The Choice Seer, a title signifying prominence and divine selection, was a prophetic role foretold by Joseph in Egypt, whose own narrative is intricately woven into the fabric of the Book of Mormon through the patriarchal blessings and prophecies recorded on the brass plates. Joseph1 prophesied that this individual would emerge from his lineage as a pivotal figure in restoring the truths and covenants of the Lord to the house of Israel (2 Nephi 3:6, JST Genesis 50:26). The Choice Seer was not only to bear the responsibility of bringing forth sacred writings but was also to act as an instrument in the Lord’s hands, playing a crucial part in gathering and instructing the Lord’s people in the latter days.
The Choice Seer, who would share the name Joseph with his ancient forefather, was destined to translate and publish the Book of Mormon, a sacred record containing the fullness of the gospel and confounding false doctrines. His role would significantly include the unification of scriptural records, combining the writings of Joseph’s descendants with those of Judah’s lineage to elucidate the truth and gather scattered Israel (2 Nephi 3:12, JST Genesis 50:31). His contributions would culminate in a restorative process foreseen by prophets and anticipated by the faithful, drawing together the past, present, and future in a harmonious witness of Jesus Christ.
Throughout the prophetic narrative, the Choice Seer was alluded to as a man of remarkable virtue and spiritual strength, entrusted with the power to translate ancient scripture by the gift and power of God (2 Nephi 3:11–12). His name, his heritage, and his divine mandate were reaffirmed in latter-day revelations and within the scriptural framework the Book of Mormon presents, thus identifying Joseph Smith Jr. as the embodiment of the Choice Seer, the Prophet of the Restoration, who fulfilled ancient prophecies and initiated the gathering of Israel foretold by his prophetic predecessors.