I have the greatest respect for Richard Hauck and his work. His work has convinced me beyond any doubt that the geography presented in "The Word of God" is found in Arabia and in Mesoamerica. The Church has no position on the location of the lands of The Book of Mormon. However, this book is the position of the Church, and the geography of said book fits only in the lands of Mesoamerica. (See Hauck, Richard F. "Deciphering The Geography of The Book of Mormon" pp Xii-xiii). Brother Aston has proved to me that the exodus of Lehi's family from Jerusalem to Bountiful is true. Brother Hauck has proved to me that The Book of Mormon is true. Those that are selling, for profit, books and symposiums, that support other theories, are discounting the geography provided by Mormon and the supporting research provided by a real scientist, brother Richard Hauck.
Dan SilvermanDecember 30, 2016
FYI The author Scot Proctor narrated the just released movie LEHI IN ARABIA www.lehiinarabia.com which shows the Khor Kharfot site, the ancient structures there and the discoveries made. Really enjoyed watching it
Terry GunnDecember 12, 2016
Can't wait to see what is found and if there are any connections to LDS beliefs/Book of Mormon history. However, assuming that the landing, etc. was in Latin American needs to be rethought. Too much evidence, both physical and DNA is now leading to an American (US) Heartland site for the Book of Mormon, and thus where Lehi, Nephi, etc. landed and grew their culture around The Great Lakes, etc.
Rich DAugust 15, 2016
I haven't seen any updates or information released on this yet. Has there been any progress or work that can be reported? Any findings?
Scot SAugust 4, 2016
I am not a scientist nor a scholar. However, I am LDS. I lived on the island of Kauai for many years. During that time I did extensive personal investigation on the subject of the Hawaiians being a branch of Nephites. During a visit to the Laie Temple visitors center I saw a depiction of the ships built by ???? as described in Alma 63. Some of those ships sailed and never returned. I began to study the correlations between what we know about South American culture, architecture, anthropology, etc. The similarities are significant in my mind. One particular finding was shown to me by an 88 year old Hawaiian woman in 1985. It was a Heiau. Which is a temple. As far as I could tell, it too followed the patten and layout of solomon's temple. In included an outer porch, an inner room with 3 stone seats surrounded in a half circle by 12 stone seats and the measurements were not identical to Solomons temple, but were to scale. Like I said, I am not trained in this stuff, so I was reticent to make any scientific claims, but I am satisfied that there was a direct connection.
Eugene KovalenkoAugust 4, 2016
At the very least, this is an extraordinary example of Mormons and Muslims working together! May it grow into other opportunities for cooperation and mutual understanding between our and their people.
Amy LorenzApril 24, 2016
I can't wait to see what you and your team find! How exciting to have found what appears to be a temple as evidenced by the dimensions that match Solomon's temple. I look forward to your reports about findings during this exploration!
Rob IrelandFebruary 17, 2016
There is a interesting technique that could aid in the research of the area and see hidden structure that the English have used in search for Roman roads called lidar. Don't know if it is available for that country but could help speed things up.
See the Fox news article on it . https://www.foxnews.com/science/2016/02/15/lost-roads-ancient-rome-discovered-with-3d-laser-scanners.html?
SaveaFebruary 16, 2016
I'm in tears of gratitude and excitement of this great news. It only adds more to the truthfulness of The Book of Mormon.
John PetersFebruary 16, 2016
Hi Lindsay, re: your comment on Salalah- as someone whose been over there and seen these sites, Salalah doesn't have many of the feeatures Nephi describes. Like others, I would really recommend the film Lehi In Arabia - it goes through all of the Bountiful candidates and compares them to Nephi's account. www.lehiinarabia.com
Betsy Wenk-PutmanFebruary 16, 2016
Marvelous. Hoping to hear much more about this adventure. Stay safe.
WS JosephFebruary 16, 2016
No one can prevent the Lord's work. This is a great work and God will see it through. World peace has to begin somewhere, and this is it.
May God be with each one involved and this work will be for the purposes of God.
Eric MorrisonFebruary 15, 2016
Fascinating. l have been following Khor Kharfot for many years. It will be exciting to see what comes of this. Thanks for your continued efforts on this project.
Joseph TaubeFebruary 15, 2016
The cooperation is just fantastic. However, the problem with using science to establish the validity of the scriptures is that we have to accept *all* the science. We can't pick and choose. Thus, when archaeologists say that the story of the Exodus can't possibly be true, we have to accept that if we are going to be consistent in accepting these archaeological conclusions about the land Bountiful.
Sandy LeeFebruary 15, 2016
I am not a Mormon but I found this article very interesting. Good luck with your work.
