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KnoWhy #20 - Why Would Nephi Call the Ocean “Irreantum”? (1 Nephi 17:5)

TitleKnoWhy #20 - Why Would Nephi Call the Ocean “Irreantum”? (1 Nephi 17:5)
Publication TypeKnoWhy
Year of Publication2016
Corporate AuthorsBook of Mormon Central Staff
PublisherBook of Mormon Central
Place PublishedSpringville, UT
KeywordsBattle of Qadesh; Name; Onomastics; Seas
Abstract

When Nephi and his family arrived at the end of their Arabian trail, they named the body of water they encountered "Irreantum," which is interpreted by Nephi as meaning "many waters." Some have wondered whether this peculiar-sounding name has any plausible ancient etymology. In fact, the work done by scholars associated with the Book of Mormon Onomasticon project have suggested possible ancient elements in the name, thus lending support to the Book of Mormon's historicity.

URLhttp://www.knowhy.bookofmormoncentral.org/content/why-would-nephi-call-the-ocean-irreantum
Citation Key1188

Scripture Reference

1 Nephi 17:5