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Book of Mormon Commentary
AMULEK INTRODUCES HIMSELF, VER. 1-17
Alma Chapter 8
Alma 8:5 Yea, and behold, I have many kindred and friends, and I have also acquired much riches, by
the hand of my industry;
Amulek traced his ancestry from his father Giddonah, back through Ishmael, Aminadi, Nephi,
Lehi, and Manasseh, to Joseph who was sold into Egypt (1-3). Like the Hebrews from whom they
descended, the Nephites were proud of their heritage, Amulek was not content to tell simply that
he was the son of Giddonah, but continued on back to Joseph in Egypt.
By this process it is possible to fix this Ishmael at a later period than Lehi's time, when Ishmael
and his family agreed to leave Jerusalem. No previous mention is made of Aminadi, nor of the
incident of his interpreting the writing on the temple wall. He lived at least four generations before
Amulek. It is certain that not each ancestor was named, Likely the historical "greats” of whom
they were most proud would be identified.
"I am also a man of no small reputation among all those who know me" (4), said Amulek. It suited
his purpose in meeting the situation to establish himself as a solid citizen, who by his own labors
had accumulated some wealth.
Alma 8:6 Nevertheless, after all this, I never have known much of the ways of the Lord, and his
mysteries and marvelous power.
This humble confession tells much about this man which is important in the ministry he was
required to render. All too soon he would be thrown back to a complete dependence on God to
answer the lawyers. He recalled that he had witnessed some miraculous power in healing. But
because he hardened his heart and would not answer the call of God, he "went on rebelling against
God.” until recent days (8, 9) .He then began the testimony of his surrender to God.
Alma 8:10 As I was journeying to see a very near kindred, behold an angel of the Lord appeared unto
me, and said, Amulek, return to thine own house, for thou shalt feed a prophet of the Lord; yea, a holy
man, who is a chosen man of God;
The angel went on to say that this holy man would be in need of food, "for he has fasted many
days because of the sins of this people” (11). Men will often fast a few meals when they need
divine help very much, but only holy men will do it for days, many days, because of their concern
about the sins of others.
Amulek obeyed, and everything happened just as he had been shown by the angel. He concluded
the narrative by the dramatic declaration, "It was this same man [Alma] who has been speaking
unto you concerning the things of God” (13).
Alma 8:15 And again, I know that the things whereof he hath testified are true; for behold, I say unto
you that as the Lord liveth, even so he has sent his angel to make these things manifest unto me; and this
he has done while this Alma hath dwelt at my house;