Lindsay WardFebruary 15, 2016
I read the text and looked at the pictures and wondered why Salalah, Oman couldn't be the site where the family built the boat. It seems more like Bountiful to me.
Shane PetersenFebruary 15, 2016
I like what your group is doing, I hope you find new information on the land Bountiful. Sounds like a place of hard work and rich blessings. I wounder if this is where the Brother of Jared / 16 stones, and the barges were built? Prior to Nephi's departure. Good luck.
izzyFebruary 14, 2016
This is inspiring and amazing!
Not sure Nephi mentioned building a temple/sanctuary in Bountiful; possibly written in the Book of Lehi / lost manuscript pages? Seems like Nephi would have mentioned it though since he mentioned the temple he built in the Promised Land...no?
Dan SilvermanFebruary 13, 2016
FYI The author Scot Proctor narrated the just released movie LEHI IN ARABIA www.lehiinarabia.com which shows the Khor Kharfot site, the ancient structures there and the discoveries made. Really enjoyed watching it
Conrad Dickson 2/13/16February 13, 2016
The discovery of the harbor (Khor Rori) in which Nephi built his ship has been documented in three books written by George Potter, ie "Leigh's Trail","Voyages of the Book of Mormon" and "Nephi in the Promised Land". Gorge has worked and lived in Arabia for 20 years and is a member of the church. Look up Nephi Project on internet to get access to good deal on books and other articals.
Denise MinoFebruary 13, 2016
I was moved by reading your article. This is truly a blessing to members of the LDS church. It is clear the the Lord is helping clear the way for this marvelous work to come forth at this point in time. Thank you to those that are working tirelessly on this project and taking risks by approaching tough conversations with foreign leaders. Thank you to the leaders of Oman for generously granting the permits necessary to dig the site. I'm sure we are in for more exciting updates with this project. May the Lord continue to lead your project and inspire and direct from above.
MelodyFebruary 13, 2016
Traveled to Nahom and the site in Yemen with my husband and children in 1994 and 1995. It was a beautiful and peaceful place. My husband spoke to a local about why we were there and the man was very accepting and understanding about "other" prophets. All the Arab people we met in our time in the Middle East were so loving and kind to all of our family.
Kirk K. PetersonFebruary 13, 2016
I am a Mormon who has been living and working in Arabia for the past 14 years. I have had a wonderful experience living in this part of the world. My first visit to Oman was back in 1998 and over the years I have visited Oman many times. In October 2013 I had the opportunity to visit Salalah and explore two possible locations for the "Land Bountiful." One is at Wadi Darbat - Khor Rori and the other is at Wadi Sayq - Khor Kharfot. I visited both of these sites with two LDS friends of mine who were living and working in Oman, one from Idaho and the other from the Philippines. We had a wonderful experience visiting Salalah and I am thrilled to get this wonderful news about the LDS archaeological work that will be taking place with the cooperation with the Omani government. Oman is one of the nicest countries on earth and the lovely Omani people are warm and hospitable. My testimony of the Book of Mormon is not based on physical evidence, but rather on a spiritual witness. However it's wonderful to have more and more archaeological evidence being revealed to the world that this sacred record was indeed written by real people and based on actual events and true geographical locations.
PeterFebruary 13, 2016
This is surely an exciting opportunity for the sake of scholarship. I think its important to note that there are other proposed sites in this area, also with strong evidence, further pointing to a strong conclusion of the area being bountiful, though we may never know which site is the exact one. For this to be a piece highlighting temporal scholarship of the Book of Mormon story, then its important to acknowledge that.
I also think there is a bit of homework that might want to be done when writing an article for publication before describing the interplay between Muslims and other faiths. Either that, or there was some deliberate sensationalism embellished in the story. As others have pointed out who live here in Oman, it is perhaps the best country in the Gulf region, with a calm, open and friendly people who are influenced not by Sunni or Shia Islam, but Ibadi Islam, characterized by tolerance; read about it. The country is also filled with people of other faiths, with large populations from the Indian subcontinent and other Asian countries.
People may also want to know that the Church has many units in the Gulf regions, including buildings (though not in every country, of course) which require recognition from the government. Its an exciting time.
Truly, this is a great blessing, both for scholarship, and for interfaith relations in the Gulf.
John OvardFebruary 12, 2016
A truly special opportunity and I won't be surprised that some exciting new information comes forth about the Book of Mormon. However, as one who has read this great book dozens of times cover to cover with thousands or additional individual points of reading and study, I remain amazed that so many remain clueless to the incredible spiritual guidance and instruction that the Book of Mormon contains. Its incredible spiritual depth and guidance could never have been created by the wisdom of man. Archaeological findings and other information may increase interest and understanding, but reading the book with a spiritual focus seeking to find truth is where full understand and faith will come.
