, in which Coriantumr did beat him and did pursue him to the wilderness of Akish.
    4 And it came to pass that the brother of Shared did give battle unto him in the wilderness of Akish; and the battle became exceedingly sore, and many thousands fell by the sword.
    5 And it came to pass that Coriantumr did lay siege to the wilderness; and the brother of Shared did march forth out of the wilderness by night, and slew a part of the army of Coriantumr, as they were drunken.
    6 And he came forth to the land of Moron, and placed himself upon the throne of Coriantumr.
    7 And it came to pass that Coriantumr dwelt with his army in the wilderness for the space of two years, in which he did receive great strength to his army.
    8 Now the brother of Shared, whose name was Gilead, also received great strength to his army, because of secret combinations.
    9 And it came to pass that his high priest murdered him as he sat upon his throne.
    10 And it came to pass that one of the secret combinations murdered him in a secret pass, and obtained unto himself the kingdom; and his name was Lib; and Lib was a man of great stature, more than any other man among all the people.
    11 And it came to pass that in the first year of Lib, Coriantumr came up unto the land of Moron, and gave battle unto Lib.
    12 And it came to pass that he fought with Lib, in which Lib did smite upon his arm that he was wounded; nevertheless, the army of Coriantumr did press forward upon Lib, that he fled to the borders upon the seashore.
    13 And it came to pass that Coriantumr pursued him; and Lib gave battle unto him upon the seashore.
    14 And it came to pass that Lib did smite the army of Coriantumr, that they fled again to the wilderness of Akish.
    15 And it came to pass that Lib did pursue him until he came to the plains of Agosh. And Coriantumr had taken all the people with him as he fled before Lib in that quarter of the land whither he fled.
    16 And when he had come to the plains of Agosh he gave battle unto Lib, and he smote upon him until he died; nevertheless, the brother of Lib did come against Coriantumr in the stead thereof, and the battle became exceedingly sore, in the which Coriantumr fled again before the army of the brother of Lib.

Icon
image
The wilderness of Akish, vis-a-vis land of Moron.
Icon
image
The wilderness of Akish close-up.
Icon
image
Hwy 17 about halfway between Moron and Akish show rugged land not suitable for farming or maneuvering for battle. In Jaredite times it was completely denuded of trees as was the plains of Akish. See Helaman 3:5-10.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Alma
 ≡ [Alma] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {valley3} ≈ AR3
↹[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land3} ≈ IR6
↹[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land3} ≈ AR3
↹[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land3}
∑ [Alma]{valley}~[Helam]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1 day2,3} ≈ IR6 AR6 D6.5
∑ [Alma]{valley}~[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {12 days3} ≈ IR6 AR7 D207
∑ [Alma]{valley}~[Nephi]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {2 days1+3} ≈ IR6 IR10 AR6 D19

IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" or "came forth to" or "went to" means less than one day.
IR10Cardinal directions always refer to the destination and not the travel route.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph.
D6.5The valley of Alma is recorded to be one days travel from Helam. The distance from Helam to the valley of Alma shown is 6.5 miles. According to rule AR10 one can travel 32 miles a day by the river but one day should be considered a minimum I think when considering embarking and disembarking.
D207From the Valley of Alma to the land of Zarahemla we have a distance given as twelve days, so this can help validate the location. Since they are fleeing the Lamanites, we look at AR10 to see if we are close. This yields the following formula and distance: 12 days x 8 hrs/day x 4 mph = 384 miles which should be considered a maximum speed with perfect conditions and with no stops. The actual distance to the land of Zarahemla following today's Mississippi is 207 miles so the placement for the Valley of Alma well within the maximum distance for a 12 day trip to Zarahemla.
D19It is a two day journey from Helam to Nephi. The Lamanites who get lost after two days of pursuing the people of Limhi (Mosiah 22:15) are the same Lamanites who run into the people of Alma in Mosiah 23:35-39. That's where the two days from Helam to Nephi comes from. From this we can calculate that Nephi to Zarahemla is ten days by taking twelve days of Mosiah 24:25 minus the two days of Mosiah 22:16.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Alma, placed at Valmeyer, Illinois, is north of Helam towards Nephi because Amulon, Shilom and Shemlon are also mentioned as being in the vicinity, and they are also on the east side of the Sidon/Mississippi, across from Nephi. Alma's group "departed in the wilderness", meaning they traveled the river from Helam (see IR4) to the valley of Alma.

The city of Valmeyer was named after a German immigrant named Val-Meyer who first settled there. The name means: "The valley of the Meyers". Alma is placed at the original location of Valmeyer. After the Great Flood of 1993 the residents of the old Valmeyer decided to relocate the town two miles to the east on higher ground and the town was rebuilt. The original location is still an important location for rail traffic.

Modern Valley Location: Old Valmeyer, Illinois. Geolocation: 38.309026,-90.278176

Placement Rational: Alma's group "departed in the wilderness", meaning they followed the flat river bottom areas (see Section 3.2 Rules of Interpretation) from Helam. The distance from Helam to the valley of Alma shown is 10.39 miles. This distance is only one half days travel by land according to AR7, but some extra time should be added for the river crossing too.

After thus narrowing it down, the topography indicates a prospective location of original site of Valmeyer Illinois. From the Valley of Alma to the land of Zarahemla we have a distance given as 12 days, so this can help validate the location. Since they are fleeing the Lamanites, we utilize Rule of Application AR7. This yields the following formula and distance: 12 days x 8 hrs/day x 2.5 mph = 240 miles. The actual distance to Zarahemla following today's Mississippi is 230 miles so that shows the placement for the Valley of Alma is well within the constraints of AR7.

  1. Mosiah 22:15-16Mosiah 22
    15 And now it came to pass when the Lamanites had found that the people of Limhi had departed out of the land by night, that they sent an army into the wilderness to pursue them;
    16 And after they had pursued them two days, they could no longer follow their tracks; therefore they were lost in the wilderness.
  2. Mosiah 23:35-39Mosiah 23
    35 And Amulon and his brethren did join the Lamanites, and they were traveling in the wilderness in search of the land of Nephi when they discovered the land of Helam, which was possessed by Alma and his brethren.
    36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites promised unto Alma and his brethren, that if they would show them the way which led to the land of Nephi that they would grant unto them their lives and their liberty.
    37 But after Alma had shown them the way that led to the land of Nephi the Lamanites would not keep their promise; but they set guards round about the land of Helam, over Alma and his brethren.
    38 And the remainder of them went to the land of Nephi; and a part of them returned to the land of Helam, and also brought with them the wives and the children of the guards who had been left in the land.
    39 And the king of the Lamanites had granted unto Amulon that he should be a king and a ruler over his people, who were in the land of Helam; nevertheless he should have no power to do anything contrary to the will of the king of the Lamanites.
  3. Mosiah 24:1-2,19-25Mosiah 24
    1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon.
    2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands.
    ...
    19 And in the morning the Lord caused a deep sleep to come upon the Lamanites, yea, and all their task-masters were in a profound sleep.
    20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness.
    21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.
    22 And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God.
    23 And now the Lord said unto Alma: Haste thee and get thou and this people out of this land, for the Lamanites have awakened and do pursue thee; therefore get thee out of this land, and I will stop the Lamanites in this valley that they come no further in pursuit of this people.
    24 And it came to pass that they departed out of the valley, and took their journey into the wilderness.
    25 And after they had been in the wilderness twelve days they arrived in the land of Zarahemla; and king Mosiah did also receive them with joy.

Icon
image
Map showing the valley of Alma, and neighboring locations.
Icon
image
Aerial view of the valley of Alma, and in the background, the city of Helam. The distance from Helam to the valley of Alma shown is only 6.5 miles.
Icon
image
Path plotted from from valley of Alma to the city of
Zarahemla is 230 miles in 12 days which is about
right according to AR7 in Section 3.4 Rules of Application.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Ammonihah
 ≡ [Ammonihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,4,6} ≈ AR3
 ≡ [Ammonihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,3,5,6}
↹[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Noah]{city6}
↹[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Noah]{land4,6}
➢[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Melek]{land1}
⊚[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [BordersOfNephites]{feature6+7}
∑ [Ammonihah]{city}~[Melek]{land} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {3 days1} ≈ AR10 D86
∑ [Ammonihah]{city}~[Aaron]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {23.5 days2} ≈ AR6 AR8 AR9 AR10 D451
 ∥ [Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land5} ≈ AR4
↹[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Noah]{land6}
↹[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidom]{land3} ≈ IR6
↹[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness side borders1,4,6} ≈ IR4
➢[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Melek]{land1}

IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" or "came forth to" or "went to" means less than one day.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
AR6Average civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 1.5 mph.
AR8Maximum water travel with no current, as in the Great Lakes, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph.
AR9Maximum water travel going with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours of traveling per day at 6 mph.
AR10Maximum water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 4 mph.
D86The city of d is recorded to be three days travel from Melek. The distance from Melek to the Ammonihah is 3 days along the Iowa river. According to rule AR10 one can travel a maximum of 8 hrs X 4 mph X 3 days = 96 miles total. The actual distance of 86 miles is comfortably within the constraint of AR10. To travel the reverse direction from Ammonihah to Melek is an AR9 downstream journey that can be done in only 2 days.
D451To travel from Ammonihah to Aaron means Alma must take a southwest water route going southeast on the Iowa River (86 miles, AR9) and then going north up the Mississippi (Sidon) and then up northeast further via the Rock River all the way to Jefferson Wisconsin (251 miles, AR10). Finally a land journey going east from Jefferson (60 miles, AR6) to reach Milwaukee (Nephihah) and then the final journey on the Lake Michigan/East Sea (54 miles, AR8) to reach Sheboygan Wisconsin (Aaron). This journey is 451 miles total with 391 miles by water and 60 miles over land and calculates to a minimum time of 23.5 days travel.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: See D86 for the distance from Melek to Ammonihah. The scriptures refer to the "borders on the wilderness side" as to where the Lamanites came from to attack the city. In the Book of Mormon "borders" are usually rivers and "wilderness" is usually river flood plains. The best match is the Hawkeye Wildlife Management Area which is three miles east of the site selected for Ammonihah. The location of Ammonihah is on the Iowa River, which is backed up by the Coralville Dam to be much higher than it was in ancient times. The city of Noah is placed eight marching miles from the city of Ammonihah.

Modern City Location: Coralville, Iowa. Geolocation: 41.795878,-91.594254

Modern Land Location: North Liberty, Iowa. Geolocation: 41.746534,-91.639890

Placement Rational: Ammonihah is placed where it is for three reasons - The location chosen almost surrounds the city with water which is advantageous for consumption, travel, and defense. It is the best location in these regards. It is also close to the Hawkeye Wildlife Management Area which could be the borders on the wilderness side from where the Lamanites attacked (by water) the first time. At 86 miles from Mulek, it fits within the AR10 distance constraint of 96 miles.

  1. Alma 8:6-7 Alma 8
    4 And he began to teach the people in the land of Melek according to the holy order of God, by which he had been called; and he began to teach the people throughout all the land of Melek.
    5 And it came to pass that the people came to him throughout all the borders of the land which was by the wilderness side. And they were baptized throughout all the land;
    6 So that when he had finished his work at Melek he departed thence, and traveled three days' journey on the north of the land of Melek; and he came to a city which was called Ammonihah.
    7 Now it was the custom of the people of Nephi to call their lands, and their cities, and their villages, yea, even all their small villages, after the name of him who first possessed them; and thus it was with the land of Ammonihah.
  2. Alma 8:6-13 Alma 8
    6 So that when he had finished his work at Melek he departed thence, and traveled three days' journey on the north of the land of Melek; and he came to a city which was called Ammonihah.
    7 Now it was the custom of the people of Nephi to call their lands, and their cities, and their villages, yea, even all their small villages, after the name of him who first possessed them; and thus it was with the land of Ammonihah.
    8 And it came to pass that when Alma had come to the city of Ammonihah he began to preach the word of God unto them.
    9 Now Satan had gotten great hold upon the hearts of the people of the city of Ammonihah; therefore they would not hearken unto the words of Alma.
    10 Nevertheless Alma labored much in the spirit, wrestling with God in mighty prayer, that he would pour out his Spirit upon the people who were in the city; that he would also grant that he might baptize them unto repentance.
    11 Nevertheless, they hardened their hearts, saying unto him: Behold, we know that thou art Alma; and we know that thou art high priest over the church which thou hast established in many parts of the land, according to your tradition; and we are not of thy church, and we do not believe in such foolish traditions.
    12 And now we know that because we are not of thy church we know that thou hast no power over us; and thou hast delivered up the judgment-seat unto Nephihah; therefore thou art not the chief judge over us.
    13 Now when the people had said this, and withstood all his words, and reviled him, and spit upon him, and caused that he should be cast out of their city, he departed thence and took his journey towards the city which was called Aaron.
  3. Alma 15:1 Alma 15
    1 And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek were commanded to depart out of that city; and they departed, and came out even into the land of Sidom; and behold, there they found all the people who had departed out of the land of Ammonihah, who had been cast out and stoned, because they believed in the words of Alma.
  4. Alma 16:2-3 Alma 16
    2 For behold, the armies of the Lamanites had come in upon the wilderness side, into the borders of the land, even into the city of Ammonihah, and began to slay the people and destroy the city.
    3 And now it came to pass, before the Nephites could raise a sufficient army to drive them out of the land, they had destroyed the people who were in the city of Ammonihah, and also some around the borders of Noah, and taken others captive into the wilderness.
  5. Alma 25:2 Alma 25
    1 And behold, now it came to pass that those Lamanites were more angry because they had slain their brethren; therefore they swore vengeance upon the Nephites; and they did no more attempt to slay the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi at that time.
    2 But they took their armies and went over into the borders of the land of Zarahemla, and fell upon the people who were in the land of Ammonihah and destroyed them.
  6. Alma 49:1-3,10-14 Alma 49
    1 And now it came to pass in the eleventh month of the nineteenth year, on the tenth day of the month, the armies of the Lamanites were seen approaching towards the land of Ammonihah.
    2 And behold, the city had been rebuilt, and Moroni had stationed an army by the borders of the city, and they had cast up dirt round about to shield them from the arrows and the stones of the Lamanites; for behold, they fought with stones and with arrows.
    3 Behold, I said that the city of Ammonihah had been rebuilt. I say unto you, yea, that it was in part rebuilt; and because the Lamanites had destroyed it once because of the iniquity of the people, they supposed that it would again become an easy prey for them.
    ...
    10 Now, if king Amalickiah had come down out of the land of Nephi, at the head of his army, perhaps he would have caused the Lamanites to have attacked the Nephites at the city of Ammonihah; for behold, he did care not for the blood of his people.
    11 But behold, Amalickiah did not come down himself to battle. And behold, his chief captains durst not attack the Nephites at the city of Ammonihah, for Moroni had altered the management of affairs among the Nephites, insomuch that the Lamanites were disappointed in their places of retreat and they could not come upon them.
    12 Therefore they retreated into the wilderness, and took their camp and marched towards the land of Noah, supposing that to be the next best place for them to come against the Nephites.
    13 For they knew not that Moroni had fortified, or had built forts of security, for every city in all the land round about; therefore, they marched forward to the land of Noah with a firm determination; yea, their chief captains came forward and took an oath that they would destroy the people of that city.
    14 But behold, to their astonishment, the city of Noah, which had hitherto been a weak place, had now, by the means of Moroni, become strong, yea, even to exceed the strength of the city of Ammonihah.
  7. Helaman 1:19,26Helaman 1
    19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
    26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.

Icon
image
Cities of Ammonihah and Noah relative locations to other nearby lands and cities.
Icon
image
View is from the east. Ammonihah is placed on the flat ground close to the Iowa River on the right (north).
Icon
image
Ammonihah is 75.5 miles (3 days) from Melek along the Iowa River.
Icon
image
View is looking south onto the Iowa River from Highway IA 22.
Icon
image
Route of Alma traveling from Ammonihah to Aaron (red line).

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Amulon
 ≡ [Amulon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land3,4}
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Alma]{valley3} ≈ IR6
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Helam]{land2} ≈ IR6
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{city4} ≈ IR6
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{land4} ≈ IR6
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land5} ≈ IR6
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mormon]{land4} ≈ IR6
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land2} ≈ IR6
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land1+2,3} ≈ IR6
➢[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land1+2} ≈
↹[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land3} ≈ IR6

IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" or "came forth to" or "went to" means less than one day.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The land of Amulon was occupied by the wicked priests of King Noah. It is always referred to as a land and not a city. Later we find that the Amulonites combine with the Lamanites and Amlicites to build the city of Jerusalem. See Section 4.3.4 East of Nephi.


Modern Land Location: East of Dupo, Illinois. Geolocation: 38.521495,-90.235066

Placement Rational: After the wicked priests of King Noah found the daughters of the Lamanites in Shemlon, the carried them into the wilderness. In other words, they traveled via the river to what we later find is the land of Amulon which is understood to be south of the abduction point in Shemlon because the people of Amulon help found the city of Jerusalem which borders on the land of Mormon and is near also to Helam, and thus the valley of Alma.

  1. Mosiah 20:1-7 Mosiah 20
    1 Now there was a place in Shemlon where the daughters of the Lamanites did gather themselves together to sing, and to dance, and to make themselves merry.
    2 And it came to pass that there was one day a small number of them gathered together to sing and to dance.
    3 And now the priests of king Noah, being ashamed to return to the city of Nephi, yea, and also fearing that the people would slay them, therefore they durst not return to their wives and their children.
    4 And having tarried in the wilderness, and having discovered the daughters of the Lamanites, they laid and watched them;
    5 And when there were but few of them gathered together to dance, they came forth out of their secret places and took them and carried them into the wilderness; yea, twenty and four of the daughters of the Lamanites they carried into the wilderness.
    6 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites found that their daughters had been missing, they were angry with the people of Limhi, for they thought it was the people of Limhi.
    7 Therefore they sent their armies forth; yea, even the king himself went before his people; and they went up to the land of Nephi to destroy the people of Limhi.
  2. Mosiah 23:30-31,36-39 Mosiah 23
    30 Now the armies of the Lamanites, which had followed after the people of king Limhi, had been lost in the wilderness for many days.
    31 And behold, they had found those priests of king Noah, in a place which they called Amulon; and they had begun to possess the land of Amulon and had begun to till the ground.
    ...
    36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites promised unto Alma and his brethren, that if they would show them the way which led to the land of Nephi that they would grant unto them their lives and their liberty.
    37 But after Alma had shown them the way that led to the land of Nephi the Lamanites would not keep their promise; but they set guards round about the land of Helam, over Alma and his brethren.
    38 And the remainder of them went to the land of Nephi; and a part of them returned to the land of Helam, and also brought with them the wives and the children of the guards who had been left in the land.
    39 And the king of the Lamanites had granted unto Amulon that he should be a king and a ruler over his people, who were in the land of Helam; nevertheless he should have no power to do anything contrary to the will of the king of the Lamanites.
  3. Mosiah 24:1-5,20,21Mosiah 24
    1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon.
    2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands.
    3 And now the name of the king of the Lamanites was Laman, being called after the name of his father; and therefore he was called king Laman. And he was king over a numerous people.
    4 And he appointed teachers of the brethren of Amulon in every land which was possessed by his people; and thus the language of Nephi began to be taught among all the people of the Lamanites.
    ...
    20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness. 21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.
  4. Alma 21:1-2Alma 21
    1 Now when Ammon and his brethren separated themselves in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, behold Aaron took his journey towards the land which was called by the Lamanites, Jerusalem, calling it after the land of their fathers' nativity; and it was away joining the borders of Mormon.
    2 Now the Lamanites and the Amlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem.
  5. Alma 24:1,5,20Alma 24
    1 And it came to pass that the Amalekites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amalekites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren.
    ...
    5 Now when Ammon and his brethren and all those who had come up with him saw the preparations of the Lamanites to destroy their brethren, they came forth to the land of Midian, and there Ammon met all his brethren; and from thence they came to the land of Ishmael that they might hold a council with Lamoni and also with his brother Anti-Nephi-Lehi, what they should do to defend themselves against the Lamanites.
    ...
    20 And it came to pass that their brethren, the Lamanites, made preparations for war, and came up to the land of Nephi for the purpose of destroying the king, and to place another in his stead, and also of destroying the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi out of the land.

Icon
image
Amulon and nearby cities.
Icon
image
View of Amulon and nearby cities, looking north.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Amnihu
 ≡ [Amnihu] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1}
➢[Amnihu]{hill} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1}
↹[Amnihu]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} ≈ AR1
↹[Amnihu]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} ≈ AR1 AR3
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The Hill Amnihu, on the east side of the river across from Zarahemla, the highest point being where the Nauvoo Temple is located today. Note that because of the bend of the river, this location for Amnihu (where the temple is today) is the only location directly east of the river, not to say that other locations that are southeast or northeast could not qualify, only that the temple site, being directly east, uniquely qualifies as the best location. See the battle maps for Section 4.4.2 Amlicite War - Battle of Zarahemla Amlicite War - Battle of Zarahemla. Early Latter-day Saints found ancient mounds, burials and artifacts throughout the Nauvoo area, some of which are still in existance.

Modern Hill Location: Temple site, Nauvoo, Illinois. Geolocation: 40.550440,-91.384321

Placement Rational: Today the Nauvoo Temple occupies this most prominent site facing west and overlooking the Mississippi/Sidon river. In Montrose, Iowa streets run northeast pointing directly at the Temple which dominates the view from that direction and also from the direction of due west. Temple hill would have been even more prominent anciently when the west shore of the Mississippi river was much closer, prior to the Keokuk dam.

