“I Will Grant Unto You That My Son May Retain His Kingdom”

Brant Gardner

Lamoni’s father not only agrees to Ammon’s modest request but matches it with a generous gesture. Because Lamoni was with Ammon and was tacitly supporting Ammon in the conflict, Lamoni was technically in rebellion against his father. Had Ammon been defeated, Lamoni’s life would surely have been forfeit. Lamoni’s father, however, here relinquishes his right of rule over Lamoni, making Lamoni independent. This may have been a simple political necessity, since Lamoni had demonstrated his lack of loyalty. Nevertheless, the old king was granting more than had been requested. The consequences for Lamoni were likely as much economic as political. The “freedom” was probably from the expected tribute to the over-king.

Second Witness: Analytical & Contextual Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 4

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