Form Analyzed
Understanding the context of the communication between the ruler
and his general via letter. I focused on how Pahoran handles criticism from a religious,
political, and military leader.
Passage Analyzed
I was assigned to read Alma 54 to Alma 61. In that section I
analyzed specifically Pahorans letter to Moroni.
Breakdown /
Listing of things found:
Pahoran just received a letter from the main general,
Moroni. In the letter, Moroni was quick to accuse Pahoran of rebellion and all
manner of wickedness. Moroni threatens to come with the sword and bring justice
upon his head. Pahoran responds in an interesting way. He doesn’t respond with
hostility but he responds with an obnoxious amount of understanding and sympathy.
In his letter back to Moroni, he mentions that the hostile letter “mattereth
not” and that he is glad Moroni’s heart is in the right place.
Pahoran wrote with a very passive tone. The subject matter
tended to be more passive than Moroni’s as well. Moroni emphasizes the defense
of righteousness with the sword. Pahoran emphasizes the importance of resisting
with the word first, and then the sword if all else fails. He mentions that “We
would subject ourselves to the yoke of bondage if it were requisite with the
justice of God,” but he explains that it is justified that they should fight
for freedom.
Interpretation:
It seems as if
Pahoran used this moment of admirable humility to teach Moroni that violence isn’t
always the answer. Although this is a letter directly to Moroni, it seems
obvious to me that it was included to be applied to us as the audience as well.
Pahoran was quick to find common ground and to support those the Lord has
called. Pahoran took advantage of a teaching moment. It would have been easy
for him to be defensive or even to demand an apology. Instead of rebuking
Moroni, he taught Moroni. He showed Moroni that the sword won’t solve all of
life’s problems. He also taught the future reader a lesson. He taught that a
person can still be lead of God even though they make mistakes.
Connections/Questions
I wonder why Moroni included this letter into the record.
Did Pahoran have the foresight to see this letter be of great importance to
future generations? How can Pahoran’s example be of help to LDS members how may
disagree with things the Brethren may say or teach? If all people were like
unto Moroni, hell would have no power. This example may be of help to those
that want to support church leaders despite disagreements when it comes to
different social issues.
You know the kind. The ones that don't speak up and don't get in anyone's way. Often misinterpreted as shy, the humble individual avoids talking of themselves. Engaging conversations are hard to find when all they want to do is talk about you and your accomplishments. How rude of them to put me on a pedestal. Just their presence in a conversation can make you feel like a boasting baboon. They might know the answer to the questions, but they let others have the opportunity to receive recognition. The humble person is also very boring with his/her wealth. They choose retirement and the Golden Corral over jet skies and sushi night.
