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Language Use In D&c

While looking over certain parts of the Doctrine & Covenants I noticed something I had not seen before... why does the Lord sometimes speak in modern English and at other times old English? Was it just a matter of Joseph writing the revelation in his own words at some point and in other times directly as the Lord said it?

Dampc Use Language

I think it is exactly as you posit.

Joseph Smith had a distinctive way of expressing himself. Sometimes in the D&C, that manner of expression is evident, other times it isn't.

In fact, this is really obvious in section 76. Verses 1-10 are in a very formal language. They are a proclamation that what is in this section really is from the Lord. However, starting with verse 11, it is in a more informal style, as Joseph and Sidney explain what they have seen and experienced.

Language Use In D&c Studies Doctrine Mormon

Considering that the D&C is not translated should we then first take each word directly for what its' worth or still look for possible alternate meanings - after all the work is in English and therefore needs little depth for understanding as far as sentence structure, etc.

Dampc Use Language

While it appears that the Doctrine and Covenants is in plain English, it is in a slightly archaic form. There are quite a few idioms in it that are a bit hard to understand in today's language.

There are also quite a few things that are in "prophetic" language, that require a spirit of prophecy to fully understand.

At least in my opinion.