THE FIRST BOOK OF SAMUEL (THE LAMANITE)

While in his youth, Samuel, who is Samuel the Lamanite, wrote prior to his mission to Zarahemla the love story of his grandparents and their journey into the northeastern lands of Corianton and Isabel. About 35-40 B.C.

1I am Samuel, and behold, I am but a youth. Nevertheless, the Spirit of God has come upon me and I must write the things that the Lord doth reveal to me. I am the son of Corienta, who married Cumenca, the daughter of Shi-Tugo and Hementim, who came into the Land Northward with Hagoth in the days of Shiblon, the prophet of God. And behold, I am Nem and a servant of God. Yea, my mother did dedicate me to the service of God and the same has been my occupation all the days of my life.

2Behold, I begin my record while I am in my youth, for I know not into what land the Lord may drive me, only that it has been revealed unto me that He will send me into lands and people unknown to me. But behold, He has also revealed to me that He will send me unto my brethren in the Land of Zarahemla. Wherefore, I take this opportunity to write somewhat the things the Spirit does direct while I am yet safe and sound in my own country.

3Now, it seems me fitting that I should write somewhat concerning my grandfather Shi-Tugo and also my grandmother Hementim. For they were great in wisdom and in favor with the Lord, and not much is recorded concerning them. Wherefore, I will write a song unto them, that all of my people may remember them, and so that their story may come unto their descendents in latter times.

4The daughter of Hemen was a righteous and bold woman, and it is meet that her story be included among the writings of the Nem. Now, Hemen was one of the Lamanite healers who traveled with our father Hagoth from the Land Southward. He first fought against Moroni, that great captain, and his brother Cumenihah also, but when the armies of the Lamanites were defeated, and when Moroni took the covenant of those Lamanites who would swear never to take the sword again against the Nephites, these two were among the covenanters.

5These two brothers were Healers and very accomplished were they in their art. Wherefore, when Moroni offered to covenant with the armies of the Lamanites, these and many others did gladly enter into the covenant with him. Now, among all those who did covenant with Moroni were the Healers of the Lamanites who, as a whole body, were opposed to the shedding of blood. These did lay down their weapons of war and took their families and were joined with the people who were formerly known as the Anti-Nephi-Lehies, but who are now known as the Ammonites. Wherefore, these two brothers and their families were become not Lamanites but Ammonites. Nevertheless, all people of dark skin were called Lamanites in those days.

6Hemen and Cumenihah, who was also called Cumeni, took their families and departed into the Land Northward with Hagoth and it was they who took of the entrails of the great fish and made food and medicine, and the people were saved. Howbeit, it was also they who discovered the plants in the land that were at once good for food and for medicine alike. They also kept not this knowledge to themselves, though it might have brought them much gain, but taught their science to all people liberally. Wherefore, our whole people are Healers to this day because of the Twins. Wherefore they are listed among the heroes of the people and are much revered.

7Now, Cumeni had many sons and daughters and they took their journey with him when he followed Hagoth into the North Country. But Hemen had but one child, a daughter, whom he called

8Hementim was a woman tall and most fair, above all the women of the Ammonites. Yea, many of the men of the Ammonites desired her to wife, but she chose none of them, desiring to serve her father only. Hemen was dedicated to the craft and profession of her father, inasmuch as she had sworn herself to the healing of the sick and to the comforting of the afflicted.

9And there were many indeed, among the Ammonites who were in need of such assistance. For the wars had been severe and many of the Lamanites who covenanted with Moroni that they would never again take up the sword against the Nephites, and who had joined themselves with the Ammonites, had received many wounds and had suffered much privation. Wherefore, the Healers were employed every day in their care and comfort.

10Now, Hementim was the only issue (child) of Hemen, who was noted with renown as one of the greatest of the Healers. For he was both Teacher and Healer at once. She sat at her father's feet and listened as he taught the Healers. She did also stand at his side when he attended to the sick. Wherefore, she did learn all the art of her father and was exceedingly accomplished even at a young age.

11But this was not all. Hementim did also dedicate herself to the diligent study of the scriptures, insomuch that she was esteemed more learned than the learned and more wise than the wise. Wherefore, Hementim was a great help unto her father and, indeed, unto all of the Ammonites. Of all the people of the Ammonites, Hementim became the most sought after for her knowledge and her wisdom. Yea, she was evenly pursued by all, insomuch that even the prophet Shiblon did often consult with her, and he did teach her.

12Now when Hemen decided to take his journey with Hagoth, a great stir rose up among the Ammonites. For Hementim was determined to follow him. And some there were who believed that Hemen had constrained her, for she was a great help and a comfort to him. But she was so esteemed by the people that many thought to restrain her against her will, because that she was so great a help and a comfort to her people also. 13 Wherefore, some of the people went unto Hemen and Cried:

14Let not Hementim abandon her people! For there are many needy and sick among us. Nay! Let not the Mother of the People leave her children and go into a strange land!

15But Hemen knew the heart of his daughter and strove with them:

16Are there not many Healers among the Ammonites? Howbeit shall my daughter be esteemed above all the Healers of this people? And is she not free to decide for herself whether to journey or to tarry?

17But behold, they continued to contend with him, saying:

18Nay, she is become too precious to us! Therefore, Hemen, command her to remain here in safety. For who would condone a mother who leaves her suckling babes? Nay, this must not be done. She must stay and comfort her people!

19Now, Hemen loved his daughter, and desired that she should remain with him. But he also knew that she was a woman of strong will and character, and that no one could constrain her by word and will, but only by bonds could she be held against her will. Wherefore, he replied unto them:

20I will speak to Hementim to see where her will lies.

