Book of Mormon Covenant Lands

This website for those interested in exploring the history in the Book of Mormon, the special covenant of God upon the land of North America, and the locations of Book of Mormon lands. If you interested more in the Logical Model and ontology of it, I suggest you skip the Physical Model information in sections 1, 2 and 4 and go directly to Logical Model in section 3. This may also help avoid any bias regarding the Physical Model vs the Logical Model.

Sections 1, 2, and 4 present North America as the Book of Mormon "land of promise" with the city of Zarahemla in the center and heart of the land. Overall I call this the Zarahemla Centric Heartland Map for Book of Mormon geography. This Zarahemla Centric Heartland Map is based on a series of Entity Relationship definitions of geography (see the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.2) that are taken from the Book of Mormon text (The Book of Mormon - The Earliest Text, Royal Skousen), and put into a condensed form using a standardized nomenclature, and then sorted by location. The Entity Relationship table is the foundation of the Logical Model which also includes a set of working rules/postulates regarding textual interpretation (see also Section 3.3). The Entity Relationships and the Rules of Interpretation together form the Logical Model. The Logical Model entities serve as the reference tool for creating a Physical Model. The physical model is represented as a series of maps. These maps detail missionary journeys, military campaigns, and other activity. See Section 4.

In theory, one could take the Logical Model as presented here and come up with a different Physical Model or map, centered in either North, Central, South America or elsewhere. The Logical Model is where some logical consensus can be found among researchers. I encourage those with input and insights to share them in the Book of Mormon Covenant Lands forum. Book of Mormon maps are usually based on a logical model of some sort, implicit or explicit; In ones head, written notes, internal map, spreadsheet, or something. Often it is informal and often not shared publicly. The goal of this project is to create a Logical Model that is the most rigorous, complete, formalized, open, and transparent - so that anyone can use it to create a physical map and to share new knowledge in the context of a common reference point.

Before viewing the details of the Logical Model, I know you may just want to "skip to the end" to see the the overall map (the Physical Model) for the Nephite and Lamanite nations in the Book of Mormon. However, before you do so I recommend that you at least watch this introductory video so you can get an overview of what is going on.

Below is the Zarahemla Centric Heartland "master map" that is built from the Logical Model:

The ancient Nephites of the Book of Mormon, by divine means, "saw" our day. They saw the future.

Mormon 8
35 Behold, I speak unto you as if ye were present, and yet ye are not. But behold, Jesus Christ hath shown you unto me, and I know your doing.

They wanted us to know that their land was a special covenant land, preserved for a righteous people - a land of promise for both them and for us, if we would live worthy of it.

Ether 2
7 And the Lord would not suffer that they should stop beyond the sea in the wilderness, but he would that they should come forth even unto the land of promise, which was choice above all other lands, which the Lord God had preserved for a righteous people.
8 And he had sworn in his wrath unto the brother of Jared, that whoso should possess this land of promise, from that time henceforth and forever, should serve him, the true and only God, or they should be swept off when the fulness of his wrath should come upon them.
9 And now, we can behold the decrees of God concerning this land, that it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God, or they shall be swept off when the fulness of his wrath shall come upon them. And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are ripened in iniquity.

The Nephites seemed to assume we would have some understanding of their lands and even have access to their historical records.

Jacob 1
2 And he [Nephi] gave me, Jacob, a commandment that I should write upon these plates a few of the things which I considered to be most precious; that I should not touch, save it were lightly, concerning the history of this people which are called the people of Nephi. For he said that the history of his people should be engraven upon his other plates ...

The plates of brass are prophesied to come forth.

1 Nephi 5
17 And now when my father saw all these things, he was filled with the Spirit, and began to prophesy concerning his seed--
18 That these plates of brass should go forth unto all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people who were of his seed.
19 Wherefore, he said that these plates of brass should never perish; neither should they be dimmed any more by time. And he prophesied many things concerning his seed.

And also the entire set of Nephite records are prophesied to be preserved and to come forth.

Enos 1
15 Wherefore, I knowing that the Lord God was able to preserve our records, I cried unto him continually, for he had said unto me: Whatsoever thing ye shall ask in faith, believing that ye shall receive in the name of Christ, ye shall receive it.
16 And I had faith, and I did cry unto God that he would preserve the records; and he covenanted with me that he would bring them forth unto the Lamanites in his own due time.
17 And I, Enos, knew it would be according to the covenant which he had made; wherefore my soul did rest.
18 And the Lord said unto me: Thy fathers have also required of me this thing; and it shall be done unto them according to their faith; for their faith was like unto thine.

Unfortunately, we don't yet have access to those other plates with the history. However, the Book of Mormon has a wealth of geographical references that make it possible to construct maps after a few anchor points are known. To help with the specific locations we have guidance from scripture and also the writings of Joseph Smith. Archaeology and land topography provide important additional clues and confirmation.

Here are the questions I would anticipate and answers to each.

Q. Why have you done this Book of Mormon research?

A.I love the Book of Mormon and it's message of salvation. I contains the "fullness of the Gospel of Jesus Christ" and is secondarily also an accurate and important historical record. So, I have four primary reasons for sharing this research:

1. I believe it is important to better establish the historical veracity of the Book of Mormon as an additional testimony of its truthfulness. Some members of the church now believe the Book of Mormon geography and history parts to be allegorical fiction and even at BYU they teach the narrative with a pretend map, as though the Book of Mormon were a Lord of the Rings type of fantasy saga. We can and must do better.
2. I believe it's also important doctrinally to understand the special purposes and destiny of North America in Gods plan for the latter days, and what that means for those who live there. The Book of Mormon says the land comes with a special promise and responsibility attached to it - and that it has an important role to play in the latter days. So obviously knowing where the land is located is important.
3. About one third of the Book of Mormon contains some form of geographical information and I find it very satisfying to read the Book of Mormon with a mental picture of the land involved. Everything in the narrative is thereby clarified and becomes more relatable.
4. The Logical Model in section 3 provides powerful evidence of the Book of Mormon's remarkable internal consistency, and is therefore a testimony of the divine origin of the text. This should be more widely known.

Q. A lot of maps for the Book of Mormon have been made. Why are you doing it again? What is different about your maps?

A. What is different is a totally different methodology that yields a unique logical model, in form and content - which in turn leads to a brand new physical result (map). Yes, there have been many maps and theories for Book of Mormon geography published over the years. Unfortunately, they often contradict each other dramatically and little has ever been accomplished in the way of consensus or collaboration. I believe my logical and physical models finally point in the right direction and can also assist with collaboration - and there is still some work to do. To this end I propose a more structured and rigorous "methodology" for Book of Mormon geographical studies than has ever been attempted before - a process that emphasizes and formalizes a concise and precise Logical Model definition. This is a separate effort from the Physical Model - each to be studied and defined separately. I am attempting to create and refine a logical model that is the most complete, transparent, and accurate to the text - and I am eagerly open to all input and feedback.

Q. How does someone contribute to the logical model?

A. One can contribute suggestions, improvements and ideas to the logical and physical model via email or by participating in the Book of Mormon Covenant Lands Forum.

My goal is to discover truth with an open mind and apply the "scientific method" to arrive at the best possible answer. The process of experimentation is described in the Book of Mormon itself. Alma 32 27 But behold, if ye will awake and arouse your faculties, even to an experiment upon my words, and exercise a particle of faith, yea, even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe in a manner that ye can give place for a portion of my words. 28 Now, we will compare the word unto a seed. Now, if ye give place, that a seed may be planted in your heart, behold, if it be a true seed, or a good seed, if ye do not cast it out by your unbelief, that ye will resist the Spirit of the Lord, behold, it will begin to swell within your breasts; and when you feel these swelling motions, ye will begin to say within yourselves--It must needs be that this is a good seed, or that the word is good, for it beginneth to enlarge my soul; yea, it beginneth to enlighten my understanding, yea, it beginneth to be delicious to me. 29 Now behold, would not this increase your faith? I say unto you, Yea; nevertheless it hath not grown up to a perfect knowledge. 30 But behold, as the seed swelleth, and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, then you must needs say that the seed is good; for behold it swelleth, and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow. And now, behold, will not this strengthen your faith? Yea, it will strengthen your faith: for ye will say I know that this is a good seed; for behold it sprouteth and beginneth to grow. 31 And now, behold, are ye sure that this is a good seed? I say unto you, Yea; for every seed bringeth forth unto its own likeness. 32 Therefore, if a seed groweth it is good, but if it groweth not, behold it is not good, therefore it is cast away. 33 And now, behold, because ye have tried the experiment, and planted the seed, and it swelleth and sprouteth, and beginneth to grow, ye must needs know that the seed is good.

Q. How is your research approach different?

A. I propose a formalized and structured methodology, as described in section 3.1. I also seek increased collaboration leading to consensus.

Q. How are your conclusions specifically different?

My proposed physical model (the "master map" in section 1) is "Zarahemla Centric". Zarahemla is placed across the river (west side) from Nauvoo Illinois, the city of Nephi at St. Louis Missouri, the city of Manti a little east of Minneapolis Minnesota, and the city of Bountiful at Sault Ste. Marie on the border of Michigan and Ontario Canada.

Q. How are your conclusions the same as other Heartland models?

A. The events described in the Book of Mormon took place in North America. There is only One Hill Cumorah and it is located at the traditional site in New York as described by Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery.

In my opinion, the Book of Mormon peoples and events must be located in North America in order to be compatible with scripture and with the teachings of the prophet Joseph Smith. This basic premise is known as "Heartland Theory" and has rapidly gained acceptance as more people learn about ancient North American cultures, the content of the Book of Mormon, Gods covenant with this land, and the teachings of the prophet Joseph Smith. This has all been brought to the foreground of LDS thought thanks to Wayne May, Rod Meldrum, Ryan Fisher, Bruce Porter, Timothy Ballard, Jonathon Neville (here) and others who have highlighted the teachings of the prophets on this subject via youtube videos, books, magazines, and documentaries.

Starting in the 1920's a Central American location for the Book of Mormon narrative started to be unofficially promoted by RLDS and LDS researchers, primarily I think because it was more attractive from a missionary presentation point of view. That is understandable - with its magnificent stone ruins, Central America seemed more interesting, especially when the science establishment said for over a hundred years that native North Americans never had any advanced civilization. Who could dare challenge it? Scholars no longer say that because it's now known to be totally incorrect, but it fit in well with the preferred narrative of 19th century "manifest destiny" ideology, and then it became codified. I think the whole theory of a Mesoamerican location for the Book of Mormon historical narrative is a shame and detracts from the important doctrines of the Book of Mormon that apply uniquely to the promised land of North America. It also detracts from the prophetic calling of Joseph Smith as a prophet of God. After all, he explicitly stated that the Book of Mormon peoples were of North America (see the Wentworth letter for example). He had revelation via the Urim and Thummim. He knew Moroni personally.

