The Book of Mormon speaks about black people primarily in the context of the Lamanites, a group described as having been cursed with "a skin of blackness" as a punishment from God for their rebellion and wickedness against the Nephites, who were described as "white and exceedingly fair and delightsome." This marking was said to prevent the Nephites from mixing with the Lamanites and adopting their "incorrect traditions," according to passages like 2 Nephi 5:21 and Alma 3:6-9. The curse and dark skin were seen as a divine sign of separation and punishment. However, the Book of Mormon also teaches that God invites all people, regardless of skin color — black or white — to come unto Him and partake of His goodness equally (2 Nephi 26:33). Over time, some Lamanites were portrayed as becoming more righteous than the Nephites. Historically, these scriptures were part of teachings and policies within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that justified racial discrimination, including denying Black people priesthood and temple privileges until these restrictions were lifted in 1978. The interpretation and emphasis on the "skin of blackness" have been controversial and are regarded today by the church as part of past teachings that do not reflect current doctrine, with the church denouncing racism and promoting the universal love of Jesus Christ for all people. In summary, the Book of Mormon connects dark skin with a divine curse on the Lamanites as a punishment and a marker of separation from the Nephites, but also asserts that all are alike unto God regardless of color, with modern understanding de-emphasizing racial interpretations and rejecting racism.
