Lifespan

Approximately 440-360 B.C.

Ministry

Jarom was the son of the Nephite prophet Enos. He recorded only a brief summary of Nephite history during his lifetime. Though they were outnumbered by the Lamanites, they resisted Lamanite aggression successfully due to their righteousness.

Preparation and Calling

Nothing is known of Jarom’s preparation or calling.

Interaction with God

Though Jarom does not speak of his own relationship with God, he mentions that “many among us . . . have many revelations, for they are not all stiffnecked. And as many as are not stiffnecked and have faith, have communtion with the Holy Spirit” (Jarom 1:4). As Jarom was entrusted to keep the records for some 60 years, it is not unlikely that he was among this group of faithful Nephites.

Social Situation

Both the Lamanite and Nephite population was growing rapidly, with the advantage numerically going to the Lamanites. The Nephites were a conservative lot who strictly kept the law of Moses and were constantly stirred up to repentance by the Nephite priests and teachers. The Lamanites, meanwhile, became bloodthirsty and warring, attempting many times to conquer the Nephites—but always in vain.

Key Teachings

Jarom did not leave a record of his teachings, explaining that “what could I write more than my fathers have written? For have they not revealed the plan of salvation? I say unto you, Yea; and this sufficeth me” (Jarom 1:2).

Living with the Prophet

Though Jarom wrote only a small amount on the plates, he kept them safe and cared for during approximately six decades. And sometimes we become impatient when we are asked to help a neighbor in need for a couple of hours on a Saturday morning! What can you learn from faithful Jarom about serving patiently as long as the Lord requires?

Sources

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, vol. 1, s.v. “Book of Jarom.”

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

<span style="font-size: 12pt; font-family: ‘Times New Roman’;”>