This website presents a Zarahemla Centric Heartland Map for North America. There are four main reasons for being "Zarahemla Centric":

1. The Book of Mormon says that the city of Zarahemla was a "great" city and the "capital city" in the "heart" and "center" of the land. (
   Helaman 1:16-33Helaman 1
   16 Therefore, the king of the Lamanites, whose name was Tubaloth, who was the son of Ammoron, supposing that Coriantumr, being a mighty man, could stand against the Nephites, with his strength and also with his great wisdom, insomuch that by sending him forth he should gain power over the Nephites-- 17 Therefore he did stir them up to anger, and he did gather together his armies, and he did appoint Coriantumr to be their leader, and did cause that they should march down to the land of Zarahemla to battle against the Nephites.
   18 And it came to pass that because of so much contention and so much difficulty in the government, that they had not kept sufficient guards in the land of Zarahemla; for they had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the heart of their lands to attack that great city Zarahemla.
   19 But it came to pass that Coriantumr did march forth at the head of his numerous host, and came upon the inhabitants of the city, and their march was with such exceedingly great speed that there was no time for the Nephites to gather together their armies.
   20 Therefore Coriantumr did cut down the watch by the entrance of the city, and did march forth with his whole army into the city, and they did slay every one who did oppose them, insomuch that they did take possession of the whole city.
   21 And it came to pass that Pacumeni, who was the chief judge, did flee before Coriantumr, even to the walls of the city. And it came to pass that Coriantumr did smite him against the wall, insomuch that he died. And thus ended the days of Pacumeni.
   22 And now when Coriantumr saw that he was in possession of the city of Zarahemla, and saw that the Nephites had fled before them, and were slain, and were taken, and were cast into prison, and that he had obtained the possession of the strongest hold in all the land, his heart took courage insomuch that he was about to go forth against all the land.
   23 And now he did not tarry in the land of Zarahemla, but he did march forth with a large army, even towards the city of Bountiful; for it was his determination to go forth and cut his way through with the sword, that he might obtain the north parts of the land.
   24 And, supposing that their greatest strength was in the center of the land, therefore he did march forth, giving them no time to assemble themselves together save it were in small bodies; and in this manner they did fall upon them and cut them down to the earth.
   25 But behold, this march of Coriantumr through the center of the land gave Moronihah great advantage over them, notwithstanding the greatness of the number of the Nephites who were slain.
   26 For behold, Moronihah had supposed that the Lamanites durst not come into the center of the land, but that they would attack the cities round about in the borders as they had hitherto done; therefore Moronihah had caused that their strong armies should maintain those parts round about by the borders.
   27 But behold, the Lamanites were not frightened according to his desire, but they had come into the center of the land, and had taken the capital city which was the city of Zarahemla, and were marching through the most capital parts of the land, slaying the people with a great slaughter, both men, women, and children, taking possession of many cities and of many strongholds.
   28 But when Moronihah had discovered this, he immediately sent forth Lehi with an army round about to head them before they should come to the land Bountiful.
   29 And thus he did; and he did head them before they came to the land Bountiful, and gave unto them battle, insomuch that they began to retreat back towards the land of Zarahemla.
   30 And it came to pass that Moronihah did head them in their retreat, and did give unto them battle, insomuch that it became an exceedingly bloody battle; yea, many were slain, and among the number who were slain Coriantumr was also found.
   31 And now, behold, the Lamanites could not retreat either way, neither on the north, nor on the south, nor on the east, nor on the west, for they were surrounded on every hand by the Nephites.
   32 And thus had Coriantumr plunged the Lamanites into the midst of the Nephites, insomuch that they were in the power of the Nephites, and he himself was slain, and the Lamanites did yield themselves into the hands of the Nephites.
   33 And it came to pass that Moronihah took possession of the city of Zarahemla again, and caused that the Lamanites who had been taken prisoners should depart out of the land in peace.
   )
2. Zarahemla is easily mentioned more times (139 verses, 424 occurrences) than any other place-name in the Book of Mormon, indicating its key role in the Book of Mormon narrative from 280 BC onward.
3. Zarahemla is identified specifically in the Doctrine and Covenants (
   Doctrine and Covenants 125:1Doctrine and Covenants 125
   2 Verily, thus saith the Lord, I say unto you, if those who call themselves by my name and are essaying to be my saints, if they will do my will and keep my commandments concerning them, let them gather themselves together unto the places which I shall appoint unto them by my servant Joseph, and build up cities unto my name, that they may be prepared for that which is in store for a time to come.
   3 Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it.
   ) as being across the river from Nauvoo so this initial placement, combined with reason #2, is the anchor point for the Physical Model. See "Zarahemla" in Section 2.2.3 regarding the interpretation of Doctrine & Covenants 125:1,3. Many gainsay this scripture, however, consider this: The Lord Himself has instructed His saints to call the location Zarahemla. Not to so name it would be to defy His word.
4. In my opinion, placing Zarahemla in the center is the only compatible approach with the Logical Model as presented in Section 3.

The Prophet Joseph Smith knew all about the ancient lands of the Book of Mormon and Latter-day Saints should take the Joseph Smith at his word. He is not only a prophet, he is THE Prophet and Seer of the latter days. Indications are that Joseph Smith knew all about Book of Mormon civilization, their customs, and the location of their lands. In the famous Wentworth letter, written directly by Joseph Smith, he states:

Wentworth Letter

Joseph Smith, Wentworth Letter
I was also informed concerning the aboriginal inhabitants of this country, and shown who they were, and from whence they came; a brief sketch of their origin, progress, civilization, laws, governments, of their righteousness and iniquity, and the blessings of God being finally withdrawn from them as a people was made known unto me: I was also told where there was deposited some plates on which were engraven an abridgment of the records of the ancient prophets that had existed on this continent. The angel appeared to me three times the same night and unfolded the same things. ...

So here we have the angel Moroni himself informing Joseph about his people, "the aboriginal inhabitants of this country". Not once, but three times repeated in one night. That seems pretty clear. Note especially that Joseph was not just told about the ancient inhabitants of this land but also "shown".

A careful reading of the Joseph Smiths History account of what happened the next morning also reveals that Moroni did not just talk to the young Joseph at this time but also "unfolded" to him visions:

Joseph Smith History
I left the field, and went to the place where the messenger had told me the plates were deposited; and owing to the distinctness of the vision which I had had concerning it, I knew the place the instant that I arrived there.

Urim and Thummim

Doctrine and Covenants 130:6 The angels do not reside on a planet like this earth; But they reside in the presence of God, on a globe like a sea of glass and fire, where all things for their glory are manifest, past, present, and future, and are continually before the Lord. The place where God resides is a great Urim and Thummim. ... Joseph Knight "He (Joseph Smith) seemed to think more of the glasses or the Urim and Thummim than he did of the plates for says he, I can see anything. They are Marvelous." Mosiah 8:13 Now Ammon said unto him: I can assuredly tell thee, O king, of a man that can translate the records; for he has wherewith that he can look, and translate all records that are of ancient date; and it is a gift from God. And the things are called interpreters, and no man can look in them except he be commanded, lest he should look for that he ought not and he should perish. And whosoever is commanded to look in them, the same is called seer.

Joseph Smith had the Urim and Thummim that came with the gold plates, which allowed him to see into the past and view ancient Book of Mormon civilizations.

Emma Smith and Lucy Mack Smith

Lucy Mack Smith According to Joseph's mother, Lucy Mack Smith, Joseph had a detailed knowledge of the ancient Americans that he wrote about in the Wentworth Letter. Lucy Mack Smith In the course of our evening conversations Joseph would give us some of the most amusing recitals which could be imagined. He would describe the ancient inhabitants of this continent, their dress, their manner of traveling, the animals which they rode, the cities that were built by them, the structure of their buildings, with every particular of their mode of warfare, their religious worship, as particularly as though he had Spent his life with them.

Joseph Smith to Emma Smith Joseph Smith wrote the following in a letter to Emma Smith, during the Zions Camp march to Missouri: Joseph Smith The whole of our journey, in the midst of so large a company of social, honest and sincere men, wandering over the plains of the Nephites, recounting occasionally the history of the Book of Mormon, roving over the mounds of that once beloved people of the Lord, picking up their skulls & their bones, as a proof of its divine authenticity, ...

We have the statement above in Joseph's own handwriting. Also, there is no direct evidence that Joseph Smith authored or approved the Times and Seasons articles in 1842 that erroneously linked discoveries in Central America to the Book of Mormon. Joseph Smith was not confused. He did not change his mind. He did not contradicted himself as regards to the location of Book of Mormon lands. All of Joseph Smith's personal and signed writings are very clear.

From the perspective of archaeology the the dating for Book of Mormon civilizations does not match for Central America. For example, Wikipedia says:

In archaeology, the classic Maya collapse is the decline of Classic Maya civilization and the abandonment of Maya cities in the southern Maya lowlands of Mesoamerica between the 8th and 9th centuries, at the end of the Classic Maya Period. Preclassic Maya experienced a similar collapse in the 2nd century.

Nevertheless, I believe there is a great history of the peoples of Central and South America and the islands of the Pacific, as yet untold. I believe they have the blood of the House of Israel in their ancestry. It's possible, maybe even probable, that descendants of Laman and Lemuel and sons of Ishmael migrated south to Mexico as well as north to Canada. The distance from the mouth of the Mississippi to Ontario Canada is the same as to Mexico City: 1400 miles. To get to Guatemala from Mexico City is only another 600 miles. Additionally, other descendants of Israel could have also been lead by the hand of God to Central and South America.

3 Nephi 16
1 And verily, verily, I say unto you that I have other sheep, which are not of this land, neither of the land of Jerusalem, neither in any parts of that land round about whither I have been to minister.

2 Nephi 29
11 For I command all men, both in the east and in the west, and in the north, and in the south, and in the islands of the sea, that they shall write the words which I speak unto them; for out of the books which shall be written I will judge the world, every man according to their works, according to that which is written.
12 For behold, I shall speak unto the Jews and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the Nephites and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto the other tribes of the house of Israel, which I have led away, and they shall write it; and I shall also speak unto all nations of the earth and they shall write it.
13 And it shall come to pass that the Jews shall have the words of the Nephites, and the Nephites shall have the words of the Jews; and the Nephites and the Jews shall have the words of the lost tribes of Israel; and the lost tribes of Israel shall have the words of the Nephites and the Jews.
14 And it shall come to pass that my people, which are of the house of Israel, shall be gathered home unto the lands of their possessions; and my word also shall be gathered in one. And I will show unto them that fight against my word and against my people, who are of the house of Israel, that I am God, and that I covenanted with Abraham that I would remember his seed forever.

It appears that these words are written as an indication that the peoples of Central America and of South America "in the south" are of the House of Israel also. Jesus specifically says "all nations" and I do not believe He is given to hyperbole. Therefore I believe their traditions of a bearded God who came to to their forefathers are true. We just don't have their sacred records, yet - but the records exist, or can be restored, and are promised to come forth.

Joseph Smith said of those in Central and South America:

...speaking of the Land of Zion, it consists of all North and South America but that any place where the Saints gather is Zion which every righteous man will build up for a place of safety for his children"  The redemption of Zion is the redemption of all North and South America.

Jesus said that with faith we can understand and accept these things and that it is only our unbelief that keeps us from the truth.

3 Nephi 15:14-20
14 And not at any time hath the Father given me commandment that I should tell it unto your brethren at Jerusalem.
15 Neither at any time hath the Father given me commandment that I should tell unto them concerning the other tribes of the house of Israel, whom the Father hath led away out of the land.
16 This much did the Father command me, that I should tell unto them:
17 That other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
18 And now, because of stiffneckedness and unbelief they understood not my word; therefore I was commanded to say no more of the Father concerning this thing unto them.
19 But, verily, I say unto you that the Father hath commanded me, and I tell it unto you, that ye were separated from among them because of their iniquity; therefore it is because of their iniquity that they know not of you.
20 And verily, I say unto you again that the other tribes hath the Father separated from them; and it is because of their iniquity that they know not of them.

The "Methodology" is the systematic application of procedures used to create the components of the Logical Model and the Physical Model. The methodology outlined below was used to construct a Logical Model of Book of Mormon geography AND the Zarahemla Centric Heartland Map of the Book of Mormon. Yes, the Logical Model was actually created in it's entirety first, then the Physical Model was afterwards created. After the initial construction of a Physical Model, subsequent iterative improvements always start with the Logical Model and then "trickle down" to the Physical Model to keep it compatible.

