Mention is made in Mosiah 9:14 of a numerous host of Lamanites that attack “on the south of the land of Shilom,” and then shortly after, in verse 10:8, the Lamanites “came up upon the north of the land of Shilom.” If we assume a Mesoamerican setting, the land of Shemlon could have been positioned both lower in elevation and “west” (according to John Sorenson’s rotated directional system) of Shilom near the shores of lake Amatitlan. This would allow the Lamanites to attack both on the south and on the north. (See illustration)
Geographical [Theory Map]: Mosiah 9:14--11:1 The Lamanites Invade Shilom on the North & South (Year 419)