Laman emerged as a notable figure in the narrative of the Nephite-Lamanite conflict, beginning his story as the servant of a Lamanite king. This particular king was assassinated by the followers of Amalickiah, a Nephite dissenter aiming to usurp power in the Lamanite kingdom (Alma 47:20–24). In the aftermath, Laman transitioned from the service of the Lamanites to the Nephite side, integrating into their society and enlisting in the armies led by Captain Moroni.
Years after his change of allegiance, around 63 BC, Laman’s heritage became a pivotal asset for the Nephite military leader Moroni. Moroni was seeking to liberate Nephite prisoners from the city of Gid, which had been captured by the Lamanites, now under the command of Ammoron, Amalickiah’s successor. To accomplish this feat without bloodshed, Moroni hatched a plan to inebriate the Lamanite guards, necessitating a man who could convincingly integrate with them. Laman, as a man of Lamanite descent and former service, was the perfect candidate for this ruse (Alma 55:4–5).
Under Moroni’s command, Laman and a group of men approached the Lamanite guards at Gid under the pretense of fellow Lamanites who had escaped from Nephite captures, bearing strong wine as a supposed spoil. His familiar background proved convincing, and the guards welcomed him, partaking generously of the wine he offered (Alma 55:8–14). The guards succumbed to drunkenness, and Laman returned to Moroni to report the success of their ploy. Moroni’s forces then advanced under cover of darkness, arming the Nephite prisoners and carefully besieging the city.
The next day, the Lamanites, finding themselves both internally and externally ensnared without bloodshed, surrendered to Moroni’s forces (Alma 55:15-24). Laman’s role in this strategic victory not only showcases his importance in a critical military maneuver but also highlights his successful integration into Nephite society and his direct contribution to the Nephite cause.