Definitions:

1. Entity: A named or described geographical reference in the Book of Mormon.
2. Entity Relationships: How one entity relates to another. Example relationships: "is near to", "borders", "is a", "is located". etc
3. Entity Relationship Nomenclature: A set of terms and symbols that help describe the Entity Relationships (see section 3.2).
4. Rule of Interpretation: A working theory on the meaning of Book of Mormon words or phraseology. Used when building the Logical Model. Example: The phrase "round about" indicates "circuitous or indirect, as a road, journey"
5. Rule of Application: A guiding principle used when constructing the physical model. Example: When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.
6. Logical Model = Entities + Entity Relationships + Rules of Interpretation.
7. Physical Model = Maps consistant with: Logical Model + Rules of Application.
8. Entity Relationship Table: The working list of all the entities and their relationships and presented with the Entity Relationship Nomenclature. For each Entity the table includes scripture citations, Entity-to-scripture cross references, Rules of Interpretation, Rules of Application, maps/graphics, and commentary. The components in the Entity Relationship Table relating to the Physical Model are for convenience in constructing the Physical Model and are added only after the all the Entity Relationships are first defined.

Methodology:

1. Build the Entity Relationships (section 3.2) by examining the text of the Book of Mormon only. Focus on the text. Do not consider if an Entity Relationship conflicts with any current map and especially not with any archaeological considerations. Don't even think about any aspect of the Physical Model. The Logical Model defines the Physical Model and never vice-versa. Totally compartmentalize the LOGICAL from the PHYSICAL and deal with the LOGICAL first. This helps reduce bias and simplifies the overall tasks.
2. For the Logical Model, formalize a set of Rules of Interpretation. If a Rule conflicts with any Entity Relationship, then it must be changed or removed. "Rules" are working theories. A Rule of Interpretation is not made invalid simply because it is not "proven" (it is a theory) or because it does not work with a given map - because a map is never source information for the Logical Model. In other words, Rules are working theories that guide research. A Rule of Interpretation may be replaced by a better Rule. A Rule of Interpretation is removed if it is found to be conflicting with an Entity Relationship.
3. For the Logical Model, define every known geographical Entity in the Book of Mormon. Leave nothing out. Every scrap of information is useful, contributes towards the whole, and must not be overlooked. This also eliminates the bias of leaving things out "for convenience".
4. For the Physical Model create a list of Rules of Application. Entities are first placed on the Physical Model map to be consistent with the Entity Relationships Table and, secondarily, according to the the Rules of Application. See section 4.1, Building the Physical Model.
5. To ensure consistency the ER table is parsed and contents place into a database. Then a program is run to scan the database looking for any inconsistencies and also implied relationships that should be added. The results of the scan is then used to update the table as appropriate.
6. Test the result! This is done by reading the Book of Mormon in the normal way but with the physical model map "in hand". Each reference to Book of Mormon geography, while reading and comparing to the map, must be understandable, plausible and non-contradictory to the casual reader.

Entity Relationships for geography are represented with a nomenclature as defined in section 3.1.2. Unlike the text, the Entity Relationships are relatively unambiguous and do not rely on context, grammar, punctuation, or archaic word definitions. Entity Relationship definitions should come from the study of the Book of Mormon text itself and from no other source. They are based on interpretation of the text according to the Rules of Interpretation (section 3.3).

Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Aaron +7 +[Aaron] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Aaron] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2} +[Aaron]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea2} +[Aaron]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moroni]{city2} +[Aaron]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moroni]{city2} +[Aaron]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephihah]{land2} +[Aaron]{land}} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Moroni]{land2} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The key verse is Alma 50:13-14 which gives information on the coastal cities along the "east sea"2 or Lake Michigan, and indicates the relative order (bottom to top - see Section 3.3, item 5) of the cities which is (1) Moroni2, (2) Nephihah2, and (3) Aaron (Lehi comes later). Since both Moroni and Nephihah are specified as bordering the East Sea, then Aaron which borders both Moroni and Nephihah should also be at least near the East Sea. Note that these cities are founded and populated as part of a pre-determined plan by Moroni2. The final location of these cities is determined by assuming the most favorable topography of Book of Mormon times would still match that of today (i.e. where rivers empty into Lake Michigan, see Section 3.3, item 3), which results in the placement of Aaron in the location of present day Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Sheboygan borders the east side of Lake Michigan about half way up. See also, Section 4.6.3 and the city entity Moroni. Modern city location: Sheboygan, Wisconsin.	Alma 8:13 Alma 8 13 Now when the people had said this, and withstood all his words, and reviled him, and spit upon him, and caused that he should be cast out of their city, he departed thence and took his journey towards the city which was called Aaron. Alma 50:7-9,13-14 Alma 50 7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla. 8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west. 9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land. ... 13 And it came to pass that the Nephites began the foundation of a city, and they called the name of the city Moroni; and it was by the east sea; and it was on the south by the line of the possessions of the Lamanites. 14 And they also began a foundation for a city between the city of Moroni and the city of Aaron, joining the borders of Aaron and Moroni; and they called the name of the city, or the land, Nephihah.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Alma +6 +[Alma] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {valley2} ≈ AR3 +[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land2} +[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land2} +[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land2} +[Alma]{valley}~[Helam]{land} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1 day1,2} ≈ IR4 IR6 AR7 +[Alma]{valley}~[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {12 days2} ≈ IR4 AR7 IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph.	The valley of Alma is stated to be one days travel from Helam2. It is north of Helam towards Nephi because Amulon, Shilom and Shemlon also mentioned as being in the vicinity, and are on the east side of the Sidon/Mississippi, across from Nephi. They "departed in the wilderness", meaning they followed the flat river bottom areas (see Section 3.3) from Helam. The distance from Helam to the valley of Alma shown is 10.39 miles. This distance is only one half days travel by land according to AR7, but some extra time should be added for the river crossing too. After thus narrowing it down, the topography indicates a prospective location of Valmeyer Illinois. Valmeyer was named after a German immigrant named Val-Meyer who first settled there. The name means: "The valley of the Meyers". From the Valley of Alma to the land of Zarahemla we have a distance given as 12 days, so this can help validate the location. Since they are fleeing the Lamanites, we utilize AR7. This yields the following formula and distance: 12 days x 8 hrs/day x 2.5 mph = 240 miles. The actual distance to Zarahemla following todays Mississippi is 230 miles so that shows the placement for the Valley of Alma is at the correct approximate distance from Zarahemla. Modern city location: Valmeyer, Illinois.	Mosiah 23:35-39Mosiah 23 35 And Amulon and his brethren did join the Lamanites, and they were traveling in the wilderness in search of the land of Nephi when they discovered the land of Helam, which was possessed by Alma and his brethren. 36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites promised unto Alma and his brethren, that if they would show them the way which led to the land of Nephi that they would grant unto them their lives and their liberty. 37 But after Alma had shown them the way that led to the land of Nephi the Lamanites would not keep their promise; but they set guards round about the land of Helam, over Alma and his brethren. 38 And the remainder of them went to the land of Nephi; and a part of them returned to the land of Helam, and also brought with them the wives and the children of the guards who had been left in the land. 39 And the king of the Lamanites had granted unto Amulon that he should be a king and a ruler over his people, who were in the land of Helam; nevertheless he should have no power to do anything contrary to the will of the king of the Lamanites. Mosiah 24:1-2,19-25Mosiah 24 1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon. 2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands. ... 19 And in the morning the Lord caused a deep sleep to come upon the Lamanites, yea, and all their task-masters were in a profound sleep. 20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness. 21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God. 22 And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God. 23 And now the Lord said unto Alma: Haste thee and get thou and this people out of this land, for the Lamanites have awakened and do pursue thee; therefore get thee out of this land, and I will stop the Lamanites in this valley that they come no further in pursuit of this people. 24 And it came to pass that they departed out of the valley, and took their journey into the wilderness. 25 And after they had been in the wilderness twelve days they arrived in the land of Zarahemla; and king Mosiah did also receive them with joy.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Ammonihah +9 +[Ammonihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,3,5} ≈ AR3 +[Ammonihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,4,5} +[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Noah]{land3,5} +[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Melek]{land1} +[Ammonihah]{city}~[Melek]{land} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {3 days1} ≈ AR10 +[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land4} +[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Noah]{land5} +[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidom]{land2} ≈ IR6 +[Ammonihah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness side borders1,3,5} ≈ IR4 IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR10Water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 3 mph.	The distance from Melek to Ammonihah is stated as 3 days journey. From AR10, the Iowa River journey upstream from Toolsboro Iowa (Melek) to Coralville Iowa (Ammonihah) is calculated as 8 hrs X 3 mph X 3 days = 72 miles. The actual (google map trace) distance on the Book of Mormon map, following the river, is precisely 75.5 miles so that is an excellent fit. The scriptures refer to the "borders on the wilderness side" and the close proximity of the city of Noah. See Section 4.4.3 for information on the related topography. Modern city location: Coralville, Iowa.	Alma 8:6-7 Alma 8 4 And he began to teach the people in the land of Melek according to the holy order of God, by which he had been called; and he began to teach the people throughout all the land of Melek. 5 And it came to pass that the people came to him throughout all the borders of the land which was by the wilderness side. And they were baptized throughout all the land; 6 So that when he had finished his work at Melek he departed thence, and traveled three days' journey on the north of the land of Melek; and he came to a city which was called Ammonihah. 7 Now it was the custom of the people of Nephi to call their lands, and their cities, and their villages, yea, even all their small villages, after the name of him who first possessed them; and thus it was with the land of Ammonihah. Alma 15:1 Alma 15 1 And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek were commanded to depart out of that city; and they departed, and came out even into the land of Sidom; and behold, there they found all the people who had departed out of the land of Ammonihah, who had been cast out and stoned, because they believed in the words of Alma. Alma 16:2-3 Alma 16 2 For behold, the armies of the Lamanites had come in upon the wilderness side, into the borders of the land, even into the city of Ammonihah, and began to slay the people and destroy the city. 3 And now it came to pass, before the Nephites could raise a sufficient army to drive them out of the land, they had destroyed the people who were in the city of Ammonihah, and also some around the borders of Noah, and taken others captive into the wilderness. Alma 25:2 Alma 25 1 And behold, now it came to pass that those Lamanites were more angry because they had slain their brethren; therefore they swore vengeance upon the Nephites; and they did no more attempt to slay the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi at that time. 2 But they took their armies and went over into the borders of the land of Zarahemla, and fell upon the people who were in the land of Ammonihah and destroyed them. Alma 49:1-3,10-14 Alma 49 1 And now it came to pass in the eleventh month of the nineteenth year, on the tenth day of the month, the armies of the Lamanites were seen approaching towards the land of Ammonihah. 2 And behold, the city had been rebuilt, and Moroni had stationed an army by the borders of the city, and they had cast up dirt round about to shield them from the arrows and the stones of the Lamanites; for behold, they fought with stones and with arrows. 3 Behold, I said that the city of Ammonihah had been rebuilt. I say unto you, yea, that it was in part rebuilt; and because the Lamanites had destroyed it once because of the iniquity of the people, they supposed that it would again become an easy prey for them. ... 10 Now, if king Amalickiah had come down out of the land of Nephi, at the head of his army, perhaps he would have caused the Lamanites to have attacked the Nephites at the city of Ammonihah; for behold, he did care not for the blood of his people. 11 But behold, Amalickiah did not come down himself to battle. And behold, his chief captains durst not attack the Nephites at the city of Ammonihah, for Moroni had altered the management of affairs among the Nephites, insomuch that the Lamanites were disappointed in their places of retreat and they could not come upon them. 12 Therefore they retreated into the wilderness, and took their camp and marched towards the land of Noah, supposing that to be the next best place for them to come against the Nephites. 13 For they knew not that Moroni had fortified, or had built forts of security, for every city in all the land round about; therefore, they marched forward to the land of Noah with a firm determination; yea, their chief captains came forward and took an oath that they would destroy the people of that city. 14 But behold, to their astonishment, the city of Noah, which had hitherto been a weak place, had now, by the means of Moroni, become strong, yea, even to exceed the strength of the city of Ammonihah.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Amulon +9 +[Amulon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,3} +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Alma]{valley2} +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Helam]{land1} ≈ IR4 +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{city3} ≈ IR6 +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{land3} ≈ IR6 +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land4} ≈ IR6 +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mormon]{land3} +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1} ≈ IR4 +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land2} +[Amulon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land2} IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day.	The land of Amulon, named by Lamanites and where they found the priests of King Noah, is placed not to far from the city of Nephi just across the river on the east side and a little south of Nephi. This relative location becomes desirable by a process of elimination and when considering the locations of Helam, Shemlon, and Shilom, and keeping in mind that Amulon was occupied by the priests of King Noah who fled out of the city of Nephi - so it's likely close to the city of Nephi. See Section 4.3.4. Modern land location: East of Dupo, Illinois.	Mosiah 23:30-31,36-39 Mosiah 23 30 Now the armies of the Lamanites, which had followed after the people of king Limhi, had been lost in the wilderness for many days. 31 And behold, they had found those priests of king Noah, in a place which they called Amulon; and they had begun to possess the land of Amulon and had begun to till the ground. ... 36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites promised unto Alma and his brethren, that if they would show them the way which led to the land of Nephi that they would grant unto them their lives and their liberty. 37 But after Alma had shown them the way that led to the land of Nephi the Lamanites would not keep their promise; but they set guards round about the land of Helam, over Alma and his brethren. 38 And the remainder of them went to the land of Nephi; and a part of them returned to the land of Helam, and also brought with them the wives and the children of the guards who had been left in the land. 39 And the king of the Lamanites had granted unto Amulon that he should be a king and a ruler over his people, who were in the land of Helam; nevertheless he should have no power to do anything contrary to the will of the king of the Lamanites. Mosiah 24:1-5,20,21Mosiah 24 1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon. 2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands. 3 And now the name of the king of the Lamanites was Laman, being called after the name of his father; and therefore he was called king Laman. And he was king over a numerous people. 4 And he appointed teachers of the brethren of Amulon in every land which was possessed by his people; and thus the language of Nephi began to be taught among all the people of the Lamanites. ... 20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness. 21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God. Alma 21:2Alma 21 1 Now when Ammon and his brethren separated themselves in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, behold Aaron took his journey towards the land which was called by the Lamanites, Jerusalem, calling it after the land of their fathers' nativity; and it was away joining the borders of Mormon. 2 Now the Lamanites and the AmalekitesAmlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem. Alma 24:1,5,20Alma 24 1 And it came to pass that the Amalekites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amalekites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren. ... 5 Now when Ammon and his brethren and all those who had come up with him saw the preparations of the Lamanites to destroy their brethren, they came forth to the land of Midian, and there Ammon met all his brethren; and from thence they came to the land of Ishmael that they might hold a council with Lamoni and also with his brother Anti-Nephi-Lehi, what they should do to defend themselves against the Lamanites. ... 20 And it came to pass that their brethren, the Lamanites, made preparations for war, and came up to the land of Nephi for the purpose of destroying the king, and to place another in his stead, and also of destroying the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi out of the land.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Amnihu +4 +[Amnihu] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1} +[Amnihu]{hill} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} +[Amnihu]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} +[Amnihu]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The Hill Amnihu, on the east side of the river across from Zarahemla, the highest point being where the Nauvoo Temple is located today. See the battle maps for Section 4.4.2 Amlicite War - Battle of Zarahemla. Early Latter-day Saints found mounds, burials and ancient artifacts in Nauvoo. Modern city location: Temple site, Nauvoo, Illinois.	Alma 2:14-19 Alma 2 14 And it came to pass that Amlici did arm his men with all manner of weapons of war of every kind; and he also appointed rulers and leaders over his people, to lead them to war against their brethren. 15 And it came to pass that the Amlicites came upon the hill Amnihu, which was east of the river Sidon, which ran by the land of Zarahemla, and there they began to make war with the Nephites. 16 Now Alma, being the chief judge and the governor of the people of Nephi, therefore he went up with his people, yea, with his captains, and chief captains, yea, at the head of his armies, against the Amlicites to battle. 17 And they began to slay the Amlicites upon thehill east of Sidon. And the Amlicites did contend with the Nephites with great strength, insomuch that many of the Nephites did fall before the Amlicites. 18 Nevertheless the Lord did strengthen the hand of the Nephites, that they slew the Amlicites with great slaughter, that they began to flee before them. 19 And it came to pass that the Nephites did pursue the Amlicites all that day, and did slay them with much slaughter, insomuch that there were slain of the Amlicites twelve thousand five hundred thirty and two souls; and there were slain of the Nephites six thousand five hundred sixty and two souls.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Ani-Anti +3 +[Ani-Anti]{village} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {village1} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Ani-Anti]{village}~[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {<1 day1} ≈ IR6 +[Ani-Anti]{village} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land1} ≈ IR6 IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The description of Aaron's missionary journey provides information regarding Ani-Anti and it's relative location on the west side of the Sidon river. It is consistent with the Logical Model to say that "came over" indicates crossing the river. See Section 4.3.3 Missionary Journey which contains a detailed map that allows Ani-Anti to be placed. Modern city location: Columbia, Illinois.	Alma 21:2-4,11-12 Alma 21 2 Now the Lamanites and the Amlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem. ... 4 And it came to pass that Aaron came to the city of Jerusalem, and first began to preach to the Amlicites. And he began to preach to them in their synagogues, for they had built synagogues after the order of the Nehors; for many of the Amlicites and the Amulonites were after the order of the Nehors. ... ... 11 Therefore, when he saw that they would not hear his words, he departed out of their synagogue, and came over to a village which was called Ani-Anti, and there he found Muloki preaching the word unto them; and also Ammah and his brethren. And they contended with many about the word. 12 And it came to pass that they saw that the people would harden their hearts, therefore they departed and came over into the land of Middoni.