21But they were close to wrath with him:

22Nay! We know her will. She will go off with you to journey into unknown parts, perhaps to suffer death at the hands of some unknown enemy, or to be devoured by wild beasts in a wild land. Command her, therefore. For we know that she is a strong willed and an adamant woman, but she is also well versed in the commandments of God. Howbeit, she knows that the Lord hath commanded that a child honor his father and his mother. Wherefore, if you but command her, she may be constrained by the commandment. Therefore, do this thing, Hemen, for the good of the people.

23Therefore, Hemen went to Hementim and told her all that the people had said concerning her. And she considered all the words of the people. But behold, she was all the more convinced because of them to go into the Land Northward.

24Now this displeased the people, that she should hear and consider their concerns and still be anxious to leave them. But they were satisfied that Hemen had made their appeal to her, and they left off calling upon him to constrain his daughter.

25Yea, and some few were ashamed. For, in her response, Hementim showed forth the unsoundness of their desires toward her, and they begged her forgiveness.

26Yet, still others took some offense at her reaction, and they detained her until they could take their case before Shiblon, the prophet. And thus they did, saying:

27Let not Hementim leave her people, for she is become as a mother and a prophetess unto us, and where shall there be found any like unto her? Wherefore, is it right that she should leave her children alone and succorless? Can you not prevail upon the great woman to stay and not be lost in the wilderness?

28And Shiblon rebuked them and called them to repentance. For the Spirit came upon Shiblon and he was filled with a fury come from the Lord. Wherefore, he did straitly rebuke them, saying:

29Of a truth, Hementim is the greatest woman in all of our land. Yea, she surpasses the wisdom of the wise. She does far surpass you! Do you suppose that she is some piece of property that you treat her thus? Nay, she is a free woman and is guided from on high. Can you think to call yourselves children and know so little the character of your own mother? Nay! Leave off persecuting the righteous!

30Now, the people were exceedingly downcast at his words, and seeing that their earnestness was truly out of love for her, Shiblon counseled them:

31Do not shame your love for Hementim in this way. Ought you not to honor her instead. The mothers of the Ammonites have always been most faithful. Was it not by and through their teachings that a race of men such as the Sons of Helaman was raised up to the salvation and good of all? Let Hementim inspire the Ammonites. Yea, let every mother, daughter, sister and wife of the Ammonites aspire to become like unto her.

32It is good indeed to have one among us who is good, and kind, and wise, and learned, and strong willed in righteousness. Yea, who will not admit that the Ammonites have one great treasure and her name is Hementim! How great shall be your riches and your joy should all the women of the Ammonites strive to become so good, so kind, so wise, so learned, and so Adamant!

33And the saying pleased the people and their eyes were opened, and they saw how foolish and how selfish they had been. For bondage shall always turn great good into ashes, and they saw that their love for Hementim had almost caused them to commit great sin.

34Wherefore, Shiblon was pleased also, and smiled on them, and sent them home with an admonition to make peace with the great woman and her father. And they also determined to publish the admonition of Shiblon throughout all the lands of the Ammonites. And this they did to honor Hementim by establishing an order of women dedicated to her teachings and her ideals. And they released Hementim.

1Hemen and his brother Cumeni were among the twelve Lamanites who took their families and went with Hagoth into the Land Northward. And with Hemen went his daughter, Hementim and they were one family, Tore, his wife having died when Hementim was born to her.

2With Cumeni, the twin brother of Hemen, went his wife Moah and their sons and daughters. Together they numbered fourteen and they were one family.

3Now, Cumeni, the son of Cumeni, was a man and was not numbered among the family of Cumenihah. He also went up with Hagoth and with him went his wife Tsi-Horem and sons and daughters, and they were one family.

4Now, Hementim had a sister whose name was Tsi-Nitsunu, whose husband had also fought against the Nephites in the wars but who would not lay down the sword. Wherefore, he did perish in the wars against the Nephites. But, hearing of the covenant that Moroni offered to the Lamanites, she did take all of her family and followed her brother to the land of the Ammonites to enter into the covenant.

5Now the son of Tsi-Nitsunu was Shi-Tugo, a man of great stature and renown among the Lamanites. Yea, he did fight valiantly in the war against the Nephites because he believed Moroni and all Nephites to be thieves and usurpers, as he had been taught by his father. Wherefore, he was a man perilous in battle and his deeds were many.

6Howbeit, when the Lamanites were being destroyed by the Nephites, and when Moroni called a cease to the work of death, this same Shi-Tugo was in the fore and very close to where Moroni stood. Wherefore, he heard all the words of Moroni's entreaty and covenant, and was pierced to his heart with regret. For it seemed to him that he had been taught a lie all the days of his life.

7Wherefore, as he cast his eyes round about him and beheld the carnage, he could no longer believe in the cause of the war, for the words of Moroni were just, and not the words of a thief. And when he saw that a great many of his kinsmen were about to lay down their arms and covenant with Moroni, he joined with those who quit the war. And when this great man did lay down the sword and covenant never to take it up again against the Nephites, a great many of the Lamanites did likewise.

8This same Shi-Tugo went up with Hagoth into the Land Northward.

9Now, the names of the other eight Lamanites who took up their journey were Huhomeh the smith, and Teacumhah the husbandman, and Shith the potter, and Gidihah the tanner, who later changed his name to Hem-Gadhi because of the Gadiantons, and Jacob, and Set, and Gimlah, who were herdsmen, and Tucemset. They all went up with their wives and families with Hagoth.

