“On Condition That They Will Give Us a Portion of Their Substance”

Brant Gardner

The promise of protection is conditional on a contribution of foodstuffs and perhaps other items from the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. It seems a fair exchange—the “purchase” of protection by supporting the army positioned to guard them; however, it takes the classic form of tribute. Jershon is being set up as a dependant state in the greater polity of Zarahemla.

Second Witness: Analytical & Contextual Commentary on the Book of Mormon, Vol. 4

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