Orihah, esteemed as the first king of the Jaredite civilization, was the son of Jared, one of two primary leaders who guided the Jaredites to the Promised Land as outlined in the Book of Mormon narrative. After the miraculous journey and settlement of his people, Orihah was anointed king, being the only one among the brothers to accept the throne, even as his father’s brother, the prophet, had warned against the establishment of a monarchy (Ether 6:23, 6:27). Despite the initial reservations about kingly rule, Orihah’s reign was marked by his humble dedication to the Lord and his people. He taught them to remember the wondrous deeds the Lord had done for their ancestors, instilling a sense of gratitude and reverence within the community (Ether 6:30).
As a benevolent and just ruler, Orihah executed judgment in righteousness throughout all his days which were “exceedingly many,” indicating both a long and prosperous life (Ether 7:1). His leadership brought a period of significant prosperity and growth to the Jaredite nation. Reflecting personal success alongside his political achievements, Orihah was also the father of thirty-one children, including twenty-three sons and eight daughters (Ether 7:2). His legacy continued through his progeny, as his son Kib succeeded him on the throne, ensuring the maintenance of the royal line (Ether 7:3). However, the prosperity and stability seen during Orihah’s time as king would eventually give way to future internal strife, foreshadowing the cyclical rise and fall of righteous and wicked rulers within the Jaredite dynasty.