KnoWhy #148 - Why Was Corianton So Concerned About The Resurrection? (Alma 40:9)

After censuring Corianton, Alma perceived that his son’s “mind [was] worried concerning the resurrection of the dead.” Why would the son of a prophet struggle to understand one of the most fundamental doctrines of the gospel? It is likely that Corianton was exposed to religious philosophies that either dismissed or corrupted the true doctrine of the resurrection. As a rebellious youth, Alma himself likely rejected the reality of the resurrection before his miraculous conversion. Recognizing the historical controversy that surrounded the doctrine of the resurrection can help readers better understand the root cause of Corianton’s confusion. There is also much to learn from Alma’s example of helping a loved one find meaningful answers to difficult questions.