Rebecca WestonFebruary 12, 2016
Heaven's hand is all through this. I stand all amazed and in awe.
Sylvia SmithermanFebruary 12, 2016
It has already been found that the Queen of Sheba's kingdom was there in Yemen. When she visited Solomon, she was converted to Judaism and took the religion back to her country and established it there. That is why there are temple structures like those of Solomon's temple. Her son Menelick latter visited Solomon and it is believed that it was he who removed the Ark from Jerusalem and took it to protect it from the latter destruction of the temple.
Scott StephensFebruary 12, 2016
To Gil Ceniceros: I am a Mormon and it has been my experience that most Muslims are very tolerant of Christians. Don't let all of the press about the very visible minority of Muslim extremists lead you to believe otherwise. A dear Muslim friend of mine, who was raised in the Middle East, recently returned from a trip to the Holy Land and gave me a Catholic Rosary that he purchased there for me as a gift. He may not fully understand the nuances between different Christian groups, but he has no problem encouraging me in my Christian faith.
Carri ByersFebruary 12, 2016
When you think about how the Lord had to be part of this peaceful and open people occupying this area however many years ago they settled here and moved the Omani's hearts to be solicitous to this endeavor, it really is a miracle. Thank you Lord for your long range wisdom and reigning power. This is incredibly exciting!
Joseph SmithFebruary 12, 2016
Great Story. Got to see how this plays out. Best of luck to them. Now if someone could get permission to dig near Hill Cumorah to see if battles actually took place there or if the " Land of Desolation is in South America that would be great!!
DavidFebruary 12, 2016
It is interesting to me that at the end of 1 Nephi 18, Nephi talks of ore and lists copper, gold, and silver. Later in the Americas he talks of iron, but not at the beach when making the boat to sail to America. I think that he used copper tools. The melting point fits the temperature of a fire, and they didn't have enough wood or other fuel to heat and work iron tools.
Gil CenicerosFebruary 12, 2016
Very interesting article!. Please keep us updated if anything is found that looks like additional proof that Lehi's family was there! I'm also glad to hear that some Muslims are actually tolerant of Christians.
Phil OlleroFebruary 12, 2016
I am a Mormon and very fascinated by this story. I believe the Book Of Mormon is a real history of how Lehi took his family away from Jerusalem and ended up in bountiful to cross the ocean. Either way , it won't change my faith in the event that took place here in KK.
varianFebruary 12, 2016
For those who haven't seen it yet-the movie Lehi in Arabia https://www.lehiinarabia.com captures the last 30 years of work at this site and all the exciting discoveries made there. Good watch!
GraceFebruary 12, 2016
After hearing Scot Proctor speak about this at a Single Adult Fireside, I was glad to see it in print and read the story again. This is really cool and I Hope they continue to discover some cool stuff.
TimFebruary 11, 2016
I currently work in Oman and have loved being here. I just had this discussion with my wife's grandfather of whether this would be an area where Lehi would have journeyed to. I am excited that this could be the case. The Omani people are the friendliest and most tolerant people in the Middle East by far. I have some dear friends who are Muslim here and we discuss the differences and similarities of our faiths often. This new information just makes me love this place even more.
Guy S.February 11, 2016
I am very interested in this project as a Mormon and student at Arizona State University working towards a degree in archaeology. I would like to know how I can join the team for a few weeks to assist while gaining valuable field experience on a project that has deep spiritual meaning to me. Please contact me as soon as is convenient. Thank you!
Darlene PragerFebruary 11, 2016
Wow.....so awesome. What a thrill it must be to walk and be in place that Lehi, Nephi and their family lived for a time. Absolutely incredible. Can't wait to read more on what they discover. God works His miracles every day.
DaveFebruary 11, 2016
Totally felt the spirit as I read this!!!
Daniel RubalcavaFebruary 11, 2016
I am currently living in Oman! Maybe I'll make a trip down south, if they need any volunteers. Very cool indeed.
Kerry PetersenFebruary 11, 2016
Sometimes one spends a lot of effort to climb a ladder to only reach the top and realize the ladder was placed on the wrong wall. When will the academics give up on this location and spend the requisite energy and resources at Kohr Rori. I have personally inspected every claimed site and only Kohr Rori has the resources to build a ship of "timbers". Follow the Wadi back and only there will one find the remains of trees exceeding 25' in circumference which were easily floated during monsoon season to the natural port of Kohr Rori. The site to be investigated has nothing exceeding shrubs.