10But Shi-Tugo had not wife or family and some of the company questioned the wisdom of his setting out alone into the wilderness. Yet, he was a mighty man, a man not unaccustomed to hardship. And he was a leader of men, and one very close to Hagoth. Therefore, none begrudged him his place in the company. But some did question the wisdom of it.

11And the number of the Lamanites who went up with Hagoth were sixty souls.

12Now, the story of how Hagoth made his journey is written in another place and I shall not repeat it here. It is enough for me to say that the art and knowledge of Hemen and Cumeni were taught to all the people insomuch that all the people became Healers. For, so the Nem continue into this present day.

13And where the river Akish turned again northward, where the canyons end, the people of Hagoth built a settlement and established themselves in the land. Every family chose lands and built homes and they began to have commerce with the City of Hagoth at the mouth of the river, and through it, with all the Land Southward. And they did explore in the lands further northward and eastward and they did establish communications with others of the Nephites and Lamanites who had gone into the Way the Land Northward, for many had left the land of their birth in the south and had established themselves in the Land Northward in many places.

14Now, Shi-Tugo, the nephew of Hemen, made his home in the lands as far northward as any of the people of Hagoth did establish themselves. Yea, afar to the north did he build a house, and he lived there a lone man. He, alone among the men and women of the Ammonites who had joined Hagoth to sojourn with him, had no family with him. But he would often come down out of his solitude to visit with his kin among the settlements of the People of Hagoth.

15And behold, it was upon one of his visits that the people had received news of certain discord which had arisen among the Nephites and the Lamanites of the Land of Zarahemla. Yea, Hagoth had received word from the south and the news had disturbed the thoughts of all the people.

16Now, Shi-Tugo was a man alike to Hagoth in stature and in temper. He had been a leader of men, yea, even one of the greatest of the Lamanite captains in the wars against the Nephites. Wherefore, many asked his opinion about the news, and he did strait way answer them, saying:

17There have been many wars upon this land since our forefathers made their flight from the Land of Jerusalem of old. Behold, I shall tell you somewhat about these wars and you may believe that what I tell you is true. Yea, listen to my counsel, for I know of war. Each of you have your profession. Some of you are husbandmen and others artificers. But I was not so. My craft was war. Wherefore, listen to me.

18All such great wars as fill the remembrance of all our people began from just such little discord and dissensions as of which we now hear among our brethren in the Land Southward. Yea, as soon as they begin to prosper a little, men immediately become filled with pride. Yea, they become lifted up and they esteem themselves greater than their brethren because of their prosperity. Even until they begin to measure each other by their possessions and judge each other by their abundance.

19But how shall they judge those who have not? Behold, if you have not what I have you cannot be as I am. And I esteem myself righteous, or at least I do not judge myself because of my riches. Therefore, if I, being righteous, have riches and you are poor, behold, it must needs be that you are wicked because of your poverty. Yea, if righteousness brings prosperity, and yet you remain in poverty, behold your poverty must needs be a sign and token of your secret acts of wickedness.

20So do the proud begin to judge the poor. Yea, then does a man begin to say in his heart:

21Behold, I shall stay my hand and, even though I have provender enough for three besides myself and mine, I shall not give of my surplus. For, howbeit the three may be poor because they are secretly wicked. Wherefore, they bring upon themselves their own suffering because of their wickedness. They are not like unto me and do not what I do, or behold, they would prosper like unto me. Wherefore, if their curse be but a token of their secret deeds, then they are deserving of their suffering. And thus does a proud man judge his neighbor and justify himself. Then do the poor suffer under the heel of the rich until their suffering breaks the yoke. Of such are all wars made.

23And the prophetess Hementim, was pleased with these sayings and reasoned with him, saying:

24Shi-Tugo, we know that you are a great man of arms and of war, you know whereof you speak. Yet, I perceive that you are also a man of counsel and wisdom. Tell us then, what would you that we should do as a people to avoid such evil?

25And he answered her, saying:

26Great are the Healers of the Ammonites and for every hurt the Healers have a remedy. Yea, even for war and strife there is a remedy.

27And Hementim answered him, saying:

28Be now a Healer unto us and teach us this remedy.

29For the prophetess perceived his thoughts and knew that he would teach a great thing to the people. Howbeit, if the people should listen to the words of this great man, they might be preserved from falling into the pride of the Nephites.

30And again he answered, saying:

31Remember you and think upon all the wars of the Nephites and the Lamanites. In each of them one can recall the names

22But behold, they prosper not. of those men who began them and of those men who ended them. Is this not so?

32And all the people answered, Yea.

33Can you recite to me the names of the women, yea, the mothers with children who started or ended those great conflicts?

34And all the people answered, Nay.

35And were the rulers elevated by the women, yea, by the mothers who were to provide their sons to be offered up unto their great conflicts?

36And the people answered, Nay.

37Then I say, when you elevate people to be judges and rulers over you, let them be elevated by the voice of the mothers, and they shall make rulers who shall not make war. For their counsels will ever be the preserving of the children and not the offering them up because of pride.

38But Hementim answered him, saying:

39Does a woman never become filled with pride then? Nay, Shi-Tugo, for I have seen how women do adorn themselves in fine twined linen and costly things.

40Then Shi-Tugo also discerned her thoughts, how that she spoke thus to him only so that the people might think earnestly upon the matter with all seriousness, and he took courage.

