Moses, a central figure revered by the Nephite people for his role as a prophet, lawgiver, and leader, played a pivotal part in the salvation history as recorded in the Book of Mormon. The Nephites upheld the law of Moses until it was fulfilled through Jesus Christ’s atonement (3 Nephi 15:4-8). His life and divine mission, although not detailed in early years within the Book of Mormon, are alluded to with respect. The most renowned event associated with Moses is his role in the division of the Red Sea, a miraculous occurrence allowing the Israelites to escape the pursuing Egyptian army, which is referenced multiple times (1 Nephi 4:2; 17:26; Helaman 8:11).
Moses was known for his God-given power, including smiting a rock to provide water for the Israelites in their desert wanderings (1 Nephi 17:29). The deliverance of the children of Israel from bondage in Egypt is also noted (2 Nephi 3:10), reflecting his central role in Israelite history and his significance in the plan of deliverance. The countenance of Moses, which shone while he was on Mount Sinai, symbolized his close connection to the divine and served as a comparison for the luster of the prophet Abinadi (Mosiah 13:5).
Lifted as a type for Christ, Moses’ raising of the brazen serpent to heal those afflicted by venomous bites prefigures the saving power of the Messiah (Helaman 8:14). He is further recognized for his messianic prophecies, anticipating a prophet “like unto me,” which were fulfilled in Jesus Christ (Mosiah 13:33; 3 Nephi 20:23). The Book of Mormon clarifies that Moses was taken up by God, hinting at a departure from mortal life that was beyond the ordinary (Alma 45:19).
Moses’ life, as evidenced by the references to him in the Book of Mormon, demonstrates the Lord’s pattern of raising up deliverers and mouthpieces to guide His children. His legacy, encapsulated in the Mosaic law and the ensuing deliverance and covenant with Israel, established the conditions that would later define the religious milieu into which Jesus would be born—ultimately fulfilling and concluding the Law of Moses through his ministry and sacrifice.