  1. Alma 2:14-19 Alma 2
    14 And it came to pass that Amlici did arm his men with all manner of weapons of war of every kind; and he also appointed rulers and leaders over his people, to lead them to war against their brethren.
    15 And it came to pass that the Amlicites came upon the hill Amnihu, which was east of the river Sidon, which ran by the land of Zarahemla, and there they began to make war with the Nephites.
    16 Now Alma, being the chief judge and the governor of the people of Nephi, therefore he went up with his people, yea, with his captains, and chief captains, yea, at the head of his armies, against the Amlicites to battle.
    17 And they began to slay the Amlicites upon the hill east of Sidon. And the Amlicites did contend with the Nephites with great strength, insomuch that many of the Nephites did fall before the Amlicites.
    18 Nevertheless the Lord did strengthen the hand of the Nephites, that they slew the Amlicites with great slaughter, that they began to flee before them.
    19 And it came to pass that the Nephites did pursue the Amlicites all that day, and did slay them with much slaughter, insomuch that there were slain of the Amlicites twelve thousand five hundred thirty and two souls; and there were slain of the Nephites six thousand five hundred sixty and two souls.

Icon
image
Circa 1845 depiction of the Temple hill (hill Amnihu) looking northeast from the hill Manti across the Sidon/Mississippi to Nauvoo.
Icon
image
Hill Amnihu and relative locations to other nearby lands and cities.
Icon
image
View from Amnihu looking west across the Sidon to Zarahemla.
Icon
image
View of Hill Amnihu and Nauvoo Temple, from the west side of the Mississippi looking directly east.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Ani-Anti
 ≡ [Ani-Anti]{village} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {village1} ≈ AR1 AR3
∑ [Ani-Anti]{village}~[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {.5 days1} ≈ IR6 AR6 D5
↹[Ani-Anti]{village} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land1} ≈ IR6

IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" or "came forth to" or "went to" means less than one day.
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR6Average civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 1.5 mph.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The description of Aaron's missionary journey provides information regarding Ani-Anti and it's relative location on the west side of the Sidon river. It is consistent with the Logical Model to say that "came over" indicates crossing the river. See Section 4.3.3 Missionary Journeys of Ammon and Sons of Mosiah Missionary Journey which contains a detailed map that allows Ani-Anti to be placed.

Modern Village Location: Columbia, Illinois. Geolocation: 38.459054,-90.213993

Placement Rational: We are given locational information detailed enough to make a good approximation for Ani-Anti in relation to the Lamanite city of Jerusalem. One domino falls after the other.

  1. Alma 21:2-4,11-12 Alma 21
    2 Now the Lamanites and the Amlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem. ...
    4 And it came to pass that Aaron came to the city of Jerusalem, and first began to preach to the Amlicites. And he began to preach to them in their synagogues, for they had built synagogues after the order of the Nehors; for many of the Amlicites and the Amulonites were after the order of the Nehors. ...
    ...
    11 Therefore, when he saw that they would not hear his words, he departed out of their synagogue, and came over to a village which was called Ani-Anti, and there he found Muloki preaching the word unto them; and also Ammah and his brethren. And they contended with many about the word.
    12 And it came to pass that they saw that the people would harden their hearts, therefore they departed and came over into the land of Middoni.

Icon
image
View of Ani-Anti and nearby cities, looking north.
Icon
image
Ani-Anti and nearby cities.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Angola
 ≡ [Angola]{city} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 AR2 AR3
➢[Angola]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1}
➢[Angola]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land1}
↹[Angola]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [David]{land1}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: This is a new city named at the end of the Book of Mormon narrative. Mormon says the final conflict begins in Zarahemla and that Mormon's army retreats, step by step, to the north countries and end up eventually in the land of Desolation. So given the framework of the Logical Model, it is just a matter of deducing the most logical route from Zarahemla to Desolation to propose locations for Angola, Joshua, and David. The proposed route is to first head north from Zarahemla in the direction of the Mississippi (Sidon) and then north in the direction of the Rock River until reaching Janesville Wisconsin (David), then an overland trip of 60 miles to South Milwaukee (Joshua) and finally, multiple sea trips from Joshua to the narrow passage (De Tour Passage) leading to the land and city of Desolation. It's a long retreat but Desolation and the narrow passage has always been strategic for the Nephites. It must be secured.

Modern City Location: Davenport/Milan, Illinois. Geolocation: 41.487356,-90.574574

Placement Rational: Angola is very hard to place because we really only know it is between Zarahemla and Desolation. However the Rock River is a logical path going in the right direction. Angola comes first, then Joshua, then David.

  1. Mormon 1:10; 2:1-6Mormon 2
    10 And it came to pass that the war began to be among them in the borders of Zarahemla, by the waters of Sidon.
    ...
    1 And it came to pass in that same year there began to be a war again between the Nephites and the Lamanites. And notwithstanding I being young, was large in stature; therefore the people of Nephi appointed me that I should be their leader, or the leader of their armies.
    2 Therefore it came to pass that in my sixteenth year I did go forth at the head of an army of the Nephites, against the Lamanites; therefore three hundred and twenty and six years had passed away.
    3 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and twenty and seventh year the Lamanites did come upon us with exceedingly great power, insomuch that they did frighten my armies; therefore they would not fight, and they began to retreat towards the north countries.
    4 And it came to pass that we did come to the city of Angola, and we did take possession of the city, and make preparations to defend ourselves against the Lamanites. And it came to pass that we did fortify the city with our might; but notwithstanding all our fortifications the Lamanites did come upon us and did drive us out of the city.
    5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David.
    6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore.

Icon
image
Proposed location of the land Angola and surrounding areas.
Icon
image
View of Angola, David, Joshua. Nephite retreat path to Desolation.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Antionum
 ≡ [Antionum] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,4} ≈ AR4
 ∥ [Antionum]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Jershon]{land4}
 ∥ [Antionum]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {wilderness south1} ≈ IR4
⊚[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Onidah]{hill1,2}
➢[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1}
↹[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [EastWilderness]{wilderness1,5} ≈ IR4
↹[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Siron]{land1,3} ≈ IR6
↹[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒{seashore1}
➢[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Jershon]{land1,4}
⥅[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {gathering place1,2,4}
⇹[Antionum]{land}~[Manti]{land} ⇒ <separated by> ⇒ {wilderness4} ≈ IR4

IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" or "came forth to" or "went to" means less than one day.
IR8The phrase "round about" indicates "circuitous or indirect, as a road, journey, method, statement or person.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Antionum is a vast swath of land that lies between the Illinois river on the south and east and to the Mississippi on the west - basically the land between Nauvoo and Peoria Illinois but then it turns east and extends further towards lake Michigan. In Book of Mormon times, during the Reign of the Judges Antionum was the land of the Zoramites. Coming up the Illinois river (wilderness south) was a common invasion route for the Lamanites. This area was frequently mentioned in the military campaigns of "captain" Moroni. A place where the Zoramites were "gathered" is mentioned for the land of Antionum but is not named as a city. The unnamed place contained the Rameumptum and was also near to the hill Onidah where Alma preached. See Section 4.4.3 Journeys of Alma II, 4.4.5, 4.4.6, and 4.5.2.

Modern Land Location: Most of northeastern Illinois. Geolocation: 40.577358,-90.530033

Placement Rational: We have both direct and indirect information about Antionums location. South of Jershon, near the East Wilderness, near the seashore, near Siron. The land labeled as Antionum is the only choice.

  1. Alma 31:2-6 Alma 31
    2 For it was the cause of great sorrow to Alma to know of iniquity among his people; therefore his heart was exceedingly sorrowful because of the separation of the Zoramites from the Nephites.
    3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites.
    4 Now the Nephites greatly feared that the Zoramites would enter into a correspondence with the Lamanites, and that it would be the means of great loss on the part of the Nephites.
    5 And now, as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just--yea, it had had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened unto them--therefore Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God.
    6 Therefore he took Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner; and Himni he did leave in the church in Zarahemla; but the former three he took with him, and also Amulek and Zeezrom, who were at Melek; and he also took two of his sons.
    ...
    12 Now, when they had come into the land, behold, to their astonishment they found that the Zoramites had built synagogues, and that they did gather themselves together on one day of the week, which day they did call the day of the Lord; and they did worship after a manner which Alma and his brethren had never beheld;
    13 For they had a place built up in the center of their synagogue, a place for standing, which was high above the head; and the top thereof would only admit one person. ...
    21 Now the place was called by them Rameumptom, which, being interpreted, is the holy stand.
  2. Alma 32:4 Alma 32
    4 Now, as Alma was teaching and speaking unto the people upon the hill Onidah, there came a great multitude unto him, who were those of whom we have been speaking, of whom were poor in heart, because of their poverty as to the things of the world.

  3. Alma 39:2-3,11Alma 39
    2 For thou didst not give so much heed unto my words as did thy brother, among the people of the Zoramites. Now this is what I have against thee; thou didst go on unto boasting in thy strength and thy wisdom.
    3 And this is not all, my son. Thou didst do that which was grievous unto me; for thou didst forsake the ministry, and did go over into the land of Siron among the borders of the Lamanites, after the harlot Isabel.
    ...
    11 Suffer not yourself to be led away by any vain or foolish thing; suffer not the devil to lead away your heart again after those wicked harlots. Behold, O my son, how great iniquity ye brought upon the Zoramites; for when they saw your conduct they would not believe in my words.
  4. Alma 43:5,15-17,22 Alma 43
    5 And it came to pass that the Lamanites came with their thousands; and they came into the land of Antionum, which is the land of the Zoramites; and a man by the name of Zerahemnah was their leader.
    ...
    15 And it came to pass as the armies of the Lamanites had gathered together in the land of Antionum, behold, the armies of the Nephites were prepared to meet them in the land of Jershon.
    16 Now, the leader of the Nephites, or the man who had been appointed to be the chief captain over the Nephites--now the chief captain took the command of all the armies of the Nephites--and his name was Moroni;
    17 And Moroni took all the command, and the government of their wars. And he was only twenty and five years old when he was appointed chief captain over the armies of the Nephites.
    ...
    22 Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone.
  5. Alma 50:7-9 Alma 50
    7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla.
    8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west.
    9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land.


Icon
image
The land of of Antionum and an unnamed Zoramite city in Antionum.
Icon
image
Aerial view of land of east of Zarahemla, showing the lands (all uppercase) and cities.
Icon
image
The "round about" journey from Antionum to Manti and head of Sidon (B to G). See Section 4.5.2 Zoramite War - Battle of Manti

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Antiparah
 ≡ [Antiparah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,3} ≈ AR3
↹[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city2} ≈ IR7
↹[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city1,2} ≈ IR7
↹[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Judea]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city1,2}
↹[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [SidonHead]{place2} ≈ IR8 IR9
↹[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city1,2} ≈ IR7
➢[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Judea]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
➢[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Manti]{city2} ≈ IR7
➢[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city1,2} ≈ IR7
➢[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city2} ≈ IR7
➢[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1} ≈ IR7
⊚[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [BordersOfNephites]{feature1+4}

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: When the Lamanites flee Antiparah it is a simple matter for them to float down river to the other cities they have possession of. See the campaign maps in Section 4.5.3 War of Amalickiah - Stripling Soldiers.

Modern City Location: Salon Springs, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 46.350880,-91.815009

Placement Rational: The campaign of the "stripling soldiers" provides lots of geographic information. IR7 and AR3 indicate Antiparah is up north nearly to Lake Superior at present day Salon Springs Wisconsin which is also next to Upper St Croix Lake, the source of the Sidon river. See also, SidonHead..

  1. Alma 53:8-9,22/56:13-14Alma 53 Alma 56
    8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land.
    9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances.
    ...
    22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea.
    Alma 56:13-14
    13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men;
    14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah.
  2. Alma 56:13-36Alma 56
    13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men;
    14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah.
    15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city.
    ...
    18 And now it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that Antipus had received a greater strength to his army, they were compelled by the orders of Ammoron to not come against the city of Judea, or against us, to battle.
    19 And thus were we favored of the Lord; for had they come upon us in this our weakness they might have perhaps destroyed our little army; but thus were we preserved.
    ...
    25 Neither durst they march down against the city of Zarahemla; neither durst they cross the head of Sidon, over to the city of Nephihah.
    26 And thus, with their forces, they were determined to maintain those cities which they had taken.
    ...
    29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength.
    30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city.
    31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore.
    32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city.
    33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah.
    34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous.
    35 And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us.
    36 And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites;
  3. Alma 57:1-4 Alma 57
    1 And now it came to pass that I received an epistle from Ammoron, the king, stating that if I would deliver up those prisoners of war whom we had taken that he would deliver up the city of Antiparah unto us.
    2 But I sent an epistle unto the king, that we were sure our forces were sufficient to take the city of Antiparah by our force; and by delivering up the prisoners for that city we should suppose ourselves unwise, and that we would only deliver up our prisoners on exchange.
    3 And Ammoron refused mine epistle, for he would not exchange prisoners; therefore we began to make preparations to go against the city of Antiparah.
    4 But the people of Antiparah did leave the city, and fled to their other cities, which they had possession of, to fortify them; and thus the city of Antiparah fell into our hands.
  4. Helaman 1:19,26Helaman 1
    19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
    26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.

Icon
image
Aerial view of Judea and other cities in the land of Manti.
Icon
image
Aerial view of land of Manti including Upper St Croix lake, the source of the Sidon
Icon
Source of Sidon continental divide
Aerial view of Antiparah including and Upper St Croix lake, the source of the Sidon.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Antipas
 ≡ [Antipas] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {mount1} ≈ IR2 IR9 AR5 AR9
 ∥ [Antipas]{mount} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {valley1}
⊚[Antipas]{mount} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Oneidah]{place-of-arms1} ≈ IR2 IR9 AR5 AR9
⊚[Antipas]{mount} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1} ≈ IR9

IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location.
AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Antipas is therefore clearly a fortified location and not a "mountain". As to the location of the fortified Antipas mount we know it to be somewhere in the land of Nephi but not the capital city of Nephi. See also, IR9 in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation.

Modern Mount Location: St Louis, Missouri. Geolocation: 46.350880,-91.815009

Placement Rational: The Hebraic root meaning for the name "Antipas" is "for all, or against all" which ties in well for a gathering place named "Oneidah" the "place of arms" (where troops gather). The elevated area that is modern day downtown St. Louis began as the city of Nephi and was occupied for thousands of years as a ceremonial center. Mount in this context means mound. The ancient mounds once at East St Louis (destroyed in late 1800's) are a logical location for Antipas and Oneidah, the place-of-arms. Antipas is described like a motte-and-bailey castle, which have a keep fortification and a place-of-arms.

  1. Alma 47:1,5-12 Alma 47
    1 Now we will return in our record to Amalickiah and those who had fled with him into the wilderness; for, behold, he had taken those who went with him, and went up in the land of Nephi among the Lamanites, and did stir up the Lamanites to anger against the people of Nephi, insomuch that the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation throughout all his land, among all his people, that they should gather themselves together again to go to battle against the Nephites.
    ...
    5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Oneidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Oneidah, to the place of arms.
    6 And they had appointed a man to be a king and a leader over them, being fixed in their minds with a determined resolution that they would not be subjected to go against the Nephites.
    7 And it came to pass that they had gathered themselves together upon the top of the mount which was called Antipas, in preparation to battle.
    8 Now it was not Amalickiah's intention to give them battle according to the commandments of the king; but behold, it was his intention to gain favor with the armies of the Lamanites, that he might place himself at their head and dethrone the king and take possession of the kingdom.
    9 And behold, it came to pass that he caused his army to pitch their tents in the valley which was near the mount Antipas.
    10 And it came to pass that when it was night he sent a secret embassy into the mount Antipas, desiring that the leader of those who were upon the mount, whose name was Lehonti, that he should come down to the foot of the mount, for he desired to speak with him.
    11 And it came to pass that when Lehonti received the message he durst not go down to the foot of the mount. And it came to pass that Amalickiah sent again the second time, desiring him to come down. And it came to pass that Lehonti would not; and he sent again the third time.
    12 And it came to pass that when Amalickiah found that he could not get Lehonti to come down off from the mount, he went up into the mount, nearly to Lehonti's camp; and he sent again the fourth time his message unto Lehonti, desiring that he would come down, and that he would bring his guards with him.

Icon
image
Topographical map of Nephi and nearby regions, including proposed Antipas location. Mississippi restored to former horseshoe route that may have still existed
two millennia ago.
Icon
image
Nephi and nearby regions, including proposed Antipas location. These are the most densely populations regions of the Book of Mormon
during the times of Lamanite occupation.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Antum
 ≡ [Antum] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} ≈ IR9
➢[Antum]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1}
⊚[Antum]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Shim]{hill1}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ablom]{place1+5}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city1+2+3}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1,2}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city3,4}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city1,3}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land1,3}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {seashore1+3,5}
↹[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city1+2+3}

IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: A common mistake is to place Shim in the land of Cumorah simply because the Nephite records were at one time deposited at Shim and because it is near to "the place where the Nephites were destroyed". However, Shim is in the land of Antum and not the land of Cumorah. Chronologically, the "place where the Nephites were destroyed" in Ether 9:3 refers to events of Mormon 4:18-23 which was the time of the major Nephite defeats where the war was lost. This was 9 years before the final Cumorah battle.

Modern Land Location: Between Echo Bay and East Neebish Island, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.395677,-84.111717

Placement Rational: Because the hill Shim is located in the land of Antum, the location of hill Shim applies to the location of the land of Antum also. Antum is included because Mormon travels to Antum from Jordan by water (the hill Shim is in the land of Antum) to retrieve the plates. See Section 4.8.2 War in Land of Desolation.

  1. Mormon 1:1-6Mormon 1
    1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon.
    2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe;
    3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people.
    4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people.
    5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me.
    6 And it came to pass that I, being eleven years old, was carried by my father into the land southward, even to the land of Zarahemla.
  2. Mormon 2:16-17Mormon 2
    16 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and forty and fifth year the Nephites did begin to flee before the Lamanites; and they were pursued until they came even to the land of Jashon, before it was possible to stop them in their retreat.
    17 And now, the city of Jashon was near the land where Ammaron had deposited the records unto the Lord, that they might not be destroyed. And behold I had gone according to the word of Ammaron, and taken the plates of Nephi, and did make a record according to the words of Ammaron.
  3. Mormon 4:1-3,6-23Mormon 1
    1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation.
    2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners.
    3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation.
    ...
    6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum.
    7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also.
    8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation.
    13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites.
    14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods.
    15 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and seventh year, the Nephites being angry because the Lamanites had sacrificed their women and their children, that they did go against the Lamanites with exceedingly great anger, insomuch that they did beat again the Lamanites, and drive them out of their lands.
    16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year.
    17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number.
    18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun.
    19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites.
    20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time.
    21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols.
    22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages.
    23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord.
  4. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5
    3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time.
    4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land.
    5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away.
  5. Ether 9:3Ether 9
    3 And the Lord warned Omer in a dream that he should depart out of the land; wherefore Omer departed out of the land with his family, and traveled many days, and came over and passed by the hill of Shim, and came over by the place where the Nephites were destroyed, and from thence eastward, and came to a place which was called Ablom, by the seashore, and there he pitched his tent, and also his sons and his daughters, and all his household, save it were Jared and his family.

Icon
image
Proposed location of the land Antum and surrounding areas, including the hill Shim.
Icon
image
Topographical map of the land of Antum, city of Jashon, and the hill Shim.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Boaz
 ≡ [Boaz] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2} ≈ AR2 AR3
⊚[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [WhereNephitesDestroyed]{place2+3+4}
↹[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1+2}
↹[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill1+2}
↹[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city2,3}
↹[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city1+2}
↹[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land2}

AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: According to the Rules of Application, Boaz is placed near the sea in the most (in my opinion) advantageous position on the mainland. This would make Boaz either within or adjacent to the land of Antum. The actual location of modern day Thessalon is chosen over other possible locations along the sea because it is most likely to be a major location for Nephite settlement and thus have the best defenses. Boaz ends up being in the Jaredite land of Ablom.

Modern City Location: Thessalon, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.254173,-83.563104

Placement Rational: The city of Boaz is apparently outside the land of Desolation2 and therefore on the mainland of Ontario Canada. Keep in mind that the hill Shim is actually within the land of Antum and knowing this allows the relationship of Boaz to Antum. It would have been just a little jump to leave the north end of St Joseph Island, crossing where Highway 548 (Bridge Road) goes today.

