The sons of Ishmael were key figures among the group of early Lehite travelers in the Book of Mormon narrative. After agreeing to join Lehi’s family on their wilderness journey to the promised land, they are frequently mentioned alongside their sisters and their associates Laman and Lemuel. They were known for their rebellious disposition and frequent murmuring against the leadership and prophetic direction of Nephi, Lehi’s younger son (1 Nephi 7:6).
These sons, not individually named in the existing record, participated in several conspiracies to undermine or even eliminate Nephi, siding with Laman and Lemuel in their discontent and anger. For example, in a moment of particular distress, they were party to the plan to slay Lehi and Nephi, a plan which was ultimately foiled (1 Nephi 16:37).
As the narrative progresses, they maintained their oppositional stance, mirroring the attitudes of their brothers-in-law, Laman and Lemuel. This consistent rebellion culminated in a schism within Lehi’s family upon reaching the promised land, where they followed Laman and Lemuel, becoming part of the group identified as the Lamanites (Alma 3:7; 43:13; 47:35). The Lord set a mark upon them and their descendants, distinguishing them from the followers of Nephi. The land of the Lamanites was also called the land of Ishmael, recognizing their significant role in the Lamanite culture and heritage (Alma 17:19).
Their lineage and actions contributed to the long-standing enmity between the Nephites and the Lamanites, with the sons of Ishmael and their offspring being acknowledged in the Book of Mormon as principal ancestors of the Lamanites. Despite this tumultuous history, it’s noted that one of the sons showed a moment of restraint when pleading for Nephi’s life (1 Nephi 7:19). Unfortunately, this would be a rare occurrence in their story, as their legacy is largely characterized by their resistance to righteous leadership and their choice to align with Laman and Lemuel against Nephi and those who adhered to the commandments of the Lord.