The Stick of Joseph in the Hand of Ephraim

By Restoration Scriptures Foundation

The ancient House of Israel consisted of 12 families, or tribes, named for the 12 sons of Jacob (Israel). Ten of those tribes were conquered, driven from their homelands, and scattered throughout the world. Although their bloodlines continue, they have lost their identity with the House of Israel. The remaining two tribes have retained their ide

• Language: English
• Publisher: Restoration Scriptures Foundation
• Release date: Jun 15, 2020
• ISBN: 9781951168643

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Introduction

The ancient House of Israel consisted of twelve families, or tribes, named for the twelve sons of Jacob (Israel). Ten of those tribes were conquered, driven from their homelands, and scattered throughout the world. Although their bloodlines continue, they have lost their identity with the House of Israel. The remaining two tribes have retained their identity, and are now known as the Jewish people, named for the tribe of Judah.

Over two thousand five hundred years ago, the prophet Ezekiel foretold a future day when the spirit of YHWH would stir the scattered remnants of Israel and restore them to life (Ezek. 37:11–14). He also prophesied of a second scriptural record that would come forth from the tribe of Joseph to Judah, in the hand of Joseph’s son, Ephraim. This record would be used by YHWH to gather all of scattered Israel home to their lands, into one people and one family that He would again call His own (Ezek. 37:15–23; see also Appendix E).

This is that prophesied record.

The Stick of Joseph in the Hand of Ephraim is a sacred, first-temple-period, Israelite text, written by a prophetic family from the tribe of Joseph who fled Jerusalem in 601 BCE, prior to the Babylonian destruction. YHWH led them for years in the wilderness and finally brought them over the wall to the American continent, in fulfillment of Jacob’s final blessing to Joseph (Gen. 49:22).

For a thousand years, these ancient Israelites built their civilization, fought wars, served the God of Israel, and kept sacred records. When their civilization ended in destruction (420 CE), their final prophet, M’roni, hid this record in the ground, to come forth at a future time and begin the prophesied restoration of scattered Israel to its former glory.

This is the only Hebrew Messianic/ascension document in existence that has not been influenced by entanglements with Babylon, Greece, or Rome, because those who kept the record left Jerusalem and the Eastern Hemisphere prior to the Babylonian captivity. It is the most sublime and direct Jewish ascension text in existence.

Initial Discovery and Publication of the Text

In 1820 CE, the God of Israel called a prophet to begin the long-prophesied work of restoration. When He appeared to that prophet, Yosef ben Yosef (Joseph Smith, Jr.), He declared the corruption of all Christian religions and His intent to restore His covenant people. On Rosh Hashanah 5588 (1827 CE), Yosef received this ancient record from an angel at the place where it had been buried for over 1400 years. Yosef received divine power and means to translate the ancient text and publish it to the world.

Yosef ben Yosef first published the text for a Gentile audience, in antiquated English, under a different title. As happened with the Bible, Gentile churches and institutions attempted to claim the book as their own, make profit from it, and use it to gain converts—all while utterly failing to appreciate its authors, purpose, message, or destiny (see 2 Nefi 12:8). For more information about the first published text, see the Appendices at the back of this book.

Although the text itself acknowledges it will convince some few Gentiles to believe in Israel’s God, the text’s main focus is directed to the scattered remnants of the House of Israel, with the stated purpose of restoring the knowledge of YHWH’S covenants and gathering YHWH’S people, in preparation for the time of Mashiach.

Current Translation

Nearly 190 years after the first English translation of the text, YHWH set His hand again the second time to gather His people (Isaiah 11:11) and called servants to prepare and publish the text in its current form, without the encumbrance of Gentile language and concepts. Part of this effort involved removing antiquated English words and expressions, as well as restoring Hebraic terms that would have been used by the original writers. This Hebraic-roots English translation reveals the ancient Hebraic nature of this record and provides a clear understanding of Israel’s God, His work now underway, and the coming age of Mashiach.

The original, intended title of the work has also been restored, as stated by Yosef ben Yosef, who called it The Stick of Joseph in the Hand of Ephraim on multiple, recorded occasions.¹

Numerous footnotes have been added to explain Hebraic concepts, reference language and ideas also found in the Tanakh, and provide deeper understanding and explanations. Many footnotes also provide cross references to other areas of the text to enhance the reader’s understanding. However, the reader should know that the footnotes are not part of the original text and should not be regarded as anything more than the opinions of those preparing this current version for publication. Likewise, because the text is so thoroughly Hebraic in nature, the number of footnotes regarding Hebraisms has been intentionally limited to a few representative cases. A thorough treatment of the Hebraic nature of the text would fill multiple volumes.

Many ideas presented in this ancient work persisted in Jewish thought for thousands of years and appeared again in later Jewish sources. Such sources have been referenced when applicable; see Abbreviations and References in Appendix A for further information. Text found within The Stick of Joseph that also appears in the Tanakh is featured in bold.

A Glossary is provided at the end of the volume, with explanations of Hebraic names and terms.

YHWH, who keeps His covenants, has now decreed the restoration of His people Israel, by sending The Stick of Joseph to Judah in the hand of Ephraim. The glory of this accomplishment belongs to YHWH alone. This is His work and His text, though it came through the hands of imperfect mortals. If there are errors, they are the fault of those who have labored to recover this text.

