Alma supports his assertion that this kin group does not need a place for worship by quoting a Zenos prophecy from the brass plates that he assumes will be familiar to them. Alma recites this passage from memory. In oral (and, automatically, almost all ancient) societies, feats of memory that we would consider prodigious were commonplace. This passage from Zenos encompasses verses 4–11.
The specifics of prayer indicate a personal and worshipful relationship with God. Alma is encouraging these Zoramite investigators to pray as Zenos prayed—at any time or location. Zenos declares that the Lord has “heard him” in various locations, a lengthy list that underscores Alma’s point that locale is not essential to worship.