Judah, in the context of the Book of Mormon, is primarily referenced in connection with biblical history, acting as a backdrop to events and prophecy rather than as a direct location within the Nephite and Lamanite narrative. It is notable for being the kingdom from which many of the Book of Mormon figures, including Lehi and his family, originally came before their exodus to the Promised Land. Judah was the southern kingdom of Israel, formed after the division of the united monarchy of Israel during the reign of Rehoboam, encompassing the tribes of Judah and Benjamin with Jerusalem as its capital (1 Nephi 1:4; Omni 1:15). Being the locale of prophetic activity, it was the region where prophets warned the inhabitants of the impending destruction of Jerusalem during the reign of Zedekiah, king of Judah (1 Nephi 1:4).
The fall of Judah, represented in the prophecies and writings quoted by Nephi, is symbolic of the consequences of turning from the commandments of the Lord, and it is frequently associated with the need for repentance and return to righteousness (2 Nephi 13:8). The Isaiah chapters, reproduced in the Book of Mormon text, offer prophetic insights into the conditions and events related to Judah, including geopolitical struggles with neighboring tribes and nations (2 Nephi 17:6, 21:13).
Judah also plays a role in the spiritual symbolism of the House of Israel, with references to the “waters of Judah” relating to the covenantal relationship of the people with God, potentially symbolizing the waters of baptism (1 Nephi 20:1). Furthermore, the future unity of the writings of the tribe of Judah (the Bible) with those of the descendants of Lehi (the Book of Mormon) is seen as a significant event in Latter-day Saint theology, leading to the confounding of false doctrines and establishment of peace (2 Nephi 3:12). Judah, therefore, while not depicted as a physical setting in the Book of Mormon, serves as an essential touchstone for the prophetic narrative and spiritual teachings within the text.