Abinadi was cast into prison by the guards of King Noah, who, having counseled with the king's priests, decided to give Abinadi a chance to repudiate his words. This Abinadi refused to do although he was threatened with death for failing to comply.
The exact crime for which Abinadi was accused was, "Thou hast said that God himself should come down among the children of men." This accusation was only an excuse, a pretext for them to slay righteous Abinadi. King Noah and his priests smarted most because they knew Abinadi spoke truthfully of their wicked ways. Therefore, they wished to be rid of the reproach by doing away with their accuser. This vindictive mode of thinking is always a common way of escape with those who believe they can do no wrong, and also to those who seek an excuse. They writhe under indictment.
King Noah let it be known to the Prophet Abinadi, that if he would recall the words "which thou hast spoken evil concerning me and my people," then he would not be put to death.