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Angola +4 +[Angola]{city} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 AR2 AR3 +[Angola]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} +[Angola]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land1} +[Angola]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [David]{land1} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	This is a new city named at the end of the Book of Mormon narrative. We know that the final conflict begins in Zarahemla and that Mormon's army retreats, step by step, to the north countries and end up eventually in the land of Desolation. So given the framework of the logical model, it is just a matter of deducing the most logical route from Zarahemla to Desolation to propose locations for Angola, Joshua, and David. The proposed route is to first head north from Zarahemla in the direction of the Mississippi (Sidon) and then north in the direction of the Rock River until reaching Janesville Wisconsin (David), the an overland trip of 60 miles to South Milwaukee (Joshua) and finally, multiple sea trips from Joshua to the narrow passage (Detour Passage) leading to the land and city of Desolation. Modern city location: Davenport/Milan, Illinois.	Mormon 1:10; 2:1-6Mormon 2 10 And it came to pass that the war began to be among them in the borders of Zarahemla , by the waters of Sidon. ... 1 And it came to pass in that same year there began to be a war again between the Nephites and the Lamanites. And notwithstanding I being young, was large in stature; therefore the people of Nephi appointed me that I should be their leader, or the leader of their armies. 2 Therefore it came to pass that in my sixteenth year I did go forth at the head of an army of the Nephites, against the Lamanites; therefore three hundred and twenty and six years had passed away. 3 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and twenty and seventh year the Lamanites did come upon us with exceedingly great power, insomuch that they did frighten my armies; therefore they would not fight, and they began to retreat towards the north countries. 4 And it came to pass that we did come to the city of Angola, and we did take possession of the city, and make preparations to defend ourselves against the Lamanites. And it came to pass that we did fortify the city with our might; but notwithstanding all our fortifications the Lamanites did come upon us and did drive us out of the city. 5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David. 6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Antionum +13 +[Antionum] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,4} ≈ AR4 +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Jershon]{land4} +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {wilderness south1} ≈ IR4 +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Onidah]{hill1,2} +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <indirect journey> ⇒ [Manti]{land4} ≈ IR8 +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <indirect journey> ⇒ [SidonHead]{river4} ≈ IR8 +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [EastWilderness]{travel route1,5} ≈ IR4 +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒[Siron]{land1,3} ≈ IR6 +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒{seashore1} +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Siron]{land1,3} ≈ IR6 +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Jershon]{land1,4} +[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {gathering place1,2,4} IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. IR8The phrase "round about" indicates "circuitous or indirect, as a road, journey" AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.	Antionum is a vast swath of land that lies between the Illinois river on the south and east and to the Mississippi on the west - basically the land between Nauvoo and Peoria Illinois but then it turns east and extends further towards lake Michigan. In Book of Mormon times Antionum was the land of the Zoramites. Coming up the Illinois river (wilderness south) was a common invasion route for the Lamanites. This area was frequently mentioned in the military campaigns of "captain" Moroni. A place where the Zoramites were "gathered" is mentioned in Antionum but not named. The unnamed place contained the Rameumptum and was also near to the hill Onidah where Alma preached. See Section 4.4.3, 4.4.5, 4.4.6, and 4.5.2. Modern land location: most of northeastern Illinois. Modern city location: Peoria, Illinois.	Alma 31:2-6 Alma 31 2 For it was the cause of great sorrow to Alma to know of iniquity among his people; therefore his heart was exceedingly sorrowful because of the separation of the Zoramites from the Nephites. 3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites. 4 Now the Nephites greatly feared that the Zoramites would enter into a correspondence with the Lamanites, and that it would be the means of great loss on the part of the Nephites. 5 And now, as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just--yea, it had had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened unto them--therefore Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God. 6 Therefore he took Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner; and Himni he did leave in the church in Zarahemla; but the former three he took with him, and also Amulek and Zeezrom, who were at Melek; and he also took two of his sons. ... 12 Now, when they had come into the land, behold, to their astonishment they found that the Zoramites had built synagogues, and that they did gather themselves together on one day of the week, which day they did call the day of the Lord; and they did worship after a manner which Alma and his brethren had never beheld; 13 For they had a place built up in the center of their synagogue, a place for standing, which was high above the head; and the top thereof would only admit one person. ... 21 Now the place was called by them Rameumptom, which, being interpreted, is the holy stand. Alma 32:4 Alma 32 4 Now, as Alma was teaching and speaking unto the people upon the hill Onidah, there came a great multitude unto him, who were those of whom we have been speaking, of whom were poor in heart, because of their poverty as to the things of the world. Alma 39:2-3,11Alma 39 2 For thou didst not give so much heed unto my words as did thy brother, among the people of the Zoramites. Now this is what I have against thee; thou didst go on unto boasting in thy strength and thy wisdom. 3 And this is not all, my son. Thou didst do that which was grievous unto me; for thou didst forsake the ministry, and did go over into the land of Siron among the borders of the Lamanites, after the harlot Isabel. ... 11 Suffer not yourself to be led away by any vain or foolish thing; suffer not the devil to lead away your heart again after those wicked harlots. Behold, O my son, how great iniquity ye brought upon the Zoramites; for when they saw your conduct they would not believe in my words. Alma 43:5,15-17,22 Alma 43 5 And it came to pass that the Lamanites came with their thousands; and they came into the land of Antionum, which is the land of the Zoramites; and a man by the name of Zerahemnah was their leader. ... 15 And it came to pass as the armies of the Lamanites had gathered together in the land of Antionum, behold, the armies of the Nephites were prepared to meet them in the land of Jershon. 16 Now, the leader of the Nephites, or the man who had been appointed to be the chief captain over the Nephites--now the chief captain took the command of all the armies of the Nephites--and his name was Moroni; 17 And Moroni took all the command, and the government of their wars. And he was only twenty and five years old when he was appointed chief captain over the armies of the Nephites. ... 22 Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone. Alma 50:7-9 Alma 50 7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla. 8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west. 9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Antiparah +12 +[Antiparah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2} ≈ AR3 +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city1} +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city1} +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Judea]{city1} +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city1} +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [SidonHead]{place1} +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city1} +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city1} ≈ IR7 +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Judea]{city1} ≈ IR7 +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Manti]{city1} ≈ IR7 +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city1} ≈ IR7 +[Antiparah]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city1} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The campaign of the "stripling soldiers" provides lots of geographic information. IR7 and AR3 indicate Antiparah is up north nearly to Lake Superior at present day Salon Springs Wisconsin which is also next to Upper St Croix Lake, the source of the Sidon river. See SidonHead. When the Lamanites flee Antiparah it is a simple matter for them to float down river to the other cities they have possession of. See the campaign maps in Section 4.5.3. Modern city location: Salon Springs, Wisconsin.	Alma 56:13...36Alma 56 13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men; 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. 15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. ... 18 And now it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that Antipus had received a greater strength to his army, they were compelled by the orders of Ammoron to not come against the city of Judea, or against us, to battle. 19 And thus were we favored of the Lord; for had they come upon us in this our weakness they might have perhaps destroyed our little army; but thus were we preserved. ... 25 Neither durst they march down against the city of Zarahemla; neither durst they cross the head of Sidon, over to the city of Nephihah. 26 And thus, with their forces, they were determined to maintain those cities which they had taken. ... 29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength. 30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city. 31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore. 32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city. 33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah. 34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous. 35 And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us. 36 And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites; Alma 57:1-4 Alma 57 1 And now it came to pass that I received an epistle from Ammoron, the king, stating that if I would deliver up those prisoners of war whom we had taken that he would deliver up the city of Antiparah unto us. 2 But I sent an epistle unto the king, that we were sure our forces were sufficient to take the city of Antiparah by our force; and by delivering up the prisoners for that city we should suppose ourselves unwise, and that we would only deliver up our prisoners on exchange. 3 And Ammoron refused mine epistle, for he would not exchange prisoners; therefore we began to make preparations to go against the city of Antiparah. 4 But the people of Antiparah did leave the city, and fled to their other cities, which they had possession of, to fortify them; and thus the city of Antiparah fell into our hands.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Antipas +4 +[Antipas] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {mount1} ≈ IR2 IR9 AR5 AR9 +[Antipas]{mount} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {valley1} +[Antipas]{mount} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Oneidah]{place of arms1} ≈ IR9 +[Antipas]{mount} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model. IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The Hebraic root meaning for the name "Antipas" is "for all, or against all" which ties in well for a gathering place named "Oneidah" the "place of arms" (where troops gather). Antipas is therefore clearly a fortified location and not a "mountain". As to the location of the fortified Antipas mount we know it to be in the land of Nephi and probably not far from the king near the capital city of Nephi. The ancient mounds once at East St. Louis (destroyed in late 1800's) are a logical location for Antipas and Oneidah, the place-of-arms. See also, IR9 in section 3.3. Modern city location: St. Louis, Missouri	Alma 47:1,5-12 Alma 47 1 Now we will return in our record to Amalickiah and those who had fled with him into the wilderness; for, behold, he had taken those who went with him, and went up in the land of Nephi among the Lamanites, and did stir up the Lamanites to anger against the people of Nephi, insomuch that the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation throughout all his land, among all his people, that they should gather themselves together again to go to battle against the Nephites. ... 5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Oneidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Oneidah, to the place of arms. 6 And they had appointed a man to be a king and a leader over them, being fixed in their minds with a determined resolution that they would not be subjected to go against the Nephites. 7 And it came to pass that they had gathered themselves together upon the top of the mount which was called Antipas, in preparation to battle. 8 Now it was not Amalickiah's intention to give them battle according to the commandments of the king; but behold, it was his intention to gain favor with the armies of the Lamanites, that he might place himself at their head and dethrone the king and take possession of the kingdom. 9 And behold, it came to pass that he caused his army to pitch their tents in the valley which was near the mount Antipas. 10 And it came to pass that when it was night he sent a secret embassy into the mount Antipas, desiring that the leader of those who were upon the mount, whose name was Lehonti, that he should come down to the foot of the mount, for he desired to speak with him. 11 And it came to pass that when Lehonti received the message he durst not go down to the foot of the mount. And it came to pass that Amalickiah sent again the second time, desiring him to come down. And it came to pass that Lehonti would not; and he sent again the third time. 12 And it came to pass that when Amalickiah found that he could not get Lehonti to come down off from the mount, he went up into the mount, nearly to Lehonti's camp; and he sent again the fourth time his message unto Lehonti, desiring that he would come down, and that he would bring his guards with him.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Antum +9 +[Antum] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} ≈ IR9 +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Shim]{hill1} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city1+2+3} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1,2} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city3,4} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city1,3} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land1,3} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {seashore1+3,5} +[Antum]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city1+2+3} IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location.	Because the hill Shim is located in the land Antum, the location of hill Shim applies to the location of the land Antum also. Antum is included because Mormon travels to Antum from Jordan, probably by water, (the hill Shim is in the land of Antum) to retrieve the plates. See section 4.8.2. A common mistake is to place Shim in the land of Cumorah simply because the Nephite records were at one time deposited at Shim and because it is near to "the place where the Nephites were destroyed", but Shim is in the land Antum and not the land of Cumorah. Chronologically, the "place where the Nephites were destroyed" in Ether 9:3 refers to event of Mormon 4:16-23 which was the location of a major Nephite defeat 9 years before the Cumorah battle. Modern land location: Between Echo Bay and East Neebish Island Ontario Canada.	Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1 1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. 2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe; 3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people. 4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people. 5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me. 6 And it came to pass that I, being eleven years old, was carried by my father into the land southward, even to the land of Zarahemla. Mormon 2:16-17Mormon 2 16 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and forty and fifth year the Nephites did begin to flee before the Lamanites; and they were pursued until they came even to the land of Jashon, before it was possible to stop them in their retreat. 17 And now, the city of Jashon was near the land where Ammaron had deposited the records unto the Lord, that they might not be destroyed. And behold I had gone according to the word of Ammaron, and taken the plates of Nephi, and did make a record according to the words of Ammaron. Mormon 4:1-3,6-23Mormon 1 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. ... 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. 13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites. 14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods. 15 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and seventh year, the Nephites being angry because the Lamanites had sacrificed their women and their children, that they did go against the Lamanites with exceedingly great anger, insomuch that they did beat again the Lamanites, and drive them out of their lands. 16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year. 17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number. 18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun. 19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites. 20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time. 21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols. 22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages. 23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5 3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time. 4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land. 5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away. Ether 9:3Ether 9 3 And the Lord warned Omer in a dream that he should depart out of the land; wherefore Omer departed out of the land with his family, and traveled many days, and came over and passed by the hill of Shim, and came over by the place where the Nephites were destroyed, and from thence eastward, and came to a place which was called Ablom, by the seashore, and there he pitched his tent, and also his sons and his daughters, and all his household, save it were Jared and his family.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Boaz +6 +[Boaz] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2} ≈ AR2 AR3 +[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1+2} +[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill1+2} +[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city2,3} +[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city1+2} +[Boaz]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land2} AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The city of Boaz is apparently outside the land of Desolation2 and therefore on the mainland of Ontario. Keep in mind that the hill Shim is actually within the land of Antum and knowing this allows the relationship of Boaz to Antum. It would have been just a little puddle jump to leave the north end of St. Joseph island, crossing where Highway 548 (Bridge Road) goes today. According to the rules of application, Boaz is placed near the sea in the most (in my opinion) advantageous position on the mainland. Modern city location: Thessalon, Ontario, Canada.	Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1 1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. 2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe; 3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people. 4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people. 5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me. Mormon 4:16-23Mormon 4 16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year. 17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number. 18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun. 19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites. 20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time. 21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols. 22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages. 23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5 3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time. 4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land. 5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Bountiful +19 +[Bountiful] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,3} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Bountiful] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11} +[Bountiful]{begin fortified line}~[Bountiful]{end fortified line} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1 day2} ≈ AR7 +[Bountiful]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gid]{city3} +[Bountiful]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mulek]{city3} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {fortified line2} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage4,8,9} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea2,4,7} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation]{land4,9} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Hagoth]{ships9} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Jershon]{land5} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route7,8} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea2,4} ≈ AR2 +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{small narrow4,9} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea2,4,7} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jershon]{land5} ≈ AR4 +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Morionton]{land7} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,2,6} +[Bountiful]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Desolation]{land4}   [Bountiful] ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {Temple11} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders. AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph.	The city of Bountiful is placed where the modern city of Sault Ste. Marie is located. This is an extremely important location for trade transportation as it controls access between Lake Superior (the West Sea) and Lake Michigan/Huron (the East Sea). It also sits on the border between the land of Bountiful and the land of Desolation, which is the same border that divides the United States and Canada today. For the Nephites, precious metals from the Keweenaw peninsula and other Lake Superior sites would have been available and shipped south through Bountiful. The Book of Mormon states explicitly (Helaman 3:10,14) that wood was shipped north and so would have gone by/through this city of Bountiful also. The portion of the land of Bountiful as the "narrow neck of land" is spoken of in the Book of Mormon and is what is known as "Upper Michigan" today. The actual location for Bountiful is a certain as it can be. It is the most described locale of any in the Book of Mormon outside of Nephi and Zarahemla. The 63 mile Bountiful/Desolation border (east sea to west sea) is a water border of 1.5 days journey "for a Nephite". Included near this water border is a 1 days journey fortified stretch of land on the west side (see purple line) that protects the areas where the water border can be most easily crossed. This entire border water-way was so important for trade and military strategy that it was never occupied by Lamanites until the Nephites were defeated there in Mormon's time around 400 AD. Modern land location: Upper Michigan. Modern city location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada	Helaman 1:23 Helaman 1 23 And now he did not tarry in the land of Zarahemla, but he did march forth with a large army, even towards the city of Bountiful; for it was his determination to go forth and cut his way through with the sword, that he might obtain the north parts of the land. Helaman 4:5-8 Helaman 4 5 And in the fifty and seventh year they did come down against the Nephites to battle, and they did commence the work of death; yea, insomuch that in the fifty and eighth year of the reign of the judges they succeeded in obtaining possession of the land of Zarahemla; yea, and also all the lands, even unto the land which was near the land Bountiful. 6 And the Nephites and the armies of Moronihah were driven even into the land of Bountiful; 7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country. 8 And thus those dissenters of the Nephites, with the help of a numerous army of the Lamanites, had obtained all the possession of the Nephites which was in the land southward. And all this was done in the fifty and eighth and ninth years of the reign of the judges. Helaman 5:14-15 Helaman 5 14 And they did remember his words; and therefore they went forth, keeping the commandments of God, to teach the word of God among all the people of Nephi, beginning at the city Bountiful; 15 And from thenceforth to the city of Gid; and from the city of Gid to the city of Mulek; Alma 22:29-34 Alma 22 29 And also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them. And thus the Nephites were nearly surrounded by the Lamanites; nevertheless the Nephites had taken possession of all the northern parts of the land bordering on the wilderness, at the head of the river Sidon, from the east to the west, round about on the wilderness side; on the north, even until they came to the land which they called Bountiful. 30 And it bordered upon the land which they called Desolation, it being so far northward that it came into the land which had been peopled and been destroyed, of whose bones we have spoken, which was discovered by the people of Zarahemla, it being the place of their first landing. 31 And they came from there up into the south wilderness. Thus the land on the northward was called Desolation, and the land on the southward was called Bountiful, it being the wilderness which is filled with all manner of wild animals of every kind, a part of which had come from the land northward for food. 32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite: On the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water; there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward. 33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward. 34 Therefore the Lamanites could have no more possessions only in the land of Nephi, and the wilderness round about. Now this was wisdom in the Nephites--as the Lamanites were an enemy to them, they would not suffer their afflictions on every hand, and also that they might have a country whither they might flee, according to their desires. Alma 27:22 Alma 27 22 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came, saying: Behold, we will give up the land of Jershon, which is on the east by the sea, which joins the land Bountiful, which is on the south of the land Bountiful; and this land Jershon is the land which we will give unto our brethren for an inheritance. Alma 50:11 Alma 50 11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure. Alma 50:25-34Alma 50 25 And it came to pass that in the commencement of the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges, there would also have been peace among the people of Nephi had it not been for a contention which took place among them concerning the land of Lehi, and the land of Morionton, which joined upon the borders of Lehi; both of which were on the borders by the seashore. 26 For behold, the people who possessed the land of Morionton did claim a part of the land of Lehi; therefore there began to be a warm contention between them, insomuch that the people of Morionton took up arms against their brethren, and they were determined by the sword to slay them. 27 But behold, the people who possessed the land of Lehi fled to the camp of Moroni, and appealed unto him for assistance; for behold they were not in the wrong. 28 And it came to pass that when the people of Morionton, who were led by a man whose name was Morionton, found that the people of Lehi had fled to the camp of Moroni, they were exceedingly fearful lest the army of Moroni should come upon them and destroy them. 29 Therefore, Morionton put it into their hearts that they should flee to the land which was northward, which was covered with large bodies of water, and take possession of the land which was northward. 30 And behold, they would have carried this plan into effect, (which would have been a cause to have been lamented) but behold, Morionton being a man of much passion, therefore he was angry with one of his maid servants, and he fell upon her and beat her much. 31 And it came to pass that she fled, and came over to the camp of Moroni, and told Moroni all things concerning the matter, and also concerning their intentions to flee into the land northward. 32 Now behold, the people who were in the land Bountiful, or rather Moroni, feared that they would hearken to the words of Morionton and unite with his people, and thus he would obtain possession of those parts of the land, which would lay a foundation for serious consequences among the people of Nephi, yea, which consequences would lead to the overthrow of their liberty. 33 Therefore Moroni sent an army, with their camp, to head the people of Morionton, to stop their flight into the land northward. 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. Alma 52:9 Alma 52 9 And he also sent orders unto him that he should fortify the land Bountiful, and secure the narrow pass which led into the land northward, lest the Lamanites should obtain that point and should have power to harass them on every side. Alma 63:5 Alma 63 5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward. 3 Nephi 3:22-23 3 Nephi 3 22 And it came to pass in the seventeenth year, in the latter end of the year, the proclamation of Lachoneus had gone forth throughout all the face of the land, and they had taken their horses, and their chariots, and their cattle, and all their flocks, and their herds, and their grain, and all their substance, and did march forth by thousands and by tens of thousands, until they had all gone forth to the place which had been appointed that they should gather themselves together, to defend themselves against their enemies and the land which was appointed was the land of Zarahemla. 23 And the land which was between the land Zarahemla and the land Bountiful, yea, to the line which was between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation and there were a great many thousand people who were called Nephites, who did gather themselves together in this land. 3 Nephi 11:1 3 Nephi 11 1 And now it came to pass that there were a great multitude gathered together, of the people of Nephi, round about the temple which was in the land Bountiful; and they were marveling and wondering one with another, and were showing one to another the great and marvelous change which had taken place.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : CitybySeashore +8 +[CityBySeashore] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 +[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,2} +[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Judea]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city1+2} ≈ IR7 +[CityBySeashore]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city1,2} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.	During the campaign of the stripling soldiers a city is mentioned beyond Antiparah on the west sea. It is never named, although from a trade route perspective such an outpost would be important for trade on Lake Superior. The city is never mentioned by name but we know it is "beyond" Antiparah, borders the west sea, and is held by the Nephites. See the campaign maps in Section 4.5.3. Modern feature location: Mouth of the Bois Brule River, Wisconsin.	Alma 53:8-9,22Alma 53 8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land. 9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances. ... 22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea. Alma 56:14-15,29-36Alma 56 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. 15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. ... ... 29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength. 30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city. 31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore. 32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city. 33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah. 34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous. 35 And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us. 36 And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites;
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Cumeni +8 +[Cumeni] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,3} ≈ AR1 +[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city2,1} +[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Judea]{city2,3} +[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2} ≈ IR7 +[Cumeni]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,2} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.	See Section 4.5.3 for the campaigns of the stripling soldiers. In Alma 56, all of these cities are on or near the Sidon river (St Croix river to us) as it turns and heads towards Lake Superior and the cities appear to be listed in order, from south to north (i.e. bottom to top - see Section 3.3, item 5) as Manti, Zeezrom, Cumeni, and Antiparah. See also Section 3.5.2 for the course of the Sidon river and the continental divide at Salon Springs (the source of the Sidon). In Alma 57, soldiers provisions are mentioned as arriving from Zarahemla and Lamanite prisoners are mentioned as being sent to Zarahemla. Logically this transportation occurs on the Sidon river and is just a float trip as there are no waterfalls between Cumeni and Zarahemla requiring portage. So it is an easy trip, albeit a long one. Modern city location: Danbury, Wisconsin.	Alma 53:8-9,22Alma 53 8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land. 9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances. ... 22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea. Alma 56:13-15,29-36Alma 56 13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men; 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. 15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. ... ... 29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength. 30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city. 31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore. 32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city. 33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah. 34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous. 35 And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us. 36 And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites; Alma 57:7-12,23,30-34Alma 57 7 And it came to pass that it was our desire to wage a battle with the army which was placed to protect the city Cumeni. 8 And now behold, I will show unto you that we soon accomplished our desire; yea, with our strong force, or with a part of our strong force, we did surround, by night, the city Cumeni, a little before they were to receive a supply of provisions. 9 And it came to pass that we did camp round about the city for many nights; but we did sleep upon our swords, and keep guards, that the Lamanites could not come upon us by night and slay us, which they attempted many times; but as many times as they attempted this their blood was spilt. 10 At length their provisions did arrive, and they were about to enter the city by night. And we, instead of being Lamanites, were Nephites; therefore, we did take them and their provisions. 11 And notwithstanding the Lamanites being cut off from their support after this manner, they were still determined to maintain the city ; therefore it became expedient that we should take those provisions and send them to Judea, and our prisoners to the land of Zarahemla. 12 And it came to pass that not many days had passed away before the Lamanites began to lose all hopes of succor; therefore they yielded up the city unto our hands; and thus we had accomplished our designs in obtaining the city Cumeni. ... 23 And we retained our city Cumeni, and were not all destroyed by the sword; nevertheless, we had suffered great loss. ... 30 And now, these are the words which Gid said unto me: Behold, we did start to go down to the land of Zarahemla with our prisoners. And it came to pass that we did meet the spies of our armies, who had been sent out to watch the camp of the Lamanites. 31 And they cried unto us, saying--Behold, the armies of the Lamanites are marching towards the city of Cumeni; and behold, they will fall upon them, yea, and will destroy our people. 32 And it came to pass that our prisoners did hear their cries, which caused them to take courage; and they did rise up in rebellion against us. 33 And it came to pass because of their rebellion we did cause that our swords should come upon them. And it came to pass that they did in a body run upon our swords, in the which, the greater number of them were slain; and the remainder of them broke through and fled from us. 34 And behold, when they had fled and we could not overtake them, we took our march with speed towards the city Cumeni; and behold, we did arrive in time that we might assist our brethren in preserving the city.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Cumorah +4 +[Cumorah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1,2,4} ≈ IR1 AR3 +[Cumorah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2,3} +[Cumorah]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {waters, rivers, fountains2} +[Cumorah]{hill} ⇒ <is> ⇒ [Ramah]{hill4} IR1When a modern place-name is associated with an ancient place-name in scripture or the writings of the prophets then that association is always honored. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Cumorah is one of anchor points of Book of Mormon Geography. We know exactly where it is from scripture and Church history. Anyone who is familiar with the construction of the Erie Canal would know well why the final gathering place for the Nephites would be in upper New York (see video below). From the Atlantic seaboard, Upper New York is the gateway to the heartland of America. From the east you have to get around the barrier of the Appalachians to conveniently travel the center of the continent — and the upper New York corridor, reached via the Hudson river is the best way to do it. From the Nephite point of view the same logic is in play, only in reverse. They start in the west and gathered to the east. Cumorah is a natural gathering place because from the west, by ship, one can travel to New York from any location on or near the Great Lakes and if you're coming from the east you can get there by traveling along the Atlantic coast and up the Hudson river. Coming from the Great Lakes, there are no portages to stop you until you get to Niagara falls. From there you can portage around Niagra or simply head overland to the Cumorah area. Palmyra was an Erie Canal town and only 4 miles from the hill Cumorah (3 miles from the Smith family farm). If traveling overland from Buffalo/Niagara the best route is along what is todays east/west Highway 90 that leads thru Manchester which is only 2 miles from the hill Cumorah. Cumorah is 106 miles from the portage location at Rome NY* to the east where the Erie Canal started and 104 miles from Niagra (95 miles from Buffalo NY) to the west. The land of Cumorah is the perfect central location and the hill Cumorah itself is, as Joseph Smith described, "a hill of considerable size, and the most elevated of any in the neighborhood". All these geographical reason's for the Nephites choosing the land of Cumorah and the hill Cumorah are apparently the same reasons that the Jaredites had for the same location. In both cases, there was a truce period to gather their people together and they needed to pick the location that was easiest to access from the both the west and the east. The hill Ramah (Jaredites) and the hill Cumorah (Nephites) are the same hill! * According to wikipedia "Rome was founded along an ancient Native American portage path known as the Oneida Carrying Place, Deo-Wain-Sta, or The Great Carrying Place to the Six Nations (Iroquois) or Haudenosaunee people, in their language. Modern feature location: Two miles north of Manchester, New York." Upper New York and the Erie Canal	DC 128:20DC 128 20 And again, what do we hear? Glad tidings from Cumorah! Moroni, an angel from heaven, declaring the fulfillment of the prophets--the book to be revealed. A voice of the Lord in the wilderness of Fayette, Seneca county, declaring the three witnesses to bear record of the book! The voice of Michael on the banks of the Susquehanna, detecting the devil when he appeared as an angel of light! The voice of Peter, James, and John in the wilderness between Harmony, Susquehanna county, and Colesville, Broome county, on the Susquehanna river, declaring themselves as possessing the keys of the kingdom, and of the dispensation of the fulness of times! Mormon 6:1-11Mormon 6 1 And now I finish my record concerning the destruction of my people, the Nephites. And it came to pass that we did march forth before the Lamanites. 2 And I, Mormon, wrote an epistle unto the king of the Lamanites, and desired of him that he would grant unto us that we might gather together our people unto the land of Cumorah, by a hill which was called Cumorah, and there we could give them battle. 3 And it came to pass that the king of the Lamanites did grant unto me the thing which I desired. 4 And it came to pass that we did march forth to the land of Cumorah, and we did pitch our tents around about the hill Cumorah; and it was in a land of many waters, rivers, and fountains; and here we had hope to gain advantage over the Lamanites. 5 And when three hundred and eighty and four years had passed away, we had gathered in all the remainder of our people unto the land of Cumorah. 6 And it came to pass that when we had gathered in all our people in one to the land of Cumorah, behold I, Mormon, began to be old; and knowing it to be the last struggle of my people, and having been commanded of the Lord that I should not suffer the records which had been handed down by our fathers, which were sacred, to fall into the hands of the Lamanites, (for the Lamanites would destroy them) therefore I made this record out of the plates of Nephi, and hid up in the hill Cumorah all the records which had been entrusted to me by the hand of the Lord, save it were these few plates which I gave unto my son Moroni. 7 And it came to pass that my people, with their wives and their children, did now behold the armies of the Lamanites marching towards them; and with that awful fear of death which fills the breasts of all the wicked, did they await to receive them. 8 And it came to pass that they came to battle against us, and every soul was filled with terror because of the greatness of their numbers. 8 And it came to pass that they came to battle against us, and every soul was filled with terror because of the greatness of their numbers. 9 And it came to pass that they did fall upon my people with the sword, and with the bow, and with the arrow, and with the ax, and with all manner of weapons of war. 10 And it came to pass that my men were hewn down, yea, even my ten thousand who were with me, and I fell wounded in the midst; and they passed by me that they did not put an end to my life. 11 And when they had gone through and hewn down all my people save it were twenty and four of us, (among whom was my son Moroni) and we having survived the dead of our people, did behold on the morrow, when the Lamanites had returned unto their camps, from the top of the hill Cumorah, the ten thousand of my people who were hewn down, being led in the front by me. Mormon 8:1-2Mormon 8 1 Behold I, Moroni, do finish the record of my father, Mormon. Behold, I have but few things to write, which things I have been commanded by my father. 2 And now it came to pass that after the great and tremendous battle at Cumorah, behold, the Nephites who had escaped into the country southward were hunted by the Lamanites, until they were all destroyed. Ether 15:11Ether 15 11 And it came to pass that the army of Coriantumr did pitch their tents by the hill Ramah; and it was that same hill where my father Mormon did hide up the records unto the Lord, which were sacred.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : David +4 +[David] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} +[David]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Angola]{city1} +[David]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land1} +[David]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.	The Book of Mormon history picks up again nearly 300 years after the coming of Christ. It is to be expected there are new lands and cities with some new names too, and the Book of Mormon narrative seems to indicate that. We do know that the final conflict begins in Zarahemla and that Mormon's army retreats, step by step, to the north countries and end up eventually at Jashon in the land of Desolation. We're not given any details but the logical model combined with the topograchy of the physical provides the most direct and logical routes from Zarahemla Angola to David to Joshua and finally to Jashon in the land of Desolation. The proposed route is to first head north from Zarahemla in the direction of the Mississippi (Sidon) and then north in the direction of the Rock River until reaching Janesville Wisconsin (David). Modern city location: Janesville, Wisconsin.	Mormon 1:10; 2:1-6Mormon 2 10 And it came to pass that the war began to be among them in the borders of Zarahemla, by the waters of Sidon. ... 1 And it came to pass in that same year there began to be a war again between the Nephites and the Lamanites. And notwithstanding I being young, was large in stature; therefore the people of Nephi appointed me that I should be their leader, or the leader of their armies. 2 Therefore it came to pass that in my sixteenth year I did go forth at the head of an army of the Nephites, against the Lamanites; therefore three hundred and twenty and six years had passed away. 3 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and twenty and seventh year the Lamanites did come upon us with exceedingly great power, insomuch that they did frighten my armies; therefore they would not fight, and they began to retreat towards the north countries. 4 And it came to pass that we did come to the city of Angola, and we did take possession of the city, and make preparations to defend ourselves against the Lamanites. And it came to pass that we did fortify the city with our might; but notwithstanding all our fortifications the Lamanites did come upon us and did drive us out of the city. 5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David. 6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Desolation +10   [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <location for> ⇒ {Jaredite destruction1,6} +[Desolation] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,5,6} ≈ AR1 +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,4,5} ≈ AR1 +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1,3} +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage1,3,4,5} +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{small narrow1,4} +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,3,4} +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route3} +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Hagoth]{ships4} +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,2} +[Desolation]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ {Nephite lands1,3,4,6}   [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <lacks> ⇒ {timber6}   [Desolation]{land} ⇒ <location for> ⇒ {mass migration6} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.	The land of Desolation was named after the many destroyed remains of the Jaredite nation that were found there and also because of the lack of timber, that had all been used up by the Jaredites. Today it is within the Canadian province of Ontario. Because the land of Bountiful is so well attested, the border where the land Desolation is also not in doubt. Modern land location: Central Ontario, Canada.	Alma 22:30-33 Alma 22 30 And it bordered upon the land which they called Desolation, it being so far northward that it came into the land which had been peopled and been destroyed, of whose bones we have spoken, which was discovered by the people of Zarahemla, it being the place of their first landing. 31 And they came from there up into the south wilderness. Thus the land on the northward was called Desolation, and the land on the southward was called Bountiful, it being the wilderness which is filled with all manner of wild animals of every kind, a part of which had come from the land northward for food. 32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward. 33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward. Alma 46:17 Alma 46 17 And it came to pass that when he had poured out his soul to God, he named all the land which was south of the land Desolation, yea, and in fine, all the land, both on the north and on the south--A chosen land, and the land of liberty. Alma 50:34 Alma 50 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. Alma 63:5 Alma 63 5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward. 3 Nephi 3:22-23 3 Nephi 3 22 And it came to pass in the seventeenth year, in the latter end of the year, the proclamation of Lachoneus had gone forth throughout all the face of the land, and they had taken their horses, and their chariots, and their cattle, and all their flocks, and their herds, and their grain, and all their substance, and did march forth by thousands and by tens of thousands, until they had all gone forth to the place which had been appointed that they should gather themselves together, to defend themselves against their enemies and the land which was appointed was the land of Zarahemla. 23 And the land which was between the land Zarahemla and the land Bountiful, yea, to the line which was between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation and there were a great many thousand people who were called Nephites, who did gather themselves together in this land. Helaman 3:2-6 Helaman 3 2 And there was no contention among the people in the forty and fourth year; neither was there much contention in the forty and fifth year. 3 And it came to pass in the forty and sixth, yea, there was much contention and many dissensions; in the which there were an exceedingly great many who departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and went forth unto the land northward to inherit the land. 4 And they did travel to an exceedingly great distance, insomuch that they came to large bodies of water and many rivers. 5 Yea, and even they did spread forth into all parts of the land, into whatever parts it had not been rendered desolate and without timber, because of the many inhabitants who had before inherited the land. 6 And now no part of the land was desolate, save it were for timber; but because of the greatness of the destruction of the people who had before inhabited the land it was called desolate.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Desolation2 +13 +[Desolation2] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city3,4} ≈ AR1 AR2 AR4 +[Desolation2] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,3,4} ≈ AR2 AR4 +[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land2,4} +[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city4} +[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sherrizah]{tower6+7} +[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moriantum]{place6+7} +[Desolation2]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city4} +[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route1,3} +[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {the sea1,3,4} +[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land2,4} +[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city5} +[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill2.4} +[Desolation2]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city4} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.	In the early (classic) period, Desolation referred a larger area of land representing a chunk of Ontario Canada all along the St Marys river and beyond. 400+ years later, in the late period, the name Desolation (entity name for the late period is Desolation2) is much more specific area. It is basically the first thing you would see after traveling "by the sea" through the "narrow pass which led to the land northward" (Du Tour Passage). For the Nephites, Desolation2 is a very strategic spot and, being an island, a good place for defense. Major battles were fought here. Modern land location: St. Josephs Island, Ontario, Canada.	Alma 50:34 Alma 50 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1 1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. 2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe; 3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people. 4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people. 5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me. 6 And it came to pass that I, being eleven years old, was carried by my father into the land southward, even to the land of Zarahemla. Mormon 3:4-8Mormon 3 4 And it came to pass that after this tenth year had passed away, making, in the whole, three hundred and sixty years from the coming of Christ, the king of the Lamanites sent an epistle unto me, which gave unto me to know that they were preparing to come again to battle against us. 5 And it came to pass that I did cause my people that they should gather themselves together at the land Desolation, to a city which was in the borders, by the narrow pass which led into the land southward. 6 And there we did place our armies, that we might stop the armies of the Lamanites, that they might not get possession of any of our lands; therefore we did fortify against them with all our force. 7 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and first year the Lamanites did come down to the city of Desolation to battle against us; and it came to pass that in that year we did beat them, insomuch that they did return to their own lands again. 8 And in the three hundred and sixty and second year they did come down again to battle. And we did beat them again, and did slay a great number of them, and their dead were cast into the sea. Mormon 4:1-3,6-23Mormon 1 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. ... 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. 13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites. 14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods. 15 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and seventh year, the Nephites being angry because the Lamanites had sacrificed their women and their children, that they did go against the Lamanites with exceedingly great anger, insomuch that they did beat again the Lamanites, and drive them out of their lands. 16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year. 17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number. 18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun. 19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites. 20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time. 21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols. 22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages. 23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5 3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time. 4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land. 5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away. Moroni 9:7-9,16-17Mormon 9 7 And now I write somewhat concerning the sufferings of this people. For according to the knowledge which I have received from Amoron, behold, the Lamanites have many prisoners, which they took from the tower of Sherrizah; and there were men, women, and children. 8 And the husbands and fathers of those women and children they have slain; and they feed the women upon the flesh of their husbands, and the children upon the flesh of their fathers; and no water, save a little, do they give unto them. 9 And notwithstanding this great abomination of the Lamanites, it doth not exceed that of our people in Moriantum. For behold, many of the daughters of the Lamanites have they taken prisoners; and after depriving them of that which was most dear and precious above all things, which is chastity and virtue-- ... 16 And again, my son, there are many widows and their daughters who remain in Sherrizah; and that part of the provisions which the Lamanites did not carry away, behold, the army of Zenephi has carried away, and left them to wander whithersoever they can for food; and many old women do faint by the way and die. 17 And the army which is with me is weak; and the armies of the Lamanites are betwixt Sherrizah and me; and as many as have fled to the army of Aaron have fallen victims to their awful brutality. Mormon 4:1-4Mormon 4 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. 4 And it was because the armies of the Nephites went up unto the Lamanites that they began to be smitten; for were it not for that, the Lamanites could have had no power over them. 5 But, behold, the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished; for it is the wicked that stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed. 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. 9 And now all these things had been done, and there had been thousands slain on both sides, both the Nephites and the Lamanites. 10 And it came to pass that the three hundred and sixty and sixth year had passed away, and the Lamanites came again upon the Nephites to battle; and yet the Nephites repented not of the evil they had done, but persisted in their wickedness continually. 11 And it is impossible for the tongue to describe, or for man to write a perfect description of the horrible scene of the blood and carnage which was among the people, both of the Nephites and of the Lamanites; and every heart was hardened, so that they delighted in the shedding of blood continually. 12 And there never had been so great wickedness among all the children of Lehi, nor even among all the house of Israel, according to the words of the Lord, as was among this people. 