Aaron, by right of his birth-his being the eldest of King Mosiah's sons-had already rejected the kingship to which he was heir. He chose, rather to spend his time in missionary work. His father feared the prospect that Aaron might return to his evil ways.
Mosiah saw far enough into the future to see that if Aaron should ever recall the decision he had made to serve the Lord many would support his contentions, and this would divide the people.
"Let us be wise," said Mosiah. Now is the time to obviate any conditions that may otherwise arise from such an exigency. Look forward to this possibility, and dispose of it with understanding. Thereby we will preserve the peace that has brought so many blessings to this favored people.