The Voice of Jesus was again heard recounting how oft He had sought to gather together the House of Israel, but just as often they had refused His pleadings. He then promised that again
He would seek to gather them even as a hen gathereth her chickens, under His protecting care. The Nephites were of Israel and entitled to the same blessings as promised to all God's covenant people. These blessings were predicated upon righteousness, and were promised by the Savior "If ye will repent and return unto Me with full purpose of heart," (v. 6) but if they would not heed Him, He said that the places of their dwellings should become desolate until the time of the fulfilling of God's covenant with their fathers. When the people heard this awful prophecy they began again to weep and howl because of the loss of their kindred and friends.