Alma 17:8 states that the sons of Mosiah "departed . . . to go up to the land of Nephi." The reader should note that the term "go" (as opposed to the term "came") might imply that the author's reference point was the local land of Zarahemla. (see also Mosiah 28:9). The Book of Mormon geography student should always be aware of the possibilities for whatever reference point the writer is using. The reader should also note that the land of Nephi (Lamanite territory) was generally "up" from the land of Zarahemla. [Alan C. Miner, Personal Notes]
Alma 17:8 They departed into the wilderness . . . to go up to the land of Nephi ([Illustration]): From the extreme southerly limit of the Central Depression (or Zarahemla area) the great strip of mountainous wilderness looms; beyond it lay the highland zone of southern Guatemala--the likely land of Nephi. [John L. Sorenson, Images of Ancient America, p. 196]