Mosiah: The Complex Symbolism and Symbolic Complex of Kingship in the Book of Mormon

Authors

Gordon C. Thomasson, Broome Community College, Binghamton, New York

Keywords

Book of Mormon, 1 Nephi, Sword of Laban, Mosiah, Language, Symbolism, Imagery, Noah, Brass Plates, Records, Large Plates

Abstract

This article discusses the significance of major scriptural personalities, contrasting the lessons we can learn from the positive and negative experiences of such individuals with the role models set for us in Christ and little children. Internal textual sources relate to the composition of the book of Mosiah within the context of a particular literary tradition and style. According to one argument, the text employs a “dialectical” style or stylistic device based on the “law of opposition in all things,” which juxtaposes individuals, such as righteous and wicked kings, to illuminate gospel principles. Several Old World and Book of Mormon perspectives give insight on royal treasures, symbolism, and iconography (including objects such as the Liahona and the sword of Laban). The article also contrasts views of religious freedom, taxation, and agency and responsibility, and compares duties of parents and kings.

BYU ScholarsArchive Citation

Thomasson, Gordon C. (1993) "Mosiah: The Complex Symbolism and Symbolic Complex of Kingship in the Book of Mormon," Journal of Book of Mormon Studies: Vol. 2: No. 1, Article 3.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jbms/vol2/iss1/3