Lamanite Kings and Approaching Armies

There are a number of episodes in The Book of Mormon that contain thematic and textual similarities. For example, both Nephi and Lehi experience visions of the tree of life that are similar, and Alma the Younger recounts his conversion story using language that is very much like his father's. (For specific comments on the latter, see my entry under Authorial Influence: Alma the Elder and Alma the Younger.) Another recurring motif appears in the context of Lamanite kings and approaching armies.

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Zenos and the Prayer of Enos

That Jacob seems to have an affinity for the prophet Zenos is evident in his quotation of that prophet's allegory (Jacob chapter five) and his own explanation and application of it (chapter six). One even wonders whether his son Enos is named after Zenos in some fashion. Aside from the parable in Jacob 5, however, we also have portions of his text as cited from other Book of Mormon authors. For example, Alma, in response to questions from the poor among the Zoramites, quotes Zenos as talking about worship in prayer in multiple locations. Part of the text reads as follows:

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