Kerry Muhlestein: A Respected Scholar of Ancient Scripture

Kerry Muhlestein is a renowned professor and the director of research in the Department of Ancient Scripture at Brigham Young University. He has devoted his career to studying the ancient world, particularly the history, culture, and language of ancient Egypt. With his deep knowledge and expertise, Muhlestein has become a trusted authority on the subject of the Book of Abraham, one of the most significant works in Mormonism.

Muhlestein earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology with a Hebrew minor from BYU. During his undergraduate studies, he spent time at the BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies, where he completed an intensive Hebrew program. Muhlestein also holds a Master of Arts degree in Ancient Near Eastern Studies from BYU and a PhD from UCLA in Egyptology.

Muhlestein's passion for teaching began during his undergraduate years when he taught Hebrew and religion part-time at BYU and the UVSC Extension Center. Later, he taught early-morning seminary and at the Westwood (UCLA) Institute of Religion. He then became a professor in religion and history at BYU–Hawaii, a joint position that marked his first full-time appointment. Muhlestein has also taught history at Cal Poly Pomona and UCLA.

Muhlestein's expertise in the field of Egyptology led to his appointment as the director of the BYU Egypt Excavation Project. He also served as the chairman of a national committee for the American Research Center in Egypt and worked with Educational Testing Services on their AP World History exam.

Muhlestein's latest book, Let’s Talk about the Book of Abraham, is an insightful and accessible guide for those seeking answers to the most pressing questions surrounding this important book. The Book of Abraham is a collection of writings attributed to the prophet Abraham, which Joseph Smith claimed to have translated from Egyptian papyri. However, the authenticity of the translation has been the subject of much debate and controversy. Muhlestein's book addresses these issues in a thoughtful and clear manner.

In Let’s Talk about the Book of Abraham, Muhlestein explains the background and summary of the Book of Abraham and the two main theories surrounding the papyri — the missing papyrus theory and the catalyst theory. He also provides valuable advice on how to address member concerns about the Book of Abraham and discusses the academic and revelatory methods of learning.

Muhlestein's approach to the Book of Abraham is grounded in faith and encourages readers to seek personal revelation while also engaging with academic scholarship. He suggests that leaders should not discourage people from studying through academic books, but they should also encourage members to spend equal time searching the scriptures and seeking revelation.

Muhlestein encourages leaders to validate the concerns members may express and guide them on their journey. He believes that it's okay for people to have questions and to wrestle with their faith, and that the revelatory experiences they have can help them remember their core beliefs during times of doubt.

Kerry Muhlestein is a respected scholar and teacher of ancient scripture. His deep knowledge and expertise in Egyptology have made him a trusted authority on the subject of the Book of Abraham, and his latest book, Let’s Talk about the Book of Abraham, is a valuable resource for anyone seeking answers to questions about this important work.


Kerry Muhlestein will be speaking in Provo, Utah on March 31st for A Day in Ancient Israel at the Experience Event Center. Pulling from his extensive education and experience Professor Muhlestein will be the keynote speaker at the Feasts and Festivals Dinner. Come experience first hand his ability to take complex historical and linguistic aspects and turn them into enriching opportunities to fortify faith! His ability to invite question and examination through academic lenses and transform them into testimony builders has defined his academic and professional life. His words will not only teach you about the value of the Book of Abraham historically, but he will help show you how the Book of Abraham can further strengthen your testimony of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Tickets are on sale through March 31, 2023.