This is the first of four major classes of people described in Lehi’s vision. Note the similarities between the groups described in the vision and the groups described by the Savior, in the Parable of the Sower in the New Testament (Matthew 13:1–23 quoted below). Both sources depict the course of men and their reaction to the word of God or the gospel. They also give the formula for overcoming the pitfalls and reaching the highest goal—eternal life.
And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up (Matthew 13:4)
Jesus interpreted this parable for us.
19 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. [Matthew 13:19]
The seeds that fell by the wayside are symbolically the same as the people who do not take hold of the iron rod. The fowls that eat the seeds are symbolically the same as the mist of darkness, both being the temptations of the devil.