Purpose and Intent of this Translation

This effort is a direct response to the promise of YHWH that He would restore the House of Israel. Because true worship always requires sacrifice, thousands of dollars and thousands of hours have been freely given to this project on a volunteer basis, without compensation. Those who have contributed their time and means have done so to offer a gift to the world, with no intent other than to obey YHWH and see His covenants fulfilled. Therefore, this book is sold at publisher’s cost, with the specific intent of eliminating any profit. The text is also available at no cost online at www.StickOfJoseph.info.

First published in this form at Rosh Hashanah 5780 (2019 CE), The Stick of Joseph is YHWH’S call to all the House of Israel. He has not forgotten His people, and He invites all to return to Him, remember His covenants with their fathers, obey His commandments, and prepare for the glorious day of Mashiach.

Within this sacred text, YHWH issues a specific warning against those who would attempt to profit financially, elevate themselves above others, or attempt to gain control over others in any way by using this book or its teachings:

He commands that there shall be no priestcrafts; for behold, priestcrafts are that men preach and set themselves up for a light unto the world, that they may get gain and praise of the world, but they seek not the welfare of Tziyon...But the laborer in Tziyon shall labor for Tziyon, for if they labor for money, they shall perish. (2 Nefi 11:17)

This record was originally published separately from any church, assembly, or organization. Therefore, accepting The Stick of Joseph does not require one to be institutionally loyal to any organization, group, or man. It was written unto all nations (see Dedication in Appendix F). Those who believe these words are invited to repent, obey the Mitzvot of YHWH, and be immersed as a sign of acceptance. More information is available at www.StickOfJoseph.info.

The House of Israel, the Jewish People, and The Stick of Joseph

Three major world religions claim Abraham as patriarch. Jews and Christians also acknowledge Abraham’s son, Isaac, and grandson, Jacob, as Abraham’s successors in YHWH’S covenant. Jacob was renamed Israel and given twelve sons who became the twelve tribes or house of Israel. The texts of every Abrahamic religion record the story of the second youngest son, Joseph, who was sold into Egyptian slavery by his brothers and who subsequently saved Israel’s entire family from a decimating famine.

The family of Israel eventually became scattered throughout the world. Most lost their identity and connection to Israel, with the exception of the tribe of Judah, for whom the Jews are named. The tribe of Judah’s tenacity and sacrifice over thousands of years preserved sacred texts, traditions, and teachings going all the way back to the patriarchs. Although the Jews are but one of the twelve tribes, their very name has become synonymous with Israel.

The remaining lost tribes do not know their identity, though they carry the blood of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Prophecy foretells their future return to the family, and promised lands, of Israel. Malachi prophesied that Elijah would come to turn the hearts of the children back to their fathers (Mal. 3:23–24 [4:5–6]). This text is sent in the spirit of Elijah, as part of that mission. Its purpose is to turn the hearts of all the family of Israel, not only to the covenants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but also to Mashiach, who will come.

Both supporters and detractors of the modern state of Israel recognize its founding and growth as a phenomenon without parallel in world history. The book you are now reading boldly predicts a future for Israel beyond what any without the spirit of prophecy could foretell. Those scattered remnants who yet carry the blood of Israel will resonate in a singular way with its message.

Isaiah holds special significance in this text and is quoted extensively by the first prophet-writer, Nefi. This is due to Isaiah’s singular position as a seer who saw and prophesied of our present day. You are encouraged to consider the Isaiah materials in light of the explanations given within this text.

Other first-temple-period prophets are also referenced or quoted by the writers of The Stick of Joseph. Likewise the Torah is quoted, with comments and explanations by the ancient prophet-writers of this work.

A Note of Warning About this Book

The Stick of Joseph in the Hand of Ephraim is not just another book. Rather it is all of the following unique and extraordinary things:

The sounding of the shofar to the scattered tribes of Israel as YHWH’S final attempt to gather His people;

A dire warning to the United States of America and a cry of repentance to the modern state of Israel. Any nation that does not honor the Elohim of Israel will not survive;

An independent witness of the prophets, Mashiach, and the covenants given by YHWH to Israel;

A record of the means whereby all mankind can, as Moses, ascend to stand in the presence of YHWH;

An invitation to believe and receive the promises that YHWH extends to those who will be His people.

As is always the case with Elohim’s work, there will be opposition to this effort. Those who fight against it or say, This is just... or That is not... in an attempt to re-cast this text as something other than what it says it is are dangerously ignorant, wicked, or both. They do not know or honor the God of Abraham who vouches for these words; in fact, they fight against Him. They are trifling with your soul, and if you pay them heed, you will receive only disappointment.

It is true that various forms of this book have been in continuous publication since 1830 CE, and millions of people from dozens of sects have embraced it as holy scripture, but effectively none have comprehended its underlying message, and consequently all have failed to fulfill its purpose or offer it to its intended audience. This translation is unique and fundamentally different than any version that has come before because it is focused entirely on God’s covenant people, to whom He promised this record would be sent.

We, who have prepared this current translation, testify that the God of Israel is the God of all the earth and He has scattered Israel among all people. Yosef ben Yosef was called by the God of Israel to fulfill part of the promises and prophecies made by Him. This book is a record of a branch of Israel and testifies that there are other branches led away by God to places known to God, and these scattered branches, including the keepers of this record, were visited and taught by Mashiach.

