D&C 9

Section Overview

What happens in D&C 9

Received in April 1829 at Harmony, Pennsylvania, after Oliver Cowdery's unsuccessful attempt to translate the Book of Mormon. The Lord explains that Oliver failed because he did not study it out in his mind before asking.

Scripture

The Season for Translation Has Passed

Study note

The Lord tells Oliver that it is no longer expedient for him to translate and that he should continue as scribe for Joseph.

1 Behold, I say unto you, my son, that because you did not translate according to that which you desired of me, and did commence again to write for my servant, Joseph Smith, Jun., even so I would that ye should continue until you have finished this record, which I have entrusted unto him.

2 And then, behold, other records have I, that I will give unto you power that you may assist to translate.

3 Be patient, my son, for it is wisdom in me, and it is not expedient that you should translate at this present time.

4 Behold, the work which you are called to do is to write for my servant Joseph.

5 And, behold, it is because that you did not continue as you commenced, when you began to translate, that I have taken away this privilege from you.

The Process of Revelation

Study note

The Lord teaches the pattern: study it out in your mind, make a decision, then ask God. If it is right, your bosom will burn; if wrong, you will feel a stupor of thought.

6 Do not murmur, my son, for it is wisdom in me that I have dealt with you after this manner.

7 Behold, you have not understood; you have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.

8 But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.

9 But if it be not right you shall have no such feelings, but you shall have a stupor of thought that shall cause you to forget the thing which is wrong; therefore, you cannot write that which is sacred save it be given you from me.

Encouragement to Continue

Study note

Oliver is encouraged not to murmur but to be content with his role as scribe, which is just as valuable as translating.

10 Now, if you had known this you could have translated; nevertheless, it is not expedient that you should translate now.

11 Behold, it was expedient when you commenced; but you feared, and the time is past, and it is not expedient now;

12 For, do you not behold that I have given unto my servant Joseph sufficient strength, whereby it is made up? And neither of you have I condemned.

13 Do this thing which I have commanded you, and you shall prosper. Be faithful, and yield to no temptation.

14 Stand fast in the work wherewith I have called you, and a hair of your head shall not be lost, and you shall be lifted up at the last day. Amen.

Key Themes

Themes in D&C 9

Study it out in your mind before askingBurning bosom versus stupor of thoughtIndividual effort required before revelationEvery role in God's work is valuable

Scripture Connections

How this section connects to Christ

D&C 9 8 James 1:5

The instruction to ask God with real intent builds on James's promise that God gives wisdom liberally to those who ask in faith.

D&C 9 8-9 1 Kings 19:11-12

The pattern of recognizing God's quiet communication parallels Elijah's experience of hearing God not in wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a still small voice.

Apply This Today

Living D&C 9

Section 9 teaches one of the most practical lessons about receiving revelation: God expects us to do our homework first. Rather than simply asking for answers, we should study, ponder, and come to a tentative conclusion, then take it to the Lord for confirmation. This pattern of spiritual self-reliance applies to every important decision we face.

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