Although Pahoran had many sons (Helaman 1:4), none were interested or survived, or qualified to fill the judgment-seat (Helaman 2:1). As mentioned above, Helaman was probably appointed by revelation and sustained by the voice of the people (v. 2).
Kishkumen had managed to keep his previous murder of Pahoran a secret (v. 3, see Helaman 1:11–12). However, he was outsmarted by Gadianton. Again the use of flattery, another tool of the devil, was brought into play (vv. 4–5; see Jacob 7:4; Alma 30:37; 46:7,10). Gadianton used the same tactics that Amalickiah used to become the leader of the band of Kishkumen (see Alma 46:5).