41Yea, you speak rightly, Hementim. But consider, a mighty man such as myself or Hagoth, might by his prowess in strength or in arms, win himself to the seat of the judge, by the esteem or the fear had by men of such feats. But if he had to win to the seat of power by the esteem of the mothers, he would have to establish to them that his policies would secure the safety of their little ones.

42Behold, it is true that women may become puffed up in pride, but are not mothers with children, as a separate class, more generally concerned with the good of the children than are other classes? Or what mother, when asked to give up her young son to war, is not more inclined than any other women to ascertain that the cause of the war be a good cause?

43Yea, I tell you, if you would avoid conflict as a whole people, choose you out to make you laws the wise and the charitable. But let them be chosen by the mothers. Let those who have the most to lose choose your rulers. This is the remedy. Then, if the people go down into corruption, it will be because the whole people have fallen even to the last of them, and not because one strong man has usurped the voice of the people.

44And all the people were amazed at the man of war among them. For he did hear the voice of the Lord and teach peace to them. Yea, all went away very thoughtful after hearing the words of Shi-Tugo, and many were amazed.

45But Hementim published his words to all the people and condoned them. Wherefore, the people did believe in his words and did entreat the mothers to meet together on an appointed day to choose Councils to rule the people of Hagoth.

46Now, on the appointed day, even Hagoth and Hemen, Cumeni and Hagmeni, yea, and many other of the chief men, did stand before the mothers and did appeal to them to choose out those that would preserve the peace of the land. For they all believed in the words of Shi-Tugo, and the Spirit witnessed to them that his words were true.

47And the mothers did meet and chose out of the people of Hagoth the first of their Councils. And when the Council met for the first time, they chose Hagoth to preside. And behold, all the people were pleased with the choice and they all cried amen together.

1Then Hementim looked upon Shi-Tugo with favor, and he, her. For Hementim saw in him a great leader, even one who could command men. And behold, they would do his commands! Yet, she also saw that he was wise in the workings of men. For he knew that, should the people of Hagoth establish themselves after the manner of the Nephites in the Land Southward, they would fall into a pit. Yea, for even as they debated these things, all the people knew that the robbers were becoming strong in all the land. Wherefore, the men who ruled and judged in the Land of our Fathers, yea, and even in many places where the people had established themselves in the Land Northward, were easily made corrupt by the flattery of the Gadiantons.

2For this was the manner in which the robbers gained power in all the cities. They first flattered the lesser judges and then they bribed them. Then they enticed them with promises of elevation, substance and power. Thus, their judgment became corrupt. Wherefore, each man, seeing that he could not find justice before the judges, began to seek his own remedy, and thus ended speedily the rule of equity and law.

3Then did the robbers gain greater control over the people. For they pointed out the failings of the system and the judges, even though they themselves were the cause of their failure, and excited the people to rebellion and to the raising up of their exciters to the judgment seats. In this way, the robbers established themselves.

4Wherefore, Hementim saw that a flaw existed in the system of judges by which the Nephites governed themselves, and that the people of Hagoth needed some modification of the system, else they would continue to do as the Nephites had done.

5But Hementim knew that, although she was esteemed highly among the people, she was a woman among a race that had always been ruled by men. Notwithstanding that the people called her name holy and sought her counsel as a prophetess of God, nevertheless, in matters of government, the woman had no voice, and she grieved that the people of Hagoth might wax gross as the people of the Land Southward.

6Now, when she saw that the great man, a warrior and a captain of hundreds, would also change the system, she rejoiced in her heart. For she believed Shi-Tugo, that the mothers would not be as easily corruptible and that they would choose those less corruptible to judge in the Councils. And she rejoiced the further that all the people listened to the words of Shi-Tugo and made modification of the system of governance. For, she believed that the change which he had proposed, and to which the people had consented, would some day save them from the threat of the robbers.

7Yea, Hementim did look upon Shi-Tugo with exceedingly great favor and Hemen, her father, seeing this, rejoiced also in his heart. For he had despaired of his daughter ever finding a man who was her equal and with whom she might build a life.

8Wherefore, Hemen, the Healer, spoke to Shi-Tugo privily and beseeched him regarding his daughter, saying:

9Do you not see that I have a daughter that is precious to me?

10And Shi-Tugo answered him:

11Yea, Hemen, you will recall that I did look upon your daughter in earlier days with much favor, but you dissuaded me saying, she is dear to me.

12Whereupon Hemen continued:

13Yea, my daughter is a great comfort to me and to this whole people. Behold, have you not heard the people call her prophetess?

14And Shi-Tugo answered him carefully:

15Yea, Hemen. Your daughter is the jewel of this people. Even I have spoken with her often and have heard her wisdom. In all things she is guided by the voice of God. Wherefore, her people do rejoice in her rightly, and cherish her. She is an ensample to all those among women whom the Lord does call to His service and to His priesthood.

16And Hemen answered, saying:

17You speak well the feelings of all the people, Shi-Tugo. Verily, the people do greatly esteem my daughter. But she is steadfast in her desire for my comfort even over her own. Many have said, and almost I believe it, that the daughter of Hemen shall never wed and the race of Hemen will disappear from off the face of the earth.

18Now, hearing these words, Shi-Tugo was grieved and his countenance fell. But this thing pleased Hemen and he continued encouraged, saying:

19Tell me not that you no longer esteem my daughter, Shi-Tugo.

20Then with downcast face, Shi-Tugo praised Hementim to her father, saying:

21Hementim is the Guide Star and governs all the constellations. I would that she would look upon me, but I know that she is as far from me as that Guide Star is from the ground upon which I stand.

