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Episode 11 of The Book of Mormon presents a formal debate about whether Nephi and his family could realistically have built and sailed a ship across the ocean as described in the Book of Mormon. The hosts examine key challenges including shipbuilding expertise, materials acquisition, tool crafting, food storage, and navigation skills. While one host emphasizes the practical impossibilities based on historical context, the other suggests alternative interpretations including simpler vessel designs, longer timeframes, and the role of divine intervention in making the journey possible. 

Sources

• Podcast: How to Build a Transoceanic Vessel_John Larsen
• Essay: A Very Long Boat Ride_The Interpreter Foundation
• Essay: Transoceanic Crossings_BYU RSC
• Video: Could Nephi Really Build a Ship_Mormonism Discussion Inc

AI Prompt
Host a debate on whether Nephi could have built a ship to cross the ocean. Have each host take the opposite side and debate. Provide evidence and logic to support each side. Follow the rules of a debate. End with concluding statements from each side. Award a winner to the debate. Be scholarly. Be logical. Quote sources. 

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1. Truth | 2. Beginnings | 3. First Vision | 4. Priesthood | 5. The Gold Plates | 6. The BoM | 7. The BoA | 8. Polygamy | 9. Changes | 10. Challenges | ...