Ammon was one of the four sons of King Mosiah and initially turned away from the teachings of his father, engaging in efforts to destroy the Church of Christ (Mosiah 27:8-10). He and his brothers were known as the vilest of sinners until they experienced a profound spiritual awakening catalyzed by an angel’s visitation, which admonished them and called for their repentance (Mosiah 27:11-14). This transformation led Ammon and his siblings to preach fervently and seek to repair the spiritual damage they had caused.
With a newfound zeal for missionary work, Ammon, now filled with a desire to spread the gospel, obtained his father’s blessing to embark on what would become a fourteen-year mission to the Lamanites (Mosiah 28:1-8). His leadership and deep commitment to the Lord set him apart as he journeyed to the land of Ishmael and was taken captive, ultimately standing before King Lamoni (Alma 17:20-21). Rather than seeking personal advantage, Ammon chose the role of a servant (Alma 17:25). His subsequent courageous defense of the king’s flocks against marauders won him great favor in the eyes of Lamoni, who was poised to believe Ammon harbored divine power (Alma 18:2-4, 11, 17, 19).
Ammon capitalized on the king’s curiosity and gratitude by engaging him in spiritual dialogue, ultimately leading Lamoni to an overpowering conversion experience (Alma 18:22-40). The king, his household, and many of his subjects embraced the gospel through Ammon’s teachings, marking the beginning of a significant spiritual awakening among the Lamanites (Alma 19:29-36).
Commanded by God, Ammon continued his divine service by liberating his imprisoned brethren in Middoni (Alma 20:2). Confrontations with Lamoni’s father ultimately led to Lamoni’s kingly independence and set the stage for the further spread of the gospel in Lamanite lands as well as the elder king’s own conversion, facilitated by Ammon’s brother, Aaron (Alma 20:20-26).
The legacy of Ammon’s faithful mission manifested in a dedicated group of converts who took the name Anti-Nephi-Lehies and later were collectively known as the people of Ammon, signifying their special covenant and conversion (Alma 23:17; Alma 27:26). As their high priest, Ammon extended his shepherding role spiritually and provided a place of refuge for them in the land of Jershon (Alma 27:22). His powerful example and the miracles attributed to his faith made him a revered figure, recognized as a man of God and acknowledged for his extraordinary faith (Ether 12:15; Alma 48:18). His teachings centered around the existence and nature of God, the plan of redemption, and the coming of Christ, enriching the spiritual lives of countless individuals (Alma 18:28–39).