A Promise to the Reader

The only way to know the truth of this record is to examine it for yourself. You are invited to study the contents of The Stick of Joseph and to experiment upon M’roni’s petition, found in the final chapter:

Behold, I would exhort you that when you shall read these things, if it be wisdom in Elohim that you should read them, that you would remember how merciful YHWH has been unto the children of men, from the creation of Adam even down until the time that you shall receive these things, and ponder it in your hearts. And when you shall receive these things, I would exhort you that you would ask Elohim the Eternal Father, in the name of Mashiach, if these things are not true. And if you shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Mashiach, and he will manifest the truth of it unto you by the power of the Ruach HaKodesh. And by the power of the Ruach HaKodesh, you may know the truth of all things. (M’roni 10:2)

Elohim, who cannot lie, will keep His word.

_____________

1 Letter to Stephen Post, 17 September 1838, p. 2; Joseph Smith History, Part 19 (April–May 1830) paragraph 7.

ספר נפי הראשון שלטונו ומשרדו

1 NEFI

THE FIRST BOOK OF NEFI HIS REIGN AND MINISTRY

An account of Lechi, and his wife Saryah, and his four sons being called, beginning at the eldest, Laman, L’mu’el, Sam, and Nefi. YHWH warns Lechi to depart out of the land of Yerushalayim because he prophesies unto the people concerning their iniquity and they seek to destroy his life. He takes three days journey into the wilderness with his family. Nefi takes his brothers and returns to the land of Yerushalayim after the record of the Y’hudim. The account of their sufferings. They take the daughters of Yishma’el to wife. They take their families and depart into the wilderness. Their sufferings and afflictions in the wilderness. The course of their travels. They come to the large waters. Nefi’s brothers rebel against him. He confounds them and builds a ship. They call the name of the place Bountiful. They cross the large waters into the promised land, and so forth. This is according to the account of Nefi, or in other words, I, Nefi, wrote this record.

Chapter 1

I, Nefi,¹ having been born of goodly parents, therefore I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father. And having seen many afflictions in the course of my days, nevertheless, having been highly favored of YHWH in all my days, yes, having had a great knowledge of the goodness and the mysteries of Elohim, therefore I make a record of my proceedings in my days. Yes, I make a record in the language² of my father, which consists of the learning of the Y’hudim and the language of the Egyptians. And I know that the record which I make is true; and I make it with my own hand, and I make it according to my knowledge.

² For it came to pass in the commencement of the first year³ of the reign of Tzidkiyahu,⁴ king of Y’hudah — my father Lechi having dwelt at Yerushalayim⁵ in all his days — and in that same year there came many prophets, prophesying unto the people⁶ that they must repent or the great city Yerushalayim must be destroyed.

³ Wherefore, it came to pass that my father Lechi, as he went forth, prayed unto YHWH, yes, even with all his heart in behalf of his people. And it came to pass as he prayed unto YHWH, there came a pillar of fire⁷ and dwelt⁸ upon a rock before him, and he saw and heard much. And because of the things which he saw and heard, he did quake and tremble exceedingly.

The Ma’aseh Merkavah (account of the divine throne-chariot) of Lechi

And it came to pass that he returned to his own house at Yerushalayim. And he cast himself upon his bed, being overcome with the spirit and the things which he had seen. And being thus overcome with the spirit, he was carried away in a vision, even that he saw the Heavens open and he thought he saw Elohim sitting upon his throne, surrounded with numberless concourses of angels in the attitude of singing and praising their Elohim. And it came to pass that he saw one descending out of the midst of Heaven, and he beheld that his luster was above that of the sun at noonday. And he also saw twelve others following him, and their brightness did exceed that of the stars in the firmament. And they came down and went forth upon the face of the earth. And the first came and stood before my father and gave unto him a book and directed him that he should read. And it came to pass that as he read he was filled with the spirit of YHWH. And he read, saying, Woe, woe unto Yerushalayim,⁹ for I have seen your abominations. Yes, and many things did my father read concerning Yerushalayim: that it should be destroyed and the inhabitants thereof; many should perish by the sword and many should be carried away captive into Babylon.¹⁰ And it came to pass that when my father had read and saw many great and marvelous things, he did exclaim many things unto YHWH, such as, Great and marvelous are your works, O Adonai YHWH Tzva’ot! Your throne is high in the Heavens, and your power, and goodness, and mercy are over all the inhabitants of the earth; and because you are merciful, you will not allow those who come¹¹ unto you that they shall perish! And after this manner was the language of my father in the praising of his Elohim, for his soul did rejoice¹² and his whole heart was filled because of the things which he had seen, yes, which YHWH had shown unto him.

⁴ And now I, Nefi, do not make a full account of the things which my father had written, for he has written many things which he saw in visions and in dreams.¹³ And he also has written many things which he prophesied and spoke unto his children, of which I shall not make a full account. But I shall make an account of my proceedings in my days. Behold, I make an abridgment of the record of my father upon plates which I have made with my own hands. Wherefore, after that I have abridged the record of my father, then will I make an account of my own life.

⁵ Therefore, I would that you should know that after YHWH had shown so many marvelous things unto my father Lechi, yes, concerning the destruction of Yerushalayim, behold, he went forth among the people and began to prophesy and to declare unto them concerning the things which he had both seen and heard. And it came to pass that the Judeans did mock him because of the things which he testified of them, for he truly testified of their wickedness and their abominations. And he testified that the things which he saw and heard, and also the things which he read in the book, manifested plainly of the coming of a Mashiach and also the redemption of the world. And when the Judeans heard these things they were angry with him, yes, even as with the prophets of old, whom they had cast out and stoned and slain; and they also sought his life that they might take it away. But behold, I, Nefi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of YHWH are over all those whom he has chosen because of their faith to make them mighty, even unto the power of deliverance.

