The phrase refers to potential connections between the Book of Mormon, a religious text of the Latter Day Saint movement, and Christopher Columbus’s voyages to the Americas. Certain interpretations of the Book of Mormon suggest pre-Columbian transoceanic voyages. Therefore, some scholars and adherents explore parallels or convergences between narratives within the Book of Mormon and historical accounts of Columbus’s explorations.
The relevance of this connection lies in examining potential supporting evidence, or lack thereof, for the Book of Mormon’s claims of ancient American civilizations and transatlantic travel. It often involves analyzing passages relating to seafaring, migration, and interactions with indigenous populations in the context of Columbus’s documented encounters. This analysis can inform discussions about the historicity of the Book of Mormon and its relationship to established historical and archaeological findings.