Alma’s opening statement references a foundational promise of the Nephite people. This covenant with the Lord was given to both Nephi and Lehi (I Nephi 4:14; 2 Nephi 1:9). For both Lehi (as the patriarch of the clan) and Nephi, this was a promise for the entire people. Alma signals his intent to personalize scripture and experience by focusing this people-wide commandment directly on his son. It becomes not only a personal commandment, but a way of linking his son into the great tradition of his people. Helaman will be the son to whom the charge of the records is given, and he needs to be the one most aware of his connections to the long history of his people. Nevertheless, it is his personal righteousness that is of highest importance.