“Zeniff,” Friend, Oct. 1990, 8
Zeniff
Zeniff and a group of Nephites left their homes in the land of Zarahemla. They traveled to the land of Nephi, where their people had once lived. Omni 1:27; Mosiah 9:1, heading
They found Lamanites living there. Zeniff and four of his men went into the city to talk to King Laman. They asked the king if they could live in his land. Mosiah 9:4–5
King Laman was clever. He said that they could have two of his cities. He wanted them to live in his land so that he could bring them into bondage. Mosiah 9: 6, 10, 12
Zeniff and his people built homes and put up walls around their cities. They planted seeds and grew grains and fruits. They also had flocks of animals. Mosiah 9:8–9
King Laman showed his people how the Nephites were growing in numbers and strength. Soon a huge number of Lamanites went to kill some of the Nephites and take animals and corn from their fields. Mosiah 9:11, 13–14
The Nephites ran into their city. Zeniff armed his people with bows, arrows, swords, clubs, and slings and went forth with them against the Lamanites. Mosiah 9:15–16
Before going to war, the Nephites prayed to God for help. The Lord gave the Nephites extra strength, and they slew many Lamanites and drove the rest away. Mosiah 9:17–18
After the battle, Zeniff put guards around the land. He wanted to protect his people and their animals from the Lamanites. Mosiah 10:2
The Nephites lived in peace for many years. The men grew crops, and the women spun cloth and made clothing. Mosiah 10:4–5
After King Laman died, his son became king of the Lamanites. He sent his army to fight the Nephites again. Zeniff hid the Nephite women and children in the wilderness. Mosiah 10:6, 8–9
Once again the Nephites received strength from the Lord. They fought the Lamanites and drove them from the land. Mosiah 10:10, 19–20
Illustrated by Jerry Thompson