Marcia AmblerFebruary 11, 2016
I am so excited about this wonderful discovery! Even more, I will be praying for the Omanis to remain protected from the terrors of ISIS, and for our archaeological group to have success in this both factual and spiritual endeavor!
DERRICKFebruary 11, 2016
My ship pulled into Muscat Oman in 1996 when I was a sailor in the US Navy. Oman is a fantastic country and felt very safe and welcoming. I even bought a postcard depicting this beach at the time!! So excited to see what the science uncovers!!
RobynFebruary 11, 2016
My husband and I visited this site. It was so quiet and peaceful. Knowing the possible link to the Book of Mormon made the experience all the more special as we visualized the events that may have taken place here. I remember looking at the cliffs form where Nephi's brothers are said to have tried to throw him and marveled at his courage and strength to overcome all adversity in accomplishing the Lord's commands. The Omanis are indeed are a very gracious and intelligent people. God bless them!
Valerie RichardsFebruary 11, 2016
Our family is following closely with great anticipation. May your team be safe and shielded from harm as you proceed with the research.
SethFebruary 11, 2016
I'm confused. Are they now saying that Nephi and family sailed 15,000 miles from Oman across the Pacific to Central America?
Aaron W.February 11, 2016
Very excited to hear more. If you don't find what you're hoping for, don't rule Khor Rori out. May God bless your efforts and His will be done. So glad the church doesn't engage in hate towards Muslims, like some Christians, based on the actions of the extreme. I've had only good experiences with our Muslim brothers. We have more in common than not. We don't like being lumped into the same category as extreme LDS offshoots, so we should resist the temptation to do the same.
Tina RawlinsFebruary 11, 2016
It doesn't look very bountiful of anything interesting. No Fruit trees or fresh water.. What could be bountiful there?
Sarah Ruth RhyneFebruary 11, 2016
THIS TOUCHES MY HEART AND MY SPIRIT TELLS ME THIS IS BOUNTIFUL.
Chris McCabeFebruary 11, 2016
I haven't felt the spirit that strongly while reading a church article in a very, very long time. I can't wait to read tomorrow's article!
Donald C. ClynickFebruary 11, 2016
This is truly a fantastic read and also a reaffirmation of what the Scriptures that in the Latter Days, m ore discoveries would be made to compliment and be in total harmony with the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Juan PenaFebruary 11, 2016
I totally agree with Harold Stuart that if nothing is found, "the Church will still be true."
I can not begin to express the emotions that have overcome me as I read this article. It's fantastic!!!
Dennis IsaacsonFebruary 11, 2016
Wow, this is an awesome opportunity to add to the authenticity of the Book of Mormon! The temple outline that has been described, if validated, will make this site much more important than even the temple blocks found at Nahom. Seems like a great potential for future tourism in this area because of this too. What a great win-win for both Yemen and us, huh?
W. Michael Shea, MDFebruary 11, 2016
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Omani government for their graciousness and good will. There is hardly a better way to make friends than to be one.
AleceFebruary 11, 2016
Debra, in case you have never been to Oman, you should know that the Omani's are some of the most gracious, open and kind people I have ever met, so this doesn't surpise me in the slightest! I think that if this had been presented to them in this manner a couple of years ago -- before ISIS -- the result would probably have been the same. Beyond that, I am so thankful that this has happened. Having spent five days in that Khor with Warren Aston and his family in 2011, and having seen the location from afar a few years before that, I have known since 2008 that Khor Kharfor IS Nephi and Lehi's Bountiful. I hope that this team can also date the story panel on the cave and discover the secrets of the man-made mound while they are there! Love to all those who will be involved in the next few weeks!
BethFebruary 11, 2016
I look forward to reading and following this wonderful adventure with you. Grateful for those who are inspired to find and share tangible history, thereby furthering God's work to many more of His children. ^_^
Howard CollettFebruary 11, 2016
Fantastic! Intriguing! Can't wait to read more.
Harold StuartFebruary 11, 2016
This is all very interesting and I hope you find what you are looking for. If you do, it will be amazing. If you don't, I hope that you will press forward, as the Church will still be true.
Debra WoodsFebruary 11, 2016
Thus we see . . . how the Lord uses even the ugliest of circumstances, to facilitate his work. A year or so ago, there would have been no incentive to portray magnanimity toward all religions, but as a clear show of opposition to ISIS, they were more than happy to do so now.
Not only is this terribly exciting for the Nephi's Bountiful project, but moderate people everywhere are starting to stand up to the extremist terror - and some wonderful things will result from this.
