Friday, July 31, 2020

The use of James 1:5 in D&C 42:68 in February 1831

In a revelation dated 9 Feb 1831, we have an early use of Jas 1:5, the text that was instrumental in Joseph Smith seeking an answer in prayer that led to the First Vision:

 

Therefore, he that lacketh wisdom, let him ask of me, and I will give him liberally and upbraid him not. (D&C 42:68)

 

Compare with KJV Jas 1:5:

 

If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

 

It is interesting that we have a very early use of this text, pre-dating the 1832 First Vision account, as well as the 1838 account where this text is given a privileged position in Joseph Smith's recounting what led up to his theophany.