Nephi and Laban — 1996
I had an experience on Thursday, February 15, 1996 which might seem trivial to others, but was uplifting and edifying for me. I had just read the account of Laban’s death at the hand of Nephi in 1 Nephi 4 and was pondering on how difficult that must have been for Nephi (and how unsettling for Laban). I also pondered why it was necessary for Laban to die; couldn’t Nephi have bound and gagged Laban, dressed in his clothes, and obtained the plates without killing Laban? I had pondered this same question in previous readings of the Book of Mormon, but no satisfactory answer had come to me. Of a sudden, the following question entered my mind: “What would the situation have been if Nephi had spared Laban’s life?” Thoughts came quickly to my mind:
- Laban would have been found and untied within a few hours.
- He quickly would discover that his servant and the plates of brass were missing.
- He would immediately know who it was that had taken the plates.
- Judging from the volatile temper he displayed in 1 Nephi 3, he probably would have organized an armed party to pursue Nephi and his brothers.
- The probability is great that Laban’s posse would have discovered and annihilated Lehi’s family in the wilderness.
- Thus, the Lord’s plan would have been thwarted.
I can scarcely comprehend the horror and revulsion that must have filled Nephi’s soul at the thought of taking another man’s life, but again he proved himself to have steadfast, unshakable faith in his Lord. Truly, “…he was led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which he should do.” The very day following this small personal inspiration, I read an article in the Ensign which confirmed some of the above reasons for slaying Laban! That strengthened my testimony as well.
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