Mosiah, a significant figure in the early history of the Nephite nation, was a prophet and king who played a pivotal role in the unification of the Nephites and the people of Zarahemla. His period of leadership is believed to fall between approximately 279 and 130 BC. Mosiah became king over the land of Zarahemla after being divinely warned to flee from the land of Nephi with those who were willing to obey the Lord’s command. This migration was a fulfillment of earlier prophecies and highlighted the continued guidance that the Lord provided to His righteous followers (Omni 1:12-13).
Upon reaching Zarahemla, Mosiah and his people discovered a group of individuals who descended from Mulek, a son of King Zedekiah of Judah. Unlike Mosiah’s followers, the people of Zarahemla did not possess any preserved records and had, therefore, diminished in their faith, having “denied the being of their Creator” (Omni 1:17). Mosiah, who had wisely brought the plates of brass with him, taught the Mulekites his language, shared the scriptural records with them, and provided religious instruction, thereby rekindling their faith in the Creator.
Due to his wisdom and spiritual leadership, Mosiah was appointed as king over the united peoples, fostering peace and cooperation between the two initially distinct groups (Omni 1:18-19). Mosiah’s importance as a seer is also highlighted by his interpretation of engravings found on a large stone, which detailed the history of the Jaredites, an ancient people who had once inhabited the same land. He was able to decipher the engravings “by the gift and power of God,” thereby preserving the account of the Jaredites for future generations (Omni 1:20-22).
Mosiah’s legacy is carried on through his son, Benjamin, who reigned in his stead after his death and continued his father’s righteous rule (Omni 1:23). Mosiah’s teachings and actions not only unified a divided people but also ensured that sacred records and prophecies were preserved for the benefit of all Nephite generations to come. His life exemplified obedience to divine commandments and a fervent dedication to keeping and transmitting the word of God.