To many it may seem out of place, that Joseph Smith used seer stones to aid in the translation of the Book of Mormon. However they were part of what were given to him when he received the gold plates by the angel, that contained the Book of Mormon. But it was not uncommon for Biblical prophets to use seer stones to learn of God's will
in revealing things to his prophets (Num. 27:21; 1Sam 28:6; Rev.2:17). The Urim
and Thummim were two such seer stones.
According to the Babylonian Talmud the Prophet Abraham carried a stone
around his neck for purposes of healing the sick and creating light (Baba Bathra 16b). Noah reportedly
used a stone that provided light for the ark (Gen.R 31:11, Midrash Rabbah
1:244, Soncino Press)
John the Baptist in Matt.3:9, while chastising those who
thought they were better than others, because they were descendants of Abraham, used
stones as an example of what God could do with stones when he
said "For I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up
children unto Abraham".
It is important to keep in mind the Book of Mormon (that
the seer stones were reportedly used on) was not some archeological discovery, but was brought forth by the coming of an angel. Such an event is a miracle in and of itself
that invites the reader to pray for inspiration to learn of its divinity. Not an
intellectual analysis of what can be proven.
As with most of the things God has given us, it is by an exercise of our
faith in God and praying to him that these things are understood and believed in.
If something like the Book of Mormon is translated by revelation, it must be
understood and believed in by revelation.
And then maybe the Book of Mormon will become our seer stone
in understand spiritual things.
For additional information on how God has used stones for
his prophets see, John Tvedtnes Appendix 2 in: The Book of Mormon and Other
Hidden Books.
Below are links to excellent sites for its Jewish History.
New Ensign article: https://www.lds.org/ensign/2015/10/joseph-the-seer?lang=eng
Other related topics:
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