The Role of Scribes in the Book of Mormon Translation

Uncover how dedicated scribes assisted Joseph Smith in recording the Book of Mormon, transforming spoken words into written scripture.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 3, 2026

Branched from How Joseph Smith Translated the Book of Mormon Using a Seer Stone

Quick take

Scribes were essential in recording Joseph Smith's dictated translation of the Book of Mormon.
They meticulously wrote down words as Smith dictated them, often using a seer stone.
Oliver Cowdery was the primary scribe, but others like Emma Smith and Martin Harris also assisted.
Their dedicated work transformed an oral revelation into a tangible manuscript for publication.

In the context of the Book of Mormon, a scribe was an individual who literally wrote down the words Joseph Smith dictated as he translated ancient records. These individuals acted as vital recorders, transforming spoken revelation into a physical manuscript that could be preserved and eventually printed.

From Vision to Manuscript: The Scribe's Task

The scribal process was straightforward yet demanding. Joseph Smith would typically place a seer stone into a hat, covering his face to block out ambient light, and then dictate words as they appeared to him. The scribe, seated nearby, would listen intently and write down each word, sentence by sentence, often without punctuation or paragraph breaks. This was a continuous, word-for-word dictation, requiring immense focus from both Smith and the scribe.

Scribes sometimes read back what they had written to ensure accuracy or to help Joseph Smith recall where he had left off. This collaborative effort ensured that the dictated text was captured as faithfully as possible, forming the basis of the Book of Mormon manuscript.

Key Scribes and Their Contributions

Several individuals served as scribes during the translation of the Book of Mormon, each contributing during different phases and circumstances. The most prominent and prolific scribe was Oliver Cowdery, who assisted for the majority of the translation period, from April to June 1829. His commitment was instrumental, often working for long hours each day.

Other significant scribes included Joseph Smith’s wife, Emma Hale Smith, who wrote for a period in 1828 and again later; Martin Harris, who scribed for a short time before losing 116 pages of manuscript; and Reuben Hale, Emma’s brother. These individuals often stepped in when Cowdery was unavailable, demonstrating the critical need for constant scribal assistance.

The role of these scribes was indispensable. Without their dedicated work, the spoken words of the translation would have been lost to time. They transformed an oral revelation into a tangible written record, making the Book of Mormon available for printing and distribution to a wider audience. Their efforts underscore the human element and collaborative nature involved in the preservation and dissemination of sacred text.

A Demanding Task

Scribes often worked long hours, sometimes dictating and writing for several hours a day.
The process required intense focus, as Joseph Smith dictated complex narratives and doctrines.
Scribes occasionally questioned words or phrases, leading to clarification from Joseph Smith.

Did scribes ever influence the translation?

Scribes were primarily recorders. While they might occasionally ask for clarification or help with spelling, their role was to accurately transcribe what Joseph Smith dictated, not to interpret, alter, or influence the content of the text itself.

How do we know who the scribes were?

Historical accounts, including Joseph Smith's own history, statements from the scribes themselves, and the varying handwriting styles visible in the original manuscripts, clearly identify those who assisted in the translation process.

Were there any challenges in the scribal process?

Yes, challenges included long hours, fatigue, sometimes poor lighting, and the sheer volume of text. Scribes also had to contend with interruptions, occasional persecution, and the difficulty of accurately recording unfamiliar names and concepts.

What happened to the original scribal manuscripts?

The original manuscript (the first copy made by the scribes) and the printer's manuscript (a copy made from the original for the printer) both exist today, though neither is complete. They are invaluable historical artifacts, providing direct evidence of the translation process.

Sources

Joseph Smith—History 1:71-75 (Pearl of Great Price)
"Book of Mormon Translation," Gospel Topics, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Royal Skousen, "The Original and the Printer's Manuscripts of the Book of Mormon," BYU Studies