⁶ For behold, it came to pass that YHWH spoke unto my father, yes, even in a dream, and said unto him, Blessed are you Lechi because of the things which you have done. And because you have been faithful and declared unto this people the things which I commanded you, behold, they seek to take away your life. And it came to pass that YHWH commanded my father, even in a dream, that he should take his family and depart into the wilderness. And it came to pass that he was obedient unto the word of YHWH; wherefore, he did as YHWH commanded him.

⁷ And it came to pass that he departed into the wilderness. And he left his house, and the land of his inheritance, and his gold, and his silver, and his precious things, and took nothing with him except it were his family, and provisions, and tents, and he departed into the wilderness. And he came down by the Borders near the shore of the Red Sea, and he traveled in the wilderness in the Borders which were nearer the Red Sea. And he did travel in the wilderness with his family, which consisted of my mother, Saryah, and my elder brothers, who were Laman, L’mu’el, and Sam. And it came to pass that when he had traveled three days in the wilderness, he pitched his tent in a valley by the side of a river of water.

⁸ And it came to pass that he built an altar of stones,¹⁴ and he made an offering unto YHWH, and gave thanks unto YHWH our Elohim. And it came to pass that he called the name of the river Laman, and it emptied into the Red Sea; and the valley was in the Borders near the mouth thereof. And when my father saw that the waters of the river emptied into the fountain of the Red Sea, he spoke unto Laman, saying, Oh that you might be like unto this river, continually running into the fountain of all righteousness. And he also spoke unto L’mu’el, saying, Oh that you might be like unto this valley, firm, and steadfast, and immovable in keeping the mitzvot of YHWH. Now this he spoke because of the stiffneckedness of Laman and L’mu’el;¹⁵ for behold, they did murmur in many things against their father because that he was a visionary man and that he had led them out of the land of Yerushalayim, to leave the land of their inheritance, and their gold, and their silver, and their precious things, and to perish in the wilderness. And this they said that he had done because of the foolish imaginations of his heart. And thus Laman and L’mu’el, being the eldest, did murmur against their father. And they did murmur because they knew not the dealings of that Elohim who had created them. Neither did they believe that Yerushalayim, that great city, could be destroyed according to the words of the prophets. And they were like unto the Judeans who were at Yerushalayim, who sought to take away the life of my father. And it came to pass that my father did speak unto them in the valley of L’mu’el with power, being filled with the spirit, until their frames did shake before him. And he did confound them that they dared not utter against him; wherefore, they did do as he commanded them. And my father dwelt in a tent.

⁹ And it came to pass that I, Nefi, being exceedingly young, nevertheless, being large in stature, and also having great desires to know of the mysteries of Elohim, wherefore I cried unto YHWH. And behold, he did visit me and did soften my heart that I did believe all the words which had been spoken by my father; wherefore, I did not rebel against him like unto my brothers. And I spoke unto Sam, making known unto him the things which YHWH had manifested unto me by his Holy Spirit. And it came to pass that he believed in my words. But behold, Laman and L’mu’el would not hearken unto my words. And being grieved because of the hardness of their hearts, I cried unto YHWH for them. And it came to pass that YHWH spoke unto me, saying, Blessed are you, Nefi, because of your faith, for you have sought me diligently with humility of heart. And inasmuch as you shall keep my mitzvot, you shall prosper and shall be led to a land of promise, yes, even a land which I have prepared for you, a land which is choice above all other lands.¹⁶ And inasmuch as your brothers shall rebel against you, they shall be cut off¹⁷ from the presence of YHWH. And inasmuch as you shall keep my mitzvot, you shall be made a ruler and a teacher over your brothers. For behold, in that day that they shall rebel against me, I will curse them even with a sore curse, and they shall have no power over your seed except they shall rebel against me also. And if it so be that they rebel against me, they shall be a scourge unto your seed to stir them up in the ways of remembrance.

¹⁰ And it came to pass that I, Nefi, returned from speaking with YHWH, to the tent of my father. And it came to pass that he spoke unto me, saying, Behold, I have dreamed a dream¹⁸ in the which YHWH has commanded me that you and your brothers shall return to Yerushalayim. For behold, Lavan has the record of the Y’hudim and also a genealogy¹⁹ of your forefathers, and they are engraved upon plates of brass. Wherefore, YHWH has commanded me that you and your brothers should go unto the house of Lavan and seek the records and bring them down here into the wilderness. And now behold, your brothers murmur, saying it is a hard thing which I have required of them; but behold, I have not required it of them, but it is a mitzvah of YHWH. Therefore go, my son, and you shall be favored of YHWH because you have not murmured. And it came to pass that I, Nefi, said unto my father, I will go and do the things which YHWH has commanded, for I know that YHWH gives no mitzvot unto the children of men except he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commands them. And it came to pass that when my father had heard these words he was exceedingly glad, for he knew that I had been blessed of YHWH.

¹¹ And I, Nefi, and my brothers took our journey in the wilderness with our tents to go up²⁰ to the land of Yerushalayim. And it came to pass that when we had gone up to the land of Yerushalayim, I and my brothers did consult one with another. And we cast lots — who of us should go in unto the house of Lavan. And it came to pass that the lot fell upon Laman. And Laman went in unto the house of Lavan, and he talked with him as he sat in his house.²¹ And he desired of Lavan the records which were engraved upon the plates of brass, which contained the genealogy of my father. And behold, it came to pass that Lavan was angry and thrust him out from his presence, and he would not that he should have the records. Wherefore, he said unto him, Behold, you are a robber and I will slay you. But Laman fled out of his presence and told the things which Lavan had done unto us. And we began to be exceedingly sorrowful, and my brothers were about to return unto my father in the wilderness.

