For Every Man Receiveth Wage of Him Whom He Listeth to Obey

Alan C. Miner

Brant Gardner notes that in summarizing the Amlicite wars, Mormon states: "For every man receiveth wages of him whom he listeth to obey" (Alma 3:27). The phrase "listeth to obey" suggests that Mormon is familiar with, and perhaps referencing, the great sermon of King Benjamin: "But, O my people, beware lest there shall arise contentions among you, and ye list to obey the evil spirit" (Mosiah 2:32) Thus Mormon's apparent conclusion is that the Amlicites became cursed, and did so voluntarily. [Brant Gardner, "Book of Mormon Commentary," [http://www.highfiber.com/~nahualli/LDStopics/Alma/Alma3.htm], pp. 15-16]]

Step by Step Through the Book of Mormon: A Cultural Commentary

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