  1. Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1
    1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon.
    2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe;
    3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people.
    4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people.
    5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me.
  2. Mormon 4:16-23Mormon 4
    16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year.
    17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number.
    18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun.
    19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites.
    20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time.
    21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols.
    22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages.
    23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord.
  3. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5
    3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time.
    4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land.
    5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away.
  4. Ether 9:3Ether 9
    3 And the Lord warned Omer in a dream that he should depart out of the land; wherefore Omer departed out of the land with his family, and traveled many days, and came over and passed by the hill of Shim, and came over by the place where the Nephites were destroyed, and from thence eastward, and came to a place which was called Ablom, by the seashore, and there he pitched his tent, and also his sons and his daughters, and all his household, save it were Jared and his family.
Icon
image
Proposed location of the land Boaz and surrounding areas, including the hill Shim.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : BordersOfNephites
 ≡ [BordersOfNephites] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {feature2} ≈ AR3
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Ammonihah]{city1+2,8}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city8,9}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Bountiful]{city4,5}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city8,9}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Gid]{city8,3,5}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Lehi]{city8,3,6,7}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Manti]{city8,9}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Morionton]{city8,3,6}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Moroni]{city8,3,6}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Mulek]{city8}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Nephihah]{city8,6,7}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Noah]{city1+2,8}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Omner]{city8,3}
⊚[BordersOfNephites]{feature} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city8,9}

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The borders of the Nephite nation, as described in the Book of Mormon. The Nephites considered themselves a country and a nation with borders. These borders, as they existed during the Reign of the Judges are mentioned several times and specifically described, first in Alma 22 and later in Helaman 1:19,26. The Nephite borders are mentioned in the story of Coriantumr who suddenly invaded the central capital city of Zarahemla. Helaman says "hitherto" they had attacked just the cities on the borders of the land. That is an important clue because just prior to Coriantumrs' invasion was the great war started by Amalickiah and carried on by his brother Ammoron. In that war we have a lot of battle details regard the cities that were attacked and defended and now Helaman 1:19,26 tells us that all these cities were in the borders of the land. Overall the cities noted as being in the borders are: Ammonihah, Antiparah, Bountiful, Cumeni, Gid, Lehi, Manti, Morionton, Moroni, Mulek, Nephihad, Noah, Omner, and Zeezrom.

Modern Feature Location: From Ontario, Canada down to halfway between Keokuk, Iowa to St. Louis Missouri. Geolocation: no points

Placement Rational: Every location within the borders of the Nephites relate to each other as defined in the text of the Book of Mormon which is the source of this Entity Relation Table.

  1. Alma 16:2-3Alma 16
    2 For behold, the armies of the Lamanites had come in upon the wilderness side, into the borders of the land, even into the city of Ammonihah, and began to slay the people and destroy the city.
    3 And now it came to pass, before the Nephites could raise a sufficient army to drive them out of the land, they had destroyed the people who were in the city of Ammonihah, and also some around the borders of Noah, and taken others captive into the wilderness.
  2. Alma 22:27Alma 22 (see Section 4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands commentary)
    27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided.
  3. Alma 51:26 Alma 51
    26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore.
  4. Alma 52:9 Alma 52
    9 And he also sent orders unto him that he should fortify the land Bountiful, and secure the narrow pass which led into the land northward, lest the Lamanites should obtain that point and should have power to harass them on every side.
  5. Alma 55:7,16,25-26 Alma 55
    7 Now the Nephites were guarded in the city of Gid; therefore Moroni appointed Laman and caused that a small number of men should go with him.
    ...
    16 And now this was according to the design of Moroni. And Moroni had prepared his men with weapons of war; and he went to the city Gid, while the Lamanites were in a deep sleep and drunken, and cast in weapons of war unto the prisoners, insomuch that they were all armed;
    ...
    25 And it came to pass that he did cause the Lamanites, whom he had taken prisoners, that they should commence a labor in strengthening the fortifications round about the city Gid.
    26 And it came to pass that when he had fortified the city Gid, according to his desires, he caused that his prisoners should be taken to the city Bountiful; and he also guarded that city with an exceedingly strong force.
  6. Alma 59:5 Alma 59
    5 And it came to pass that while Moroni was thus making preparations to go against the Lamanites to battle, behold, the people of Nephihah, who were gathered together from the city of Moroni and the city of Lehi and the city of Morionton, were attacked by the Lamanites.
  7. Alma 62:30 Alma 62
    30 Now it came to pass that Moroni, after he had obtained possession of the city of Nephihah, having taken many prisoners, which did reduce the armies of the Lamanites exceedingly, and having regained many of the Nephites who had been taken prisoners, which did strengthen the army of Moroni exceedingly; therefore Moroni went forth from the land of Nephihah to the land of Lehi.
  8. Helaman 1:19,26Helaman 1
    19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
    26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.
  9. Alma 56:13-15Alma 56
    13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men;
    14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah.
    15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city.
Icon
image
Thick light yellow line is the Nephite national borders of Mormon and Moronihah during the Reign of the Judges.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Bountiful
 ≡ [Bountiful] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,3} ≈ AR1 AR3
 ≡ [Bountiful] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11}
⊚[Bountiful]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [BordersOfNephites]{feature8+12+13}
↹[Bountiful]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gid]{city3}
↹[Bountiful]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mulek]{city3}
⥅[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {fortified line2}
 ∥ [Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage4,8,9}
 ∥ [Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea2,4,7}
 ∥ [Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation]{land4,9} ≈ AR1
 ∥ [Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Hagoth]{place9}
 ∥ [Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Jershon]{land5} ≈ AR4
 ∥ [Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{place7,8}
 ∥ [Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea2,4} ≈ AR2
⊚[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{land4,9}
↹[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea2,4,7} ≈ AR3
➢[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jershon]{land5} ≈ AR4
➢[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,2,6}
➢[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Desolation]{land4}
⥅[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {Temple11}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: For the Nephites, precious metals from the Keweenaw peninsula and other Lake Superior sites would have been available and shipped south through Bountiful. The Book of Mormon states explicitly (Helaman 3:10,14) that wood was shipped north and so would have gone by/through this city of Bountiful also. The part of the land of Bountiful referred to as the "narrow neck of land" is spoken of in the Book of Mormon and is what is known as "Upper Michigan" today. The actual location for Bountiful is as certain as it can be. It is the most described locale of any in the Book of Mormon outside of Nephi and Zarahemla. The 63 mile Bountiful/Desolation border (east sea to west sea) is a water border of 1.5 days journey "for a Nephite". Included near this water border is a 1 days journey fortified stretch of land on the west side (see purple line) that protects the areas where the water border can be most easily crossed. This entire border water-way was so important for trade and military strategy that it was never occupied by Lamanites until the Nephites were defeated there in Mormon's time around 400 AD.

Modern Land Location: Upper Michigan. Geolocation: 46.288700,-88.312411 | 46.287577,-85.664720 | 46.303092,-84.293511

Modern City Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.499276,-84.355557

Placement Rational: The city of Bountiful is placed where the modern city of Sault Ste. Marie (SOO-seint-ma-REE), is located. This is an extremely important location for trade transportation as it controls access between Lake Superior (the West Sea) and Lake Michigan/Huron (the East Sea). It also sits on the border between the land of Bountiful and the land of Desolation, which is the same border that divides the United States and Canada today.

  1. Helaman 1:23 Helaman 1
    23 And now he did not tarry in the land of Zarahemla, but he did march forth with a large army, even towards the city of Bountiful; for it was his determination to go forth and cut his way through with the sword, that he might obtain the north parts of the land.
  2. Helaman 4:5-8 Helaman 4
    5 And in the fifty and seventh year they did come down against the Nephites to battle, and they did commence the work of death; yea, insomuch that in the fifty and eighth year of the reign of the judges they succeeded in obtaining possession of the land of Zarahemla; yea, and also all the lands, even unto the land which was near the land Bountiful.
    6 And the Nephites and the armies of Moronihah were driven even into the land of Bountiful;
    7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country.
    8 And thus those dissenters of the Nephites, with the help of a numerous army of the Lamanites, had obtained all the possession of the Nephites which was in the land southward. And all this was done in the fifty and eighth and ninth years of the reign of the judges.
  3. Helaman 5:14-15 Helaman 5
    14 And they did remember his words; and therefore they went forth, keeping the commandments of God, to teach the word of God among all the people of Nephi, beginning at the city Bountiful;
    15 And from thenceforth to the city of Gid; and from the city of Gid to the city of Mulek;
  4. Alma 22:29-34 Alma 22
    29 And also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them. And thus the Nephites were nearly surrounded by the Lamanites; nevertheless the Nephites had taken possession of all the northern parts of the land bordering on the wilderness, at the head of the river Sidon, from the east to the west, round about on the wilderness side; on the north, even until they came to the land which they called Bountiful.
    30 And it bordered upon the land which they called Desolation, it being so far northward that it came into the land which had been peopled and been destroyed, of whose bones we have spoken, which was discovered by the people of Zarahemla, it being the place of their first landing.
    31 And they came from there up into the south wilderness. Thus the land on the northward was called Desolation, and the land on the southward was called Bountiful, it being the wilderness which is filled with all manner of wild animals of every kind, a part of which had come from the land northward for food.
    32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite: On the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water; there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
    33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward.
    34 Therefore the Lamanites could have no more possessions only in the land of Nephi, and the wilderness round about. Now this was wisdom in the Nephites--as the Lamanites were an enemy to them, they would not suffer their afflictions on every hand, and also that they might have a country whither they might flee, according to their desires.
  5. Alma 27:22 Alma 27
    22 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came, saying: Behold, we will give up the land of Jershon, which is on the east by the sea, which joins the land Bountiful, which is on the south of the land Bountiful; and this land Jershon is the land which we will give unto our brethren for an inheritance.
  6. Alma 50:11 Alma 50
    11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure.
  7. Alma 50:25-34Alma 50
    25 And it came to pass that in the commencement of the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges, there would also have been peace among the people of Nephi had it not been for a contention which took place among them concerning the land of Lehi, and the land of Morionton, which joined upon the borders of Lehi; both of which were on the borders by the seashore.
    26 For behold, the people who possessed the land of Morionton did claim a part of the land of Lehi; therefore there began to be a warm contention between them, insomuch that the people of Morionton took up arms against their brethren, and they were determined by the sword to slay them.
    27 But behold, the people who possessed the land of Lehi fled to the camp of Moroni, and appealed unto him for assistance; for behold they were not in the wrong.
    28 And it came to pass that when the people of Morionton, who were led by a man whose name was Morionton, found that the people of Lehi had fled to the camp of Moroni, they were exceedingly fearful lest the army of Moroni should come upon them and destroy them.
    29 Therefore, Morionton put it into their hearts that they should flee to the land which was northward, which was covered with large bodies of water, and take possession of the land which was northward.
    30 And behold, they would have carried this plan into effect, (which would have been a cause to have been lamented) but behold, Morionton being a man of much passion, therefore he was angry with one of his maid servants, and he fell upon her and beat her much.
    31 And it came to pass that she fled, and came over to the camp of Moroni, and told Moroni all things concerning the matter, and also concerning their intentions to flee into the land northward.
    32 Now behold, the people who were in the land Bountiful, or rather Moroni, feared that they would hearken to the words of Morionton and unite with his people, and thus he would obtain possession of those parts of the land, which would lay a foundation for serious consequences among the people of Nephi, yea, which consequences would lead to the overthrow of their liberty.
    33 Therefore Moroni sent an army, with their camp, to head the people of Morionton, to stop their flight into the land northward.
    34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east.
  8. Alma 52:9 Alma 52
    9 And he also sent orders unto him that he should fortify the land Bountiful, and secure the narrow pass which led into the land northward, lest the Lamanites should obtain that point and should have power to harass them on every side.
  9. Alma 63:5 Alma 63
    5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward.
  10. 3 Nephi 3:22-23 3 Nephi 3
    22 And it came to pass in the seventeenth year, in the latter end of the year, the proclamation of Lachoneus had gone forth throughout all the face of the land, and they had taken their horses, and their chariots, and their cattle, and all their flocks, and their herds, and their grain, and all their substance, and did march forth by thousands and by tens of thousands, until they had all gone forth to the place which had been appointed that they should gather themselves together, to defend themselves against their enemies and the land which was appointed was the land of Zarahemla.
    23 And the land which was between the land Zarahemla and the land Bountiful, yea, to the line which was between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation and there were a great many thousand people who were called Nephites, who did gather themselves together in this land.
  11. 3 Nephi 11:1 3 Nephi 11
    1 And now it came to pass that there were a great multitude gathered together, of the people of Nephi, round about the temple which was in the land Bountiful; and they were marveling and wondering one with another, and were showing one to another the great and marvelous change which had taken place.
  12. Alma 55:26 Alma 55
    26 And it came to pass that when he had fortified the city Gid, according to his desires, he caused that his prisoners should be taken to the city Bountiful; and he also guarded that city with an exceedingly strong force.
  13. Helaman 1:19,26Helaman 1
    19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
    26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.

Icon
image
Area of key military and trade significance for the Nephite nation.
Icon
image
Entire land of Bountiful which extends "from the east unto the west sea". This land is now called "Upper Michigan".
Icon
image
Fortified line of 1 days travel (military) that protects easy passage to the north.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : CityBySeashore
 ≡ [CityBySeashore] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1
 ∥ [CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,2}
↹[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2} ≈ IR7
↹[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city2} ≈ IR7
↹[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Judea]{city2} ≈ IR7
↹[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city2} ≈ IR7
↹[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city1+2} ≈ IR7
➢[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city1,2} ≈ IR7

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: See the campaign maps in Section 4.5.3 War of Amalickiah - Stripling Soldiers.

Modern City Location: Mouth of the Bois Brule River, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 46.747464,-91.610644

Placement Rational: During the campaign of the stripling soldiers a city is mentioned as being beyond Antiparah on the west sea. From a trade route perspective such an outpost would be important for trade on Lake Superior. The city is never mentioned by name but we know it is "beyond" Antiparah, borders the west sea, and is held by the Nephites.

  1. Alma 53:8-9,22Alma 53
    8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land.
    9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances.
    ...
    22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea.
  2. Alma 56:14-15,29-36Alma 56
    14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah.
    15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. ...
    ...
    29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength.
    30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city.
    31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore.
    32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city.
    33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah.
    34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous.
    35 And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us.
    36 And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites;

Icon
image
Aerial view of land of Manti including Upper St Croix lake, the source of the Sidon
Icon
image
Where the Bois Brule River empties into Lake Superior -- the location of the city "beyond" Antiparah.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Comnor
 ≡ [Comnor] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1}
⊚[Comnor]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shurr]{valley1} ≈ AR3 IR9
⊚[Comnor]{hill} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Corihor]{land1} ≈ AR3

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The valleys of Corihor and Shurr are placed nearby. Modern Hill Location: Sugar Island, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.468754,-84.213462
Placement Rational: The highly defensible Sugar Island right next to the land of Moron is the proposed location of the Jaredite land of Corihor. It has two valleys (Corihor and Shurr) and a hill (Comnor) that match the description. There is only one 360 degree hill on Sugar Island/Corihor.

  1. Ether 14:26-28Ether 14
    26 And it came to pass that Shiz did pursue Coriantumr eastward, even to the borders by the seashore, and there he gave battle unto Shiz for the space of three days.
    27 And so terrible was the destruction among the armies of Shiz that the people began to be frightened, and began to flee before the armies of Coriantumr; and they fled to the land of Corihor, and swept off the inhabitants before them, all them that would not join them.
    28 And they pitched their tents in the valley of Corihor; and Coriantumr pitched his tents in the valley of Shurr. Now the valley of Shurr was near the hill Comnor; wherefore, Coriantumr did gather his armies together upon the hill Comnor, and did sound a trumpet unto the armies of Shiz to invite them forth to battle.

Icon
image
Jaredite locations and battles taking place near the land of Moron.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Corihor
 ≡ [Corihor] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1}
 ≡ [Corihor] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {valley1}
 ∥ [Corihor]{valley} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Shurr]{valley1} ≈ AR3
⊚[Corihor]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Shurr]{valley1} ≈ AR3
⊚[Corihor]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Comnor]{hill1} ≈ AR3
⊚[Corihor]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Corihor]{valley1} ≈ AR3
⊚[Corihor]{valley} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Corihor]{land1} ≈ AR3

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The valleys of Corihor and Shurr are placed nearby.

Modern Land Location: Sugar Island, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.429022,-84.212590

Modern Valley Location: Sugar Island, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.468754,-84.213462

Placement Rational: The highly defensible Sugar Island right next to the land of Moron is the proposed location of the Jaredite land of Corihor. It has two valleys (Corihor and Shurr) and a hill (Comnor) that match the description. There is only one 360 degree hill on Sugar Island.

  1. Ether 14:26-28Ether 14
    26 And it came to pass that Shiz did pursue Coriantumr eastward, even to the borders by the seashore, and there he gave battle unto Shiz for the space of three days.
    27 And so terrible was the destruction among the armies of Shiz that the people began to be frightened, and began to flee before the armies of Coriantumr; and they fled to the land of Corihor, and swept off the inhabitants before them, all them that would not join them.
    28 And they pitched their tents in the valley of Corihor; and Coriantumr pitched his tents in the valley of Shurr. Now the valley of Shurr was near the hill Comnor; wherefore, Coriantumr did gather his armies together upon the hill Comnor, and did sound a trumpet unto the armies of Shiz to invite them forth to battle.

Icon
image
Jaredite locations and battles taking place near the land of Moron.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Cumeni
 ≡ [Cumeni] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,3} ≈ AR1
⊚[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [BordersOfNephites]{feature1+4}
↹[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2} ≈ IR7
↹[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city2,1} ≈ IR7
↹[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Judea]{city2,3} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city2} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city2} ≈ IR7
➢[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,2} ≈ IR7

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: See Section 4.5.3 War of Amalickiah - Stripling Soldiers for the campaigns of the stripling soldiers.

Modern City Location: Danbury, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 46.006422,-92.371546

Placement Rational: In Alma 56, all of these cities are on or near the Sidon river (St Croix river to us) as it turns and heads towards Lake Superior. The cities appear to be listed in order, from south to north (i.e. bottom to top - see Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation, item 5) as Manti, Zeezrom, Cumeni, and Antiparah. See also Section 3.5.2 for the course of the Sidon river and the continental divide at Upper St Croix Lake (the head of the Sidon). In Alma 57, provisions are mentioned as arriving from Zarahemla and Lamanite prisoners are mentioned as being sent to Zarahemla. Logically this transportation occurs on the Sidon river and is just a float trip as there are no waterfalls between Cumeni and Zarahemla requiring portage. So it is an easy trip, albeit a long one of about 600 miles.

  1. Alma 53:8-9,22Alma 53
    8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land.
    9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances.
    ...
    22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea.
  2. Alma 56:13-15,29-36Alma 56
    13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men;
    14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah.
    15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. ...
    ...
    29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength.
    30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city.
    31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore.
    32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city.
    33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah.
    34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous.
    35 And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us.
    36 And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites;
  3. Alma 57:7-12,23,30-34Alma 57
    7 And it came to pass that it was our desire to wage a battle with the army which was placed to protect the city Cumeni.
    8 And now behold, I will show unto you that we soon accomplished our desire; yea, with our strong force, or with a part of our strong force, we did surround, by night, the city Cumeni, a little before they were to receive a supply of provisions.
    9 And it came to pass that we did camp round about the city for many nights; but we did sleep upon our swords, and keep guards, that the Lamanites could not come upon us by night and slay us, which they attempted many times; but as many times as they attempted this their blood was spilt.
    10 At length their provisions did arrive, and they were about to enter the city by night. And we, instead of being Lamanites, were Nephites; therefore, we did take them and their provisions.
    11 And notwithstanding the Lamanites being cut off from their support after this manner, they were still determined to maintain the city ; therefore it became expedient that we should take those provisions and send them to Judea, and our prisoners to the land of Zarahemla.
    12 And it came to pass that not many days had passed away before the Lamanites began to lose all hopes of succor; therefore they yielded up the city unto our hands; and thus we had accomplished our designs in obtaining the city Cumeni.
    ...
    23 And we retained our city Cumeni, and were not all destroyed by the sword; nevertheless, we had suffered great loss.
    ...
    30 And now, these are the words which Gid said unto me: Behold, we did start to go down to the land of Zarahemla with our prisoners. And it came to pass that we did meet the spies of our armies, who had been sent out to watch the camp of the Lamanites.
    31 And they cried unto us, saying--Behold, the armies of the Lamanites are marching towards the city of Cumeni; and behold, they will fall upon them, yea, and will destroy our people.
    32 And it came to pass that our prisoners did hear their cries, which caused them to take courage; and they did rise up in rebellion against us.
    33 And it came to pass because of their rebellion we did cause that our swords should come upon them. And it came to pass that they did in a body run upon our swords, in the which, the greater number of them were slain; and the remainder of them broke through and fled from us.
    34 And behold, when they had fled and we could not overtake them, we took our march with speed towards the city Cumeni; and behold, we did arrive in time that we might assist our brethren in preserving the city.
  4. Helaman 1:19,26Helaman 1
    19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
    26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.

Icon
image
Aerial view of cities in the land of Manti, south of the west sea. Looking north.
Icon
image
Map of Cumeni and other cities in the land of Manti.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Cumorah
 ≡ [Cumorah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1,2,4} ≈ IR1 AR3
 ≡ [Cumorah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2,3}
 ≡ [Cumorah]{hill} ⇒ <is> ⇒ [Ramah]{hill2+4} ≈ IR1 AR3
↹[Cumorah]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ogath]{place4}} ≈ AR3
➢[Cumorah]{hill} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Ripliancum]{waters4} ≈ IR9 AR3
↹[Cumorah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ripliancum]{waters4} ≈ IR3 AR3

IR1When a modern place-name is associated with an ancient place-name in scripture then that association is always honored.
IR3When determining the meaning of a word, use the Oxford English Dictionary and word definitions that date prior to 1700 AD.
IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Cumorah is one of most important places of Book of Mormon Geography. Also, in the final battles for both Nephites and Jaredites, there was a truce period for gathering the people together and they needed to pick the location that was easiest to access from the both the west and the east. The hill Ramah (Jaredites) and the hill Cumorah (Nephites) are the same hill.

