Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Churchill and Pahoran




We can compare Churchill's words with that of Pahoran in Alma 62 where after being called a traitor among other things he said:

9 And now, in your epistle you have censured me, but it mattereth not; I am not angry, but do rejoice in the greatness of your heart. I, Pahoran, do not seek for power, save only to retain my judgment-seat that I may preserve the rights and the liberty of my people. My soul standeth fast in that liberty in the which God hath made us free.

Certain principles are timeless, and being able to "eat words", either those of our own or of others, is an important quality to possess. I am grateful for the example of humble men in history and scripture.

5 comments:

nephite blood spartan heart said...

I love finding the parralells and this was a great one.

Michaela Stephens said...

It might be Captain Moroni that had to eat his words too for accusing Pahoran of neglect and then finding out it was a kingmen problem. If he felt embarrassment it must have been short-lived because of his relief that Pahoran was still loyal to his country.

Morgan Deane said...

I agree Micheala. I also forget to point out that Pahoran handled the situation very well by not getting defensive. He gave Moroni an easy way out by acknowledging the righteous intent behind the letter- Moroni's fear of rebellion and treason- that turned out to be correct. If Pahoran had gotten defensive and attacked Moroni then he may have done so as well and there would have a been a critical split in the leadership at that dangerous time.

Morgan Deane said...

Thanks David. Are you coming by Virginia sometime to promote your book?

nephite blood spartan heart said...

It's not in the immeadiate future on account of finances. You know how it goes. You are actually the second Virginian to ask though.

How about putting the Book of Mormon Warfare Conference together and I'll make sure to come to that.