22Then Hemen said:

23Nay, Shi-Tugo, think not so basely of yourself. For, I am her father and know her thoughts. And have I not seen her find much favor in you of late? Yea, can one such as her not have heard the Spirit of God speaking though you? Can a prophetess not discern a prophet?

24Then did Shi-Tugo take great courage and entreated Hementim to be his wife, and she consented. Then was the wonder of all the people complete and then was their joy in them made full. For the race of Hemen and of Hementim would go on. And also, the strength of Shi-Tugo would continue. Then did all the people of Hahgohtl feel a premonition that they would all prosper exceedingly in the new land to which the Lord had led them, and they rejoiced.

1Behold, the people of Hagoth were united in all things, yea, even their purpose for traveling into the Land Northward they had in common. For they were led out of the Land Southward by the Spirit, having foreseen that great wickedness and strife would shortly befall the people there because of their pride.

2Yea, and we see that their foreknowledge was true, for is it not written in another place how that the Nephites rejected the prophets and cast them out of their cities? And have we not also records of all the cities in the land that will be destroyed because of their wickedness when the Lord comes?

3Wherefore, we know that the people of Hagoth were conscious of the coming calamity and for this cause they took their flight into the wilderness of the Land Northward. And when the Councils met, they did often concern themselves with much debate over the news they received from the Land of our Fathers. And it often came to pass that they did call upon Hagoth and Hagmeni, Shi-Tugo and Hementim, yea, and Hemen, Cumeni, Seth, and many others of the wise, to instruct them. And the Councils acted not precipitously, but weighed matters out with great care.

4And the Councils saw to it that the people continued in peace and in unity, not by compulsion, but by sound policy and true doctrine. And the people also governed themselves and needed no compulsion. And they continued to have all things in common, wherefore, there was never any needy among them and all prospered exceedingly.

5Now, all you who receive these things, consider them in your hearts. Yea, weigh them in the balance. Is it better that a man be compelled by law to do that which is good, or is it better that he be left to act according to his own conscience? Behold, I say unto to you, It is better that he act according to the promptings of the Spirit. And if he do this, he shall have no need of compulsion.

6For men are want to lay aside their own reason, and also the responsibility that belongs to them. But remember, men and women are given a thing not offered to the lesser kingdoms. Yea, we may choose our own path. But shall a man choose his path and not be held accountable for it? I say unto you, Nay! Take away this responsibility and the Spirit is grieved. Wherefore, it is good that you who receive these things, and think in your hearts – We will make Councils by which we will govern the people – yea, it is good that you should consider the words of those who acted thus before you and did so in wisdom.

7And shall a man render to another the responsibility he alone carries for his choices? Nay! I say unto you again, take away this burden and the Spirit is grieved. And I ask you, of what worth, or of what value is it to meet in councils and to make laws, if in so doing you grieve the Spirit? Can your councils prosper? Behold, I declare this thing unto you, Nay!

8Behold, it is the inclination of man to seek his own good and, if needs be, to compel others to it. Without the guidance of the Spirit, the strong shall always compel the weak to their own wills. It is only the Spirit of God that strives with men to change their nature and become godly. Remove the guidance of the Spirit from the wisdom of men and you shall have burned the meal into ash and no goodness shall be found in it.

9This is the great counsel of Shi-Tugo and of Hementim. Seek you out of all the people those who are wise and gentle and kind. If this be their natural inclination, how much greater in these virtues shall they wax when they must seek the Spirit of God in all their doings? They shall be expanded in wisdom, knowledge, understanding, discernment, and justice. Thus shall rulers become the servants of the ruled and the people shall be

10For God compels no one, but saves all the works of His hands. Amen.

1And the Councils saw to it that the people continued in peace and in unity, not by compulsion, but by sound policy and true doctrine. And the people also governed themselves and needed no compulsion. And they continued to have all things in common. Wherefore, there was never any needy among them and all prospered exceedingly.

2And behold, the People of Hagoth grew in numbers exceedingly. For, their success was not unknown among certain peoples in the Land Southward, and many people poured into their cities from time to time.

3And some of them were Nephites, and some Lamanites. Yea, some were Ammonites, and still others were those who had been driven out of other new cities that had been established in the other parts of the Land Northward. For the Robbers of Gadianton, who were known in the Land Northward as the Gadiantons, were strong and numerous in many places.

4Wherefore, in order that no contention of race or birth should arise among them, the People of Hagoth entreated the Councils to decide upon a common name for the People and for the lands they did occupy and possess.

5And the Councils considered the matter for the space of many months and decided that they should not adopt the name of any person but that the People of Truth would be the name whereby they would be known, which in the language spoken by the people, was Nemen. And they called their country, the Lands of Nem thereafter, because that in all the earth upon which men exist, the People who are guided in truth by the Spirit walk here.

6And behold, the people were pleased and did uphold the decision of the Councils, and they began to call themselves Nem from that day.

7So continues the custom today among the people. Wherefore, in many places and among many peoples, the name whereby they are called in their own tongue is The People, or The True People. And behold, this has become a tradition among many peoples in the new land yea, even the Land Northward.

Travel into the far north, where they find a great plains, covered in great cattle (bison) which they called Oug. Find the city of Corian-Co-Hah (Corianton)

1Now, it came to pass that Hementim and Hemen taught their craft to Shi-Tugo and he became great in the art of healing. Yea, and he also was endowed of God with the gift of healing, insofar that many upon whom he laid his hands were healed. Wherefore, they traveled together and healed the people.

