King Limhi Caused That Ammon Should Also Speak

George Reynolds, Janne M. Sjodahl

The second-hand account which King Limhi gave to his people concerning their brethren in Zarahemla was verified by Ammon, who stood before the multitude that had gathered there and rehearsed to them the many things that had happened in Zarahemla under the reign of King Benjamin, or from the time Zeniff and his followers left their capital city until "the time that he himself came up out of the land."

Ammon told the assembled throng of the peaceful reign of King Benjamin and of the growth of the people there in both numbers and materials. He told them of the righteous desires of Benjamin for his people, and of the examples he set for them to follow. He recounted how King Benjamin had "labored with his own hands" that his people should not be burdened with taxes which might become oppressive, and, also that Benjamin desired no recompense for his service to them, save that they serve God by ministering to each others' wants.

Many other of Benjamin's teachings were explained to Limhi's people by Ammon. How great, they thought, was the difference under which they, themselves, had been forced to live by wicked King Noah and the unselfish rule of Benjamin in Zarahemla. It is worthy of note to remember that for many years Limhi's people had not been taught Gospel principles. Noah's priests had explained none of them to the people of Lehi-Nephi, but rather had led them into transgression. They were confused by Ammon's remarks concerning the angel's visit to Benjamin and the wonderful things the angel had said to him. Ammon, with great care, explained to them the coming of the Christ, His Atoning sacrifice and the Salvation prepared for the children of men. He pointed out, so that they might understand, the fulfillment of the Law of Moses in the coming of the Messiah which, he said, according to the words of Benjamin was "not far distant."

When Ammon had finished telling King Limhi's people the wonderful story about Benjamin and his people in Zarahemla, Limhi dismissed the eager throng that had listened to Ammon's recital. As they each went to their own homes, we may imagine the anguish that every memory of King Noah and his wicked priests produced in their aching hearts.

Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 2

References