Difference between revisions of "Abish"

Revision as of 09:34, 5 May 2008

Abish was a Lamanitish woman and servant of king Lamoni who played a key role in the conversion of many Lamanites. She is mentioned by name in Alma 19:16.

At the time of the conversion of king Lamoni, Abish had "already been converted unto the Lord for many years, on account of a remarkable vision of her father" (Alma 19:16). However, Abish never made her conversion known until king Lamoni, his wife, and Ammon the Nephite missionary lay unconscious after being overcome by the power of the Spirit. While the other servants fell to the earth in wonder, Abish left the king's house and "ran forth from house to house, making it known unto the people," hoping to lead them to believe in the power of God (Alma 19:17).

When a great crowd had gathered and contention had arisen regarding the cause of the situation, Abish "was exceedingly sorrowful, even unto tears" (Alma 19:28). She then "went and took the queen by the hand, that perhaps she might raise her from the ground; and as soon as [Abish] touched her hand [the queen] arose and stood" and praised God (Alma 19:29). The king and Ammon soon revived as well and testified to the assembled crowd that they had witnessed the power of God. Thus "many [...] did believe in their words; and as many as did believe were baptized; and they became a righteous people, and they did establish a church among them" (Alma 19:35).