2Yea, and they did also travel to other cities in the North Country with which the Nem did do commerce, and they, because of their much travel, did learn the lay of all the land.

3And it happened that, as they had taken their journey to visit a city many days' travel to the east of the lands of the Nem, they heard rumor of a country and a nation far to the north and departed from their chosen path and went to seek out the settlement.

4And this thing is curious, for they knew little of the people there, whether they were righteous or wicked. Howbeit, they might have fallen into the hands of the Gadiantons! Nevertheless, they being prompted by the Spirit, traveled far into the north to seek out the city of which they had heard but a rumor.

5Now, as they went their way, they found that the land opened up into a vast plain as far as the eye could see, even a sea of grain as it were. And upon this plain roamed a kind of large cattle which they had seen but few of in the lands of the Nem. But upon the plains, these cattle were numerous beyond counting. Yea, behold! To look upon the herds was to witness a thing unknown among the people. For, so numerous were the cattle that one was reminded only of a great ocean of black which roamed to and fro upon the plain.

6Wherefore, Hemen called the name of the cattle “Oug,” because it reminded him of the depths of the great water. And so they have been called by the people to this day. For in places, to look upon the herds of the cattle was as if to look upon the sea and the sound of their hooves was as the waves of the sea breaking upon the shore.

7Now, from the plains they did make their way far into the north of the country, and as they did so, behold, they found many small settlements of people who lived in tabernacles made entirely of the hides of these great cattle. And the people were kind and generous to them, and welcomed them. For, they were all thirsty for news out of the lands to the southward. And Hemen did expound to them all that did transpire in the lands of the Nem.

8And behold, wherever they did tarry with the people they found upon the plains, they always heard of the principle city of the plains and of a king who lived in that city. Now this king, the people said, was not born a king but was elevated by the voice of the people. And behold, he was said to rule his people not by commands, but by ensample. Yea, the people extolled him as a Teacher and Priest and they spake much of the miracles he wrought. Wherefore, the people esteemed themselves blessed to have such a one to guide and to govern them.

9Yea, all the people throughout that vast land did praise him. Wherefore, Hemen was very desirous to go up unto this king and converse with him. Therefore, he did take Hementim and Shi-Tugo and, having obtained certain guides from among the people, they did quit their meandering journey and did endeavor to arrive at the principal city by a quick and straight route.

10Now, this city was called by the people Corian-Co-Hah, after the manner of the Lamanites, and it was far into the north. And it was this place, that with the help of the guides they had obtained from the people of the plains, that the three travelers sought quickly to find.

11For the name was not unknown to them. Yea, it was the name of the brother of Shiblon, who had made his journey precipitously into the Land Northward and had never been heard from again. Wherefore, they were exceedingly anxious to know of the city and of its inhabitants.

12And when they had traveled for the space of many days, even weeks, they came to a great lake ( _Lake Superior_ ). Yea, the lake was great, even unto an ocean, and they could not see to the other side of it. Notwithstanding, the waters were pure to drink and not salty. Upon the lake they did take their journey in boats like unto those built by Hagoth, except that they were rather smaller in size. Yea, two men could carry one of these boats upon their shoulders, yet they were tight and could be managed with great ease. Even upon this lake they did travel for the space of many days.

13And after traveling in this manner for some time, they came to the side of the lake that gave unto the north and they did carry the boats upon their shoulders and provisions upon their backs. And they did travel for a time on dry land. And when they came again to lakes or rivers, they set themselves upon the waters to travel. Wherefore, they did travel most upon the waters and did progress in their journey exceedingly because of the rapidity of their movement upon the waters.

14At length, and after many days travel, they were obliged once again to travel upon the land for a space of time and they did come unto another great body of water. So great was it that again, they could not see the other side thereof. But behold, the water of this great water was salty ( _the Great Salt Lake_ ) like unto the sea and they believed that they had come unto a great ocean of which they never knew and they were amazed.

15Now, this country was one of many rivers, streams, and lakes, and much of it was covered with dense forest. And the travelers were amazed that the land could be so different and so varied from that in which they had first heard rumor of the great king who ruled all the villages and settlements even far away upon the plains. For, they had traveled a far distance and it seemed to them that they were now in a different country entirely. Nevertheless, their guides assured them that this same land was where the principal city of which they had heard was to be found.

16But when they looked upon the great sea, and their countenances were filled with amazement, their guides looked on them and said unto them:

17This is a protected place where the great waters enter in but the storms do not. Marvel not, for it is but a bay ( _Hudson Bay_ ) in the great ocean. Upon the shore on the east side of the bay lays the city which you seek.

18Wherefore, they went into the city and presented themselves before the King of the land, and he was, indeed, that same Corianton, who was the brother of Shiblon, who was prophet in Zarahemla. And when Hemen had made an obeisance unto this king, bowing down unto him, Corianton went to him and, taking him by the hand, raised him up and said unto him:

19Nay, bow not unto me, Hemen, for are we not brothers? Bow not to me, nay, nor unto any man, but only unto God, make your obeisance. Judge no man either greater or lesser than yourself and seek not their esteem either. For such pride in the hearts of men does most often bring about their downfall. Esteem, therefore, only the love of God and seek His regard above all men.

20And Hemen said unto him:

21Nay, it is fitting that we, coming into your country, should render service unto its sovereign. For so, sir, by the esteem of your subjects and their discourse of you, must lead us to understand you to be, and we do it but to honor you and your station.