Comments | Return to Story
Eldon V. GuymonOctober 8, 2017
I have the greatest respect for Richard Hauck and his work. His work has convinced me beyond any doubt that the geography presented in "The Word of God" is found in Arabia and in Mesoamerica. The Church has no position on the location of the lands of The Book of Mormon. However, this book is the position of the Church, and the geography of said book fits only in the lands of Mesoamerica. (See Hauck, Richard F. "Deciphering The Geography of The Book of Mormon" pp Xii-xiii). Brother Aston has proved to me that the exodus of Lehi's family from Jerusalem to Bountiful is true. Brother Hauck has proved to me that The Book of Mormon is true. Those that are selling, for profit, books and symposiums, that support other theories, are discounting the geography provided by Mormon and the supporting research provided by a real scientist, brother Richard Hauck.
Dan SilvermanDecember 30, 2016
FYI The author Scot Proctor narrated the just released movie LEHI IN ARABIA www.lehiinarabia.com which shows the Khor Kharfot site, the ancient structures there and the discoveries made. Really enjoyed watching it
Terry GunnDecember 12, 2016
Can't wait to see what is found and if there are any connections to LDS beliefs/Book of Mormon history. However, assuming that the landing, etc. was in Latin American needs to be rethought. Too much evidence, both physical and DNA is now leading to an American (US) Heartland site for the Book of Mormon, and thus where Lehi, Nephi, etc. landed and grew their culture around The Great Lakes, etc.
Rich DAugust 15, 2016
I haven't seen any updates or information released on this yet. Has there been any progress or work that can be reported? Any findings?
Scot SAugust 4, 2016
I am not a scientist nor a scholar. However, I am LDS. I lived on the island of Kauai for many years. During that time I did extensive personal investigation on the subject of the Hawaiians being a branch of Nephites. During a visit to the Laie Temple visitors center I saw a depiction of the ships built by ???? as described in Alma 63. Some of those ships sailed and never returned. I began to study the correlations between what we know about South American culture, architecture, anthropology, etc. The similarities are significant in my mind. One particular finding was shown to me by an 88 year old Hawaiian woman in 1985. It was a Heiau. Which is a temple. As far as I could tell, it too followed the patten and layout of solomon's temple. In included an outer porch, an inner room with 3 stone seats surrounded in a half circle by 12 stone seats and the measurements were not identical to Solomons temple, but were to scale. Like I said, I am not trained in this stuff, so I was reticent to make any scientific claims, but I am satisfied that there was a direct connection.
Eugene KovalenkoAugust 4, 2016
At the very least, this is an extraordinary example of Mormons and Muslims working together! May it grow into other opportunities for cooperation and mutual understanding between our and their people.
Amy LorenzApril 24, 2016
I can't wait to see what you and your team find! How exciting to have found what appears to be a temple as evidenced by the dimensions that match Solomon's temple. I look forward to your reports about findings during this exploration!
Rob IrelandFebruary 17, 2016
There is a interesting technique that could aid in the research of the area and see hidden structure that the English have used in search for Roman roads called lidar. Don't know if it is available for that country but could help speed things up. See the Fox news article on it . https://www.foxnews.com/science/2016/02/15/lost-roads-ancient-rome-discovered-with-3d-laser-scanners.html?
SaveaFebruary 16, 2016
I'm in tears of gratitude and excitement of this great news. It only adds more to the truthfulness of The Book of Mormon.
John PetersFebruary 16, 2016
Hi Lindsay, re: your comment on Salalah- as someone whose been over there and seen these sites, Salalah doesn't have many of the feeatures Nephi describes. Like others, I would really recommend the film Lehi In Arabia - it goes through all of the Bountiful candidates and compares them to Nephi's account. www.lehiinarabia.com
Betsy Wenk-PutmanFebruary 16, 2016
Marvelous. Hoping to hear much more about this adventure. Stay safe.
WS JosephFebruary 16, 2016
No one can prevent the Lord's work. This is a great work and God will see it through. World peace has to begin somewhere, and this is it. May God be with each one involved and this work will be for the purposes of God.
Eric MorrisonFebruary 15, 2016
Fascinating. l have been following Khor Kharfot for many years. It will be exciting to see what comes of this. Thanks for your continued efforts on this project.
Joseph TaubeFebruary 15, 2016
The cooperation is just fantastic. However, the problem with using science to establish the validity of the scriptures is that we have to accept *all* the science. We can't pick and choose. Thus, when archaeologists say that the story of the Exodus can't possibly be true, we have to accept that if we are going to be consistent in accepting these archaeological conclusions about the land Bountiful.