Modern Hill Location: Hill Cumorah, New York. Geolocation: 43.006414,-77.224373

Modern Land Location: Upper New York. Geolocation: 43.006414,-77.224373

* According to Wikipedia "Rome was founded along an ancient Native American portage path known as the Oneida Carrying Place, Deo-Wain-Sta, or The Great Carrying Place to the Six Nations (Iroquois) or Haudenosaunee people, in their language.

Upper New York and the Erie Canal
Placement Rational: We know exactly where Cumorah is from scripture and Church history. Anyone who is familiar with the construction of the Erie Canal would know well why the final gathering place for both the Nephites and Jaredites would be in upper New York. From the Atlantic seaboard, Upper New York and the path through Cumorah is the gateway to the heartland of America. From the east you have to get around the barrier of the Appalachians to conveniently travel the center of the continent — and the upper New York corridor, reached via the Hudson river is the best way to do it. From the Nephite point of view the same logic is in play, only in reverse. They started in the west and gathered to the east. Cumorah is a natural gathering place because from the west, by ship, one can travel to New York and Cumorah from any location on or near the Great Lakes and if you're coming from the east you can get there by traveling along the Atlantic coast and up the Hudson river. Coming from the Great Lakes, there are no portages to stop you until you get to Niagara falls. From there you can portage around Niagra or simply head overland to the Cumorah area. Palmyra was an Erie Canal town and only 4 miles from the hill Cumorah (3 miles from the Smith family farm). If traveling overland from Buffalo/Niagara the best route is along what is today's east/west Highway 90 that leads thru Manchester which is only 2 miles from the hill Cumorah. Cumorah is 106 miles from the portage location at Rome NY* to the east where the Erie Canal started and 104 miles from Niagra (95 miles from Buffalo NY) to the west. The land of Cumorah is the perfect central location and the hill Cumorah itself is, as Joseph Smith described, "a hill of considerable size, and the most elevated of any in the neighborhood". All these geographical reason's for the Nephites choosing the land of Cumorah are the same reasons that the Jaredites had for the same location.

  1. DC 128:20DC 128
    20 And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! Moroni, an angel from heaven, declaring the fulfillment of the prophets--the book to be revealed. A voice of the Lord in the wilderness of Fayette, Seneca county, declaring the three witnesses to bear record of the book! The voice of Michael on the banks of the Susquehanna, detecting the devil when he appeared as an angel of light! The voice of Peter, James, and John in the wilderness between Harmony, Susquehanna county, and Colesville, Broome county, on the Susquehanna river, declaring themselves as possessing the keys of the kingdom, and of the dispensation of the fulness of times!
  2. Mormon 6:1-11Mormon 6
    1 And now I finish my record concerning the destruction of my people, the Nephites. And it came to pass that we did march forth before the Lamanites.
    2 And I, Mormon, wrote an epistle unto the king of the Lamanites, and desired of him that he would grant unto us that we might gather together our people unto the land of Cumorah, by a hill which was called Cumorah, and there we could give them battle.
    3 And it came to pass that the king of the Lamanites did grant unto me the thing which I desired.
    4 And it came to pass that we did march forth to the land of Cumorah, and we did pitch our tents around about the hill Cumorah; and it was in a land of many waters, rivers, and fountains; and here we had hope to gain advantage over the Lamanites.
    5 And when three hundred and eighty and four years had passed away, we had gathered in all the remainder of our people unto the land of Cumorah.
    6 And it came to pass that when we had gathered in all our people in one to the land of Cumorah, behold I, Mormon, began to be old; and knowing it to be the last struggle of my people, and having been commanded of the Lord that I should not suffer the records which had been handed down by our fathers, which were sacred, to fall into the hands of the Lamanites, (for the Lamanites would destroy them) therefore I made this record out of the plates of Nephi, and hid up in the hill Cumorah all the records which had been entrusted to me by the hand of the Lord, save it were these few plates which I gave unto my son Moroni.
    7 And it came to pass that my people, with their wives and their children, did now behold the armies of the Lamanites marching towards them; and with that awful fear of death which fills the breasts of all the wicked, did they await to receive them.
    8 And it came to pass that they came to battle against us, and every soul was filled with terror because of the greatness of their numbers.
    8 And it came to pass that they came to battle against us, and every soul was filled with terror because of the greatness of their numbers.
    9 And it came to pass that they did fall upon my people with the sword, and with the bow, and with the arrow, and with the ax, and with all manner of weapons of war.
    10 And it came to pass that my men were hewn down, yea, even my ten thousand who were with me, and I fell wounded in the midst; and they passed by me that they did not put an end to my life.
    11 And when they had gone through and hewn down all my people save it were twenty and four of us, (among whom was my son Moroni) and we having survived the dead of our people, did behold on the morrow, when the Lamanites had returned unto their camps, from the top of the hill Cumorah, the ten thousand of my people who were hewn down, being led in the front by me.
  3. Mormon 8:1-2Mormon 8
    1 Behold I, Moroni, do finish the record of my father, Mormon. Behold, I have but few things to write, which things I have been commanded by my father.
    2 And now it came to pass that after the great and tremendous battle at Cumorah, behold, the Nephites who had escaped into the country southward were hunted by the Lamanites, until they were all destroyed.
  4. Ether 15:7-11Ether 15
    7 And when Coriantumr saw that he was about to fall he fled again before the people of Shiz.
    8 And it came to pass that he came to the waters of Ripliancum, which, by interpretation, is large, or to exceed all; wherefore, when they came to these waters they pitched their tents; and Shiz also pitched his tents near unto them; and therefore on the morrow they did come to battle.
    9 And it came to pass that they fought an exceedingly sore battle, in which Coriantumr was wounded again, and he fainted with the loss of blood.
    10 And it came to pass that the armies of Coriantumr did press upon the armies of Shiz that they beat them, that they caused them to flee before them; and they did flee southward, and did pitch their tents in a place which was called Ogath.
    11 And it came to pass that the army of Coriantumr did pitch their tents by the hill Ramah; and it was that same hill where my father Mormon did hide up the records unto the Lord, which were sacred.

Icon
image
Map showing Cumorah and surrounding areas.
Icon
image
Map showing the gateway connecting to the great lakes to the east coast.
Icon
image
Topographical map of Cumorah.
Icon
image
Painting of Joseph Smith with the golden plates at the hill Cumorah. View is from the north of the hill Cumorah looking south.
Icon
image
View from the top of the hill Cumorah looking to the southwest.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : David
 ≡ [David] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1}
↹[David]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Angola]{city1}
➢[David]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1}
➢[David]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land1}

AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The Book of Mormon history picks up again nearly 300 years after the coming of Christ.

Modern Land Location: Janesville, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 42.457089,-89.072368

Placement Rational: It is to be expected there are new lands and cities with some new names too, and the Book of Mormon narrative seems to indicate that. We do know that the final conflict begins in Zarahemla and that Mormon's army retreats, step by step, to the north countries and end up eventually at Jashon in the land of Desolation. We're not given any details but the Logical Model combined with the physical topography provides the most direct and logical routes from Zarahemla to Angola to David to Joshua and finally to Jashon in the land of Desolation. The logical route is to first head north from Zarahemla in the direction of the Mississippi (Sidon) and then north in the direction of the Rock River until reaching Janesville Wisconsin (David).

  1. Mormon 1:10; 2:1-6Mormon 2
    10 And it came to pass that the war began to be among them in the borders of Zarahemla, by the waters of Sidon.
    ...
    1 And it came to pass in that same year there began to be a war again between the Nephites and the Lamanites. And notwithstanding I being young, was large in stature; therefore the people of Nephi appointed me that I should be their leader, or the leader of their armies.
    2 Therefore it came to pass that in my sixteenth year I did go forth at the head of an army of the Nephites, against the Lamanites; therefore three hundred and twenty and six years had passed away.
    3 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and twenty and seventh year the Lamanites did come upon us with exceedingly great power, insomuch that they did frighten my armies; therefore they would not fight, and they began to retreat towards the north countries.
    4 And it came to pass that we did come to the city of Angola, and we did take possession of the city, and make preparations to defend ourselves against the Lamanites. And it came to pass that we did fortify the city with our might; but notwithstanding all our fortifications the Lamanites did come upon us and did drive us out of the city.
    5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David.
    6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore.

Icon
image
View of Zarahemla, Angola, David, Joshua. Nephite retreat path to Desolation.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Desolation
 ≡ [Desolation] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,5,6} ≈ AR1
 ∥ [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,4,5} ≈ AR1
 ∥ [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage1,3,4,5}
 ∥ [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1,3}
 ∥ [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{land1,4}
 ∥ [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,3,4}
⊚[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Moron]{land6+7+9} ≈ AR1 AR3
⊚[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Akish]{wilderness6+7+9} ≈ IR4 AR1 AR3
⊚[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [GreatJarediteCity]{city1+8+9+10} ≈ AR1 AR3
⊚[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{place3}
⤼[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <has not> ⇒ {timber6}
⥅[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {Jaredite destruction1,6}
⥅[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {mass migration6}
↹[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Hagoth]{place4}
➢[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,2}
➢[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ {Nephite lands1,3,4,6}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The land of Desolation was named after the many destroyed remains of the Jaredite nation that were found there and also because of the lack of timber, which had all been used up by the Jaredites. Today Desolation is within the Canadian province of Ontario. Because the land of Bountiful is so well attested, the border where the land Desolation is also not in doubt.

Modern Land Location: Southwestern Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.704459,-84.209151

Placement Rational: It is to be expected there are new lands and cities with some new names too, and the Book of Mormon narrative seems to indicate that. We do know that the final conflict begins in Zarahemla and that Mormon's army retreats, step by step, to the north countries and end up eventually at Jashon in the land of Desolation. We're not given any details but the Logical Model combined with the physical topography provides the most direct and logical routes from Zarahemla to Angola to David to Joshua and finally to Jashon in the land of Desolation. The logical route is to first head north from Zarahemla in the direction of the Mississippi (Sidon) and then north in the direction of the Rock River until reaching Janesville Wisconsin (David).

  1. Alma 22:30-33 Alma 22
    30 And it bordered upon the land which they called Desolation, it being so far northward that it came into the land which had been peopled and been destroyed, of whose bones we have spoken, which was discovered by the people of Zarahemla, it being the place of their first landing.
    31 And they came from there up into the south wilderness. Thus the land on the northward was called Desolation, and the land on the southward was called Bountiful, it being the wilderness which is filled with all manner of wild animals of every kind, a part of which had come from the land northward for food.
    32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
    33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward.
  2. Alma 46:17 Alma 46
    17 And it came to pass that when he had poured out his soul to God, he named all the land which was south of the land Desolation, yea, and in fine, all the land, both on the north and on the south--A chosen land, and the land of liberty.
  3. Alma 50:34 Alma 50
    34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east.
  4. Alma 63:5 Alma 63
    5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward.
  5. 3 Nephi 3:22-23 3 Nephi 3
    22 And it came to pass in the seventeenth year, in the latter end of the year, the proclamation of Lachoneus had gone forth throughout all the face of the land, and they had taken their horses, and their chariots, and their cattle, and all their flocks, and their herds, and their grain, and all their substance, and did march forth by thousands and by tens of thousands, until they had all gone forth to the place which had been appointed that they should gather themselves together, to defend themselves against their enemies and the land which was appointed was the land of Zarahemla.
    23 And the land which was between the land Zarahemla and the land Bountiful, yea, to the line which was between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation and there were a great many thousand people who were called Nephites, who did gather themselves together in this land.
  6. Helaman 3:2-6 Helaman 3
    2 And there was no contention among the people in the forty and fourth year; neither was there much contention in the forty and fifth year.
    3 And it came to pass in the forty and sixth, yea, there was much contention and many dissensions; in the which there were an exceedingly great many who departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and went forth unto the land northward to inherit the land.
    4 And they did travel to an exceedingly great distance, insomuch that they came to large bodies of water and many rivers.
    5 Yea, and even they did spread forth into all parts of the land, into whatever parts it had not been rendered desolate and without timber, because of the many inhabitants who had before inherited the land.
    6 And now no part of the land was desolate, save it were for timber; but because of the greatness of the destruction of the people who had before inhabited the land it was called desolate.
  7. Alma 22:30-33 Alma 22
    30 And it bordered upon the land which they called Desolation, it being so far northward that it came into the land which had been peopled and been destroyed, of whose bones we have spoken, which was discovered by the people of Zarahemla, it being the place of their first landing.
    31 And they came from there up into the south wilderness. Thus the land on the northward was called Desolation, and the land on the southward was called Bountiful, it being the wilderness which is filled with all manner of wild animals of every kind, a part of which had come from the land northward for food.
    32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
    33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward.
  8. Helaman 3:5-10 Helaman 3
    5 Yea, and even they did spread forth into all parts of the land, into whatever parts it had not been rendered desolate and without timber, because of the many inhabitants who had before inherited the land.
    6 And now no part of the land was desolate, save it were for timber; but because of the greatness of the destruction of the people who had before inhabited the land it was called desolate.
    7 And there being but little timber upon the face of the land, nevertheless the people who went forth became exceedingly expert in the working of cement; therefore they did build houses of cement, in the which they did dwell.
    8 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east.
    9 And the people who were in the land northward did dwell in tents, and in houses of cement, and they did suffer whatsoever tree should spring up upon the face of the land that it should grow up, that in time they might have timber to build their houses, yea, their cities, and their temples, and their synagogues, and their sanctuaries, and all manner of their buildings.
    10 And it came to pass as timber was exceedingly scarce in the land northward, they did send forth much by the way of shipping.
    11 And thus they did enable the people in the land northward that they might build many cities, both of wood and of cement.
  9. Ether 7:5,6,15-17Ether 7
    4 And when Corihor was thirty and two years old he rebelled against his father, and went over and dwelt in the land of Nehor; and he begat sons and daughters, and they became exceedingly fair; wherefore Corihor drew away many people after him.
    5 And when he had gathered together an army he came up unto the land of Moron where the king dwelt, and took him captive, which brought to pass the saying of the brother of Jared that they would be brought into captivity.
    6 Now the land of Moron, where the king dwelt, was near the land which is called Desolation by the Nephites.
    ...
    15 And it came to pass that Noah rebelled against Shule, the king, and also his father Corihor, and drew away Cohor his brother, and also all his brethren and many of the people.
    16 And he gave battle unto Shule, the king, in which he did obtain the land of their first inheritance; and he became a king over that part of the land.
    17 And it came to pass that he gave battle again unto Shule, the king; and he took Shule, the king, and carried him away captive into Moron.
    18 And it came to pass as he was about to put him to death, the sons of Shule crept into the house of Noah by night and slew him, and broke down the door of the prison and brought out their father, and placed him upon his throne in his own kingdom.
  10. Ether 10:20-23 Ether 10
    20 And they built a great city by the narrow neck of land, by the place where the sea divides the land.
    21 And they did preserve the land southward for a wilderness, to get game. And the whole face of the land northward was covered with inhabitants.
    22 And they were exceedingly industrious, and they did buy and sell and traffic one with another, that they might get gain.
    23 And they did work in all manner of ore, and they did make gold, and silver, and iron, and brass, and all manner of metals; and they did dig it out of the earth; wherefore, they did cast up mighty heaps of earth to get ore, of gold, and of silver, and of iron, and of copper. And they did work all manner of fine work.

Icon
Nephite land where the sea divides the land, 3D view
Area of key military and trade significance for the Nephite nation.
Icon
Nephite land where the sea divides the land, 3D view
Land of Desolation, so named because of a lack of timber dating from Jaredite times.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Desolation2
 ≡ [Desolation2] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city3,4} ≈ AR1 AR2 AR4
 ≡ [Desolation2] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,3,4} ≈ AR2 AR4
⊚[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [WhereNephitesDestroyed]{place3,4,7+9}
↹[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land2,4}
↹[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city4}
↹[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city5}
↹[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moriantum]{place6+7}
↹[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sherrizah]{tower6+7}
↹[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill2,4+9}
↹[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city4}
 ∥ [Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{place1,3}
 ∥ [Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {the sea1,3,4}
↹[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ablom]{place7+8+9}
↹[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moron]{land9}
↹[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city4}
↹[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land2,4}
↹[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city5}
↹[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill2,4+9}
↹[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city4}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Desolation2 was "home base" for the Nephites and after it fell (Mormon 4:16-23), all hope for the Nephite cause was lost. It is referred to by Moroni as "the place where the Nephites were destroyed" (Ether 9:3). Modern Land Location: St Josephs Island, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.215177,-83.950513 Placement Rational: In the early (classic) period, Desolation referred a larger area of land representing a chunk of Ontario Canada all along the St Marys river and beyond. 400+ years later, in the late period, the name Desolation (entity name for the late period is Desolation2) is a much more specific area. It is basically the first thing you would see after traveling "by the sea" through the "narrow pass which led to the land northward" (Du Tour Passage). For the Nephites, Desolation2 is a very strategic spot and, being an island, a very good place for defense. Major battles were fought here.

  1. Alma 50:34 Alma 50
    34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east
    .
  2. Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1
    1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon.
    2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe;
    3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people.
    4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people.
    5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me.
    6 And it came to pass that I, being eleven years old, was carried by my father into the land southward, even to the land of Zarahemla.
  3. Mormon 3:4-8Mormon 3
    4 And it came to pass that after this tenth year had passed away, making, in the whole, three hundred and sixty years from the coming of Christ, the king of the Lamanites sent an epistle unto me, which gave unto me to know that they were preparing to come again to battle against us.
    5 And it came to pass that I did cause my people that they should gather themselves together at the land Desolation, to a city which was in the borders, by the narrow pass which led into the land southward.
    6 And there we did place our armies, that we might stop the armies of the Lamanites, that they might not get possession of any of our lands; therefore we did fortify against them with all our force.
    7 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and first year the Lamanites did come down to the city of Desolation to battle against us; and it came to pass that in that year we did beat them, insomuch that they did return to their own lands again.
    8 And in the three hundred and sixty and second year they did come down again to battle. And we did beat them again, and did slay a great number of them, and their dead were cast into the sea.
  4. Mormon 4:1-3,6-23Mormon 1
    1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation.
    2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners.
    3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation.
    ...
    6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum.
    7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also.
    8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation.
    13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites.
    14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods.
    15 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and seventh year, the Nephites being angry because the Lamanites had sacrificed their women and their children, that they did go against the Lamanites with exceedingly great anger, insomuch that they did beat again the Lamanites, and drive them out of their lands.
    16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year.
    17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number.
    18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun.
    19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites.
    20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time.
    21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols.
    22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages.
    23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord.
  5. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5
    3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time.
    4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land.
    5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away.
  6. Moroni 9:7-9,16-17Mormon 9
    7 And now I write somewhat concerning the sufferings of this people. For according to the knowledge which I have received from Amoron, behold, the Lamanites have many prisoners, which they took from the tower of Sherrizah; and there were men, women, and children.
    8 And the husbands and fathers of those women and children they have slain; and they feed the women upon the flesh of their husbands, and the children upon the flesh of their fathers; and no water, save a little, do they give unto them.
    9 And notwithstanding this great abomination of the Lamanites, it doth not exceed that of our people in Moriantum. For behold, many of the daughters of the Lamanites have they taken prisoners; and after depriving them of that which was most dear and precious above all things, which is chastity and virtue--
    ...
    16 And again, my son, there are many widows and their daughters who remain in Sherrizah; and that part of the provisions which the Lamanites did not carry away, behold, the army of Zenephi has carried away, and left them to wander whithersoever they can for food; and many old women do faint by the way and die.
    17 And the army which is with me is weak; and the armies of the Lamanites are betwixt Sherrizah and me; and as many as have fled to the army of Aaron have fallen victims to their awful brutality.
  7. Mormon 4:1-14Mormon 4
    1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation.
    2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners.
    3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation.
    4 And it was because the armies of the Nephites went up unto the Lamanites that they began to be smitten; for were it not for that, the Lamanites could have had no power over them.
    5 But, behold, the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished; for it is the wicked that stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed.
    6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum.
    7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also.
    8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation.
    9 And now all these things had been done, and there had been thousands slain on both sides, both the Nephites and the Lamanites. 10 And it came to pass that the three hundred and sixty and sixth year had passed away, and the Lamanites came again upon the Nephites to battle; and yet the Nephites repented not of the evil they had done, but persisted in their wickedness continually.
    11 And it is impossible for the tongue to describe, or for man to write a perfect description of the horrible scene of the blood and carnage which was among the people, both of the Nephites and of the Lamanites; and every heart was hardened, so that they delighted in the shedding of blood continually.
    12 And there never had been so great wickedness among all the children of Lehi, nor even among all the house of Israel, according to the words of the Lord, as was among this people.
    13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites.
    14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods.
  8. Ether 7:5,6,15-17Ether 7
    4 And when Corihor was thirty and two years old he rebelled against his father, and went over and dwelt in the land of Nehor; and he begat sons and daughters, and they became exceedingly fair; wherefore Corihor drew away many people after him. 5 And when he had gathered together an army he came up unto the land of Moron where the king dwelt, and took him captive, which brought to pass the saying of the brother of Jared that they would be brought into captivity.
    6 Now the land of Moron, where the king dwelt, was near the land which is called Desolation by the Nephites.
    ...
    15 And it came to pass that Noah rebelled against Shule, the king, and also his father Corihor, and drew away Cohor his brother, and also all his brethren and many of the people.
    16 And he gave battle unto Shule, the king, in which he did obtain the land of their first inheritance; and he became a king over that part of the land.
    17 And it came to pass that he gave battle again unto Shule, the king; and he took Shule, the king, and carried him away captive into Moron.


