According to Brant Gardner, Nephi's requirement that Zoram should accompany him is perhaps unusual. Laban had gone forth alone previously in the night, and now Nephi (acting as Laban) requires that Zoram should accompany him. One would think that Nephi's greatest urge would be to leave without any further encumbrance. Nevertheless he brings Zoram along. Perhaps Nephi required assistance in carrying the plates, or at least assistance in carrying them should he be required to wield his sword in their defense. [Brant Gardner, "Brant Gardner's Page, "[http://www.highfiber.com/] ~nahualli/LDStopics/1 Nephi/1 Nephi4.htm, p. 12]