< ALMA 20 >
v. 6 Now when Lamoni had heard this he caused that his servants should make ready his horses and his chariots.
Horses and chariots most likely represent elite royal transport described using familiar biblical language, not a technical claim about Old World warfare vehicles. This is more about translation theory and archeology than it is about the spiritual intent.
Horses and chariots most likely represent elite royal transport described using familiar biblical language, not a technical claim about Old World warfare vehicles. This is more about translation theory and archeology than it is about the spiritual intent.
v. 23 Now the king, fearing he should lose his life, said: if thou wilt spare me I will grant unto thee whatsoever thou wilt ask, even to half of the kingdom.
Not really half
In the Book of Esther 5:3 - same hyperbole (half of the kingdom)
Herod Antipas says the same thing (Mark 6:23)
This is understood as royal assurance, not an actual deed of land. This is symbolic, not literal. Basically it signals that you are under their protection. In this case, he is conceding honor. He is recognizing Ammon's power over him and choosing peace over bloodshed.
Not really half
In the Book of Esther 5:3 - same hyperbole (half of the kingdom)
Herod Antipas says the same thing (Mark 6:23)
This is understood as royal assurance, not an actual deed of land. This is symbolic, not literal. Basically it signals that you are under their protection. In this case, he is conceding honor. He is recognizing Ammon's power over him and choosing peace over bloodshed.
v. 26 And when he saw that Ammon had no desire to destroy him, and when he also saw the great love he had for his son Lamoni, he was astonished exceedingly.
Love
“People do not respond to doctrine alone. They respond to love, to kindness, to genuine concern.
When they feel that we truly care for them, their hearts are softened and the Spirit can work within them.”
General Conference, Oct 2000
“We Are Instruments in the Hands of God”
Doctrine may inform the mind, but love is what opens the heart—and only an open heart can be converted.
Love
“People do not respond to doctrine alone. They respond to love, to kindness, to genuine concern.
When they feel that we truly care for them, their hearts are softened and the Spirit can work within them.”
General Conference, Oct 2000
“We Are Instruments in the Hands of God”
Doctrine may inform the mind, but love is what opens the heart—and only an open heart can be converted.