Why does 3 Nephi end with a strong warning, pronouncing curses upon the wicked?

Thomas R. Valletta

The Book of Mormon, as an ancient text, naturally reflects the form, function, and style of ancient writing. Latter-day Saint scholar Hugh Nibley noted: “In many ancient Near Eastern covenant or treaty documents, it’s appropriate to end with a number of wo’s—wo to people who don’t live up worthily to these things, wo to those who spurn the works of God, wo to them who deny the revelations of God” (Teachings of the Book of Mormon, 4:157).

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