While the righteous kings, Benjamin and Mosiah, spent their time laboring with their own hands so that the people would not be laden with taxes (Mosiah 2:14), Noah is willing to glut himself on the labors of his people. In his scheme of things, the people should work so he can have the energy to drink his wine, carouse his women, and direct the building of his spacious, ornamental palace. The same debauchery was encouraged among his wicked priests. This behavior remained unchallenged until Abinadi called them to repentance, saying, Why do ye set your hearts upon riches? Why do ye commit whoredoms and spend your strength with harlots, yea, and cause this people to commit sin (Mosiah 12:29).