“When King Benjamin Had Made an End”

George Reynolds, Janne M. Sjodahl

of speaking...he cast his eyes round about on the multitude. King Benjamin's powerful address, repeating the words which the angel had said to him, so prevailed upon his listeners that when he finished talking he observed that they had all fallen to the ground.

To fall to the earth is a recognition of the greatness of God, and of man's nothingness. It expresses the soul's deepest humility, or its state or quality of being humble in spirit. To prostrate oneself before "The Majesty on High," with one's face toward the ground, signifies humble adoration. With freedom from pride and arrogance, having a desire to do good, and with a great love for the coming Savior in their hearts, the people of King Benjamin fell down and worshipped the Lord.

Bowing the head and closing the eyes is but a simple, yet not unlike gesture in which we avow our fealty to God. Doing so, exhibits the same qualities as we have noted above.

Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 2

References