The Wentworth Letter   By: Joseph Smith (1805-1844)

The Wentworth Letter by Joseph Smith is a profound and introspective account that offers insightful glimpses into the founder's beliefs and the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Through this remarkable letter, Smith presents a comprehensive overview of his experiences with religious persecution, divine revelations, and the restoration of the gospel.

The book exhibits an impressive organization, dividing the narrative into twenty-six succinct sections that tackle various aspects of the author's life. Beginning with Smith's childhood and early spiritual experiences, the letter quickly immerses readers into the world of the young prophet, elucidating the series of events that led to the establishment of the Church. Smith's earnest tone and candid reflections allow readers to fully grasp the immense challenges he faced, both personally and within the context of an antagonistic society.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Wentworth Letter is its elucidation of the unique doctrines and practices that distinguish Mormonism. Smith carefully illustrates the beliefs that set his faith apart from others, including the concept of a modern-day prophet, the Book of Mormon, baptism for the dead, and the eternal nature of marriage. These insights give readers a deeper understanding of the tenets underpinning the religion and the rationale behind its practices.

Smith's prose is eloquent and persuasive, displaying his gift for articulating complex ideas with clarity and precision. His storytelling skills are particularly evident when recounting significant events, such as the receipt of divine revelations or the organization of the Church. While some readers may find the religious content challenging, Smith's passionate and sincere rendering of his spiritual experiences is both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Moreover, The Wentworth Letter provides readers with a valuable historical account of a tumultuous period in American religious history. It documents the persecution and hardships faced by early Mormons, shedding light on the social, political, and religious climate that shaped Mormonism. Smith's firsthand perspective offers a rare glimpse into the challenges faced by religious minorities during the early 19th century, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in American religious studies.

However, it is worth noting that The Wentworth Letter primarily serves as an account of Joseph Smith's personal experiences rather than an objective historical analysis. While the book provides a valuable insight into the mind of the prophet, it is important for readers to approach it with an awareness of its bias.

In conclusion, The Wentworth Letter is a compelling and insightful work that offers readers a comprehensive understanding of Joseph Smith's life, beliefs, and the foundational principles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Smith's sincere and passionate narrative, combined with his astute observations, make this book a valuable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Mormonism's origins and the challenges faced by its early adherents.

First Page:

My father was a farmer and taught me the art of husbandry. When about fourteen years of age I began to reflect upon the importance of being prepared for a future state, and upon enquiring [of] the plan of salvation I found that there was a great clash in religious sentiment; if I went to one society they referred me to one plan, and another to another, each one pointing to his own particular creed as the summum bonum of perfection: considering that all could not be right, and that God could not be the author of so much confusion I determined to investigate the subject more fully, believing that if God had a church it would not be split up into factions, and that if he taught one society to worship one way, and administer in one set of ordinances, He would not teach another, principles which were diametrically opposed... Continue reading book >>