Sandy LeeFebruary 15, 2016
I am not a Mormon but I found this article very interesting. Good luck with your work.
Lindsay WardFebruary 15, 2016
I read the text and looked at the pictures and wondered why Salalah, Oman couldn't be the site where the family built the boat. It seems more like Bountiful to me.
Shane PetersenFebruary 15, 2016
I like what your group is doing, I hope you find new information on the land Bountiful. Sounds like a place of hard work and rich blessings. I wounder if this is where the Brother of Jared / 16 stones, and the barges were built? Prior to Nephi's departure. Good luck.
izzyFebruary 14, 2016
This is inspiring and amazing! Not sure Nephi mentioned building a temple/sanctuary in Bountiful; possibly written in the Book of Lehi / lost manuscript pages? Seems like Nephi would have mentioned it though since he mentioned the temple he built in the Promised Land...no?
Dan SilvermanFebruary 13, 2016
FYI The author Scot Proctor narrated the just released movie LEHI IN ARABIA www.lehiinarabia.com which shows the Khor Kharfot site, the ancient structures there and the discoveries made. Really enjoyed watching it
Conrad Dickson 2/13/16February 13, 2016
The discovery of the harbor (Khor Rori) in which Nephi built his ship has been documented in three books written by George Potter, ie "Leigh's Trail","Voyages of the Book of Mormon" and "Nephi in the Promised Land". Gorge has worked and lived in Arabia for 20 years and is a member of the church. Look up Nephi Project on internet to get access to good deal on books and other articals.
Denise MinoFebruary 13, 2016
I was moved by reading your article. This is truly a blessing to members of the LDS church. It is clear the the Lord is helping clear the way for this marvelous work to come forth at this point in time. Thank you to those that are working tirelessly on this project and taking risks by approaching tough conversations with foreign leaders. Thank you to the leaders of Oman for generously granting the permits necessary to dig the site. I'm sure we are in for more exciting updates with this project. May the Lord continue to lead your project and inspire and direct from above.
MelodyFebruary 13, 2016
Traveled to Nahom and the site in Yemen with my husband and children in 1994 and 1995. It was a beautiful and peaceful place. My husband spoke to a local about why we were there and the man was very accepting and understanding about "other" prophets. All the Arab people we met in our time in the Middle East were so loving and kind to all of our family.
Kirk K. PetersonFebruary 13, 2016
I am a Mormon who has been living and working in Arabia for the past 14 years. I have had a wonderful experience living in this part of the world. My first visit to Oman was back in 1998 and over the years I have visited Oman many times. In October 2013 I had the opportunity to visit Salalah and explore two possible locations for the "Land Bountiful." One is at Wadi Darbat - Khor Rori and the other is at Wadi Sayq - Khor Kharfot. I visited both of these sites with two LDS friends of mine who were living and working in Oman, one from Idaho and the other from the Philippines. We had a wonderful experience visiting Salalah and I am thrilled to get this wonderful news about the LDS archaeological work that will be taking place with the cooperation with the Omani government. Oman is one of the nicest countries on earth and the lovely Omani people are warm and hospitable. My testimony of the Book of Mormon is not based on physical evidence, but rather on a spiritual witness. However it's wonderful to have more and more archaeological evidence being revealed to the world that this sacred record was indeed written by real people and based on actual events and true geographical locations.
PeterFebruary 13, 2016
This is surely an exciting opportunity for the sake of scholarship. I think its important to note that there are other proposed sites in this area, also with strong evidence, further pointing to a strong conclusion of the area being bountiful, though we may never know which site is the exact one. For this to be a piece highlighting temporal scholarship of the Book of Mormon story, then its important to acknowledge that. I also think there is a bit of homework that might want to be done when writing an article for publication before describing the interplay between Muslims and other faiths. Either that, or there was some deliberate sensationalism embellished in the story. As others have pointed out who live here in Oman, it is perhaps the best country in the Gulf region, with a calm, open and friendly people who are influenced not by Sunni or Shia Islam, but Ibadi Islam, characterized by tolerance; read about it. The country is also filled with people of other faiths, with large populations from the Indian subcontinent and other Asian countries. People may also want to know that the Church has many units in the Gulf regions, including buildings (though not in every country, of course) which require recognition from the government. Its an exciting time. Truly, this is a great blessing, both for scholarship, and for interfaith relations in the Gulf.
John OvardFebruary 12, 2016
A truly special opportunity and I won't be surprised that some exciting new information comes forth about the Book of Mormon. However, as one who has read this great book dozens of times cover to cover with thousands or additional individual points of reading and study, I remain amazed that so many remain clueless to the incredible spiritual guidance and instruction that the Book of Mormon contains. Its incredible spiritual depth and guidance could never have been created by the wisdom of man. Archaeological findings and other information may increase interest and understanding, but reading the book with a spiritual focus seeking to find truth is where full understand and faith will come.
