Lifespan
Approximately 153-91 B.C.
Ministry
Mosiah was a Nephite prophet and king of the combined cultures of the Nephites and Mulekites. He was also the son of the Nephite prophet-king named Benjamin, and grandson of the first Mosiah, also a king. His ministry lasted approximately 33 years, during which time he strengthened the Church against persecution and devised a system of government based on a system of judges rather than a king.
Preparation and Calling
Mosiah’s coronation as king occurred in approximately 124 B.C., three years before his father’s death. He was in his 30th year. Presumably, his calling as prophet came with the position of king and leader of his people in both political and religious affairs.
Interaction with God
We know that Mosiah was a righteous man who walked in the ways of the Lord and served his people humbly yet powerfully. When four of his sons began to wreak havoc about the land and in the Church, he obtained divine help and angelic visitations to straighten out his sons and bring them to repentance.
Social Situation
Mosiah ruled over two peoples living in a single land with different backgrounds. He sought diligently to increase the strength and influence of the Church while serving with political savvy and a love for the people. As king, he dealt with political unrest from within and conflict with the Lamanites outside his kingdom.
Key Teachings
Mosiah’s religion was a practical religion. Perhaps the best summary of his teaching came through the example he set, as summarized in this passage: “And [his people] did wax strong in love towards Mosiah; yea, they did esteem him more than any other man; for they did not look upon him as a tyrant who was seeking for gain, . . . for he had not exacted riches of them, neither had he delighted in the shedding of blood; but he had established peace in the land, and he had granted unto his people that they should be delivered from all manner of bondage; therefore they did esteem him, yea, exceedingly, beyond measure” (Mosiah 29:40).
Living with the Prophet
When feeling in bondage to negative feelings about yourself or someone else, or when your freedom seems otherwise hampered by the actions of someone you know or love, reread this account of deliverance and remember the prophet, Mosiah, who knew it could come for his people.
Sources
Encyclopedia of Mormonism, vol. 1, s.v. “Mosiah.”
Book of Mormon, the books of Mosiah and Alma.
Book of Mormon, Reader’s Edition, ed. Grant Hardy.
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