With the possible exception of Mormon (Mormon 8:3), Abinadi is the only prophet-martyr in the Book of Mormon. As his ministry begins, we get no information about his background. Yet his teachings demonstrate an incredible understanding of the nature of God, the symbolism of the Law of Moses, and the writings of Isaiah. He is completely obedient to the Lord's commands to call the people to repentance in spite of the great risk this posed. He is one of the many, great heroes of the Book of Mormon.
Elder Cree-L Kofford
"What is there that is so special about Abinadi? Perhaps it was his total obedience as he went, presumably alone, among those whom he must have known would take his life, to deliver the word of the Lord and to cry repentance to the people. Perhaps it is the very fact that we know so little about him, or perhaps it was simply the way with which he faced the adversities which came into his life in such a straightforward, 'square-to-the world' way. Whatever the reason, Abinadi was and is special. His life, lived so long ago, still has the power to excite the mind and cause the pulse to pound." (Heroes from the Book of Mormon, pp. 69-70)