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KnoWhy #184 - Why Did Samuel Give Such Chronologically Precise Prophecies? (Helaman 13:5)

TitleKnoWhy #184 - Why Did Samuel Give Such Chronologically Precise Prophecies? (Helaman 13:5)
Publication TypeKnoWhy
Year of Publication2016
Corporate AuthorsBook of Mormon Central Staff
PublisherBook of Mormon Central
Place PublishedSpringville, UT
KeywordsAncient America; Baktun; Chronology; Hotun; Mesoamerica; Prophecy; Prophet; Samuel the Lamanite; Zarahemla
Abstract

Samuel the Lamanite made two very specific prophecies: one, that the Nephites would be destroyed in 400 years, and second, that a sign would be given marking the birth of Christ in five years. In Mesoamerican time-keeping, both 400 and five are important and sacred time periods. The prophetic use of these highly symbolic time periods in Book of Mormon prophecy appears to be an example of the Lord speaking “unto men according to their language, unto their understanding” (2 Nephi 31:3; cf. Doctrine and Covenants 1:24).

URLhttps://knowhy.bookofmormoncentral.org/content/why-did-samuel-make-such-chronologically-precise-prophecies
Citation Key2292

Scripture Reference

Helaman 13:5