the "addition" to the opening of Sec 89 (proto-89) was very early in its textual history — & pretty difficult to dismiss as anything less than an early clarification by the Prophet himself? And also pretty clear that it was intended as an integral part of the revelation? But as I explained in a post above, the wording itself of 89 suggests that its tenets are to be understood as wisdom tenets --left to individual discretion-- rather than actual commandments or proscriptions. The early clarification in the opener really shouldn't be needed (though I'd say the point has obviously been terribly missed — even in light of the clarification--given Church policy over the last century+.).

I do recall an early incident when Joseph & Sidney were on an extended leave from Kirtland — while gone, leaders there used Sec 89 as a basis for excommunicating members for drinking strong liquor. When the Prophet returned he overturned those actions. So it makes me wonder if a specific incident — if not that one — is what led to the change in 89. (I certainly don't know the date it happened (had to be after 89 was first given); for whatever reason I seem to recall it coming from Ivan Barrett's history, though (certainly not 100% on that).

Anyways, thanx for gophering up that info in the link below. That online database is truly a blessing (I know the editor (pretty sure the top editor) for the online portion of that project). So it looks like Gilbert's mss collection was made later in the year the original 89 revelation was given, then? Probably the first copy of the original.

mutu.