The Lamanite army that pursued the people of King Limhi failed to overtake them, and they themselves, became lost in the wilderness. (Mosiah 22:15-16) They knew not where their city lay, nor which way would bring them there. While wandering hither and yon, not knowing where to go, they came across the priests of King Noah who had fled from their fellows to escape the just indignation their continued iniquities had aroused. These priests, at the suggestion of Amulon, their leader, joined the Lamanites, and unitedly endeavored to get back to the Land of Lehi-Nephi. While they were thus engaged they happened to come near the City of Helam.
When the people of Alma first perceived the approach of this body of Lamanite warriors, they were engaged tilling the soil around their city. In their great fear, occasioned by the appearance of this large body of men, they immediately fled to the City of Helam.
Alma's faith and courage were conspicuous as he gathered his people around him, and called them to cast aside their thoughtless ways and to remember God who had always delivered those who trusted in Him.
The words of Alma had the desired effect; the people silenced their fears and called mightily upon the Lord to soften the hearts of the Lamanites that they might spare their lives and those of their wives and little ones. Then, with the assurance in their hearts that the Lord would hearken to their prayers, Alma and his brethren went forth out of their city and delivered themselves up to their former foes. The Lamanites thereupon took possession of the Land of Helam, and posted guards over Alma and his people.