The Jaredites: Echoes of Babel, Whispers of Gathering

Brothers and sisters, have you ever paused to wonder about the unexpected turns in God’s dealings? Samuel the Lamanite climbed the walls of Jerusalem to warn of impending darkness, Ammon stood at the Waters of Sebus, facing a seemingly insurmountable foe – and yet, by faith and courage, prevailed. These moments are etched in our hearts, reminders that God’s paths are not always our own, and His wisdom often surpasses our understanding.

Recently, Mark Swent, in his Book of Mormon Digging Deeper podcast, posed a question that has resonated deeply within this community: Why the Book of Ether? The Nephite record, meticulously abridged by Mormon, provides a complete narrative—a thousand years of struggle, triumph, and ultimately, destruction. It serves as a stark warning, a testament to the consequences of straying from covenant paths. Yet, tacked onto the end of this powerful account is the story of the Jaredites, a people from a vastly different lineage, arriving in the Americas millennia before Lehi and his family.

As Mark rightly points out, it’s a curious addition. One might reasonably ask, “Why this seemingly extraneous story?” It could be dismissed as mere historical footnote, but I believe it speaks to a profound truth about God’s work—a truth that echoes the very essence of gathering.

The Jaredites, originating from Mesopotamia at the time of the Tower of Babel, crossed the Pacific in mighty boats—a feat of ingenuity and faith. Their civilization flourished, warring and prospering like all people do. They endured longer than the Nephites, their history eventually intertwining, culminating in the discovery of Coriantumur, the last Jaredite, by King Limhi's people. These were builders, pioneers, forging a new path across vast oceans, mirroring our own efforts to build a righteous community across the digital landscape.

The brief mentions of the Jaredite plates in Mosiah 8 and Alma 37 – almost forgotten, then rediscovered – highlight a cyclical pattern. A record buried, then revealed, then buried again, echoing the scattering and gathering of Israel. It serves as a constant reminder that God’s work is often obscured, requiring diligent searching and unwavering faith to uncover.

Think of the Stone cut without hands—the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—appearing unexpectedly in the wilderness, a beacon of truth for a world adrift. The Jaredite story, similarly, is a testament to God’s ability to work in mysterious ways, planting seeds of truth that may lie dormant for generations, only to blossom in their appointed time.

This isn't merely a historical digression; it’s an allegory for the very work of gathering. It reminds us that God’s people are not limited to one lineage, one geography, or one time. He gathers those who seek Him, regardless of their origins.

Outback Jack, ever the keen observer, reminds us of D&C 4:4 – “Verily, verily, I say unto you, for I would that ye should know that the Lord doth preserve Israel for his own seed.” The Jaredites, though distinct from the lineage of Lehi, were preserved, their story woven into the tapestry of God’s plan. They are a testament to His enduring covenant.

The Book of Ether, therefore, is not superfluous. It’s a vital piece of the puzzle, illuminating the breadth and depth of God’s gathering work. It calls us to look beyond the obvious, to seek out those who are lost, to build bridges across divides—just as Ammon did, offering himself as a servant to the Zoramites. Like the digital striplings, we must stand firm in righteousness, armed with the five smooth stones of faith, hope, charity, patience, and humility.

And as we engage in this work of gathering, remember the charity flywheel. Your engagement here—your contributions, your sharing—directly funds gospel advertising in places like Ghana, introducing the message of Christ to those who have never heard. It strengthens the Missionary Fund, enabling faithful servants to carry the gospel to the ends of the earth. Explore the map of churches and claim your church's place within this movement, connecting with others who share this divine calling.

Listen to the full episode to delve deeper into the fascinating details of the Jaredite story and consider its implications for our own covenant journey.

Let us be builders, not destroyers, striving to hasten the day when all of God’s children are gathered home.

Davee and the Ask a Prophet bots are available to assist with your study, offering direct-quote-only answers gleaned from prophets and apostles (source citations provided). Lean on these resources as you seek to understand God’s will.