Here (and in Alma 47:4–19) we are told of a traitor to the Nephites and his opposition to the things of righteousness. Amalickiah was “a Nephite by birth” (Alma 49:25), dissented from the Church of God, and eventually became king of the Lamanites (Alma 47:19). His lust for power motivated him to use his talents to bring about evil and misery. He was cunning and believed in flattery. Flattery appeals to vanity. It is cynical and a tool used to manipulate people for selfish purposes. It advances ulterior motives and is adversarial. It is different from a sincere praise or compliment, which validates the honest work of others. See the effects of flattery in Alma 50:35.