Rebecca WestonFebruary 12, 2016
Heaven's hand is all through this. I stand all amazed and in awe.
Sylvia SmithermanFebruary 12, 2016
It has already been found that the Queen of Sheba's kingdom was there in Yemen. When she visited Solomon, she was converted to Judaism and took the religion back to her country and established it there. That is why there are temple structures like those of Solomon's temple. Her son Menelick latter visited Solomon and it is believed that it was he who removed the Ark from Jerusalem and took it to protect it from the latter destruction of the temple.
Scott StephensFebruary 12, 2016
To Gil Ceniceros: I am a Mormon and it has been my experience that most Muslims are very tolerant of Christians. Don't let all of the press about the very visible minority of Muslim extremists lead you to believe otherwise. A dear Muslim friend of mine, who was raised in the Middle East, recently returned from a trip to the Holy Land and gave me a Catholic Rosary that he purchased there for me as a gift. He may not fully understand the nuances between different Christian groups, but he has no problem encouraging me in my Christian faith.
Carri ByersFebruary 12, 2016
When you think about how the Lord had to be part of this peaceful and open people occupying this area however many years ago they settled here and moved the Omani's hearts to be solicitous to this endeavor, it really is a miracle. Thank you Lord for your long range wisdom and reigning power. This is incredibly exciting!
Joseph SmithFebruary 12, 2016
Great Story. Got to see how this plays out. Best of luck to them. Now if someone could get permission to dig near Hill Cumorah to see if battles actually took place there or if the " Land of Desolation is in South America that would be great!!
DavidFebruary 12, 2016
It is interesting to me that at the end of 1 Nephi 18, Nephi talks of ore and lists copper, gold, and silver. Later in the Americas he talks of iron, but not at the beach when making the boat to sail to America. I think that he used copper tools. The melting point fits the temperature of a fire, and they didn't have enough wood or other fuel to heat and work iron tools.
Gil CenicerosFebruary 12, 2016
Very interesting article!. Please keep us updated if anything is found that looks like additional proof that Lehi's family was there! I'm also glad to hear that some Muslims are actually tolerant of Christians.
Phil OlleroFebruary 12, 2016
I am a Mormon and very fascinated by this story. I believe the Book Of Mormon is a real history of how Lehi took his family away from Jerusalem and ended up in bountiful to cross the ocean. Either way , it won't change my faith in the event that took place here in KK.
varianFebruary 12, 2016
For those who haven't seen it yet-the movie Lehi in Arabia https://www.lehiinarabia.com captures the last 30 years of work at this site and all the exciting discoveries made there. Good watch!
GraceFebruary 12, 2016
After hearing Scot Proctor speak about this at a Single Adult Fireside, I was glad to see it in print and read the story again. This is really cool and I Hope they continue to discover some cool stuff.
TimFebruary 11, 2016
I currently work in Oman and have loved being here. I just had this discussion with my wife's grandfather of whether this would be an area where Lehi would have journeyed to. I am excited that this could be the case. The Omani people are the friendliest and most tolerant people in the Middle East by far. I have some dear friends who are Muslim here and we discuss the differences and similarities of our faiths often. This new information just makes me love this place even more.
Guy S.February 11, 2016
I am very interested in this project as a Mormon and student at Arizona State University working towards a degree in archaeology. I would like to know how I can join the team for a few weeks to assist while gaining valuable field experience on a project that has deep spiritual meaning to me. Please contact me as soon as is convenient. Thank you!
Darlene PragerFebruary 11, 2016
Wow.....so awesome. What a thrill it must be to walk and be in place that Lehi, Nephi and their family lived for a time. Absolutely incredible. Can't wait to read more on what they discover. God works His miracles every day.
DaveFebruary 11, 2016
Totally felt the spirit as I read this!!!
Daniel RubalcavaFebruary 11, 2016
I am currently living in Oman! Maybe I'll make a trip down south, if they need any volunteers. Very cool indeed.
Kerry PetersenFebruary 11, 2016
Sometimes one spends a lot of effort to climb a ladder to only reach the top and realize the ladder was placed on the wrong wall. When will the academics give up on this location and spend the requisite energy and resources at Kohr Rori. I have personally inspected every claimed site and only Kohr Rori has the resources to build a ship of "timbers". Follow the Wadi back and only there will one find the remains of trees exceeding 25' in circumference which were easily floated during monsoon season to the natural port of Kohr Rori. The site to be investigated has nothing exceeding shrubs.
