Amalickiah

Amalickiah was the leader of a rebellion against the established Nephite government during the time of Chief Judge Nephihah and his son Pahoran (Alma 46:3, Alma 50:38). At this time, Helaman was the head of the Nephite church.

Amalickiah was an extremely wicked man who caused a great deal of dissension and bloodshed among the Nephites (Alma 46:4-10). He was “desirous to be a king” and led away many people from the church through his flattery and cunning (Alma 46:4-7).

When Amalickiah was denied the kingship through persuasion among the Nephites, he fled to the land of the Lamanites (Alma 46:28-33). Through deception and intrigue, he was able to become the king of the Lamanites (Alma 47).

Amalickiah then commenced a bitter war against the Nephites that lasted for almost 20 years (Alma 48:1). However, about 6 years into the war, Amalickiah was killed by Teancum in a daring night raid (Alma 51:34).

The rebellion led by Amalickiah caused Captain Moroni to make a banner from his coat, writing on it “In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children” (Alma 46:12-13). This became known as the “title of liberty” and rallied the Nephites to defend their freedoms against Amalickiah’s dissension.

Overall, Amalickiah was an extremely wicked and ambitious man who caused great turmoil and bloodshed among the Nephites through his rebellion against the established government and his eventual war against them as king of the Lamanites.

Learn more:

1. Alma 46
2. Amalickiah
3. Alma Chapter 46