  9. Ether 9:3Ether 9
    3 And the Lord warned Omer in a dream that he should depart out of the land; wherefore Omer departed out of the land with his family, and traveled many days, and came over and passed by the hill of Shim, and came over by the place where the Nephites were destroyed, and from thence eastward, and came to a place which was called Ablom, by the seashore, and there he pitched his tent, and also his sons and his daughters, and all his household, save it were Jared and his family.

Icon
image
View of Desolation and surrounding areas of conflict circa 326-380 AD. Looking north.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : EastSea
 ≡ [EastSea] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {sea1,2,3,4,5} ≈ AR2 IR11
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Aaron]{city3} ≈ AR1 AR3
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,2}
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1,3}
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Gid]{city4} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lehi]{city4} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lehi]{land3} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Morionton]{city4} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Morionton]{land3} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Moroni]{city3} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Mulek]{city4} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{land1}
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephihah]{city3}
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephihah]{land3}
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Omner]{city4} ≈ IR7
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Lamanite land1,3}
 ∥ [EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Nephite land1,3,4,5}
⊚[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{place3}
↹[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jershon]{land2}
↹[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,3} ≈ AR2

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
IR11Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: In the Book of Mormon, Nephite lands in Manti are also stated as being south of the West Sea, so that means the West Sea is north of Nephite lands (Alma 53:8 and Section 4.5.3 War of Amalickiah - Stripling Soldiers) and the East Sea is east of both Nephite lands and the West Sea.

Modern Sea Location: Lake Michigan/Huron. Geolocation: Geolocation: 45.343672,-86.052350 | 43.643960,-87.115189 | 41.763934,-87.232277

Placement Rational: The East Sea figures prominently in Nephite geography with port cities on Lake Michigan, Green Bay, and the northern part of Lake Huron. These are all hydrologically one lake. The lakes/seas in the Book of Mormon are directionally named by their relationship to one another, not by their direction from Zarahemla. So therefore, the East Sea is east in relation to the West sea. The East and West sea are often mentioned together and are separated by a 1.5 day water journey from the east sea to the west sea (upstream, see WestSea) or a 1 day journey when journeying from the west sea to the east sea (downstream). The West sea, Lake Superior, is west of the East Sea, lake Michigan/Huron and although it is also north, it is more west than north, and so it is called the West Sea. In the Book of Mormon, cardinal directions are typically used rather than intermediate directions. By the reverse logic, the East Sea is considered east rather than south.

  1. Alma 22:27-28,32-33 Alma 22 (see Section 4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands commentary)
    27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided.
    28 Now, the more idle part of the Lamanites lived in the wilderness, and dwelt in tents; and they were spread: through the wilderness on the west in the land of Nephi; Yea, and also on the west of the land of Zarahemla; in the borders by the seashore; and on the west in the land of Nephi; in the place of their fathers' first inheritance and thus bordering along by the seashore; and also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them.
    ...
    32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite: On the line between the land and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water; there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
    33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward.
  2. Alma 27:22 Alma 27
    22 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came, saying: Behold, we will give up the land of Jershon, which is on the east by the sea, which joins the land Bountiful, which is on the south of the land Bountiful; and this land Jershon is the land which we will give unto our brethren for an inheritance.
  3. Alma 50:7-9,13-14,25-27,34Alma 50
    7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla.
    8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west.
    9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land.
    ...
    13 And it came to pass that the Nephites began the foundation of a city, and they called the name of the city Moroni; and it was by the east sea; and it was on the south by the line of the possessions of the Lamanites.
    14 And they also began a foundation for a city between the city of Moroni and the city of Aaron, joining the borders of Aaron and Moroni; and they called the name of the city, or the land, Nephihah.
    ...
    25 And it came to pass that in the commencement of the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges, there would also have been peace among the people of Nephi had it not been for a contention which took place among them concerning the land of Lehi, and the land of Morionton, which joined upon the borders of Lehi; both of which were on the borders by the seashore.
    26 For behold, the people who possessed the land of Morionton did claim a part of the land of Lehi; therefore there began to be a warm contention between them, insomuch that the people of Morionton took up arms against their brethren, and they were determined by the sword to slay them.
    27 But behold, the people who possessed the land of Lehi fled to the camp of Moroni, and appealed unto him for assistance; for behold they were not in the wrong.
    ...
    34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east.
  4. Alma 51:26 Alma 51
    26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore.
  5. Alma 52:13 Alma 52
    13 And thus he was endeavoring to harass the Nephites, and to draw away a part of their forces to that part of the land, while he had commanded those whom he had left to possess the cities which he had taken, that they should also harass the Nephites on the borders by the east sea, and should take possession of their lands as much as it was in their power, according to the power of their armies.
  6. Helaman 4:6-7Helaman 4
    6 And the Nephites and the armies of Moronihah were driven even into the land of Bountiful;
    7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country.

Icon
image
Lands and cities near to the East Sea.
Icon
image
Aerial view of Nephite cities on the west coast of Lake Michigan (looking west).

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : EastWilderness
 ≡ [EastWilderness] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {wilderness1,3} ≈ IR4 AR2
 ≡ [EastWilderness]{wilderness} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {border2,3} ≈ IR4 AR4
➢[EastWilderness]{wilderness} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land2,3} ≈ IR4
↹[EastWilderness]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antionum]{land2} ≈ IR4
↹[EastWilderness]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} ≈ IR4
➢[EastWilderness]{wilderness} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Nephi]{land3} ≈ IR4 AR2
➢[EastWilderness]{wilderness} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ {Lamanite lands2,3} ≈ IR4

IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The east wilderness is the alluvial plain of the Illinois river. In the Book of Mormon, Lamanite hostiles would camp out in the east wilderness as a staging area for attacks, especially after the Zoramites joined with the Lamanites. See Alma 50.

Modern Wilderness Location: Illinois River bottoms, Illinois. Geolocation: 40.672560,-89.593598

Placement Rational: Anciently it was dense with vegetation and trees but not a place for a permanent settlement since it's a floodplain. The east wilderness extends from St Louis Missouri almost to Chicago Illinois (city of Moroni) on the east sea. See Sections 3.3 and 4.3.2 for more information.

  1. Alma 25:5-8Alma 25
    5 And the remainder, having fled into the east wilderness, and having usurped the power and authority over the Lamanites, caused that many of the Lamanites should perish by fire because of their belief--
    6 For many of them, after having suffered much loss and so many afflictions, began to be stirred up in remembrance of the words which Aaron and his brethren had preached to them in their land; therefore they began to disbelieve the traditions of their fathers, and to believe in the Lord, and that he gave great power unto the Nephites; and thus there were many of them converted in the wilderness.
    7 And it came to pass that those rulers who were the remnant of the children of Amulon caused that they should be put to death, yea, all those that believed in these things.
    8 Now this martyrdom caused that many of their brethren should be stirred up to anger; and there began to be contention in the wilderness; and the Lamanites began to hunt the seed of Amulon and his brethren and began to slay them; and they fled into the east wilderness.
  2. Alma 31:2-4Alma 31
    2 For it was the cause of great sorrow to Alma to know of iniquity among his people; therefore his heart was exceedingly sorrowful because of the separation of the Zoramites from the Nephites.
    3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites.
    4 Now the Nephites greatly feared that the Zoramites would enter into a correspondence with the Lamanites, and that it would be the means of great loss on the part of the Nephites.
  3. Alma 50:7-9,11Alma 50
    7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla.
    8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west.
    9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land.
    ...
    11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure.

Icon
image
Map shows the East Wilderness in context to nearby lands.
Icon
image
This terrain map shows a section of the East Wilderness as the Illinois River bottomlands, south of Peoria, Illinois.
Icon
image
Aerial view showing the East Wilderness from Zarahemla, looking east.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era.[~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Ephraim
 ≡ [Ephraim] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1} ≈ AR3
↹[Ephraim]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nehor]{city1} ≈ AR3

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: In 1844, government surveyors were exploring the terrain near Negaunee, Michigan when they discovered rock layers in the area laced with bands of iron ore. The surveyors had discovered the Marquette Iron Range, and the area would eventually become one of the most productive sources of iron in the United States. Soon, several companies were processing the magnetite and hematite ore, which was so abundant and accessible that chunks could be pulled off the surface and shipped directly to steel mills with little or no processing.

Modern Hill Location: Near Marquette, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.545776,-87.381999

Placement Rational: The eastern tip of the Marquette Iron Range at Negaunee, about six miles from Marquette and the shore of Lake Superior is proposed as a general location for the hill Ephraim. The distance from Marquette to Moron is 170 miles which is 3-7 days travel by sea which is a reasonable distance from Nehor to Ephraim.

  1. Ether 14:9Ether 14
    9 Wherefore, he came to the hill Ephraim, and he did molten out of the hill, and made swords out of steel for those whom he had drawn away with him; and after he had armed them with swords he returned to the city Nehor and gave battle unto his brother Corihor, by which means he obtained the kingdom and restored it unto his father Kib.

Icon
image
The Hill Ephraim general location. Iron mining.
Icon
image
Open pit iron mine in Marquette, MI. The Marquette Iron Range begins about 6 miles inland where the Nagaunee and Ishpeming iron mines are located.
Icon
image
Topography of Marquette, Michigan. It is a likely area where the Hill Ephraim may
have been located. Marquette is near to iron ore and near to the lake for transport.
Icon
image
Sources of iron near Lake Superior and Jaredite land of Moron.
Icon
image
Iron ore (Republic Mine hematite) from Marquette Range.
Icon
image
Iron axehead from Nephite times, still in the furnace mold.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gad
 ≡ [Gad] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
⊗[Gad]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {by fire1}
↹[Gad]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Josh]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Gad]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Kishcumen]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in as being destroyed by fire prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following criteria:
  1. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation Rules of Interpretation.
  2. It can reasonably be inferred that the first city, Laman, is in Lamanite territory.
  3. There are only two general areas mentioned as having a major Lamanite population where no cities have been identified at all via the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.4 Entity Relationship Table. That location is west of Nephi and west of Zarahemla which is populated with Lamanites according to Mormon. See Alma 22:28 in Section 4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands.
  4. Using the IR7 Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation and starting on the Missouri river west of the land of Nephi, we start with the best topographical location for cities that border the Missouri river.
  5. From steps 1-4, we get the following result: Laman = Jefferson city MO, Josh = Kansas city MO, Gad = Omaha NE. In the case of Kishcumen, we know that cities are named after the founder/first inhabitant and in the case of Kishcumen, we know he fled from Zarahemla and it makes the most sense that he would flee northwest via the Des Moines river to be away from major populations of both Nephites and Lamanites, in order to find his own space as founder of the Gadianton robbers.


Modern City Location: Omaha, Nebraska. Geolocation: 41.245502,-95.928173

Placement Rational: Placement based on Interpretation Rule IR7.

  1. 3 Nephi 9:10 3 Nephi 9
    10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishcumen, have I caused to be burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof, because of their wickedness in casting out the prophets, and stoning those whom I did send to declare unto them concerning their wickedness and their abominations.

Icon
image
The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen in areas populated by both Lamanites and later, Gadianton robbers.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gadiandi
 ≡ [Gadiandi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
⊗[Gadiandi]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk into the earth1}
↹[Gadiandi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gadiomnah]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following:
  1. Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about New Albin WI.
  2. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions. 3 Nephi 1:27 3 Nephi 19
    27 And it came to pass that the ninety and third year did also pass away in peace, save it were for the Gadianton robbers, who dwelt upon the mountains, who did infest the land; for so strong were their holds and their secret places that the people could not overpower them; therefore they did commit many murders, and did do much slaughter among the people.

  3. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation Rules of Interpretation.
  4. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today.
  5. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = New Albin, Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross, Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha, Minnesota, and Gimgimno = Red Wing, Minnesota.


Modern City Location: New Albin, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 43.033342,-91.134009

Placement Rational: Placement Rational: Placement based on Interpretation Rule IR7.

  1. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9
    8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.

Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, Gimgimno and Gilgal. These cities destroyed by being sunk.
Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno in an aerial view looking to the northeast. These cities destroyed by being sunk.

Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gadiomnah
 ≡ [Gadiomnah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
⊗[Gadiomnah]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk into the earth1}
↹[Gadiomnah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gadiandi]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Gadiomnah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jacob]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following:
  1. Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about New Albin WI.
  2. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions. 3 Nephi 1:27 3 Nephi 19
    27 And it came to pass that the ninety and third year did also pass away in peace, save it were for the Gadianton robbers, who dwelt upon the mountains, who did infest the land; for so strong were their holds and their secret places that the people could not overpower them; therefore they did commit many murders, and did do much slaughter among the people.
  3. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation Rules of Interpretation.
  4. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today.
  5. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = New Albin, Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross, Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha, Minnesota, and Gimgimno = Red Wing, Minnesota.


Modern City Location: La Cross, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 43.854596,-91.180242

Placement Rational: Placement based on Interpretation Rule IR7.

  1. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9
    8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.

Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, Gimgimno and Gilgal. These cities destroyed by being sunk.
Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno in an aerial view looking to the northeast. These cities destroyed by being sunk.

Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gid
 ≡ [Gid] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2,3} ≈ IR7 AR1
 ∥ [Gid]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} ≈ IR7
↹[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Bountiful]{city2,3}
↹[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Morionton]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mulek]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Omner]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
➢[Gid]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ {Nephite lands1}
⊚[Gid]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [BordersOfNephites]{feature5+4}

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: See also Section 4.6.2 War of Amalickiah.

Modern City Location: Munuscong, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.249446,-84.182574

Placement Rational: The city of Gid factors prominently in the wars of Amalickiah and is on the Bountiful/Desolation border based on Interpretation Rule IR7.

  1. Alma 51:26 Alma 51
    26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore.
  2. Alma 55:7,16,25-26 Alma 55
    7 Now the Nephites were guarded in the city of Gid; therefore Moroni appointed Laman and caused that a small number of men should go with him.
    ...
    16 And now this was according to the design of Moroni. And Moroni had prepared his men with weapons of war; and he went to the city Gid, while the Lamanites were in a deep sleep and drunken, and cast in weapons of war unto the prisoners, insomuch that they were all armed;
    ...
    25 And it came to pass that he did cause the Lamanites, whom he had taken prisoners, that they should commence a labor in strengthening the fortifications round about the city Gid.
    26 And it came to pass that when he had fortified the city Gid, according to his desires, he caused that his prisoners should be taken to the city Bountiful; and he also guarded that city with an exceedingly strong force.
  3. Helaman 5:14-16 Helaman 5
    14 And they did remember his words; and therefore they went forth, keeping the commandments of God, to teach the word of God among all the people of Nephi, beginning at the city Bountiful;
    15 And from thenceforth to the city of Gid; and from the city of Gid to the city of Mulek;
    16 And even from one city to another, until they had gone forth among all the people of Nephi who were in the land southward; and from thence into the land of Zarahemla, among the Lamanites.
  4. Alma 51:22-27 Alma 51
    22 Behold, it came to pass that while Moroni was thus breaking down the wars and contentions among his own people, and subjecting them to peace and civilization, and making regulations to prepare for war against the Lamanites, behold, the Lamanites had come into the land of Moroni, which was in the borders by the seashore.
    23 And it came to pass that the Nephites were not sufficiently strong in the city of Moroni; therefore Amalickiah did drive them, slaying many. And it came to pass that Amalickiah took possession of the city, yea, possession of all their fortifications.
    24 And those who fled out of the city of Moroni came to the city of Nephihah; and also the people of the city of Lehi gathered themselves together, and made preparations and were ready to receive the Lamanites to battle.
    25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it.
    26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Nephihah, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore.
    27 And thus had the Lamanites obtained, by the cunning of Amalickiah, so many cities, by their numberless hosts, all of which were strongly fortified after the manner of the fortifications of Moroni; all of which afforded strongholds for the Lamanites.
  5. Helaman 1:19,26Helaman 1
    19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
    26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.

Icon
image
Area of key military and trade significance for the Nephite nation.
Icon
image
Area of key military and trade significance for the Nephite nation.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gideon
 ≡ [Gideon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,8} ≈ AR1 AR3
 ≡ [Gideon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land3,4,5,6,7}
 ≡ [Gideon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {valley1,2}
➢[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river2} ≈ AR1
⊚[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley2}
↹[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land2,6,7} ≈ IR10
➢[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2} ≈ IR6 IR10
➢[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land2} ≈ IR6 IR10
➢[Gideon]{land} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land4} ≈ IR10
↹[Gideon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1,2} ≈ AR1
↹[Gideon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land2,6,7} ≈ IR10
➢[Gideon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Manti]{land4} ≈ IR2 IR10
⊚[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Gideon]{city2}
➢[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river2} ≈ AR1
➢[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2} ≈ IR10
↹[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Minon]{land1} ≈ AR4
↹[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river2} ≈ AR1
↹[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2,7} ≈ IR10
↹[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,4} ≈ IR10

IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" or "came forth to" or "went to" means less than one day.
IR10Cardinal directions always refer to the destination and not the travel route.
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: See also Section 4.4.1 City of Zarahemla3. Of particular note is Alma 17:1 which gives the cardinal direction of Manti to both Gideon and Zarahemla. Gideon and Zarahemla are SOUTH. Manti is NORTH. Alma 17:1 is frequently misinterpreted as indicating Alma is traveling south to Manti however Alma is not traveling southward but is traveling FROM Manti and Manti is located southward (see IR10). Obviously in normal English Alma 17:1 can be interpreted either way. However, in Mormons abridgment one is never stated as traveling in a direction but is always stated as traveling to or from a location - which has a direction.

Modern Valley Location: 2 miles Southwest of Nauvoo. Geolocation: 40.525491,-91.356472.

Modern City Location: In the first valley just south of Nauvoo. Geolocation: 40.516422,-91.360143.

Modern Land Location: Area between Nauvoo and Hamilton, Illinois. Geolocation: 40.554374,-91.263911

Placement Rational: We know that the land of Gideon is south and east of Zarahemla and is also less than 1 days march - because of the Amlicite war. The Amlicite battles are mapped out in detail in Section 4.4.2 Amlicite War - Battle of Zarahemla. The best topographical location for the city of Gideon is Hamilton, on the east side of the Mississippi, across the river from Keokuk, and at the end of the Des Moines rapids.

  1. Alma 2:15-26Alma 2
    15 And it came to pass that the Amlicites came upon the hill Amnihu, which was east of the river Sidon, which ran by the land of Zarahemla, and there they began to make war with the Nephites. ...
    17 And they began to slay the Amlicites upon the hill east of Sidon. And the Amlicites did contend with the Nephites with great strength, insomuch that many of the Nephites did fall before the Amlicites. ...
    20 And it came to pass that when Alma could pursue the Amlicites no longer he caused that his people should pitch their tents in the valley of Gideon, the valley being called after that Gideon who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword; and in this valley the Nephites did pitch their tents for the night.
    21 And Alma sent spies to follow the remnant of the Amlicites, that he might know of their plans and their plots, whereby he might guard himself against them, that he might preserve his people from being destroyed.
    22 Now those whom he had sent out to watch the camp of the Amlicites were called Zeram, and Amnor, and Manti, and Limher; these were they who went out with their men to watch the camp of the Amlicites.
    23 And it came to pass that on the morrow they returned into the camp of the Nephites in great haste, being greatly astonished, and struck with much fear, saying:
    24 Behold, we followed the camp of the Amlicites, and to our great astonishment, in the land of Minon, above the land of Zarahemla, in the course of the land of Nephi, we saw a numerous host of the Lamanites; and behold, the Amlicites have joined them;
    25 And they are upon our brethren in that land; and they are fleeing before them with their flocks, and their wives, and their children, towards our city ; and except we make haste they obtain possession of our city, and our fathers, and our wives, and our children be slain.
    26 And it came to pass that the people of Nephi took their tents, and departed out of the valley of Gideon towards their city, which was the city of Zarahemla..
  2. Alma 6:4-8Alma 6
    4 And thus they began to establish the order of the church in the city of Zarahemla.
    5 Now I would that ye should understand that the word of God was liberal unto all, that none were deprived of the privilege of assembling themselves together to hear the word of God.
    6 Nevertheless the children of God were commanded that they should gather themselves together oft, and join in fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who knew not God.
    7 And now it came to pass that when Alma had made these regulations he departed from them, yea, from the church which was in the city of Zarahemla, and went over upon the east of the river Sidon, into the valley of Gideon, there having been a city built, which was called the city of Gideon, which was in the valley that was called Gideon, being called after the man who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword.
    8 And Alma went and began to declare the word of God unto the church which was established in the valley of Gideon, according to the revelation of the truth of the word which had been spoken by his fathers, and according to the spirit of prophecy which was in him, according to the testimony of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who should come to redeem his people from their sins, and the holy order by which he was called. And thus it is written. Amen.
  3. Alma 8:1 Alma 8
    1 And now it came to pass that Alma returned from the land of Gideon, after having taught the people of Gideon many things which cannot be written, having established the order of the church, according as he had before done in the land of Zarahemla, yea, he returned to his own house at Zarahemla to rest himself from the labors which he had performed.
  4. Alma 17:1 Alma 17
    1 And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying from the land of Gideon southward, away to the land of Manti, behold, to his astonishment, he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla.
  5. Alma 30:21 Alma 30
    21 And it came to pass that he caused that he should be carried out of the land. And he came over into the land of Gideon, and began to preach unto them also; and here he did not have much success, for he was taken and bound and carried before the high priest, and also the chief judge over the land.
  6. Alma 61:4-5,8 Alma 61
    4 And it is those who have sought to take away the judgment-seat from me that have been the cause of this great iniquity; for they have used great flattery, and they have led away the hearts of many people, which will be the cause of sore affliction among us; they have withheld our provisions, and have daunted our freemen that they have not come unto you.
    5 And behold, they have driven me out before them, and I have fled to the land of Gideon, with as many men as it were possible that I could get.
    ...
    8 They have got possession of the land, or the city, of Zarahemla; they have appointed a king over them, and he hath written unto the king of the Lamanites, in the which he hath joined an alliance with him; in the which alliance he hath agreed to maintain the city of Zarahemla, which maintenance he supposeth will enable the Lamanites to conquer the remainder of the land, and he shall be placed king over this people when they shall be conquered under the Lamanites.


