The people of Antipus Army played a critical role in a pivotal battle during the long and arduous conflicts between the Nephites and the Lamanites during the first century BC. This group of soldiers served diligently under the command of Antipus, a commendable Nephite leader known for both valor and tenacity in warfare. During a notable campaign, the forces of Antipus were instrumental in executing a strategic maneuver intended to entrap the opposing Lamanite army. This tactic involved an intentional retreat that misled the Lamanites into pursuing Antipus’s forces, inadvertently positioning themselves for a planned Nephite counterattack.
As the Lamanites believed they had gained the upper hand and pursued the troops of Antipus, they found themselves encircled when the committed soldiers of Antipus gathered their men and launched a rearguard offensive, catching the Lamanites by surprise (Alma 56:53). This action was a pivotal moment in the battle, contributing to the eventual Nephite victory. However, despite their well-executed maneuver, the soldiers of Antipus were on the brink of defeat due to the overwhelming number of the Lamanite forces. It was the timely intervention of Helaman and his two thousand stripling warriors that provided the reinforcement needed to bolster the resolve and numbers of Antipus’s army, ultimately leading to the successful outcome of the engagement (Alma 56).
The contributions of Antipus and his army were significant in the course of Nephite military efforts, showcasing the importance of strategy, courage, and collaboration among the Nephite forces in the incessant struggles to defend their people from their aggressors. Antipus’s army, although less frequently recognized by name than other Nephite military units, undeniably exhibits the qualities of dedication and fortitude that are emblematic of the Nephite military tradition.