Alma 2-3: The Rebellion of the Amlicites

Book of Mormon Student Study Guide, (2000), 98–99

Nehor’s death (see Alma 1) did not end the trouble brought on by his Satan-inspired teachings. In Alma 2–3 you will read about Amlici, a follower of Nehor, who wanted more than starting a rival church for personal gain. As you read these chapters, look for what Amlici really wanted and how Alma and the other Church members met that threat. Notice also how Alma’s discussion of the way the wicked mark themselves can also apply to our day.

Understanding the Scriptures

Alma 2

Endeavor (v. 2)	Try
Voice (vv. 3–4)	Vote
Deprive them of (v. 4)	Take away
Dispute (v. 5)	Argument, debate
Wonderful (v. 5)	Astonishing, surprising
Distinguished (v. 11)	Known by, identified
Ravenous (v. 37)	Very hungry

Alma 3

Trodden (v. 2)	Trampled, stomped
Shorn (v. 4)	Shaved
Girded (v. 5)	Wrapped or tied
Mingle his seed, mingleth his seed (vv. 9, 15)	Marry and have children with
Called under that head (v. 10)	Identified by that name
Condemnation (v. 19)	Punishment, sentence
Listed, listeth (vv. 26–27)	Desired, listened

Alma 3:6–12—Who Are Lamanites and Who Are Nephites?

At this time in the Book of Mormon account, the identity of a Nephite and a Lamanite was not so much a matter of actual bloodline as it was a matter of belief. Those who were “led away by the Lamanites” (Alma 3:10) were called Lamanites regardless of their actual family line. Those who believed in the records of the Nephites and who “believed in the commandments of God” (v. 11) were known as Nephites regardless of their lineage.

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity B and activity A or C as you study Alma 2–3.

Describe the Problem

Amlici was a talented and cunning man. Alma knew that he presented a real threat to the Nephite society.

1.
Study Alma 2:1–4 and describe what Amlici planned to do.
2.
How do verses 5–10 show that Alma’s concerns about Amlici were accurate?

Amlici

Find an Application

Alma 2:12–38 describes the preparation and the battles that occurred in the war between the Nephites and the Amlicites and Lamanites. As you ponder these events, think of how these battles are like the battles you must fight against wickedness. Respond to the following questions:

1.
How was Amlici’s plan for the Nephites similar to Satan’s plan for you?
2.
Describe at least two things Alma did to defeat Amlici that are like what you could do to defend yourself against Satan’s attacks.

Give a Modern Example

In Alma 3, Mormon reminded us of the curse that came upon the Lamanites in the days of Nephi (see 2 Nephi 5:20–25; “Understanding the Scriptures,” section for 2 Nephi 5:20–25, p. 39).

1.
Review Alma 3:4–10 and explain the reason for that curse.
2.
What promise did the Lord make to those who joined with the Lamanites and fought against the Nephites? (see verses 9–17).
3.
What did the Amlicites do to fulfill that promise themselves?
4.
How do people “mark themselves” as unbelievers today?

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