Marcia AmblerFebruary 11, 2016
I am so excited about this wonderful discovery! Even more, I will be praying for the Omanis to remain protected from the terrors of ISIS, and for our archaeological group to have success in this both factual and spiritual endeavor!
DERRICKFebruary 11, 2016
My ship pulled into Muscat Oman in 1996 when I was a sailor in the US Navy. Oman is a fantastic country and felt very safe and welcoming. I even bought a postcard depicting this beach at the time!! So excited to see what the science uncovers!!
RobynFebruary 11, 2016
My husband and I visited this site. It was so quiet and peaceful. Knowing the possible link to the Book of Mormon made the experience all the more special as we visualized the events that may have taken place here. I remember looking at the cliffs form where Nephi's brothers are said to have tried to throw him and marveled at his courage and strength to overcome all adversity in accomplishing the Lord's commands. The Omanis are indeed are a very gracious and intelligent people. God bless them!
Valerie RichardsFebruary 11, 2016
Our family is following closely with great anticipation. May your team be safe and shielded from harm as you proceed with the research.
SethFebruary 11, 2016
I'm confused. Are they now saying that Nephi and family sailed 15,000 miles from Oman across the Pacific to Central America?
Aaron W.February 11, 2016
Very excited to hear more. If you don't find what you're hoping for, don't rule Khor Rori out. May God bless your efforts and His will be done. So glad the church doesn't engage in hate towards Muslims, like some Christians, based on the actions of the extreme. I've had only good experiences with our Muslim brothers. We have more in common than not. We don't like being lumped into the same category as extreme LDS offshoots, so we should resist the temptation to do the same.
Tina RawlinsFebruary 11, 2016
It doesn't look very bountiful of anything interesting. No Fruit trees or fresh water.. What could be bountiful there?
Sarah Ruth RhyneFebruary 11, 2016
THIS TOUCHES MY HEART AND MY SPIRIT TELLS ME THIS IS BOUNTIFUL.
Chris McCabeFebruary 11, 2016
I haven't felt the spirit that strongly while reading a church article in a very, very long time. I can't wait to read tomorrow's article!
Donald C. ClynickFebruary 11, 2016
This is truly a fantastic read and also a reaffirmation of what the Scriptures that in the Latter Days, m ore discoveries would be made to compliment and be in total harmony with the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Juan PenaFebruary 11, 2016
I totally agree with Harold Stuart that if nothing is found, "the Church will still be true." I can not begin to express the emotions that have overcome me as I read this article. It's fantastic!!!
Dennis IsaacsonFebruary 11, 2016
Wow, this is an awesome opportunity to add to the authenticity of the Book of Mormon! The temple outline that has been described, if validated, will make this site much more important than even the temple blocks found at Nahom. Seems like a great potential for future tourism in this area because of this too. What a great win-win for both Yemen and us, huh?
W. Michael Shea, MDFebruary 11, 2016
I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Omani government for their graciousness and good will. There is hardly a better way to make friends than to be one.
AleceFebruary 11, 2016
Debra, in case you have never been to Oman, you should know that the Omani's are some of the most gracious, open and kind people I have ever met, so this doesn't surpise me in the slightest! I think that if this had been presented to them in this manner a couple of years ago -- before ISIS -- the result would probably have been the same. Beyond that, I am so thankful that this has happened. Having spent five days in that Khor with Warren Aston and his family in 2011, and having seen the location from afar a few years before that, I have known since 2008 that Khor Kharfor IS Nephi and Lehi's Bountiful. I hope that this team can also date the story panel on the cave and discover the secrets of the man-made mound while they are there! Love to all those who will be involved in the next few weeks!
BethFebruary 11, 2016
I look forward to reading and following this wonderful adventure with you. Grateful for those who are inspired to find and share tangible history, thereby furthering God's work to many more of His children. ^_^
Howard CollettFebruary 11, 2016
Fantastic! Intriguing! Can't wait to read more.
Harold StuartFebruary 11, 2016
This is all very interesting and I hope you find what you are looking for. If you do, it will be amazing. If you don't, I hope that you will press forward, as the Church will still be true.
Debra WoodsFebruary 11, 2016
Thus we see . . . how the Lord uses even the ugliest of circumstances, to facilitate his work. A year or so ago, there would have been no incentive to portray magnanimity toward all religions, but as a clear show of opposition to ISIS, they were more than happy to do so now. Not only is this terribly exciting for the Nephi's Bountiful project, but moderate people everywhere are starting to stand up to the extremist terror - and some wonderful things will result from this.
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