Culture: The prayers give no evidence that the Zoramites’ “hearts were set upon gold, and upon silver, and upon all manner of fine goods.” Alma must be deducing this material element from their clothing (v. 28), which would be conspicuous as each Zoramite mounted the Rameumptom. Fine clothing (costly apparel) characterizes Nephites who have adopted elements of Lamanite culture among the Nephites. Mesoamerican clothing was a demonstration of status and wealth. (See commentary accompanying Jacob 2:12–13.)
Because each Zoramite upon the Rameumptom is not only heard but seen, he or she has a unique visual presence. Since each worshipper stands in the same place and repeats the same words, even subtle differences can become more apparent, especially since these differences are represented in the clothing that they wore. Thus, performance upon the Rameumptom represents not only communal unity of religio-political belief, but a display of status and wealth. No wonder the poor were excluded (Alma 32:5). Even had their participation been allowed, these poorly dressed individuals would have doubtless felt their inferiority and elected not to participate.