Why were prisoners allowed to “depart out of the land in peace”?

Thomas R. Valletta

How does the Lord expect us to treat others, even in times of war? “In contrast to the treatment of prisoners and innocent victims of war by the Lamanites (see Helaman 1:22), Moronihah allows the Lamanite prisoners of war to depart in peace. Those righteous military leaders who are disciples of Christ and are filled with the Spirit of the Lord treat even their enemies with kindness and compassion (see Alma 44:5–7). Even in most difficult circumstances, such as war, the Lord expects his disciples to ‘love your enemies, … do good to them that hate you’ (Matthew 5:44; 3 Nephi 12:44)” (McConkie and Millet, Doctrinal Commentary, 3:336).

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