The Lamanite army was in pursuit of King Limhi’s people, but had become lost (v. 30). They found the priests of Noah who had stolen the Lamanite daughters (Mosiah 20). These priests were accompanying the Lamanite army. After breaking their promise to Alma (Mosiah 23:36–37), the Lamanites placed Amulon, the leader of the priests, in command of the Lamanite people in the land of Helam, although under the jurisdiction of the Lamanite king (v. 39). Thus, he was also over Alma’s people. His appointment brought about the condition of bondage upon Alma’s people.