Joseph Smith’s First Vision: An In-Depth Analysis of Its Age and Historical Context

The First Vision--the purported divine encounter of Joseph Smith as a young man—has long been a cornerstone of the Mormon faith. However, the age at which Joseph Smith claimed to have this visionary experience, and the development of his doctrine since then, raises numerous questions and sheds light on the historical and doctrinal evolution of early Mormonism.

Did Joseph Smith Actually Have a Vision?

One of the first questions that arises is whether Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon faith, actually had a vision at the age of 14 as he claimed. Critics and historians often question the legitimacy of this account, pointing out that the story emerged much later in Smith's life. It is important to note that the First Vision story as we know it today did not exist in its current form until 1838, well after Smith's initial claim of having experienced the vision in 1820.

The Timing and Development of the First Vision Story

Joseph Smith was 33 years old in 1838 when he quietly fabricated his version of the First Vision. This new story described Jesus and God as two totally separate and distinct individuals, which was a departure from the traditional Trinitarian theology that Smith had previously taught. The new vision story was only recorded in his private journal or letter book around this time, suggesting a deliberate and carefully crafted narrative rather than an immediate and unmediated religious experience.

Before 1838, there is no evidence of this particular vision being taught or preached by Smith or his followers. Early missionaries did not mention it, and neither did early critics of Smith or Mormonism. This suggests that the vision story was not an integral part of the doctrine during the earlier years of the movement.

The 1832 Account and Ecstatic Experience

An earlier account from 1832, written when Smith was 27, is probably closer to the truth. According to this account, Smith likely experienced some form of ecstatic, born-again religious conversion in 1820 when he was 14. The account mentioned a sense of forgiveness of sins, which aligns more closely with his later descriptions of the First Vision. It is possible that this earlier account was a more accurate reflection of Smith's personal experience.

The Delayed Canonization of the Vision

Despite the claim that the First Vision happened in 1820, the actual story did not become public until much later. Smith did not publish his account until 1842, and it was officially canonized in the Mormon church in 1880. Even then, it was not heavily emphasized in the church until the 20th century. This delay suggests a strategic and selective approach in shaping and promoting the First Vision as a central doctrine of the Mormon faith.

The First Vision story, as shaped in 1838, has become the cornerstone of Mormon doctrine. It is recited during the Boys' and Men's 'Hosanna Shout' tradition, emphasizing its importance in the Mormon faith. However, its delayed emergence and the context surrounding its development raise questions about the reliability of the account and the motivations behind its creation.

Given these factors, the age at which Joseph Smith claimed to have the First Vision is a significant topic of discussion in historical and religious studies. The story's delayed and crafted development highlights the complex and evolving nature of early Mormonism and the strategic use of religious narratives in shaping a new faith.