“But to Be Learned Is Good If They Hearken Unto the Counsels of God”

Brant Gardner

Jacob’s statement about learning is particularly apt for modern readers who are well aware of the explosion in knowledge. Jacob affirms the benefits of learning (v. 29) without making distinctions; he does not say that it is good to learn one thing but not another. Thus, Jacob’s warning focuses not on the information itself but on the attitude of the learned. Those who consider that their knowledge exalts them above others, and especially above God, are in error. Their supposed wisdom is “foolishness” that will not “profit” them (v. 28). Jacob affirms that learning is good but warns that it must be tempered with an understanding of Yahweh and a proper relationship to Him.

Second Witness: Analytical & Contextual Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 2

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