“Corihor Repented of the Many Evils Which He Had Done”

Brant Gardner

It is possible, of course, that Corihor actually repented and Shule forgave him; but such an outcome is rare in political conflicts. In biblical history, Herod the Great’s insecurities led him to kill his wife, several sons, and numerous courtiers. Herod’s technique for removing potential rivals was perhaps excessive but far from unique.

Politically, therefore, Shule probably was unable to completely defeat Corihor, and Corihor retained “power in his [own] kingdom,” perhaps as a vassal king. Corihor’s sons would use this power base to continue the struggle. In later Maya tradition, some captive kings were returned to their thrones as the victor’s vassals. Corihor appears to be such a vassal-king.

Second Witness: Analytical & Contextual Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 6

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