As a result of the wickedness that prevailed among the Jaredites and their lack of conscience and concern, the earth became cursed in that whatever was left unattended was stolen. This caused people to become more vigilant as to their possessions and unwilling to lend to or borrow. This curse of the land that caused things to become “slippery’ is similar to the condition created by secret combinations in Nephite times, such as the Gadianton band (compare Helaman 13:17-23, 31; commentary on Mormon 1:18-19; see also Commentary 3:403, 406-7).”