Posted by Kendal (128.147.177.57) on December 12, 2002 at 08:07:45:

In Reply to: Why is Joseph Smith not included among the Manifestations? posted by Stuart Gilman on December 12, 2002 at 05:58:57:

Dear Stuart,

I used to have the same question until I actually read more about Joseph Smith. With all due respect to Mormons, who are devoted and faithful people, the true history of Joseph Smith is less than impressive. There are a number of good books on the subject available in the secular press, many of them written by Mormons or former Mormons. One well-balanced book written by sympathetic journalists is called "Mormon in America". A more controversial book, but apparently historically accurate, is "No Man Knows My History" by Brodie. This was the first book to really question openly the history of the Church and the story of Joseph Smith. In these works, Joseph Smith is portrayed as a gifted and creative individual, but one whose life was less than virtuous in many regards. Also, the entire history of one of the tribes of Israel having come to this continent with Jesus having appeared amongst them is far-fetched in the light of critical inquiry. There is no archaeological evidence for it, nor is there evidence for many of the animals, plants...etc mentioned in the Book of Mormon. Please don't misread me as attacking the Mormon faith. But if we study more about Joseph Smith and the history of the Mormon church, I think it will be more clear why Baha'is do not consider him a prophet. Kendal

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