  7. Alma 62:3-4,6 Alma 62
    3 And it came to pass that Moroni took a small number of men, according to the desire of Pahoran, and gave Lehi and Teancum command over the remainder of his army, and took his march towards the land of Gideon.
    4 And he did raise the standard of liberty in whatsoever place he did enter, and gained whatsoever force he could in all his march towards the land of Gideon.
    ...
    6 And thus, when Moroni had gathered together whatsoever men he could in all his march, he came to the land of Gideon; and uniting his forces with those of Pahoran they became exceedingly strong, even stronger than the men of Pachus, who was the king of those dissenters who had driven the freemen out of the land of Zarahemla and had taken possession of the land.
  8. Helaman 13:12-16 Helaman 13
    12 Yea, wo unto this great city of Zarahemla; for behold, it is because of those who are righteous that it is saved; yea, wo unto this great city, for I perceive, saith the Lord, that there are many, yea, even the more part of this great city, that will harden their hearts against me, saith the Lord.
    13 But blessed are they who will repent, for them will I spare. But behold, if it were not for the righteous who are in this great city, behold, I would cause that fire should come down out of heaven and destroy it.
    14 But behold, it is for the righteous' sake that it is spared. But behold, the time cometh, saith the Lord, that when ye shall cast out the righteous from among you, then shall ye be ripe for destruction; yea, wo be unto this great city, because of the wickedness and abominations which are in her.
    15 Yea, and wo be unto the city of Gideon, for the wickedness and abominations which are in her.
    16 Yea, and wo be unto all the cities which are in the land round about, which are possessed by the Nephites, because of the wickedness and abominations which are in them.

Icon
image
Aerial view of land, city, and valley of Gideon. Looking west.
Icon
image
Map showing land, city, and valley of Gideon.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era.[~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Gilgal
 ≡ [Gilgal] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {valley1} ≈ AR3
↹[Gilgal]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Heshlon]{plains1} ≈ AR3

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The valley of Gilgal is the gateway to Moron from the south and has what can be considered "plains" to the south.

Modern Valley Location: Garden River, Ontario. Geolocation: 46.554607,-84.184287

Placement Rational: Any army approaching Moron from the south would need to go through this chosen location for Gilgal.

  1. Ether 14:28-31Ether 14
    28 And it came to pass that Shared fought against him for the space of three days. And it came to pass that Coriantumr beat him, and did pursue him until he came to the plains of Heshlon.
    29 And it came to pass that Shared gave him battle again upon the plains; and behold, he did beat Coriantumr, and drove him back again to the valley of Gilgal.
    30 And Coriantumr gave Shared battle again in the valley of Gilgal, in which he beat Shared and slew him.
    31 And Shared wounded Coriantumr in his thigh, that he did not go to battle again for the space of two years, in which time all the people upon the face of the land were shedding blood, and there was none to restrain them.

Icon
image
Showing the valley of Gilgal (not be confused with the Nephite city of Gilgal).

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gilgal2
 ≡ [Gilgal2] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR3
⊗[Gilgal2]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk into the earth1}

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Gilgal2 is so designated to distinguish it from the Jaredite Gilgal. Gilgal2 is the Western Uplands region of Wisconsin (also Gadianton robber territory). The most favorable topographical location not already taken, is chosen.

Modern City Location: Dubuque, Iowa. Geolocation: 42.513975,-90.667890

Placement Rational: There is nothing in the text to identify the location of the Nephite city of Gilgal (called Gilgal2) except that it was destroyed by being "sunk". This leads to a reasonable supposition that it shares location and topography with the cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno which suffered the same fate and are placed along the Mississippi/Sidon in Wisconsin and Iowa.

  1. 3 Nephi 9:6 3 Nephi 9
    6 And behold, the city of Gilgal have I caused to be sunk, and the inhabitants thereof to be buried up in the depths of the earth;

Icon
image
The cities of Gilgal, Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno. These cities destroyed by being sunk at the coming of Christ.
Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno in an aerial view looking to the northeast. These cities destroyed by being sunk.

Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gimgimno
 ≡ [Gimgimno] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
⊗[Gimgimno]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk into the earth1}
↹[Gimgimno]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jacob]{city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following:
  1. Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about New Albin WI.
  2. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions.
  3. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation Rules of Interpretation.
  4. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today.
  5. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = New Albin, Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross, Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha, Minnesota, and Gimgimno = Red Wing, Minnesota.


Modern City Location: Red Wing, Minnesota. Geolocation: 468515,-92.584844

Placement Rational: Placement based on Interpretation Rule IR7.

  1. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9
    8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.

Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, Gimgimno and Gilgal. These cities destroyed by being sunk at the coming of Christ.
Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno in an aerial view looking to the northeast. These cities destroyed by being sunk.

Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : GreatJarediteCity
 ≡ [GreatJarediteCity] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 AR3 IR2
⊚[GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1+2+3+4} ≈ AR1 AR3
⊚[GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Moron]{land3+4+5} ≈ AR1 AR3
➢[GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [JarediteLandSouthward]{land1+2+4} ≈ AR3
 ≡ [GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <same as> ⇒ [Nehor]{city3+4} ≈ AR3
 ∥ [GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage1+3} ≈ AR3
 ∥ [GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{land1,4} ≈ AR3
 ∥ [GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WhereSeaDividesLand]{feature1,3+4} ≈ AR3
↹[GreatJarediteCity]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [OreMines]{place1+4} ≈ AR3

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: In early Nephite times the most strategic spot for control of trade and military advantage was the prominent city of Bountiful which served as the gateway between Lake Superior (West Sea) and Lake Michigan/Huron (East Sea). Along this border route the same positional advantages would have applied to the Jaredites as well as the Nephites. Therefore, it is proposed that the great unnamed Jaredite city is in the Jaredite land of Moron (and probably named Moron) and is the same or very close to the Nephite city of Bountiful on the south and encompassing the late Nephite city of Shem on the north of St Marys River.

Modern City Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.499749,-84.344743

Placement Rational: "Where the sea divides the land" near the "narrow neck of land" are major clues for the location of this "great" (large) yet unnamed Jaredite city. Although the Book of Mormon says there were "many cities" for the Jaredites (Ether 10:4) only one city name is shared with us (Nehor). The location of the "great city" is proposed to be near the water border (frequently referred to elsewhere in the Book of Mormon) between the Nephite lands of Bountiful and Desolation.

  1. Alma 22:30-33 Alma 22
    30 And it bordered upon the land which they called Desolation, it being so far northward that it came into the land which had been peopled and been destroyed, of whose bones we have spoken, which was discovered by the people of Zarahemla, it being the place of their first landing.
    31 And they came from there up into the south wilderness. Thus the land on the northward was called Desolation, and the land on the southward was called Bountiful, it being the wilderness which is filled with all manner of wild animals of every kind, a part of which had come from the land northward for food.
    32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
    33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward.
  2. Helaman 3:5-10 Helaman 3
    5 Yea, and even they did spread forth into all parts of the land, into whatever parts it had not been rendered desolate and without timber, because of the many inhabitants who had before inherited the land.
    6 And now no part of the land was desolate, save it were for timber; but because of the greatness of the destruction of the people who had before inhabited the land it was called desolate.
    7 And there being but little timber upon the face of the land, nevertheless the people who went forth became exceedingly expert in the working of cement; therefore they did build houses of cement, in the which they did dwell.
    8 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east.
    9 And the people who were in the land northward did dwell in tents, and in houses of cement, and they did suffer whatsoever tree should spring up upon the face of the land that it should grow up, that in time they might have timber to build their houses, yea, their cities, and their temples, and their synagogues, and their sanctuaries, and all manner of their buildings.
    10 And it came to pass as timber was exceedingly scarce in the land northward, they did send forth much by the way of shipping.
    11 And thus they did enable the people in the land northward that they might build many cities, both of wood and of cement.
  3. Ether 7:5,6,15-17Ether 7
    4 And when Corihor was thirty and two years old he rebelled against his father, and went over and dwelt in the land of Nehor; and he begat sons and daughters, and they became exceedingly fair; wherefore Corihor drew away many people after him.
    5 And when he had gathered together an army he came up unto the land of Moron where the king dwelt, and took him captive, which brought to pass the saying of the brother of Jared that they would be brought into captivity.
    6 Now the land of Moron, where the king dwelt, was near the land which is called Desolation by the Nephites.
    ...
    15 And it came to pass that Noah rebelled against Shule, the king, and also his father Corihor, and drew away Cohor his brother, and also all his brethren and many of the people.
    16 And he gave battle unto Shule, the king, in which he did obtain the land of their first inheritance; and he became a king over that part of the land.
    17 And it came to pass that he gave battle again unto Shule, the king; and he took Shule, the king, and carried him away captive into Moron.
    18 And it came to pass as he was about to put him to death, the sons of Shule crept into the house of Noah by night and slew him, and broke down the door of the prison and brought out their father, and placed him upon his throne in his own kingdom.
  4. Ether 10:20-23 Ether 10
    20 And they built a great city by the narrow neck of land, by the place where the sea divides the land.
    21 And they did preserve the land southward for a wilderness, to get game. And the whole face of the land northward was covered with inhabitants.
    22 And they were exceedingly industrious, and they did buy and sell and traffic one with another, that they might get gain.
    23 And they did work in all manner of ore, and they did make gold, and silver, and iron, and brass, and all manner of metals; and they did dig it out of the earth; wherefore, they did cast up mighty heaps of earth to get ore, of gold, and of silver, and of iron, and of copper. And they did work all manner of fine work.
  5. Ether 14:3-15Ether 14
    3 And now, after the space of two years, and after the death of Shared, behold, there arose the brother of Shared and he gave battle unto Coriantumr, in which Coriantumr did beat him and did pursue him to the wilderness of Akish.
    4 And it came to pass that the brother of Shared did give battle unto him in the wilderness of Akish; and the battle became exceedingly sore, and many thousands fell by the sword.
    5 And it came to pass that Coriantumr did lay siege to the wilderness; and the brother of Shared did march forth out of the wilderness by night, and slew a part of the army of Coriantumr, as they were drunken.
    6 And he came forth to the land of Moron, and placed himself upon the throne of Coriantumr.
    7 And it came to pass that Coriantumr dwelt with his army in the wilderness for the space of two years, in which he did receive great strength to his army.
    8 Now the brother of Shared, whose name was Gilead, also received great strength to his army, because of secret combinations. 9 And it came to pass that his high priest murdered him as he sat upon his throne.
    10 And it came to pass that one of the secret combinations murdered him in a secret pass, and obtained unto himself the kingdom; and his name was Lib; and Lib was a man of great stature, more than any other man among all the people.
    11 And it came to pass that in the first year of Lib, Coriantumr came up unto the land of Moron, and gave battle unto Lib.
    12 And it came to pass that he fought with Lib, in which Lib did smite upon his arm that he was wounded; nevertheless, the army of Coriantumr did press forward upon Lib, that he fled to the borders upon the seashore.
    13 And it came to pass that Coriantumr pursued him; and Lib gave battle unto him upon the seashore.
    14 And it came to pass that Lib did smite the army of Coriantumr, that they fled again to the wilderness of Akish.
    15 And it came to pass that Lib did pursue him until he came to the plains of Agosh. And Coriantumr had taken all the people with him as he fled before Lib in that quarter of the land whither he fled.

Icon
image
Showing the proposed location of the "great city" to be in the land of Moron.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Hagoth
 ≡ [Hagoth] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place1} ≈ AR1
 ∥ [Hagoth]{place} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land2}
 ∥ [Hagoth]{place} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{land2}
 ∥ [Hagoth]{place} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea2}
↹[Hagoth]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation]{land2}
➢[Hagoth]{place} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land2,3}
∑ [Hagoth]{place}~[NarrowPass]{place} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1 day1} ≈ AR9 D70

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR9Maximum water travel going with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph.
AR10Maximum water travel going with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Nephite technology included metal working, "machinery", monetary currency, writing, animal domestication, and ship building. Water craft was very important given the many rivers and proximity to the great lakes. Note that Hagoths ship was noteworthy not because he built it but because it was "exceedingly large". Five thousand and four hundred men, with their wives and their children plus timber is a lot to convey on this and "other ships" mentioned.

Modern Place Location: Bay Mills Indian Community, Michigan. Geolocation: 46.430647,-84.596407

Placement Rational: "Where the sea divides the land" near the "narrow neck of land" are major clues for the location of this "great" (large) yet unnamed Jaredite city. Although the Book of Mormon says there were "many cities" for the Jaredites (Ether 10:4) only one city name is shared with us (Nehor). The location of the "great city" is proposed to be near the water border (frequently referred to elsewhere in the Book of Mormon) between the Nephite lands of Bountiful and Desolation.

  1. Alma 22:32-33 Alma 22
    32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on line the between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward.
    33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward.
  2. Alma 63:4-9 Alma 63
    4 And it came to pass that in the thirty and seventh year of the reign of the judges, there was a large company of men, even to the amount of five thousand and four hundred men, with their wives and their children, departed out of the land of Zarahemla into the land which was northward.
    5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward.
    6 And behold, there were many of the Nephites who did enter therein and did sail forth with much provisions, and also many women and children; and they took their course northward. And thus ended the thirty and seventh year.
    7 And in the thirty and eighth year, this man built other ships. And the first ship did also return, and many more people did enter into it; and they also took much provisions, and set out again to the land northward.
    8 And it came to pass that they were never heard of more. And we suppose that they were drowned in the depths of the sea. And it came to pass that one other ship also did sail forth; and whither she did go we know not.
    9 And it came to pass that in this year there were many people who went forth into the land northward. And thus ended the thirty and eighth year.
  3. Helaman 3:10,14 Helaman 3
    10 And it came to pass as timber was exceedingly scarce in the land northward, they did send forth much by the way of shipping.
    ...
    14 But behold, a hundredth part of the proceedings of this people, yea, the account of the Lamanites and of the Nephites, and their wars, and contentions, and dissensions, and their preaching, and their prophecies, and their shipping and their building of ships, and their building of temples, and of synagogues and their sanctuaries, and their righteousness, and their wickedness, and their murders, and their robbings, and their plundering, and all manner of abominations and whoredoms, cannot be contained in this work.
  4. Helaman 4:6-7Helaman 4
    6 And the Nephites and the armies of Moronihah were driven even into the land of Bountiful;
    7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country.

Icon
image
Cedar Point at Round Island Point Nature Preserve, Michigan. Launch area for ships built by Hagoth for northern migration.
Icon
image
Overall map view of launch area for ships built by Hagoth for northern migration.

Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Helam
 ≡ [Helam] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 AR3
 ≡ [Helam] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3} ≈ AR1
∑ [Helam]{city}~[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1 day1+3} ≈ IR6 AR6 D6.5
∑ [Helam]{city}~[WatersOfMormon]{fountain} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {8 days1+3} ≈ IR6 AR9 D251
 ∥ [Helam]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {wilderness1,3} ≈ IR4
⥅[Helam]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {pure water1}
↹[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land1} ≈ IR6
↹[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{land3}
↹[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land3}
↹[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1,2}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph.
AR9Maximum water travel going with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph.
AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
D6.5The valley of Alma is recorded to be one days travel from Helam. The distance from Helam to the valley of Alma shown is 6.5 miles. According to rule AR10 one can travel 32 miles a day by the river but one day should be considered a minimum I think when considering embarking and disembarking.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Helam is where the converted people of Alma travel to after being baptized at the Waters of Mormon. See Sections 4.3.5 and 4.3.5 travel charts for a detailed analysis on how the distances work out. In summary, the 8 days travel can be accounted for by either a land or river journey.

Modern City Location: West side of Crystal City, Missouri. Geolocation: 38.223335,-90.379517

Modern Land Location: Greater area of Crystal City, Missouri. Geolocation: 38.221286,-90.406619

Placement Rational: It is eight days travel in the direction of the land of Nephi (north) until they reach Helam. We know Helam is in the same general region as the city of Jerusalem -- and it is because of this that we know it is also in the region of Middoni, Ani-Anti, and Amulon. Like Helam, Crystal City was known for it's water quality.

  1. Mosiah 23:3-4,19-20,25-39 Mosiah 23
    3 And they fled eight days' journey into the wilderness.
    4 And they came to a land, yea, even a very beautiful and pleasant land, a land of pure water.
    ...
    19 And it came to pass that they began to prosper exceedingly in the land; and they called the land Helam.
    20 And it came to pass that they did multiply and prosper exceedingly in the land of Helam; and they built a city, which they called the city of Helam.
    ...
    25 For behold, it came to pass that while they were in the land of Helam, yea, in the city of Helam, while tilling the land round about, behold an army of the Lamanites was in the borders of the land.
    26 Now it came to pass that the brethren of Alma fled from their fields, and gathered themselves together in the city of Helam; and they were much frightened because of the appearance of the Lamanites.
    27 But Alma went forth and stood among them, and exhorted them that they should not be frightened, but that they should remember the Lord their God and he would deliver them.
    28 Therefore they hushed their fears, and began to cry unto the Lord that he would soften the hearts of the Lamanites, that they would spare them, and their wives, and their children.
    29 And it came to pass that the Lord did soften the hearts of the Lamanites. And Alma and his brethren went forth and delivered themselves up into their hands; and the Lamanites took possession of the land of Helam.
    30 Now the armies of the Lamanites, which had followed after the people of king Limhi, had been lost in the wilderness for many days.
    31 And behold, they had found those priests of king Noah, in a place which they called Amulon; and they had begun to possess the land of Amulon and had begun to till the ground.
    32 Now the name of the leader of those priests was Amulon.
    33 And it came to pass that Amulon did plead with the Lamanites; and he also sent forth their wives, who were the daughters of the Lamanites, to plead with their brethren, that they should not destroy their husbands.
    34 And the Lamanites had compassion on Amulon and his brethren, and did not destroy them, because of their wives.
    35 And Amulon and his brethren did join the Lamanites, and they were traveling in the wilderness in search of the land of Nephi when they discovered the land of Helam, which was possessed by Alma and his brethren.
    36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites promised unto Alma and his brethren, that if they would show them the way which led to the land of Nephi that they would grant unto them their lives and their liberty.
    37 But after Alma had shown them the way that led to the land of Nephi the Lamanites would not keep their promise; but they set guards round about the land of Helam, over Alma and his brethren.
    38 And the remainder of them went to the land of Nephi; and a part of them returned to the land of Helam, and also brought with them the wives and the children of the guards who had been left in the land.
    39 And the king of the Lamanites had granted unto Amulon that he should be a king and a ruler over his people, who were in the land of Helam; nevertheless he should have no power to do anything contrary to the will of the king of the Lamanites.
  2. Mosiah 27:16 Mosiah 27
    16 Now I say unto thee: Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them; for they were in bondage, and he has delivered them. And now I say unto thee, Alma, go thy way, and seek to destroy the church no more, that their prayers may be answered, and this even if thou wilt of thyself be cast off.
  3. Alma 24:1,20-23 Alma 24
    1 And it came to pass that the Amlicites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amlicites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren.
    ...
    20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness.
    21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.
    22 And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God.
    23 And now the Lord said unto Alma: Haste thee and get thou and this people out of this land, for the Lamanites have awakened and do pursue thee; therefore get thee out of this land, and I will stop the Lamanites in this valley that they come no further in pursuit of this people.

Icon
image
Waters of Mormon in relation to Helam and valley of Alma.
Icon
image
Aerial view of the valley of Alma, and in the background, the city of Helam .Distance from Helam to the valley of Alma shown is only 6 miles. See also Interpretation Rule 4 and Application Rule 10. AR10 allows for up to 32 miles a day for a boat on the river so this journey is well within that limit. For a single day journey, some time must also be allowed for embarking and disembarking their flocks and grain (Mosiah 24:18).

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Hermounts
 ≡ [Hermounts] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {wilderness1} ≈ IR1 IR4
⥅[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {wild beasts1} ≈ IR4
↹[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} ≈ IR4 AR1
➢[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} ≈ IR4 AR1
↹[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city1} ≈ IR4 AR1
➢[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <northwest of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city1} ≈ IR4

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Of interest, all directions in the Book of Mormon abridgment are stated in only one of the four cardinal directions, with Hermounts being the only exception as being both north and west of Zarahemla. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation Rules of Interpretation for explanation on the use of the term "wilderness" which is any place unfit for permanent habitation. It is used with river bottom land flood plain areas but in this case it is also because of the wild beasts that inhabit the area. See also the Amlicite war and diagrams in Section 4.4.2 Amlicite War - Battle of Zarahemla. See also Section 3.4.4.br>
Modern Wilderness Location: Starting with the area south of 256th Street in Lee County, Iowa. Geolocation: 40.602333,-91.443312

Placement Rational: Hermounts is explicitly stated as being a wilderness north and west of Zarahemla (Montrose IA at this early period) so it is not difficult to place.