¹² But behold, I said unto them that as YHWH lives and as we live, we will not go down²² unto our father in the wilderness until we have accomplished the thing which YHWH has commanded us. Wherefore, let us be faithful in keeping the mitzvot of YHWH. Therefore, let us go down to the land of our father’s inheritance, for behold, he left gold and silver and all manner of riches. And all this he has done because of the mitzvot of YHWH. For he knew that Yerushalayim must be destroyed because of the wickedness of the people. For behold, they have rejected the words of the prophets. Wherefore, if my father should dwell in the land after he has been commanded to flee out of the land, behold, he would also perish; wherefore, it must necessarily be that he flee out of the land. And behold, it is wisdom in Elohim that we should obtain these records that we may preserve unto our children the language of our fathers, and also that we may preserve unto them the words which have been spoken by the mouth of all the holy prophets, which have been delivered unto them by the spirit and power of Elohim since the world began, even down unto this present time. And it came to pass that after this manner of language did I persuade my brothers that they might be faithful in keeping the mitzvot of Elohim.

¹³ And it came to pass that we went down to the land of our inheritance, and we did gather together our gold, and our silver, and our precious things. And after we had gathered these things together we went up again unto the house of Lavan. And it came to pass that we went in unto Lavan and desired him that he would give unto us the records which were engraved upon the plates of brass, for which we would give unto him our gold, and our silver, and all our precious things. And it came to pass that when Lavan saw our property, that it was exceedingly great, he did lust after it, insomuch that he thrust us out and sent his servants to slay us that he might obtain our property. And it came to pass that we did flee before the servants of Lavan, and we were obliged to leave behind our property, and it fell into the hands of Lavan.

¹⁴ And it came to pass that we fled into the wilderness, and the servants of Lavan did not overtake us, and we hid ourselves in the cavity of a rock. And it came to pass that Laman was angry with me and also with my father — and also was L’mu’el, for he hearkened unto the words of Laman — wherefore, Laman and L’mu’el did speak many hard words unto us, their younger brothers, and they did strike us even with a rod. And it came to pass as they did strike us with a rod, behold, an angel of YHWH came and stood before them, and he spoke unto them, saying, Why do you strike your younger brother with a rod? Do you not know that YHWH has chosen him to be a ruler over you, and this because of your iniquities? Behold, you shall go up to Yerushalayim again, and YHWH will deliver Lavan into your hands. And after the angel had spoken unto us, he departed. And after the angel had departed, Laman and L’mu’el again began to murmur, saying, How is it possible that YHWH will deliver Lavan into our hands? Behold, he is a mighty man and he can command fifty, yes, even he can slay fifty, then why not us?²³

¹⁵ And it came to pass that I spoke unto my brothers, saying, Let us go up again unto Yerushalayim, and let us be faithful in keeping the mitzvot of YHWH. For behold, he is mightier than all the earth, then why not mightier than Lavan and his fifty? Yes, or even than his tens of thousands?²⁴ Therefore, let us go up. Let us be strong like unto Moshe, for he truly spoke unto the waters of the Red Sea and they divided hither and thither and our fathers came through out of captivity on dry ground,²⁵ and the armies of Pharaoh did follow and were drowned in the waters of the Red Sea. Now behold, you know that this is true; and you also know that an angel has spoken unto you. Wherefore, can you doubt? Let us go up. YHWH is able to deliver us, even as our fathers, and to destroy Lavan, even as the Egyptians.

¹⁶ Now when I had spoken these words, they were yet angry and did still continue to murmur; nevertheless, they did follow me up until we came without the walls of Yerushalayim. And it was by night, and I caused that they should hide themselves without the walls. And after they had hidden themselves, I, Nefi, crept into the city and went forth towards the house of Lavan. And I was led by the spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which I should do. Nevertheless, I went forth. And as I came near unto the house of Lavan I beheld a man, and he had fallen to the earth before me, for he was drunken with wine. And when I came to him, I found that it was Lavan, and beheld his sword, and I drew it forth from the sheath thereof. And the hilt thereof was of pure gold, and the workmanship thereof was exceedingly fine, and I saw that the blade thereof was of the most precious steel.

¹⁷ And it came to pass that I was constrained by the spirit that I should kill Lavan, but I said in my heart, Never at any time have I shed the blood of man. And I shrunk and would that I might not slay him. And the spirit said unto me again, Behold, YHWH has delivered him into your hands. Yes, and I also knew that he had sought to take away my own life. Yes, and he would not hearken unto the mitzvot of YHWH; and he also had taken away our property. And it came to pass that the spirit said unto me again, Slay him, for YHWH has delivered him into your hands. Behold, YHWH slays the wicked²⁶ to bring forth his righteous purposes. It is better that one man should perish than that a nation should dwindle and perish in unbelief. And now when I, Nefi, had heard these words, I remembered the words of YHWH which he spoke unto me in the wilderness, saying that inasmuch as your seed shall keep my mitzvot, they shall prosper in the land of promise. Yes, and I also thought that they could not keep the mitzvot of YHWH according to the Torah of Moshe except they should have the Torah. And I also knew that the Torah was engraved upon the plates of brass. And again, I knew that YHWH had delivered Lavan into my hands for this cause, that I might obtain the records according to his mitzvot. Therefore, I did obey the voice of the spirit and took Lavan by the hair of the head, and I smote off his head with his own sword.

