long ago ideas

“When we are tired, we are attacked by ideas we conquered long ago." - Friedrich Nietzsche Long ago, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery conquered false claims that the Book of Mormon was fiction or that it came through a stone in a hat. But these old claims have resurfaced in recent years. To conquer them again, we have to return to what Joseph and Oliver taught.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Archaeology and expectations

Archaeology is more an art than a science, in the sense that it requires subjective interpretation, it relies on luck to a significant degree, and there are no hard and fast rules. One can't replicate the results of archaeology; you either find something or you don't.

Here are two comparisons to keep in mind when discussing Book of Mormon archaeology in North America. There is a lot of evidence already, but even more yet to be found.

1. Magdala, Israel. Not long ago a site in Israel was discovered under 20 inches of topsoil that had not been touched in 2,000 years. It was a first-century synagogue, complete with mosaic flooring, frescoes, pottery and coins. Plus, it has the "Magdala Stone," which is a stone altar featuring a menorah, the oldest such one to be found outside of Jerusalem.

Image: Possible Home of Mary Magdalene Unearthed in Israel

The photo and overview here, a video here, and background here. More photos and details here.

2. Battle of Hastings. The famous Battle of Hastings was fought on Oct. 14, 1066. William's victory led to his coronation as the first Norman king of England. There were supposedly 10,000 people killed at the battle, but neither the remains nor any artifacts from the battle have ever been found. There are at least three possible sites, each supported by various forms of evidence, and all within a few miles.

Now, some people claim the battle took place at this roundabout:

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