22But Corianton was displeased with this saying and again entreated them not to bow down unto him, saying:

23Consider the wars between the Nephites and the Lamanites. Are they not caused by puffed-up pride? I am a Nephite. And yet, my eyes do see things clearly. Is it not true that the Nephites do become puffed up and gross with pride? Yea, you must admit that it is so.

24And when they raise themselves up above their fellows, either because of their superior righteousness, or so they suppose, or because of riches, is this not the cause of much misery and sorrow among those of their neighbors whom they esteem beneath them? And is this not the cause of much contention and strife, even unto the persecuting of the poor and the shedding of blood?

25Nay, Hemen, you may bow, and incline, and curtsey, as your custom dictates, but I exhort you – do not create by such traditions standards which your descendants might make into the cause of divisions or castes.

26Then Hemen understood the wisdom of Corianton. And Corianton, seeing his willingness to hear him, began to expound upon his meaning, saying:

27When I was a younger man, my father, Alma, sent me unto our brethren the Lamanites to preach the word of God unto them. Now, the mission was exceedingly hard and my brothers and I suffered privation, beatings; we were impoverished and starved. In short, for one young as I was, the mission became very hard. Nevertheless, we remained steadfast in our desire that the Lamanites receive that light which comes from a knowledge of God and of His Christ. Wherefore, we were diligent and faithful.

28Now, there was a woman whose name was Isabel, and in her company we were always made welcome and she opened her home to us. She had been an harlot but she repented. Nevertheless, her reputation was always esteemed the same after she received the gospel as before, and she was despised by the Nephites. Because she had received the word of God, she was despised by her brethren the Lamanites, and because she had been an harlot, she was despised by the Nephites. Wherefore, her situation became pitiful indeed. Nevertheless, she always opened her door to us and whatsoever she had in the house, she did always offer to us for our comfort.

29Now, because of her pitiful state, I did visit her often and did comfort her. But behold, many seeing this did spread abroad the rumor that I did consort with an harlot while presuming to be upon the Lord's errand, and even my own family did condemn me for it for a time. Yea, so sharp were the tongues and so prolific the rumors against me that I was constrained to leave my mission in order that I might find safety for her and peace for myself. For, I had grown to love Isabel and desired not to see her sufferings.

30Now, this thing greatly displeased my father and I did receive great chastisement from him. Nevertheless, I must believe that he did not wholly believe the murmurings of the people, for the gifts of discernment were strong in him. Nevertheless, once I had made arrangements for the care of the lady, he did command me straitly to take up and finish my mission to the Lamanites. And behold, I did as my father commanded, and great has been my joy because of it.

31But Isabel suffered greatly, for the Nephites into whose care I placed her, esteemed her to be an harlot still, even though she had abandoned her sin and come unto Christ. Yea, they cast her out of the Churches and she was restrained from worshipping and isolated from all fellowship with them. Even they did refrain from any concourse with her and her state became very miserable.

32Now, she was a weaver of baskets and her work was exceedingly fine, above all the artisans of the Nephites. But they would not buy her work because she was judged by them beneath their feet and unworthy of their association. And she became poor and wanted much, and had it not been for the little provision that I had made for her, she surely would have perished because of her great want.

33Behold, when I did finally return from my mission unto the Lamanites, behold, I found her homeless, friendless, and hungry. Then was I ashamed that I had spent overmuch time crying repentance unto the Lamanites, for barely had I seen anything the like among them as I had seen of this poor woman and her suffering at the hands of the Nephites.

34Wherefore, I did take up this poor woman unto mine own bosom and I beseeched her that she become my wife, and we departed out of the Land of my Fathers forever.

35Now behold, Hemen was touched by the story and knew that it was true. For, who among the people of the Land Southward had not heard of how the son of Alma, he who ought to have followed his brother as prophet, took the harlot Isabel into the Land Northward was never heard of again? And also, who had not heard of how the prophet Alma, having heard how his harsh words of judgment had driven his son into the wilderness, did believe that he had sent his own son to his death? And believing this did he, of himself, give up his place as the prophet of God and walk into the wilderness never to be seen or heard again?

36And Corianton continued his discourse, saying:

37Behold how pride and the puffed-up heart did rob the Nephites of the pleasure of God. For is not the repentant made pure? Yea, though your sins be scarlet, they shall be white as snow. Wherefore, is not the harlot become as the virtuous daughter of Israel because of righteousness?

38But the Nephites elevated themselves above all else and they were waxed bold in their pride. Howbeit, the blessings and happiness and joy that should have been theirs in the fellowship of a sinner saved, was lost to them.

39Wherefore, I would exhort you, Hemen, set not yourself above anyone. And esteem me not higher than yourself. For, of such comes the fall of many houses, even of priests and prophets. Yea, even of kings.

40And when Hemen heard these things, he understood the more and wondered at the great wisdom of Corianton. For, he knew of Corianton from the People of Ammon and the rumor was still had among them of the defection of the son of Alma from among the people because of the harlot Isabel. And his heart was sorrowful because of it. For behold, a generation believed the rumor. And he kept all these sayings in his heart and remembered them in later years.

1Now, when Corianton had finished teaching the three travelers, he called to one of his servants to bring Isabel to him that he might introduce his wife to the visitors. And this was done, and behold, Isabel came into the chamber and did embrace the travelers.

