BYU Studies

Jeffrey Paul Thompson reviews an evocative photographic journey documenting the remarkable life and contributions of Elizabeth Dennistoun Wood Kane, celebrating her as an influential 19th-century polymath and explorer. Read the full review online.

Richard Lyman Bushman offers thoughtful reflections on the historical, spiritual, and symbolic significance of the Gold Plates, inviting listeners to reconsider their impact on faith and history. Read the full article online.

Robbie Taggart presents a poignant poem exploring faith, loss, and healing, inspired by the biblical story set in Nain, inviting listeners into a deeply reflective and spiritual experience. Read the full poem online.

Nicholas J. Frederick investigates the theological intersections between scriptural symbolism, Earth's age, and ongoing divine revelation, addressing some of the profound mysteries and debates within Church doctrine. Read the full article online.

Eli Peterson shares insights and reflections on the artistic process behind "This Is . . .", revealing how art captures and communicates deep spiritual and emotional truths. Read the full note online.

Join Jared Halverson as he explores the powerful and transformative experience of engaging deeply with scripture, highlighting its ability to evoke wonder, spiritual insight, and enduring wisdom. Read the full article online.

Sarah Hafen d'Evegnée’s essay beautifully weaves personal narrative with metaphor, exploring life’s intricate patterns, choices, and the profound meaning found in everyday experiences. Read the full essay online.

Brandon S. Plewe details the formative years of local church administration, uncovering how early structures and practices shaped the Church’s growth and governance from 1830 to 1845. Read the full article online.

Roger Terry delves into Royal Skousen's landmark Critical Text Project, emphasizing its scholarly significance in enhancing our comprehension and appreciation of the Book of Mormon. Read the full article online.

Cassidy Nichole Pyper argues compellingly that Alma's teachings intentionally include and elevate women, illuminating a more inclusive perspective of Book of Mormon narratives and their enduring spiritual significance. Read the full article online.

<p>Joseph M. Spencer provides an engaging exploration into the Book of Mosiah, highlighting how its narratives can captivate readers and enrich their spiritual understanding through a profound sense of wonder and awe.</p> <p><a href="https://byustudies.byu.edu/article/struck-with-wonder-and-amazement-on-reading-the-book-of-mosiah" target="_blank">Read th...

Explore the vivid personal writings of Brigham Young, offering intimate insights into his life, conversion experience, and profound faith. LaJean Purcell Carruth presents his unfiltered perspectives, enriching our understanding of this prominent historical figure. Read the full article online.

Love as a Law : Love is described as the substance of God’s law, not a reward to be earned. It is a commandment to love God and others unconditionally. Parable of the Prodigal Son : Both sons in the parable misunderstand love as a reward. The younger son feels unworthy, while the elder son feels entitled. The father represents God’s unconditional love. Perfectionism vs. Perfect Love : Perfectionis...

This article wraps up this special issue of BYU Studies focusing on Latter-day Saints and perfectionism. Read the article here.

1. Religious Teachings: Explores how religious teachings can influence perfectionistic tendencies, both positively and negatively. 2. Spiritual Perfectionism Differentiates between striving for spiritual growth and unhealthy perfectionism that leads to guilt and anxiety. 3. Role of Grace: Emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting grace to counteract the negative effects of perfectio...

What influence does religion have on toxic perfectionism? Michael A. Goodman explores research findings in this important article. Read the full article online.

This article by Ryan S. Gardner introduces the Oracles of God collection at the David O. McKay Library at Brigham Young University–Idaho, which compiles documents relating to prior declarations, statements, etc. from the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. It discusses the criteria for documents that are included in this new digital collection and how it can be helpful to church me...

This article by Mark D. Ogletree was published in BYU Studies 63, no. 4 (2024). Key points from this article: Types of Perfectionism : Adaptive (positive outcomes) vs. Maladaptive (negative mental health outcomes). Mental Health Impact : Maladaptive perfectionism increases anxiety, depression, stress, and burnout in adolescents. Influences : High parental expectations and societal pressures contri...

This poem by Kevin Klein received an honorable mention in the 2021 Clinton F. Larson Poetry Contest, sponsored by BYU Studies.

This article from Noel B. Reynolds discusses the use of covenant as a concept in religious tradition and scripture, and consider how it has been discussed in scholarship up to the current day. Reynolds then discusses how these ideas can tie to the understanding of covenant in the Book of Mormon and how this study can "enrich those teachings for a modern reader."

“Parental Influence on Adolescent Perfectionism” by Jenet Jacob Erickson, Olivia Forsberg, and McKenna Schmidt. Published BYU Studies 63 no. 4 (2024). Key Points: Parental Influence: Parents' own perfectionism can impact their children, especially through modeling behaviors and psychological control. Fathers' and mothers' perfectionism influences boys and girls differently. Psychological Control:...

This article by W. Justin Dyer, published BYU Studies 63, no. 4 (2024) explores how perfectionism develops and changes during adolescence. Key points from this article: Development of Perfectionism: Perfectionism tends to increase slightly from age 12 to 18. Discrepancy perfectionism (feeling you are not meeting expectations) and social perfectionism (feeling the need to be perfect for others) fol...

This book notice, written by Lane Welch about Robert A. Rees 2020 book A New Witness to the World, discusses the structure of the book and its value to those wishing to better understand the Book of Mormon.

This poem by David Thacker won first place in the 2022 Clinton F. Larson Poetry Contest, sponsored by BYU Studies.

This essay by Shamae Budd sheds light on the quiet difficulties that are faced in life and their eventual acceptance.