“My Whole Frame Doth Tremble Exceedingly”

Brant Gardner

The passing of the kingship is already accomplished. Benjamin declares his successor, and now dwells on the teaching and discharge of his obligations. It is tempting to read "my whole frame doth tremble exceedingly" as a consequence of Benjamin's age (verse 26). Remembering that Benjamin is to live three years beyond this point, and that he is in the process of delivering a powerful sermon at the direction of a messenger of God, it is more probable that he trembles because of the effects of the Spirit on his physical body. Later, the spirit will descend upon his people with such power that they will be unable to speak it (Mosiah 4:20). In spiritual anticipation of the great transformation of his people, Benjamin is more likely trembling with power of the spirit than frailty of age.

Multidimensional Commentary on the Book of Mormon

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