¹⁸ And after I had struck off his head with his own sword, I took the garments of Lavan and put them upon my own body, yes, even every whit; and I did gird on his armor about my loins. And after I had done this, I went forth unto the genizah²⁷ of Lavan. And as I went forth towards the genizah of Lavan, behold, I saw the servant of Lavan who had the keys of the genizah. And I commanded him in the voice of Lavan that he should go with me into the genizah. And he supposing me to be his master Lavan, for he beheld the garments and also the sword girded about my loins, and he spoke unto me concerning the elders of the Y’hudim, he knowing that his master Lavan had been out by night among them. And I spoke unto him as if it had been Lavan. And I also spoke unto him that I should carry the engravings which were upon the plates of brass to my elder brothers, who were without the walls. And I also directed him that he should follow me. And he supposing that I spoke of the brothers of the assembly²⁸ and that I was truly that Lavan whom I had slain, wherefore he did follow me. And he spoke unto me many times concerning the elders of the Y’hudim as I went forth unto my brothers, who were without the walls.

¹⁹ And it came to pass that when Laman saw me, he was exceedingly frightened, and also L’mu’el and Sam. And they fled from before my presence, for they supposed it was Lavan and that he had slain me and had sought to take away their lives also. And it came to pass that I called after them and they did hear me; wherefore, they did cease to flee from my presence. And it came to pass that when the servant of Lavan beheld my brothers, he began to tremble and was about to flee from before me and return to the city of Yerushalayim. And now I, Nefi, being a man large in stature, and also having received much strength of YHWH, therefore I did seize upon the servant of Lavan and held him that he should not flee.

²⁰ And it came to pass that I spoke with him, that if he would hearken unto my words, as YHWH lives and as I live, even so that if he would hearken unto our words, we would spare his life. And I spoke unto him, even with an oath, that he need not fear, that he should be a free man like unto us if he would go down in the wilderness with us. And I also spoke unto him, saying, Surely YHWH has commanded us to do this thing. And shall we not be diligent in keeping the mitzvah of YHWH? Therefore, if you will go down in the wilderness to my father, you shall have place with us. And it came to pass that Tzuram did take courage at the words which I spoke. Now Tzuram²⁹ was the name of the servant, and he promised that he would go down into the wilderness unto our father; yes, and he also made an oath unto us that he would remain with us from that time forth. Now we were desirous that he should remain with us for this cause: that the Y’hudim might not know concerning our flight into the wilderness, for fear that they should pursue us and destroy us. And it came to pass that when Tzuram had made an oath unto us, our fears did cease concerning him. And it came to pass that we took the plates of brass and the servant of Lavan and departed into the wilderness and journeyed unto the tent of our father.

²¹ And it came to pass that after we had come down into the wilderness unto our father, behold, he was filled with joy. And also my mother Saryah³⁰ was exceedingly glad, for she truly had mourned because of us, for she had supposed that we had perished in the wilderness. And she also had complained against my father, telling him that he was a visionary man, saying, Behold, you have led us forth from the land of our inheritance, and my sons are no more, and we perish in the wilderness. And after this manner of language had my mother complained against my father. And it had came to pass that my father spoke unto her, saying, I know that I am a visionary man, for if I had not seen the things of Elohim in a vision, I should not have known the goodness of Elohim, but had remained at Yerushalayim and had perished with my brothers. But behold, I have obtained a land of promise,³¹ in the which things I do rejoice. Yes, and I know that YHWH will deliver my sons out of the hands of Lavan and bring them down again unto us in the wilderness. And after this manner of language did my father Lechi comfort my mother Saryah concerning us while we journeyed in the wilderness up to the land of Yerushalayim to obtain the record of the Y’hudim. And when we had returned to the tent of my father, behold, their joy was full, and my mother was comforted. And she spoke, saying, Now I know of a surety that YHWH has commanded my husband to flee into the wilderness; yes, and I also know of a surety that YHWH has protected my sons and delivered them out of the hands of Lavan and given them power by which they could accomplish the thing which YHWH has commanded them. And after this manner of language did she speak.

²² And it came to pass that they did rejoice exceedingly and did offer sacrifice and burnt offerings unto YHWH, and they gave thanks unto the Elohim of Isra’el. And after they had given thanks unto the Elohim of Isra’el, my father Lechi took the records which were engraved upon the plates of brass and he did search them from the beginning. And he beheld that they did contain the five books of Moshe, which gave an account of the creation of the world and also of Adam and Havah who were our first parents, and also a record of the Y’hudim from the beginning, even down to the commencement of the reign of Tzidkiyahu, king of Y’hudah, and also the prophecies of the holy prophets from the beginning, even down to the commencement of the reign of Tzidkiyahu, and also many prophecies which have been spoken by the mouth of Yirmeyahu.³² And it came to pass that my father Lechi also found upon the plates of brass a genealogy of his fathers; wherefore, he knew that he was a descendant of Yosef, yes, even that Yosef who was the son of Ya’akov, who was sold into Egypt and who was preserved by the hand of YHWH that he might preserve his father Ya’akov and all his household from perishing with famine. And they were also led out of captivity and out of the land of Egypt by that same Elohim who had preserved them. And thus my father Lechi did discover the genealogy of his fathers. And Lavan also was a descendant of Yosef; wherefore, he and his fathers had kept the records. And now when my father saw all these things, he was filled with the spirit and began to prophesy concerning his seed — that these plates of brass should go forth unto all nations, kindreds, and tongues, and people, who were of his seed. Wherefore, he said that these plates of brass should never perish; neither should they be dimmed anymore by time. And he prophesied many things concerning his seed.

