Lifespan

Approximately 515-420 B.C.

Ministry

Enos was a son of Jacob and grandson of Lehi. He was a record keeper and a prophet for the Nephite population.

Preparation and Calling

While Enos was hunting, the words of his father sank deep into his heart and he entered into a lengthy heartfelt prayer to God. The eventual answer to that prayer ensured that Enos knew of God’s reality and love.

Interaction with God

Little is known of Enos outside the record of his prayer while hunting.

Social Situation

Enos lived at a time when his fellow Nephites were becoming increasingly prone to straying from the truth and the Lamanites were becoming more ferocious and wicked.

Key Teachings

After Enos received forgiveness of his sins following a lengthy prayer while hunting, he turned to praying on behalf of his Nephite people and then his enemy, the Lamanites. Both his steadfastness in praying until he received an answer and his concern for all his brethren—friend and foe alike—are significant lessons.

Living with the Prophet

Enos is often credited with having the endurance and commitment necessary to pray until he received an answer to his prayers. But his experience began with his thoughts concerning the gospel truths that he had heard his father speak of. In your journal, or at least on a sheet of paper, write down the key teachings that you have heard your parents or other leaders teach you, and then consider how you feel about these teachings. Resolve to pray to Heavenly Father to help you understand them better.

Sources

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, vol. 1, s.v. “Enos.”

Book of Mormon, Reader’s Edition, ed. Grant Hardy.