Understanding the Scriptures
2 Nephi 16
| Train (v. 1) | The edge of his robe; the description of it filling the temple is symbolic and represents the greatness of the Lord |
| Seraphim (vv. 2, 6) | Heavenly beings, angels |
| Undone (v. 5) | Ruined, destroyed |
| Purged (v. 7) | Cleansed, purified |
| Perceived not (v. 9) | Did not recognize or understand |
| Forsaking (v. 12) | Leaving, deserting |
2 Nephi 16:2—Why Did the Seraphim Have Wings?
The wings represented their power to move, to act, and to do other things (see D&C 77:4).
2 Nephi 16:8—Isaiah Followed the Savior’s Example
Isaiah’s response to the call to serve was similar to the way Jesus Christ responded in the premortal life (see Moses 4:1; Abraham 3:27).
2 Nephi 16:9–11—What Was Isaiah Supposed to Do When He Preached?
Verse 9 explains that although Isaiah would make the truth known to his people, they would reject it. The tone of verse 10 is therefore ironic or sarcastic. The Lord said that the more Isaiah taught the truth, the more the people would close their eyes and ears to it. Therefore, Isaiah’s calling was to teach and testify until the people’s ears were entirely shut and their eyes entirely closed or, as verse 11 says, until there is no one to preach to. Mormon and Moroni were given a similar calling later in the Book of Mormon (see Moroni 9:6).
Studying the Scriptures
Do activity A as you study 2 Nephi 16.
What Is the Lesson?