The Sons of Helaman, often referred to simply as the “stripling warriors,” are symbolically named after their military leader, Helaman, the son of Alma the Younger. These young men, numbering initially two thousand and later joined by an additional sixty, were the children of the Anti-Nephi-Lehies, or Ammonites—Lamanite converts to Christianity who had covenanted not to bear arms and were taken under the protection of the Nephites. When the Nephites faced significant military challenges around 64 B.C., these young men, not having taken the non-violence oath themselves, willingly took up arms to defend their homes and the Nephite nation, while allowing their parents to maintain their covenant of peace (Alma 53:16-18).
Helaman, recognizing their faith and valor, accepted the role of their leader upon their request (Alma 53:19). They were exemplary in their adherence to the commandments, in their truthfulness, sobriety, and in their courage and strength (Alma 53:20-21). Their faith was particularly notable as they had been raised by mothers who instilled in them a firm belief in God’s deliverance, a faith so strong that it was credited with miraculous preservation during battle (Alma 56:47-48; 57:26-27).
In battle, the Sons of Helaman displayed extraordinary courage, fighting with such effectiveness that they overcame significantly larger Lamanite forces. Notably, despite engaging in vicious combat, wherein they experienced wounds, none of the group were killed (Alma 56:56; 57:25). This remarkable fact was ascribed both to their faith and to their military discipline, as they followed their commanders with “exactness” (Alma 57:21). The narrative of these young warriors culminates in a powerful testament to their impact on the Nephite defense, their immeasurable faith, and the enduring legacy of the teachings of their mothers. Their unwavering trust in divine power and their commitment to liberty made them distinguished figures in the history of their people. The account of the Sons of Helaman is one of the most celebrated illustrations of faith and divine intervention in the Book of Mormon.