A portion of the gold plates, from which the Book of Mormon was translated, was reportedly sealed, preventing its perusal by Joseph Smith or any other individual. The unread segment’s existence is a tenet within the Latter-day Saint faith. Accounts suggest this part of the record contains a fuller account of certain historical events and revelations than what is found in the published Book of Mormon.
The significance of this sealed portion lies in its implied potential for future revelation. The belief is that, in due time, according to divine will, the contents will be revealed. This contributes to a sense of ongoing restoration and a belief in continuing divine guidance. Historically, its existence has been a point of both faith and speculation within and outside of the Latter-day Saint movement.