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KnoWhy #62 - Why Does Jacob Quote So Much from the Psalms? (Jacob 1:7; cf. Psalm 95:8)

TitleKnoWhy #62 - Why Does Jacob Quote So Much from the Psalms? (Jacob 1:7; cf. Psalm 95:8)
Publication TypeKnoWhy
Year of Publication2016
Corporate AuthorsBook of Mormon Central Staff
PublisherBook of Mormon Central
Place PublishedSpringville, UT
KeywordsJacob (Son of Lehi); Priest; Psalms; Temple
Abstract

Quotations from and allusions to the Old Testament Psalms appear in four places in the book of Jacob. Jacob uses words and phrases from Psalms 95, 118, and 145. These psalms are associated with a temple context and Jacob's use of them can also be understood as related to the temple. As modern readers of Jacob’s words recognize these quotations from and allusions to the Old Testament Psalms in his text, they can better visualize the temple setting of many of his words. With this realization, Jacob’s status as the chief priest over the Nephite people gains further legitimacy and credibility. The consistency of the background narrative of Jacob’s priestly role in comparison to biblical temple priests supports the historicity and deep religiosity of the Book of Mormon.

URLhttp://www.knowhy.bookofmormoncentral.org/content/why-does-jacob-quote-so-much-from-the-psalms
Citation Key1635

Scripture Reference

Jacob 1:7
Psalms 95:8