²³ And it came to pass that thus far I and my father had kept the mitzvot with which YHWH had commanded us. And we had obtained the record which YHWH had commanded us and searched them and found that they were desirable, yes, even of great worth unto us, insomuch that we could preserve the mitzvot of YHWH unto our children. Wherefore, it was wisdom in YHWH that we should carry them with us as we journeyed in the wilderness toward the land of promise.

Chapter 2

And now I, Nefi, do not give the genealogy of my fathers in this part³³ of my record, neither at any time shall I give it after upon these plates which I am writing, for it is given in the record which has been kept by my father; wherefore, I do not write it in this work, for it suffices me to say that we are a descendant of Yosef. And it matters not to me that I am particular to give a full account of all the things of my father, for they cannot be written upon these plates, for I desire the room that I may write of the things of Elohim. For the fulness of my intent is that I may persuade³⁴ men to come unto the Elohim of Avraham, and the Elohim of Yitz’chak, and the Elohim of Ya’akov and be saved. Wherefore, the things which are pleasing unto the world I do not write, but the things which are pleasing unto Elohim and unto those who are not of the world. Wherefore, I shall give commandment unto my seed that they shall not occupy these plates with things which are not of worth unto the children of men.

² And now I would that you might know that after my father Lechi had made an end of prophesying concerning his seed, it came to pass that YHWH spoke unto him again, that it was not suitable for him, Lechi, that he should take his family into the wilderness alone, but that his sons should take daughters to wife, that they might raise up seed unto YHWH in the land of promise. And it came to pass that YHWH commanded him that I, Nefi, and my brothers should again return into the land of Yerushalayim and bring down Yishma’el and his family into the wilderness. And it came to pass that I, Nefi, did again with my brothers go forth into the wilderness to go up to Yerushalayim. And it came to pass that we went up unto the house of Yishma’el, and we did gain favor in the sight of Yishma’el, insomuch that we did speak unto him the words of YHWH. And it came to pass that YHWH did soften the heart of Yishma’el and also his whole household, insomuch that they took their journey with us down into the wilderness to the tent of our father.

³ And it came to pass that as we journeyed in the wilderness, behold, Laman, and L’mu’el, and two of the daughters of Yishma’el, and the two sons of Yishma’el, and their families did rebel against us; yes, against I, Nefi, and Sam, and their father Yishma’el, and his wife, and his three other daughters. And it came to pass that in the which rebellion they were desirous to return unto the land of Yerushalayim. And now I, Nefi, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, therefore I spoke unto them, saying — yes, even unto Laman and unto L’mu’el — Behold, you are my elder brothers, and how is it that you are so hard in your hearts and so blind in your minds that you have need that I, your younger brother, should speak unto you? Yes, and set an example for you? How is it that you have not hearkened unto the word of YHWH? How is it that you have forgotten that you have seen an angel of YHWH? Yes, and how is it that you have forgotten what great things YHWH has done for us in delivering us out of the hands of Lavan? And also that we should obtain the record? Yes, and how is it that you have forgotten that YHWH is able to do all things according to his will for the children of men, if it so be that they exercise faith in him? Wherefore, let us be faithful to him.³⁵ And if it so be that we are faithful to him, we shall obtain the land of promise.³⁶ And you shall know at some future period that the word of YHWH shall be fulfilled concerning the destruction of Yerushalayim,³⁷ for all things which YHWH has spoken concerning the destruction of Yerushalayim must be fulfilled. For behold, the spirit of YHWH ceases soon to strive with them; for behold, they have rejected the prophets, and Yirmeyahu have they cast into prison,³⁸ and they have sought to take away the life of my father, insomuch that they have driven him out of the land. Now behold, I say unto you that if you will return unto Yerushalayim, you shall also perish with them. And now if you have choice, go up to the land and remember the words which I speak unto you, that if you go, you will also perish. For thus the spirit of YHWH constrains me that I should speak.

⁴ And it came to pass that when I, Nefi, had spoken these words unto my brothers, they were angry with me. And it came to pass that they did lay their hands upon me, for behold, they were exceedingly angry; and they did bind me with cords, for they sought to take away my life, that they might leave me in the wilderness to be devoured by wild beasts. But it came to pass that I prayed unto YHWH, saying, O YHWH, according to my faith which is in you, will you deliver me from the hands of my brothers? Yes, even give me strength that I may burst these bands with which I am bound? And it came to pass that when I had said these words, behold, the bands³⁹ were loosed from off my hands and feet, and I stood before my brothers and I spoke unto them again. And it came to pass that they were angry with me again and sought to lay hands upon me. But behold, one of the daughters of Yishma’el, yes, and also her mother, and one of the sons of Yishma’el, did plead with my brothers, insomuch that they did soften their hearts and they did cease striving to take away my life. And it came to pass that they were sorrowful because of their wickedness, insomuch that they did bow down before me and did plead with me that I would forgive them of the thing that they had done against me. And it came to pass that I did frankly forgive them all that they had done, and I did exhort them that they would pray unto YHWH their Elohim for forgiveness. And it came to pass that they did so. And after they had done praying unto YHWH, we did again travel on our journey towards the tent of our father.

⁵ And it came to pass that we did come down unto the tent of our father. And after I and my brothers and all the house of Yishma’el had come down unto the tent of my father, they did give thanks unto YHWH their Elohim, and they did offer sacrifice and burnt offerings unto him.