2Then Corianton and Isabel took Hemen, Hementim, and Shi-Tugo, and showed unto them their city. And behold, it was a beautiful city, and the houses and the synagogue were constructed all of wood, of cloth, and of cement. Now, notwithstanding the coldness of the climate, and it was exceedingly cold during the winter, the homes were not cold. For Corianton had taught his people to first construct the framework of their homes of wood timbers. And then the walls were fashioned of thick cloth which was made of the bark of a certain tree, and this formed the inner walls. And upon these walls of cloth, cement was laid in layers until the exterior walls were as thick as a man's hand with the fingers outstretched. Now, because of this curious workmanship, the homes and other buildings were warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This was the manner of workmanship of the people of Corianton, and Shi-Tugo learned it of Corianton and kept in his heart to use later when he returned to his own people.

3And when the Sabbath came, they went with Corianton and his family up to the synagogue to worship. And behold, the people did all extend the arm and take each other by the right hand at their first meeting and they did embrace each other often. And they did offer up their hearts unto the Lord with much singing and prayer.

4And behold, the people did live by the Spirit and the priests did exhort them to look forward steadfastly to the coming of the Savior. And again, they did pray much and sing much, and they did prophesy much. Yea, there was much prophecy spoken, even from the youngest to the oldest, both men and women, hale and halt, and all did rejoice exceedingly.

5Then, when they had returned to the home of Corianton, Isabel began to make preparations for a special worship. She gave unto Hemen, Hementim, and Shi-Tugo long robes of soft cloth which were of curious and fine workmanship. And she gave them droughts of bitters to drink. And when they had done this, she led them into a garden near the home where Corianton had built a great fire. And beside the fire was a small tabernacle made of branches and covered all about with the same cloth with which the people constructed their homes and other buildings, except that no mud was laid upon it.

6And Hemen recognized that this was the small tabernacle of the Ammonites which they used for purification. For behold, the People of Ammon desired much to become like unto the Savior. And they knew that He would make an atonement for all people. Behold, they believed that all people would become one people, yea, those who walk on legs and speak, as also they who walk on legs but speak not. Yea, even the four legged and the feathered two leggeds, and the fish and the creeping things. Even the plants and the trees, and the rocks of the earth, yea, and in fine, all things that are and ever were created.

7Yea, the People of Ammon desired to emulate the Savior in all things and, when the prophets taught them of the tabernacle that Moses built in the wilderness, they did inquire of the Lord and the Spirit did answer them and gave unto them the manner in which they might more completely purify themselves before the Lord.

8And behold, they went down together into the small tabernacle and Corianton brought in stones which had been heated in the fire until they were all exceedingly hot. And they did all suffer the heat together with rejoicing and sacred song, and with much thanksgiving, and prayer, even until they did sweat from every pore. Now, when they had sweated exceedingly, and rejoiced with prophesying and prayer, they did all come up out of the tabernacle together. And their hearts were not heavy for the suffering they had each sustained, but they did rejoice the more and embraced each other. For, they were filled with the Holy Ghost.

9And in this manner did the three sojourners learn the manner of worship used by the people of Corianton and it did not displease them, for the Lord had shown it to the people through His Spirit. Yea, and it was like unto the worship of the Nem. For, they had also among them the purification of the Ammonites and it did please the Lord to instruct them also in its use. Wherefore, the sojourners were pleased in the things that Corianton showed unto them, and remembered them, and they wrote them.

1Now, it was during this time that Hementim conceived and was with child. Wherefore, they determined that they would remain with Corianton until the child should be born and grow a little.

2For, the journey back to the Nem was long, and they feared that, ere the mother and child recover and gain their strength, some mischief might come of it if they took their journey to return too soon after that Hementim was delivered. Wherefore, they did remain with Corianton and Isabel for the space of three years.

3And during the time they remained in the city of Corianton, Shi-Tugo became exceedingly skilled in the manner of building employed by the people of Corianton and also he did learn to fashion the cloth used in the building of their homes and buildings, and this cloth was fashioned of the bark of a certain tree. And Hementim taught the art of the Healer to many in the house of Corianton and in the city.

4Hemen did study the writing of the people and did teach unto them the history of Hagoth and of the Nem. Yea, and thus did they spend their time, and happy and prosperous were all their days while in the city of Corianton.

5And Hementim brought forth a daughter and called her name Cumenca. This same Cumenca was my mother. And when the mother and child were sufficiently strong, they gathered a delegation of the people of Corianton and they took once again their journey toward home. And so large was the delegation, and so numerous the wagons, that they appeared as a small army upon the ground. Yea, for Corianton desired to end his exile and that of his people, and to come once again into contact with other peoples. Wherefore, he sent many emissaries and much trade with them.

6Now, this caused no small stir among the Nem when they arrived again into the part of the country wherein they had built their settlements. For, they appeared as an army and some fear went up among the Nem.

7But behold, Shi-Tugo, seeing that the Nem did come out to meet them, discerned their fear, and he caused that his own standard be lifted up. Now, when the Nem saw the device of Shi-Tugo flying before the host, they were filled with joy. And behold, the rumor of it raced from house to house, and all the people came out to greet the returning sojourners. And their joy at the return of their beloved ones was so great that they came out singing and with much sounding of trumps and beating of drums.

8And they met them on the plain on the east of the principle settlement of the Nem and behold, all the people were present. Wherefore, the travelers were also filled with joy at the sight, and the people of Corianton who were with them marveled at the sight.

9And behold, this is the history of the union of the Nem and the people of Corianton. For, when, after a season of trade and commerce, Corianton caused that his people be joined with the Nem and they all became one people and one nation. And this nation began to grow very quickly and settlements and villages began to spread out across the plains between the principal settlement of the Nem and the principal City of Corianton.