King Benjamin’s Speech

Transfer of Kingship

Mosiah 2:27

Benjamin has a clear conscience regarding his tenure as king.

Therefore, as I said unto you that I had served you, walking with a clear conscience before God, even so I at this time have caused that ye should assemble yourselves together, that I might be found blameless, and that your blood should not come upon me, when I shall stand to be judged of God of the things whereof he hath commanded me concerning you.

Mosiah 2:28

Benjamin absolves himself from the sins of his people by instructing them in righteousness.

I say unto you that I have caused that ye should assemble yourselves together that I might rid my garments of your blood, at this period of time when I am about to go down to my grave, that I might go down in peace, and my immortal spirit may join the choirs above in singing the praises of a just God.

Mosiah 2:29

Benjamin announces that he can no longer be the people’s king.

And moreover, I say unto you that I have caused that ye should assemble yourselves together, that I might declare unto you that I can no longer be your teacher, nor your king;

Mosiah 2:30

Benjamin’s age has rendered him unable to perform his duties, and so he explains that God commanded him to appoint his son Mosiah in his stead.

For even at this time, my whole frame doth tremble exceedingly while attempting to speak unto you; but the Lord God doth support me, and hath suffered me that I should speak unto you, and hath commanded me that I should declare unto you this day, that my son Mosiah is a king and a ruler over you.