According to Alan Goff, there are parallels between two kings within the Book of Mormon: Noah (in the book of Mosiah) and Riplakish (in the book of Ether). Critics of the Book of Mormon claim that since the portraits of the two kings are so similar to each other, the Book of Mormon author must be manipulating history and is engaging in fictional writing in drawing the parallel. However, parallels to biblical kings are much stronger than might be realized. Many of the parallels between Noah and Riplakish are also shared by Solomon Both scriptures are describing the concentration of power that occurs with an oriental despot. The portrayal is intended to be typical. The biblical portrait should include other abusive kings besides Solomon: Ahab, Jeroboam, Rehoboam, Manasseh, and Ahaz. [Alan Goff, “Scratching the Surface of Book of Mormon Narratives,” in FARMS Review of Books, Vol. 12, Num. 2, 2000, pp. 72-73]
Mosiah 11:1 Zeniff conferred the kingdom upon Noah (Nephite Record Keepers) [[Illustration] Nephite Record Keepers. Adapted from [Church Educational System, Book of Mormon Student Manual: Religion 121 and 122, 1989, p. 155]
Mosiah 11:3 Noah builds two towers to overlook Shemlon. [Illustration] Proposed details in the Land of Nephi (Valley of Guatemala)
Geographical [Theory Map] Mosiah 9:14--11:1 The Lamanites Invade Shilom on the North & Soutp: h (Year 419)