(Alma 62:16)... they[ the Nephites] caused them[ the Lamanites] to enter into a covenant that they would no more take up their weapons of war against the Nephites. (Alma 62:17) And when they had entered into this covenant they sent them to dwell with the people of Ammon, and they were in number about four thousand who had not been slain.
I just found it remarkable that back then someone could make an oath and no matter what, they would stay true to their word. Like this instance, the Lamanites make an oath that they will not fight against the Nephites, the Nephites let them go and the Lamanites don't try to attack them any longer. We just don't have this in our world today, people cheat, they lie, they break promises, they take advantage of others, but it is our responsibility to be the example for our fellow men by not doing the things which are dishonest. It is my testimony that if we all remained faithfull to our word and helped guide others along their way, we would all be blessed and would't have to bear the grief of being cheated. I say this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
I have also found this remarkable. The Lamanites in this instance were not good guys. They could have easily lied and said they would promise never to attack the Nephites again and yet, as wicked as there were, the didn't dare break an oath. You're right, we sure don't see that kind of respect for promises today.
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