When Joseph Smith wrote in the Eighth Article of Faith that “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly” (emphasis added), the wording can feel a little awkward. Why does it say “is translated” instead of “was translated”?

At first glance, it sounds like a simple reference to history — that somewhere along the line, copyists, translators, or scribes introduced mistakes. This reading is certainly valid. Joseph himself once observed, “I believe the Bible as it read when it came from the pen of the original writers. Ignorant translators, careless transcribers, or designing and corrupt priests have committed many errors” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 327).

But the present-tense phrasing opens the door for another, equally compelling interpretation. “Is translated correctly” can just as easily mean “is interpreted, taught, and lived out correctly.” In that sense, the Bible remains the word of God, but its power depends on how it is understood and applied by believers.

Plain and Precious Truths Lost

This second layer harmonizes beautifully with Nephi’s prophecy in 1 Nephi 13, where he foresaw that “many plain and precious things” would be taken away from the Bible (vv. 26, 28, 29, 40). Nephi describes the result: people would stumble spiritually, and Satan would gain “great power over them” (v. 29).

Notice, however, that Nephi never specifies how those truths were lost. He does not say that all were erased from manuscripts by clumsy scribes, but simply that they were “taken away.” Later revelation clarifies that the Book of Mormon and other inspired writings would restore them (vv. 39–41).

Latter-day Saint leaders have therefore interpreted Nephi’s prophecy to include more than just textual corruption. Elder Bruce R. McConkie taught:

“The taking away of plain and precious things from the Bible is not limited to the changes and omissions in the texts themselves. The greater loss has been in the misinterpretations and false doctrines which have come because men do not understand what is in the Bible.”

(Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 1:103)

Similarly, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland explained:

“It is not just that people have tampered with the Bible text … but also that people have ignored or changed the interpretation of what remains. The Book of Mormon restores plain and precious truths both by clarifying and by adding.”

(Christ and the New Covenant, 1997, p. 6)

In other words, plain and precious truths can be “taken away” not only by editing parchment but also by failing to live, teach, or emphasize what is still there.

Translation as Text and Context

Elder Neal A. Maxwell once noted that the Eighth Article of Faith gives us a way to think about both layers at once:

“The eighth Article of Faith helps us with the Bible, too. We are to regard it as the word of God ‘as far as it is translated correctly.’ This means both text and context matter — what was written and how it is understood.”

(The Wondrous Restoration, Apr. 2003, paraphrased)

That dual emphasis is exactly what makes the phrase so enduring, even if it is initially confusing. The Bible is true insofar as the manuscripts were faithfully transmitted, and it is true insofar as believers correctly understand and live its message.

The Book of Mormon as Companion Witness

This is why the Restoration matters so deeply. The Book of Mormon does not compete with the Bible but complements it — restoring clarity where history, tradition, or neglect have clouded the truth. As Elder Holland put it:

“We do not dismiss the Bible. We cherish it. … But the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ, preserved and translated by the power of God to restore plain and precious things that had been lost.”

(My Words … Never Cease, Apr. 2008)

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Conclusion: The phrasing “is translated correctly” may sound unusual, but in its very awkwardness lies a depth of meaning. It reminds us that God’s word can be distorted both through the centuries of transmission and in the way it is interpreted and applied today. The Restoration’s great gift is that it gives us both a second witness and a living context to ensure the Bible is not only read but truly understood and lived.