  1. Alma 2:26-28,35-38Alma 2
    26 And it came to pass that the people of Nephi took their tents, and departed out of the valley of Gideon towards their city, which was the city of Zarahemla.
    27 And behold, as they were crossing the river Sidon, the Lamanites and the Amlicites, being as numerous almost, as it were, as the sands of the sea, came upon them to destroy them.
    28 Nevertheless, the Nephites being strengthened by the hand of the Lord, having prayed mightily to him that he would deliver them out of the hands of their enemies, therefore the Lord did hear their cries, and did strengthen them, and the Lamanites and the Amlicites did fall before them.
    ...
    35 And it came to pass that when they had all crossed the river Sidon that the Lamanites and the Amlicites began to flee before them, notwithstanding they were so numerous that they could not be numbered.
    36 And they fled before the Nephites towards the wilderness which was west and north, away beyond the borders of the land; and the Nephites did pursue them with their might, and did slay them.
    37 Yea, they were met on every hand, and slain and driven, until they were scattered on the west, and on the north, until they had reached the wilderness, which was called Hermounts; and it was that part of the wilderness which was infested by wild and ravenous beasts.
    38 And it came to pass that many died in the wilderness of their wounds, and were devoured by those beasts and also the vultures of the air; and their bones have been found, and have been heaped up on the earth.

Icon
image
Aerial view of the region of Zarahemla. Looking west with Hermounts to the north and west of Zarahemla.
Icon
image
Location of the wilderness of Hermounts, south and west of Zarahemla.
Icon
image
Map showing nearby regions of Zarahemla, including Hermounts.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Heshlon
 ≡ [Heshlon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {plains1} ≈ AR3
↹[Heshlon]{plains} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gilgal]{valley1} ≈ AR3

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: We only know that the plains of Heshlon are close to Gilgal. So we know the general area and the topography fits.

Modern Feature Location: Somewhat east of Echo River (town name), Ontario. Geolocation: 46.509090,-84.037945

Placement Rational: The proposed location is the place that is close to the plains of Gilgal, based on the topography of the area.
  1. Ether 13:27-30Ether 13
    27 And it came to pass that Coriantumr was exceedingly angry with Shared, and he went against him with his armies to battle; and they did meet in great anger, and they did meet in the valley of Gilgal; and the battle became exceedingly sore.
    28 And it came to pass that Shared fought against him for the space of three days. And it came to pass that Coriantumr beat him, and did pursue him until he came to the plains of Heshlon.
    29 And it came to pass that Shared gave him battle again upon the plains; and behold, he did beat Coriantumr, and drove him back again to the valley of Gilgal.
    30 And Coriantumr gave Shared battle again in the valley of Gilgal, in which he beat Shared and slew him.
    31 And Shared wounded Coriantumr in his thigh, that he did not go to battle again for the space of two years, in which time all the people upon the face of the land were shedding blood, and there was none to restrain them.



Icon
image
Showing the proposed location for the plains of Heshlon.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : Heth
 ≡ [Heth] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} ≈ AR3
↹[Heth]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moron]{land1+2} ≈ AR1 AR3

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Topographically the most strategic location would be on the modern border between Upper Michigan and Ontario Canada, and the same place that the Mormon's Nephites chose as a strategic and defensible position, called Desolation2

Modern Land Location: St Josephs Island, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.218502,-83.957379

Placement Rational: Regarding Heth, we know only that it is the location of a rival kingdom to the one in Moron. It appears that it was in close proximity also since the new king Jared was able to "flatter" many people from his fathers kingdom to join his. It makes some sense that the Heth would be in a close but strategic location, and easy to travel to.

  1. Ether 7:5,6,15-17Ether 7
    5 And when he had gathered together an army he came up unto the land of Moron where the king dwelt, and took him captive, which brought to pass the saying of the brother of Jared that they would be brought into captivity.
    6 Now the land of Moron, where the king dwelt, was near the land which is called Desolation by the Nephites.
    ...
    15 And it came to pass that Noah rebelled against Shule, the king, and also his father Corihor, and drew away Cohor his brother, and also all his brethren and many of the people.
    16 And he gave battle unto Shule, the king, in which he did obtain the land of their first inheritance; and he became a king over that part of the land.
    17 And it came to pass that he gave battle again unto Shule, the king; and he took Shule, the king, and carried him away captive into Moron.


  2. Ether 8:1,2Ether 8
    1 And it came to pass that he begat Omer, and Omer reigned in his stead. And Omer begat Jared; and Jared begat sons and daughters.
    2 And Jared rebelled against his father, and came and dwelt in the land of Heth. And it came to pass that he did flatter many people, because of his cunning words, until he had gained the half of the kingdom.

Icon
image
The land of Heth, same as the Nephite Desolation2.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : HillNorthOfShilom
 ≡ [HillNorthOfShilom] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1,2} ≈ AR3
↹[HillNorthOfShilom]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city1}
↹[HillNorthOfShilom]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1} ≈ IR4
➢[HillNorthOfShilom]{hill} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Shilom]{land1,2}

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The Hill north of Shilom has no specific name so I designate it HillNorthOfShilom.

Modern Hill Location: Old Frenchtown, St Louis, Missouri. Geolocation: 38.616700,-90.201686

Placement Rational: It would be the highest spot with the best view and yet still close to the river -- and where the original French settlers established St Louis.

  1. Mosiah 7:3-7,16Mosiah 7
    3 And it came to pass that on the morrow they started to go up, having with them one Ammon, he being a strong and mighty man, and a descendant of Zarahemla; and he was also their leader.
    4 And now, they knew not the course they should travel in the wilderness to go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi; therefore they wandered many days in the wilderness, even forty days did they wander.
    5 And when they had wandered forty days they came to a hill, which is north of the land of Shilom, and there they pitched their tents.
    6 And Ammon took three of his brethren, and their names were Amaleki, Helem, and Hem, and they went down into the land of Nephi.
    7 And behold, they met the king of the people who were in the land of Nephi, and in the land of Shilom; and they were surrounded by the king's guard, and were taken, and were bound, and were committed to prison.
    ...
    16 And now, king Limhi commanded his guards that they should no more bind Ammon nor his brethren, but caused that they should go to hill which was north of Shilom, and bring their brethren into the city, that thereby they might eat, and drink, and rest themselves from the labors of their journey; for they had suffered many things; they had suffered hunger, thirst, and fatigue.
  2. Mosiah 11:8-13Mosiah 11
    8 And it came to pass that king Noah built many elegant and spacious buildings; and he ornamented them with fine work of wood, and of all manner of precious things, of gold, and of silver, and of iron, and of brass, and of ziff, and of copper;
    9 And he also built him a spacious palace, and a throne in the midst thereof, all of which was of fine wood and was ornamented with gold and silver and with precious things.
    10 And he also caused that his workmen should work all manner of fine work within the walls of the temple, of fine wood, and of copper, and of brass.
    11 And the seats which were set apart for the high priests, which were above all the other seats, he did ornament with pure gold; and he caused a breastwork to be built before them, that they might rest their bodies and their arms upon while they should speak lying and vain words to his people.
    12 And it came to pass that he built a tower near the temple; yea, a very high tower, even so high that he could stand upon the top thereof and overlook the land of Shilom, and also the land of Shemlon, which was possessed by the Lamanites; and he could even look over all the land round about.
    13 And it came to pass that he caused many buildings to be built in the land Shilom; and he caused a great tower to be built on the hill north of the land Shilom, which had been a resort for the children of Nephi at the time they fled out of the land; and thus he did do with the riches which he obtained by the taxation of his people.

Icon
image
View of Shilom and the hill north of Shilom, looking north.
Icon
image
View of Shilom and the hill north of Shilom, looking west.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : HillManti
 ≡ [HillManti] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill2}
↹[HillManti]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,2}
⥅[HillManti]{hill} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {execution of Nehor1,2}
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: There is no indication that the hill Manti has any connection with the land/city of Manti.

Modern City Location: Bluff Park, Iowa. Geolocation: 40.527976,-91.404060

Placement Rational: With Zarahemla being the capital city, it is most likely near the location of the judgement seat to which Nehor was brought. Therefore the place of execution, the hill Manti, would likely also be nearby. The hill chosen is the most prominent at the approach to Zarahemla from the south.

  1. Helaman 7:1,8:26-27,9:1-2Helaman 7
    1 Behold, now it came to pass in the sixty and ninth year of the reign of the judges over the people of the Nephites, that Nephi, the son of Helaman, returned to the land of Zarahemla from the land northward.
    ...
    Helaman 8
    26 Yea, even at this time ye are ripening, because of your murders and your fornication and wickedness, for everlasting destruction; yea, and except ye repent it will come unto you soon.
    27 Yea, behold it is now even at your doors; yea, go ye in unto the judgment-seat, and search; and behold, your judge is murdered, and he lieth in his blood; and he hath been murdered by his brother, who seeketh to sit in the judgment-seat.
    ...
    Helaman 9
    1 Behold, now it came to pass that when Nephi had spoken these words, certain men who were among them ran to the judgment-seat; yea, even there were five who went, and they said among themselves, as they went:
    2 Behold, now we will know of a surety whether this man be a prophet and God hath commanded him to prophesy such marvelous things unto us. Behold, we do not believe that he hath; yea, we do not believe that he is a prophet; nevertheless, if this thing which he has said concerning the chief judge be true, that he be dead, then will we believe that the other words which he has spoken are true.
  2. Alma 1:2,8-10,13-15Alma 1
    2 And it came to pass that in the first year of the reign of Alma in the judgment-seat, there was a man brought before him to be judged, a man who was large, and was noted for his much strength. ...
    8 Now the name of the man was Gideon; and it was he who was an instrument in the hands of God in delivering the people of Limhi out of bondage.
    9 Now, because Gideon withstood him with the words of God he was wroth with Gideon, and drew his sword and began to smite him. Now Gideon being stricken with many years, therefore he was not able to withstand his blows, therefore he was slain by the sword.
    10 And the man who slew him was taken by the people of the church, and was brought before Alma, to be judged according to the crimes which he had committed.
    ...
    13 And thou hast shed the blood of a righteous man, yea, a man who has done much good among this people; and were we to spare thee his blood would come upon us for vengeance.
    14 Therefore thou art condemned to die, according to the law which has been given us by Mosiah, our last king; and it has been acknowledged by this people; therefore this people must abide by the law.
    15 And it came to pass that they took him; and his name was Nehor; and they carried him upon the top of the hill Manti, and there he was caused, or rather did acknowledge, between the heavens and the earth, that what he had taught to the people was contrary to the word of God; and there he suffered an ignominious death.

Icon
image
Aerial view showing location of hill Manti just south of Zarahemla.
Icon
image
Topographical map showing hill Manti.
Icon
image
View from top of hill Manti. Brown river shading shows aproximate extent prior to Keokuk dam.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Ishmael
 ≡ [Ishmael] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,5,6,7} ≈ AR1 AR3
⊚[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Sebus]{waters1}
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1} ≈ IR4
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city5}
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land2,3,4,5}
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land6} ≈ AR5
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city5}
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1,4,7}
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land5}
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land5}
↹[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shimnilom]{city5}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Ishmael is in the heartland of Lamanite territory near the land of Nephi of about 76 BC. See Section 4.3.3 Missionary Journeys of Ammon and Sons of Mosiah.

Modern Land Location: St Charles, Missouri. Geolocation: 38.778436,-90.482712

Placement Rational: We know about Ishmael because of the missionary journeys of the sons of Mosiah. It was their first Lamanite city encountered in the trip from Zarahemla, where Ammon departed from his fellow missionaries after their (water) journey from Zarahemla.

  1. Alma 17:7-8,13,18-21,26,34Alma 17
    7 Nevertheless they departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and took their swords, and their spears, and their bows, and their arrows, and their slings; and this they did that they might provide food for themselves while in the wilderness.
    8 And thus they departed into the wilderness with their numbers which they had selected, to go up to the land of Nephi, to preach the word of God unto the Lamanites.
    ...
    13 And it came to pass when they had arrived in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, that they separated themselves and departed one from another, trusting in the Lord that they should meet again at the close of their harvest; for they supposed that great was the work which they had undertaken.
    ...
    17 Therefore they separated themselves one from another, and went forth among them, every man alone, according to the word and power of God which was given unto him.
    18 Now Ammon being the chief among them, or rather he did administer unto them, and he departed from them, after having blessed them according to their several stations, having imparted the word of God unto them, or administered unto them before his departure; and thus they took their several journeys throughout the land.
    19 And Ammon went to the land of Ishmael, the land being called after the sons of Ishmael, who also became Lamanites.
    20 And as Ammon entered the land of Ishmael, the Lamanites took him and bound him, as was their custom to bind all the Nephites who fell into their hands, and carry them before the king; and thus it was left to the pleasure of the king to slay them, or to retain them in captivity, or to cast them into prison, or to cast them out of his land, according to his will and pleasure.
    21 And thus Ammon was carried before the king who was over the land of Ishmael; and his name was Lamoni; and he was a descendant of Ishmael.
    26 And after he had been in the service of the king three days, as he was with the Lamanitish servants going forth with their flocks to the place of water, which was called the water of Sebus, and all the Lamanites drive their flocks hither, that they may have water-- ...
    34 Therefore, they did as Ammon commanded them, and he went forth and stood to contend with those who stood by the waters of Sebus; and they were in number not a few.
  2. Alma 20:14-15 Alma 20
    14 Now the father of Lamoni commanded him that he should slay Ammon with the sword. And he also commanded him that he should not go to the land of Middoni, but that he should return with him to the land of Ishmael.
    15 But Lamoni said unto him: I will not slay Ammon, neither will I return to the land of Ishmael, but I go to the land of Middoni that I may release the brethren of Ammon, for I know that they are just men and holy prophets of the true God.
  3. Alma 21:18-21 Alma 21
    18 And it came to pass that Ammon and Lamoni returned from the land of Middoni to the land of Ishmael, which was the land of their inheritance.
    19 And king Lamoni would not suffer that Ammon should serve him, or be his servant.
    20 But he caused that there should be synagogues built in the land of Ishmael; and he caused that his people, or the people who were under his reign, should assemble themselves together.
    21 And he did rejoice over them, and he did teach them many things. And he did also declare unto them that they were a people who were under him, and that they were a free people, that they were free from the oppressions of the king, his father; for that his father had granted unto him that he might reign over the people who were in the land of Ishmael, and in all the land round about.
  4. Alma 22:1,4 Alma 22
    1 Now, as Ammon was thus teaching the people of Lamoni continually, we will return to the account of Aaron and his brethren; for after he departed from the land of Middoni he was led by the Spirit to the land of Nephi, even to the house of the king which was over all the land save it were the land of Ishmael; and he was the father of Lamoni.
    ...
    4 And Aaron said unto the king: Behold, the Spirit of the Lord has called him another way; he has gone to the land of Ishmael, to teach the people of Lamoni.
  5. Alma 23:8-13 Alma 23
    8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord:
    9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael;
    10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni;
    11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi;
    12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom.
    13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites.
  6. Alma 24:5 Alma 24
    24 Now when Ammon and his brethren and all those who had come up with him saw the preparations of the Lamanites to destroy their brethren, they came forth to the land of Midian, and there Ammon met all his brethren; and from thence they came to the land of Ishmael that they might hold a council with Lamoni and also with his brother Anti-Nephi-Lehi, what they should do to defend themselves against the Lamanites.
  7. Alma 25:13 Alma 25
    13 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that they could not overpower the Nephites they returned again to their own land; and many of them came over to dwell in the land of Ishmael and the land of Nephi, and did join themselves to the people of God, who were the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi.

Icon
image
View of Ishmael and nearby cities, looking west.
Icon
image
Ishmael and nearby cities.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jacob
 ≡ [Jacob] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3
⊗[Jacob]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk and buried1,2} ≈ IR2
↹[Jacob]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gimgimno]{city2} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Jacob]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gadiomnah]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3

IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following:
  1. Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about New Albin WI.
  2. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions.
  3. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation Rules of Interpretation.
  4. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today.
  5. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = New Albin, Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross, Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha, Minnesota, and Gimgimno = Red Wing, Minnesota.


Modern City Location: Wabasha, Michigan. Geolocation: 44.377895,-92.022410

Placement Rational: Placement based on Interpretation Rule IR7.

  1. 3 Nephi 1:27 3 Nephi 19
    27 And it came to pass that the ninety and third year did also pass away in peace, save it were for the Gadianton robbers, who dwelt upon the mountains, who did infest the land; for so strong were their holds and their secret places that the people could not overpower them; therefore they did commit many murders, and did do much slaughter among the people.
  2. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9
    8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.

Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, Gimgimno and Gilgal. These cities destroyed by being sunk at the coming of Christ.
Icon
image
The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno in an aerial view looking to the northeast. These cities destroyed by being sunk.


(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jacobugath
 ≡ [Jacobugath] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2} ≈ IR2 AR1 AR3
⊗[Jacobugath]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {by fire2}
➢[Jacobugath]{city} ⇒ <northernmost> ⇒ {land1}

IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: It could be as far north as Copper Harbor but an actual settlement makes more sense further inland but with good access to Lake Superior. Burned by fire in 34 AD. See Section 3.5.2.

Modern City Location: Hancock, Michigan. Geolocation: 47.126293,-88.587696

Placement Rational: The most northernmost part of the land is the Keweenaw peninsula, which is a key location due to the ore mines found there and thus a strategic location indeed.

  1. 3 Nephi 7:9,12 3 Nephi 7
    9 Now this secret combination, which had brought so great iniquity upon the people, did gather themselves together, and did place at their head a man whom they did call Jacob;
    ...
    12 Therefore, Jacob seeing that their enemies were more numerous than they, he being the king of the band, therefore he commanded his people that they should take their flight into the northernmost part of the land, and there build up unto themselves a kingdom, until they were joined by dissenters, (for he flattered them that there would be many dissenters) and they become sufficiently strong to contend with the tribes of the people; and they did so.
  2. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9
    9 And behold, that great city Jacobugath, which was inhabited by the people of king Jacob, have I caused to be burned with fire because of their sins and their wickedness, which was above all the wickedness of the whole earth, because of their secret murders and combinations; for it was they that did destroy the peace of my people and the government of the land; therefore I did cause them to be burned, to destroy them from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up unto me any more against them.

Icon
image
Map with Jacobugath. This strategic location is the furthest north of all Nephite cities. See Section 3.5.2.
Icon
image
View of the Keweenaw peninsula that extends into Lake Superior. The Keweenaw Waterway flows north and the Portage river goes south.
Icon
image
Ancient copper mining on the Keweenaw peninsula.
Icon
image
Topography of Keweenaw peninsula.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Jaredite Era [~2170 BC to ~550 BC] : JarediteLandSouthward
 ≡ [JarediteLandSouthward] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2} ≈ AR3
⊚[JarediteLandSouthward]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1}
➢[JarediteLandSouthward]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage2}
➢[JarediteLandSouthward]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{land2}
➢[JarediteLandSouthward]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [OreMines]{place2} ≈ AR3
➢[JarediteLandSouthward]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [GreatJarediteCity]{city2} ≈ AR3

AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: According to the text, the Jaredites did not migrate to the southern areas, containing later the Nephites and Lamanites, but rather reserved these areas as a game reserve. Early on they had some kind of issue with poisonous serpents in these regions also.

Modern Land Location: Wisconsin, Illinois, eastern Iowa, Indiana, Ohio. Geolocation: 42.313676,-89.331906 | 39.252635,-90.580376

Placement Rational: Knowing that Zarahemla was south of Jaredites a useful indicator that Jaredites dwelt in upper Michigan and Ontario.

  1. Ether 9:31-32Ether 9
    31 And there came forth poisonous serpents also upon the face of the land, and did poison many people. And it came to pass that their flocks began to flee before the poisonous serpents, towards the land southward, which was called by the Nephites Zarahemla.
    32 And it came to pass that there were many of them which did perish by the way; nevertheless, there were some which fled into the land southward.


  2. Ether 10:19-21Ether 8
    19 And it came to pass that Lib also did that which was good in the sight of the Lord. And in the days of Lib the poisonous serpents were destroyed. Wherefore they did go into the land southward, to hunt food for the people of the land, for the land was covered with animals of the forest. And Lib also himself became a great hunter. 20 And they built a great city by the narrow neck of land, by the place where the sea divides the land.
    21 And they did preserve the land southward for a wilderness, to get game. And the whole face of the land northward was covered with inhabitants.

Icon
image
Jaredite land southward. Reserved for game.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Jashon
 ≡ [Jashon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2} ≈ AR1 AR3
 ≡ [Jashon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2} ≈ AR3
➢[Jashon]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land2}
↹[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1+2}
↹[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Joshua]{land2}
➢[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land2}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The city Jashon is mentioned as being near the hill where Ammaron had deposited the Nephite records (hill Shim).

Modern City Location: Peninsula west end of Lake George, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.504515,-84.086433

Modern Land Location: Lowlands north, northeast and northwest of Lake George, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.513385,-84.096790

Placement Rational: Jashon must be in or near the land of Antum since Shim is in Antum. Jashon is placed north of Shim and Antum at the most natural place available, which is where the Garden River flows and empties into the St Marys river.