⁶ And it came to pass that we had gathered together all manner of seeds of every kind, both of grain of every kind and also of the seeds of fruits of every kind.

⁷ And it came to pass that while my father remained in the wilderness, he spoke unto us, saying, Behold, I have dreamed a dream, or in other words, I have seen a vision. And behold, because of the thing which I have seen, I have reason to rejoice in YHWH because of Nefi and also of Sam; for I have reason to suppose that they and also many of their seed will be saved. But behold, Laman and L’mu’el, I fear exceedingly because of you. For behold, it seemed to me I saw in my dream a dark and dreary wilderness. And it came to pass that I saw a man and he was dressed in a white robe; and he came and stood before me. And it came to pass that he spoke unto me and invited me to follow him. And it came to pass that as I followed him, I beheld myself that I was in a dark and dreary waste. And after I had traveled for the space of many hours in darkness, I began to pray unto YHWH that he would have mercy on me according to the multitude of his tender mercies.

⁸ And it came to pass, after I had prayed unto YHWH, I beheld a large and spacious field. And it came to pass that I beheld a tree⁴⁰ whose fruit was desirable to make one happy. And it came to pass that I did go forth and partake of the fruit thereof, and beheld that it was most sweet, above all that I ever before tasted. Yes, and I beheld that the fruit thereof was white to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen.

⁹ And as I partook of the fruit thereof, it filled my soul with exceedingly great joy; wherefore, I began to be desirous⁴¹ that my family should partake of it also, for I knew that it was desirable above all other fruit. And as I cast my eyes around about, that perhaps I might discover my family also, and I beheld a river⁴² of water and it ran along, and it was near the tree of which I was partaking the fruit. And I looked to behold from where it came, and I saw the head thereof a little way off. And at the head thereof I beheld your mother Saryah, and Sam, and Nefi, and they stood as if they knew not where they should go. And it came to pass that I beckoned unto them; and I also did say unto them with a loud voice that they should come unto me and partake of the fruit, which was desirable above all other fruit. And it came to pass that they did come unto me and partake of the fruit also. And it came to pass that I was desirous that Laman and L’mu’el should come and partake of the fruit also; wherefore, I cast my eyes towards the head of the river that perhaps I might see them. And it came to pass that I saw them, but they would not come unto me and partake of the fruit.

¹⁰ And I beheld a rod⁴³ of iron, and it extended along the bank of the river and led to the tree by which I stood. And I also beheld a straight⁴⁴ and narrow path which came along by the rod of iron, even to the tree by which I stood; and it also led by the head of the fountain unto a large and spacious field, as if it had been a world. And I saw numberless concourses of people, many of whom were pressing forward that they might obtain the path which led unto the tree by which I stood. And it came to pass that they did come forth and commenced in the path which led to the tree. And it came to pass that there arose a mist⁴⁵ of darkness, yes, even an exceedingly great mist of darkness, insomuch that they who had commenced in the path did lose their way, that they wandered off and were lost. And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mists of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partook of the fruit of the tree. And after they had partaken of the fruit of the tree, they did cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed.

¹¹ And I also cast my eyes around about and beheld, on the other side of the river of water, a great and spacious⁴⁶ building. And it stood as it were in the air, high above the earth. And it was filled with people, both old and young, both male and female, and their manner of dress was exceedingly fine; and they were in the attitude of mocking and pointing their fingers towards those who had come up and were partaking of the fruit. And after they had tasted of the fruit, they were ashamed because of those that were a scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost.

¹² And now I, Nefi, do not speak all the words of my father. But to be short in writing, behold, he saw other multitudes pressing forward; and they came and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron. And they did press their way forward, continually holding fast to the rod of iron, until they came forth and fell down and partook of the fruit of the tree. And he also saw other multitudes pressing their way towards that great and spacious building. And it came to pass that many were drowned in the depths of the fountain, and many were lost from his view, wandering in strange roads. And great was the multitude that did enter into that strange building. And after they did enter into that building, they did point the finger of scorn at me and those that were partaking of the fruit also. But we heeded them not — thus are the words of my father — for as many as heeded them had fallen away. And Laman and L’mu’el partook not of the fruit, said my father.

¹³ And it came to pass after my father had spoken all the words of his dream or vision, which were many, he said unto us, because of these things which he saw in a vision, he exceedingly feared for Laman and L’mu’el; yes, he feared that they should be cast off from the presence of YHWH. And he did exhort them then with all the feeling of a tender parent that they would hearken to his words, in that perhaps YHWH would be merciful to them and not cast them off; yes, my father did preach unto them. And after he had preached unto them, and also prophesied unto them of many things, he exhorted them to keep the mitzvot of YHWH; and he did cease speaking unto them. And all these things did my father see, and hear, and speak as he dwelt in a tent in the valley of L’mu’el, and also a great many more things which cannot be written upon these plates.

¹⁴ And now as I have spoken concerning these plates, behold, they are not the plates upon which I make a full account of the history of my people; for the plates upon which I make a full account of my people I have given the name of Nefi; wherefore, they are called the plates of Nefi, after my own name. And these plates also are called the plates of Nefi. Nevertheless, I have received a mitzvah of YHWH that I should make these plates for the special purpose that there should be an account engraved of the ministry of my people. And upon the other plates should be engraved an account of the reigns of the kings, and the wars and contentions of my people. Wherefore, these plates are for the more part of the ministry, and the other plates are for the more part of the reigns of the kings, and the wars and contentions of my people. Wherefore, YHWH has commanded me to make these plates for a wise purpose in