,h3>by Chris B. Hartshorn
Many commentaries on the Bible have been available from other sources, and our own Church has published a commentary on the Doctrine and Covenants since 1938, but this is the first time our people have had ready access to a Book of Mormon commentary.
This is not a complete commentary in the sense that each verse is thoroughly explored; rather the author has chosen the more significant passages in each chapter for comment. Those parts of the Book of Mormon which seemed to him to offer some problems or difficulties have received extensive treatment.
The order of presentation in this book follows that found in the Book of Mormon. To locate a particular subject, the author suggests that the reader use A Concordance to the Book of Mormon, published by Herald House. Then use this commentary to get further light associated with the text by the use of references from other books. Immediately following the contents page is a "Proper Names Pronunciation Guide," which adds greatly to the value of this book. This guide was reviewed by several Church authorities and represents their consensus of opinion. It should do much to standardize Book of Mormon pronunciations throughout the Church.
Reference literature will have value to the reader to the extent that he is able to find readily the helps it offers. Therefore, several indexes have been prepared by the author and placed in the back of the book: (1) index to bibliography; (2) reference indexes to our standard Scriptures; ( 3) a topical index.
We commend this book for study by every member of the Church and by all students who wish to investigate the Book of Mormon more thoroughly.
Reference literature will have value to the reader to the extent that he is able to find readily the helps it offers. Therefore, several indexes have been prepared by the author and placed in the back of the book: (1) index to bibliography; (2) reference indexes to our standard Scriptures; ( 3) a topical index.