  1. Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1
    1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon.
    2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe;
    3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people.
    4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people.
    5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me.
  2. Mormon 2:16,17Mormon 2
    5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David.
    6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore.
    ...
    16 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and forty and fifth year the Nephites did begin to flee before the Lamanites; and they were pursued until they came even to the land of Jashon, before it was possible to stop them in their retreat.
    17 And now, the city of Jashon was near the land where Ammaron had deposited the records unto the Lord, that they might not be destroyed. And behold I had gone according to the word of Ammaron, and taken the plates of Nephi, and did make a record according to the words of Ammaron.
    ...
    20 And it came to pass that in this year the people of Nephi again were hunted and driven. And it came to pass that we were driven forth until we had come northward to the land which was called Shem.
    21 And it came to pass that we did fortify the city of Shem, and we did gather in our people as much as it were possible, that perhaps we might save them from destruction.

Icon
image
View of Jashon and surrounding areas of conflict circa 326-380 AD. Looking north.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jershon
 ≡ [Jershon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city6} ≈ AR1 AR3
 ≡ [Jershon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,5,6}
 ∥ [Jershon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Antionum]{land4}
 ∥ [Jershon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1} ≈ AR4
↹[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1}
↹[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Melek]{land5}
➢[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Antionum]{land4}
⇹[Jershon]{land}~[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <separated by> ⇒ {wilderness1,2} ≈ AR4
➢[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1} ≈ AR4

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Jershon is a large land area in the center of Nephite territory with the City of Jershon at the southern tip. For map of the migrations of the People of Ammon, see Section 4.4.4 The People of Ammon - Migrations. Jershon extended far north and then to the East Sea (Lake Michigan). The city of Jershon is placed where the Iowa River meets the Rock Island river.

Modern City Location: Rock Island, Illinois. Geolocation: 41.489805,-90.585611

Modern Land Location: Starting in Rock Island, Illinois and running through central Wisconsin. Geolocation: 43.829223,-89.012672

Placement Rational: When the Nephites ceded this land to the People of Ammon, they gave up a vast but sparsely populated area in the center of their lands, the least exposed areas to attack. The area outlined for Jershon fits perfectly with this description.

  1. Alma 27:22-26 Alma 27
    22 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came, saying: Behold, we will give up the land of Jershon, which is on the east by the sea, which joins the land Bountiful, which is on the south of the land Bountiful; and this land Jershon is the land which we will give unto our brethren for an inheritance.
    23 And behold, we will set our armies between the land Jershon and the land Nephi, that we may protect our brethren in the land Jershon; and this we do for our brethren, on account of their fear to take up arms against their brethren lest they should commit sin; and this their great fear came because of their sore repentance which they had, on account of their many murders and their awful wickedness.
    24 And now behold, this will we do unto our brethren, that they may inherit the land Jershon; and we will guard them from their enemies with our armies, on condition that they will give us a portion of their substance to assist us that we may maintain our armies.
    25 Now, it came to pass that when Ammon had heard this, he returned to the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, and also Alma with him, into the wilderness, where they had pitched their tents, and made known unto them all these things. And Alma also related unto them his conversion, with Ammon and Aaron, and his brethren.
    26 And it came to pass that it did cause great joy among them. And they went down into the land of Jershon, and took possession of the land of Jershon; and they were called by the Nephites the people of Ammon; therefore they were distinguished by that name ever after.
  2. Alma 28:1,8 Alma 28
    1 And now it came to pass that after the people of Ammon were established in the land of Jershon, and a church also established in the land of Jershon, and the armies of the Nephites were set round about the land of Jershon, yea, in all the borders round about the land of Zarahemla; behold the armies of the Lamanites had followed their brethren into the wilderness.
    ...
    8 And this is the account of Ammon and his brethren, their journeyings in the land of Nephi, their sufferings in the land, their sorrows, and their afflictions, and their incomprehensible joy, and the reception and safety of the brethren in the land of Jershon. And now may the Lord, the Redeemer of all men, bless their souls forever.
  3. Alma 30:1,6,19 Alma 30
    1 Behold, now it came to pass that after the people of Ammon were established in the land of Jershon, yea, and also after the Lamanites were driven out of the land, and their dead were buried by the people of the land--
    ...
    6 But it came to pass in the latter end of the seventeenth year, there came a man into the land of Zarahemla, and he was Anti-Christ, for he began to preach unto the people against the prophecies which had been spoken by the prophets, concerning the coming of Christ.
    ...
    19 Now this man went over to the land of Jershon also, to preach these things among the people of Ammon, who were once the people of the Lamanites.
  4. Alma 31:3 Alma 31
    3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites.
  5. Alma 35:1,2,6,8,13,14 Alma 35
    1 Now it came to pass that after Amulek had made an end of these words, they withdrew themselves from the multitude and came over into the land of Jershon.
    2 Yea, and the rest of the brethren, after they had preached the word unto the Zoramites, also came over into the land of Jershon.
    ...
    6 And it came to pass that after they had found out the minds of all the people, those who were in favor of the words which had been spoken by Alma and his brethren were cast out of the land; and they were many; and they came over also into the land of Jershon.
    ...
    8 Now the people of the Zoramites were angry with the people of Ammon who were in Jershon, and the chief ruler of the Zoramites, being a very wicked man, sent over unto the people of Ammon desiring them that they should cast out of their land all those who came over from them into their land.
    ...
    13 And the people of Ammon departed out of the land of Jershon, and came over into the land of Melek, and gave place in the land of Jershon for the armies of the Nephites, that they might contend with the armies of the Lamanites and the armies of the Zoramites; and thus commenced a war betwixt the Lamanites and the Nephites, in the eighteenth year of the reign of the judges; and an account shall be given of their wars hereafter.
    14 And Alma, and Ammon, and their brethren, and also the two sons of Alma returned to the land of Zarahemla, after having been instruments in the hands of God of bringing many of the Zoramites to repentance; and as many as were brought to repentance were driven out of their land; but they have lands for their inheritance in the land of Jershon, and they have taken up arms to defend themselves, and their wives, and children, and their lands.
  6. Alma 43:4-5,15 Alma 43
    4 For behold, it came to pass that the Zoramites became Lamanites; therefore, in the commencement of the eighteenth year the people of the Nephites saw that the Lamanites were coming upon them; therefore they made preparations for war; yea, they gathered together their armies in the land of Jershon.
    5 And it came to pass that the Lamanites came with their thousands; and they came into the land of Antionum, which is the land of the Zoramites; and a man by the name of Zerahemnah was their leader.
    ...
    15 And it came to pass as the armies of the Lamanites had gathered together in the land of Antionum, behold, the armies of the Nephites were prepared to meet them in the land of Jershon.
    ...
    25 Now Moroni, leaving a part of his army in the land of Jershon, lest by any means a part of the Lamanites should come into that land and take possession of the city, took the remaining part of his army and marched over into the land of Manti.

Icon
image
Map with Jershon and surrounding areas.
Icon
image
Aerial view of the city of Jershon and the land area outlined in orange. Looking north.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jerusalem
 ≡ [Jerusalem] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2} ≈ IR2
 ≡ [Jerusalem] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,3} ≈ IR2 AR1 AR3
⊗[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {waters coming up3}
↹[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land2} ≈ IR6
↹[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land1}
↹[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mocum]{city3}
↹[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mormon]{land1}
↹[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Onihah]{city3} ≈ IR7
∑ [Jerusalem]{city}~[Ani-Anti]{village} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {.5 days1} ≈ IR6 AR6 D5
⥅[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {Amlicites1,2}
⥅[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {Amulonites1,2}
⥅[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <has> ⇒ {Lamanites1}
 ∥ [Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Mormon]{land1}
↹[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land2} ≈ IR6
↹[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Helam]{land1}
↹[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land2}
↹[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land2}

IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" or "came forth to" or "went to" means less than one day.
IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
AR10Maximum water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 4 mph.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: According to Royal Skousen, everywhere in the Book of Mormon where it says Amalekites, it should read Amlicites. See IR2 in Section 3.4 Entity Relationship Table Rules of Interpretation. Amlicites built the city of Jerusalem and named it after the Jerusalem in the old world. See also Section 4.3.3 Missionary Journeys of Ammon and Sons of Mosiah.

Modern City Location: Mississippi River Greenway, St Louis, Missouri. Geolocation: 38.533281,-90.262703

Modern Land Location: Mississippi River Greenway, St Louis, Missouri and north between the Meramec River and the Mississippi River. Geolocation: 38.419214,-90.330980

Placement Rational: Placement based on the missionary Journeys of Ammon and Sons of Mosiah for the city of Jerusalem which helps to pin-point the location.

  1. Alma 21:1-2,4,11-13,18,20 Alma 21
    1 Now when Ammon and his brethren separated themselves in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, behold Aaron took his journey towards the land which was called by the Lamanites, Jerusalem, calling it after the land of their fathers' nativity; and it was away joining the borders of Mormon.
    2 Now the Lamanites and the Amlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city , which was called Jerusalem.
    ...
    4 And it came to pass that Aaron came to the city of Jerusalem, and first began to preach to the Amlicites. And he began to preach to them in their synagogues, for they had built synagogues after the order of the Nehors; for many of the Amlicites and the Amulonites were after the order of the Nehors.
    ...
    11 Therefore, when he saw that they would not hear his words, he departed out of their synagogue, and came over to a village which was called Ani-Anti, and there he found Muloki preaching the word unto them; and also Ammah and his brethren. And they contended with many about the word.
    12 And it came to pass that they saw that the people would harden their hearts, therefore they departed and came over into the land of Middoni. And they did preach the word unto many, and few believed on the words which they taught.
    13 Nevertheless, Aaron and a certain number of his brethren were taken and cast into prison, and the remainder of them fled out of the land of Middoni unto the regions round about. ...
    ...
    18 And it came to pass that Ammon and Lamoni returned from the land of Middoni to the land of Ishmael, which was the land of their inheritance.
    ...
    20 And it came to pass that their brethren, the Lamanites, made preparations for war, and came up to the land of Nephi for the purpose of destroying the king, and to place another in his stead, and also of destroying the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi out of the land.
  2. Alma 24:1 Alma 24
    1 And it came to pass that the Amlicites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amlicites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren.
  3. 3 Nephi:9-7 3 Nephi
    7 Yea, and the city of Onihah and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Mocum and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Jerusalem and the inhabitants thereof; and waters have I caused to come up in the stead thereof, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints shall not come up any more unto me against them.

Icon
image
View of Jerusalem and nearby cities, looking north.
Icon
image
Jerusalem and nearby cities.
Icon
image
View of Jerusalem and nearby cities, looking west.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Jordan
 ≡ [Jordan] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city3} ≈ AR1 AR3
↹[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city2,3}
↹[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city2,3}
↹[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land2,3}
↹[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city2,3}
↹[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill2,3}
↹[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: Antum is mentioned because Mormon travels there, most likely by water, (the hill Shim is in the land of Antum) to retrieve the plates. See Section 4.8.2 War in Land of Desolation. In comparison to Desolation the sites of Boaz and Jordon are less defensible. However then a treaty deal is struck for the all the Nephites to gather, unimpeded, to the land of Cumorah, which is the gateway to the west from the Atlantic seaboard.

Modern City Location: Blind River, Ontario, Canada. Geolocation: 46.185331,-82.954888

Placement Rational: After the tremendous battles and tide-turning defeat at Desolation, the Nephites who are with Mormon retreat east, away from the losing battle at Desolation, first to Boaz and then to Jordan. These two locations are near the water and accessible to each other by land and by sea.

  1. Mormon 1:1-3Mormon 1
    1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon.
    2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe;
    3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people.
  2. Mormon 4:1-9,19-23 Mormon 4
    1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation.
    2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners.
    3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation.
    4 And it was because the armies of the Nephites went up unto the Lamanites that they began to be smitten; for were it not for that, the Lamanites could have had no power over them.
    5 But, behold, the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished; for it is the wicked that stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed.
    6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum.
    7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also.
    8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation.
    9 And now all these things had been done, and there had been thousands slain on both sides, both the Nephites and the Lamanites.
    ...
    19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites.
    20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time.
    21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols.
    22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages.
    23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord.
  3. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5
    3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time.
    4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land.
    5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away.

Icon
image
View of Jordan and surrounding areas of conflict circa 326-380 AD. Looking north.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Josh
 ≡ [Josh] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR3
↹[Josh]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Laman]{city1}
↹[Josh]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gad]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
⊗[Josh]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {by fire1}

IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in connection with being destroyed by fire in connection with the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following reasons:
  1. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation
  2. It can reasonably be inferred that the first city, Laman, is in Lamanite territory.
  3. There is only two general areas mentioned as having a major Lamanite population where no cities have been identified at all via the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.4 Entity Relationship Table. That location is west of Nephi and west of Zarahemla which is populated with Lamanites according to Mormon. See Alma 22:28 in Section 4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands.
  4. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation and starting on the Missouri river west of the land of Nephi, we start with the best topographical location for cities that border the Missouri river.
  5. From steps 1-4, we get the following result: Laman = Jefferson City MO, Josh = Kansas City MO, Gad = Omaha NB. In the case of Kishcumen, we know that cities are named after the founder/first inhabitant and in the case of Kishcumen, we know he fled from Zarahemla and it makes the most sense that he would flee northwest via the Des Moines river to be away from major populations of both Nephites and Lamanites in order to find his own space, as he is a founder of the Gadianton robbers. So Kishcumen aligns best with Des Moines IO.


Modern City Location: Kansas City, Missouri. Geolocation: 4279,-94.591733

Placement Rational: Placement based on Interpretation Rule IR7.

  1. 3 Nephi 9:10 3 Nephi 9
    10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishcumen, have I caused to be burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof, because of their wickedness in casting out the prophets, and stoning those whom I did send to declare unto them concerning their wickedness and their abominations.

Icon
image
The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen. These cities destroyed by fire.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Joshua
 ≡ [Joshua] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} ≈ AR1 AR2 AR3
 ∥ [Joshua]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {the west seashore1}
↹[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1}
➢[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Angola]{city1}
➢[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [David]{land1}
➢[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Jashon]{city1}
➢[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1}

AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The journey north for the Nephites involves a lot of soldiers and people over a long distance. They are likely gathering in new people to their group as they go. The text indicates they "marched" to these locations so that rules out any significant travel on Lake Michigan for this large group. We're told that Joshua "is in the borders west by the seashore". Green Bay is the best candidate for this as one can see both the east and west side of Green Bay from either side. Marionette WI is on the center west side of Green Bay where the Menominee river empties into the Green Bay. The Menominee River forms a border between Upper Michigan and Wisconsin.

Modern Land Location: near Racine, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 43.640141,-87.824334

Placement Rational: The Book of Mormon history picks up again nearly 300 years after the coming of Christ. It is to be expected there are new lands and cities with some new names too, and the Book of Mormon narrative seems to indicate that. We do know that the final conflict begins in Zarahemla and that Mormon's army retreats, step by step, to the north countries and end up eventually at Jashon in the land of Desolation. We're not given any details but the Logical Model combined with the topography of the physical provides the most direct and logical routes from Zarahemla Angola to David to Joshua and finally to Jashon in the land of Desolation. The proposed route is to first head north from Zarahemla in the direction of the Mississippi (Sidon) and then north in the direction of the Rock River until reaching Janesville Wisconsin (David), then an overland trip Joshua (Marionette Wisconsin) and finally, the last part of the journey to the city of Jashon (Garden River, Ontario, Canada).

  1. Mormon 2:1-6Mormon 2
    1 And it came to pass in that same year there began to be a war again between the Nephites and the Lamanites. And notwithstanding I being young, was large in stature; therefore the people of Nephi appointed me that I should be their leader, or the leader of their armies.
    2 Therefore it came to pass that in my sixteenth year I did go forth at the head of an army of the Nephites, against the Lamanites; therefore three hundred and twenty and six years had passed away.
    3 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and twenty and seventh year the Lamanites did come upon us with exceedingly great power, insomuch that they did frighten my armies; therefore they would not fight, and they began to retreat towards the north countries.
    4 And it came to pass that we did come to the city of Angola, and we did take possession of the city, and make preparations to defend ourselves against the Lamanites. And it came to pass that we did fortify the city with our might; but notwithstanding all our fortifications the Lamanites did come upon us and did drive us out of the city.
    5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David.
    6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore.

Icon
image
View of Angola, David, Joshua. Nephite retreat path to Desolation.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Judea
 ≡ [Judea] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,3} ≈ AR1 AR3
↹[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city2,4} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city3} ≈ IR7
➢[Judea]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2,3} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
➢[Judea]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1} ≈ IR7

IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The stripling soldiers campaign provides a wealth of information about Judea and the Land of Manti region and the cities in the neighborhood. See also Section 4.5.3 War of Amalickiah - Stripling Soldiers.

Modern City Location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Geolocation: 44.784119,-91.531191

Placement Rational: While Zarahemla is not in the neighborhood, it is a straight shot along the Sidon/Mississippi to travel between the two areas. The Lamanites invaded and held border cities along the Sidon. Therefore Judea, the home base for Helamans men and the stripling soldiers, is placed in the center of Manti along the Chippewa river which joins up with the Sidon.

  1. Alma 53:8-9,22Alma 56
    8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land.
    9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances.
    ...
    22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea.
  2. Alma 56:9,14-15,18 Alma 56
    9 But behold, here is one thing in which we may have great joy. For behold, in the twenty and sixth year, I, Helaman, did march at the head of these two thousand young men to the city of Judea, to assist Antipus, whom ye had appointed a leader over the people of that part of the land.
    ...
    14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah.
    15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city.
  3. Alma 56:18,27-28,31-34,57 Alma 56
    ...
    18 And now it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that Antipus had received a greater strength to his army, they were compelled by the orders of Ammoron to not come against the city of Judea, or against us, to battle.
    ...
    27 And now it came to pass in the second month of this year, there was brought unto us many provisions from the fathers of those my two thousand sons.
    28 And also there were sent two thousand men unto us from the land of Zarahemla. And thus we were prepared with ten thousand men, and provisions for them, and also for their wives and their children.
    ...
    31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore.
    32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city.
    33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah.
    34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous.
    57 And as we had no place for our prisoners, that we could guard them to keep them from the armies of the Lamanites, therefore we sent them to the land of Zarahemla, and a part of those men who were not slain of Antipus, with them; and the remainder I took and joined them to my stripling Ammonites, and took our march back to the city of Judea.
  4. Alma 57:11-12,23-24,30-34 Alma 57
    11 And notwithstanding the Lamanites being cut off from their support after this manner, they were still determined to maintain the city ; therefore it became expedient that we should take those provisions and send them to Judea, and our prisoners to the land of Zarahemla.
    12 And it came to pass that not many days had passed away before the Lamanites began to lose all hopes of succor; therefore they yielded up the city unto our hands; and thus we had accomplished our designs in obtaining the city Cumeni.
    23 And we retained our city Cumeni, and were not all destroyed by the sword; nevertheless, we had suffered great loss.
    ...
    24 And it came to pass that after the Lamanites had fled, I immediately gave orders that my men who had been wounded should be taken from among the dead, and caused that their wounds should be dressed.
    ...
    30 And now, these are the words which Gid said unto me: Behold, we did start to go down to the land of Zarahemla with our prisoners. And it came to pass that we did meet the spies of our armies, who had been sent out to watch the camp of the Lamanites.
    31 And they cried unto us, saying--Behold, the armies of the Lamanites are marching towards the city of Cumeni; and behold, they will fall upon them, yea, and will destroy our people.
    32 And it came to pass that our prisoners did hear their cries, which caused them to take courage; and they did rise up in rebellion against us.
    33 And it came to pass because of their rebellion we did cause that our swords should come upon them. And it came to pass that they did in a body run upon our swords, in the which, the greater number of them were slain; and the remainder of them broke through and fled from us.
    34 And behold, when they had fled and we could not overtake them, we took our march with speed towards the city Cumeni; and behold, we did arrive in time that we might assist our brethren in preserving the city.

Icon
image
Aerial view of cities in the land of Manti, showing Judea, south of the west sea. Looking north.
Icon
image
Aerial view of Judea and other cities in the land of Manti.

(Click/Touch, Swipe and Hold — for pictures)
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Kishcumen
 ≡ [Kishcumen] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3
⊗[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {by fire1}
↹[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gad]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3
↹[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1,2} ≈ IR4
⊘[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <not in> ⇒ {Nephite lands2}

IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.
IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.
IR7When cities are listed, the order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).
AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
AR3Present day cities, towns, features and topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.
Click icon for page navigation instructions: image
Comment: The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in connection with being destroyed by fire in connection with the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following reasons:
  1. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation Rules of Interpretation.
  2. It can reasonably be inferred that the first city, Laman, is in Lamanite territory.
  3. There is only two general areas mentioned as having a major Lamanite population where no cities have been identified at all via the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.4 Entity Relationship Table. That location is west of Nephi and west of Zarahemla which is populated with Lamanites according to Mormon. See Alma 22:28 in Section 4.2 Mormon's Dissertation on Book Of Mormon Lands.
  4. Using Rule 7 (listed order being bottom-to-top, left to right) as mentioned in Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation and starting on the Missouri river west of the land of Nephi, we start with the best topographical location for cities that border the Missouri river.
  5. From steps 1-4, we get the following result: Laman = Jefferson city MO, Josh = Kansas c