The audience of King Benjamin comprised a vast multitude gathered at the temple in the land of Zarahemla to hear the final address of their beloved king. King Benjamin, having made a proclamation throughout the land, invited all to come to the temple, resulting in a congregation so large it could not be numbered (Mosiah 2:1-8). The gathering was significant as the people brought with them the firstlings of their flocks to offer as sacrifices, expressing gratitude for their deliverance and the prosperity they enjoyed under just rulers and the peace established in Zarahemla.
As King Benjamin delivered his sermon, he charged the people to keep the commandments of God, warning against contentions and obedience to the evil spirit. He promised them prosperity and protection from enemies if they remained faithful (Mosiah 2:31-41). The impact of Benjamin’s words deeply moved the people, causing them to fall to the earth and pray fervently for mercy. They collectively pleaded for the atoning blood of Christ to purify their hearts, demonstrating their profound belief in Jesus Christ who would come among the children of men (Mosiah 4:1-3).
Following the sermon, King Benjamin sought confirmation of their belief, and in response, the people declared their faith. They acknowledged a mighty change wrought in their hearts by the Spirit of the Lord and expressed a newfound disposition to do good. This spiritual transformation led them to willingly enter into a covenant with God, committing to obey His commandments with the desire to take upon them the name of Christ (Mosiah 5:1-5; 6:2). However, it is noted that the rising generation, who had been little children at the time of King Benjamin’s address, initially struggled to believe the traditions and teachings of their fathers (Mosiah 26:1). Nonetheless, among the gathered populace, all but the little children entered into this covenant, indicating the profound effect of King Benjamin’s message and leadership on the people of Zarahemla.