13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites. 14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : EastSea +22 +[EastSea] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {sea1,2,3,4,5} ≈ AR2 +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Aaron]{city3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,2} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1,3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Gid]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lehi]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lehi]{land3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Morionton]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Morionton]{land3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Moroni]{city3} ≈ IR7 +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Mulek]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{small narrow1} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephihah]{city3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephihah]{land3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Omner]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Lamanite land1,3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Nephite land1,3,4,5} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Nephite land1,7} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route3} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jershon]{land2} +[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,3} +[EastSea]{sea}~[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1.5 days1} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.	The East Sea figures prominently in Nephite geography with port cities on Lake Michigan, Green Bay, and the northern part of Lake Huron. These are all hydrologically one lake. The lakes/seas in the Book of Mormon are directionally named by their relationship to one another, not by their direction from Zarahemla. So therefore, the East Sea is east in relation to the West sea. The East and West sea are often mentioned together and are separated by a 1.5 day water journey. The West sea, Lake Superior, is west of the East Sea, lake Michigan/Huron and although it is also north, it is more west than north, and so it is called the West Sea. By the reverse logic, the East Sea is considered east rather than south. In the Book of Mormon, Nephite lands in Manti are also stated as being south of the West Sea, so that means the West Sea is north of Nephite lands (Alma 53:8 and Section 4.5.3) and the East Sea is east of both Nephite lands and the West Sea. Modern feature location: Lake Michigan/Huron.	Alma 22:27-28,32-33 Alma 22 (see section 4.2 commentary) 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. 28 Now, the more idle part of the Lamanites lived in the wilderness, and dwelt in tents; and they were spread: through the wilderness on the west in the land of Nephi; Yea, and also on the west of the land of Zarahemla; in the borders by the seashore; and on the west in the land of Nephi; in the place of their fathers' first inheritance and thus bordering along by the seashore; and also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them. ... 32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite: On the line between the land and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water; there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward. 33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward. Alma 27:22 Alma 27 22 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came, saying: Behold, we will give up the land of Jershon, which is on the east by the sea, which joins the land Bountiful, which is on the south of the land Bountiful; and this land Jershon is the land which we will give unto our brethren for an inheritance. Alma 50:7-9,13-14,25-27,34Alma 50 7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla. 8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west. 9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land. ... 13 And it came to pass that the Nephites began the foundation of a city, and they called the name of the city Moroni; and it was by the east sea; and it was on the south by the line of the possessions of the Lamanites. 14 And they also began a foundation for a city between the city of Moroni and the city of Aaron, joining the borders of Aaron and Moroni; and they called the name of the city, or the land, Nephihah. ... 25 And it came to pass that in the commencement of the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges, there would also have been peace among the people of Nephi had it not been for a contention which took place among them concerning the land of Lehi, and the land of Morionton, which joined upon the borders of Lehi; both of which were on the borders by the seashore. 26 For behold, the people who possessed the land of Morionton did claim a part of the land of Lehi; therefore there began to be a warm contention between them, insomuch that the people of Morionton took up arms against their brethren, and they were determined by the sword to slay them. 27 But behold, the people who possessed the land of Lehi fled to the camp of Moroni, and appealed unto him for assistance; for behold they were not in the wrong. ... 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. Alma 51:26 Alma 51 26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore. Alma 52:13 Alma 52 13 And thus he was endeavoring to harass the Nephites, and to draw away a part of their forces to that part of the land, while he had commanded those whom he had left to possess the cities which he had taken, that they should also harass the Nephites on the borders by the east sea, and should take possession of their lands as much as it was in their power, according to the power of their armies.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : East Wilderness +5 +[EastWilderness] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {travel route1,3} ≈ IR4 AR2 +[EastWilderness]{travel route} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land2,3} +[EastWilderness]{travel route} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {border2,3} ≈ AR4 +[EastWilderness]{travel route} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antionum]{land2} +[EastWilderness]{travel route} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} +[EastWilderness]{travel route} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Nephi]{land3} +[EastWilderness]{travel route} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ {Lamanite ]{lands2,3} IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.	The east wilderness is the alluvial plain of the Illinois river. Anciently it was dense with vegetation and trees but not a place for a permanent settlement since it's a floodplain. The east wilderness extends from St. Louis Missouri almost to Chicago Illinois (city of Moroni) on the east sea. See sections 3.3 and 4.3.2 for more information. In the Book of Mormon Lamanite hostiles would camp out in the east wilderness as a jumping off point for attacks, especially after the Zoramites joined with the Lamanites. See Alma 50. Modern feature location: Illinois River bottoms, Illinois.	Alma 25:5-8Alma 25 5 And the remainder, having fled into the east wilderness, and having usurped the power and authority over the Lamanites, caused that many of the Lamanites should perish by fire because of their belief-- 6 For many of them, after having suffered much loss and so many afflictions, began to be stirred up in remembrance of the words which Aaron and his brethren had preached to them in their land; therefore they began to disbelieve the traditions of their fathers, and to believe in the Lord, and that he gave great power unto the Nephites; and thus there were many of them converted in the wilderness. 7 And it came to pass that those rulers who were the remnant of the children of Amulon caused that they should be put to death, yea, all those that believed in these things. 8 Now this martyrdom caused that many of their brethren should be stirred up to anger; and there began to be contention in the wilderness; and the Lamanites began to hunt the seed of Amulon and his brethren and began to slay them; and they fled into the east wilderness. Alma 31:2-4Alma 31 2 For it was the cause of great sorrow to Alma to know of iniquity among his people; therefore his heart was exceedingly sorrowful because of the separation of the Zoramites from the Nephites. 3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites. 4 Now the Nephites greatly feared that the Zoramites would enter into a correspondence with the Lamanites, and that it would be the means of great loss on the part of the Nephites. Alma 50:7-9,11Alma 50 7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla. 8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west. 9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land. ... 11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gad +4 +[Gad] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gad]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {fire1} +[Gad]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Josh]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gad]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Kishcumen]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in as being destroyed by fire prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following criteria: The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. It can reasonably be inferred that the first city, Laman, is in Lamanite territory. There are only two general areas mentioned as having a major Lamanite population where no cities have been identified at all via the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.2. That location is west of Nephi and west of Zarahemla which is populated with Lamanites according to Mormon. See Alma 22:28 in Section 4.2. Using the IR7 Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 and starting on the Missouri river west of the land of Nephi, we start with the best topographical location for cities that border the Missouri river. From steps 1-4, we get the following result: Laman = Jefferson city MO, Josh = Kansas city MO, Gad = Omaha NE. In the case of Kishcumen, we know that cities are named after the founder/first inhabitant and in the case of Kishcumen, we know he fled from Zarahemla and it makes the most sense that he would flee northwest via the Des Moines river to be away from major populations of both Nephites and Lamanites, in order to find his own space as founder of the Gadianton robbers. Modern city location: Omaha, Nebraska.	3 Nephi 9:10 3 Nephi 9 10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishcumen, have I caused to be burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof, because of their wickedness in casting out the prophets, and stoning those whom I did send to declare unto them concerning their wickedness and their abominations.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gadiandi +3 +[Gadiandi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gadiandi]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk into the earth1} +[Gadiandi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gadiomnah]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following: Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about Prairie du Chen WI. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions. 3 Nephi 1:27 3 Nephi 19 27 And it came to pass that the ninety and third year did also pass away in peace, save it were for the Gadianton robbers, who dwelt upon the mountains, who did infest the land; for so strong were their holds and their secret places that the people could not overpower them; therefore they did commit many murders, and did do much slaughter among the people. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = Prairie du Chen Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha Michigan, and Gimgimno = Red Wing Michigan. Modern city location: Prairie du Chen, Wisconsin.	3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9 8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gadiomnah +4 +[Gadiomnah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gadiomnah]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk into the earth1} +[Gadiomnah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gadiandi]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gadiomnah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jacob]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following: Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about Prairie du Chen WI. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions. 3 Nephi 1:27 3 Nephi 19 27 And it came to pass that the ninety and third year did also pass away in peace, save it were for the Gadianton robbers, who dwelt upon the mountains, who did infest the land; for so strong were their holds and their secret places that the people could not overpower them; therefore they did commit many murders, and did do much slaughter among the people. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = Prairie du Chen Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha Michigan, and Gimgimno = Red Wing Michigan. Modern city location: La Cross, Wisconsin.	3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9 8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gid +6 +[Gid] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2,3} ≈ IR7 AR1 +[Gid]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Bountiful]{city2,3} +[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Morionton]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mulek]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gid]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Omner]{city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gid]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ {Nephite lands1} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The city of Gid factors prominently in the wars of Amalickiah and is on the Bountiful/Desolation border. See also Section 4.6.2. Modern city location: Munuscong, Michigan.	Alma 51:26 Alma 51 26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore. Alma 55:7,16,25-26 Alma 55 7 Now the Nephites were guarded in the city of Gid; therefore Moroni appointed Laman and caused that a small number of men should go with him. ... 16 And now this was according to the design of Moroni. And Moroni had prepared his men with weapons of war; and he went to the city Gid, while the Lamanites were in a deep sleep and drunken, and cast in weapons of war unto the prisoners, insomuch that they were all armed; ... 25 And it came to pass that he did cause the Lamanites, whom he had taken prisoners, that they should commence a labor in strengthening the fortifications round about the city Gid. 26 And it came to pass that when he had fortified the city Gid, according to his desires, he caused that his prisoners should be taken to the city Bountiful; and he also guarded that city with an exceedingly strong force. Helaman 5:14-16 Helaman 5 14 And they did remember his words; and therefore they went forth, keeping the commandments of God, to teach the word of God among all the people of Nephi, beginning at the city Bountiful; 15 And from thenceforth to the city of Gid; and from the city of Gid to the city of Mulek; 16 And even from one city to another, until they had gone forth among all the people of Nephi who were in the land southward; and from thence into the land of Zarahemla, among the Lamanites.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gideon +17 +[Gideon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,8} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Gideon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land3,4,5,6,7} +[Gideon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {valley1,2} +[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river2} +[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2} +[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley2} +[Gideon]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city1,2,6,7} +[Gideon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1,2} +[Gideon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Manti]{land4} ≈ IR2 +[Gideon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land4} +[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <contains of> ⇒ [Gideon]{city2} +[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river2} +[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2} +[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Minon]{land1} +[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river2} +[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2,7} +[Gideon]{valley} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,4} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	We know that the land of Gideon is south and east of Zarahemla and is also less than 1 days march - because of the Amlicite war. The Amlicite battles are mapped out in detail in Section 4.4.2. The best topographical location for the city of Gideon is Hamilton, on the east side of the Mississippi, across the river from Keokuk, and at the end of the Des Moines rapids. See also Section 4.4.13. Of particular note is Alma 17:1 which gives the cardinal direction of Manti to both Gideon and Zarahemla. Gideon and Zarahemla are SOUTH. Manti is NORTH. Alma 17:1 is frequently misinterpreted as indicating Alma is travelling south to Manti however Alma is not travelling southward but is travelling FROM Manti and Manti is located southward. Obviously in normal English Alma 17:1 can be interpreted either way. However, in Book of Mormon English one is never stated as travelling in a direction but is always stated as travelling to or from a location, which has a direction. Modern land location: 1-2 miles east of the Mississippi (Sidon) river between Nauvoo and Hamilton.	Alma 2:15-26Alma 2 15 And it came to pass that the Amlicites came upon the hill Amnihu, which was east of the river Sidon, which ran by the land of Zarahemla, and there they began to make war with the Nephites. ... 17 And they began to slay the Amlicites upon the hill east of Sidon. And the Amlicites did contend with the Nephites with great strength, insomuch that many of the Nephites did fall before the Amlicites. ... 20 And it came to pass that when Alma could pursue the Amlicites no longer he caused that his people should pitch their tents in the valley of Gideon, the valley being called after that Gideon who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword; and in this valley the Nephites did pitch their tents for the night. 21 And Alma sent spies to follow the remnant of the Amlicites, that he might know of their plans and their plots, whereby he might guard himself against them, that he might preserve his people from being destroyed. 22 Now those whom he had sent out to watch the camp of the Amlicites were called Zeram, and Amnor, and Manti, and Limher; these were they who went out with their men to watch the camp of the Amlicites. 23 And it came to pass that on the morrow they returned into the camp of the Nephites in great haste, being greatly astonished, and struck with much fear, saying: 24 Behold, we followed the camp of the Amlicites, and to our great astonishment, in the land of Minon, above the land of Zarahemla, in the course of the land of Nephi, we saw a numerous host of the Lamanites; and behold, the Amlicites have joined them; 25 And they are upon our brethren in that land; and they are fleeing before them with their flocks, and their wives, and their children, towards our city ; and except we make haste they obtain possession of our city, and our fathers, and our wives, and our children be slain. 26 And it came to pass that the people of Nephi took their tents, and departed out of the valley of Gideon towards their city, which was the city of Zarahemla.. Alma 6:4-8Alma 6 4 And thus they began to establish the order of the church in the city of Zarahemla. 5 Now I would that ye should understand that the word of God was liberal unto all, that none were deprived of the privilege of assembling themselves together to hear the word of God. 6 Nevertheless the children of God were commanded that they should gather themselves together oft, and join in fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who knew not God. 7 And now it came to pass that when Alma had made these regulations he departed from them, yea, from the church which was in the city of Zarahemla, and went over upon the east of the river Sidon, into the valley of Gideon, there having been a city built, which was called the city of Gideon, which was in the valley that was called Gideon, being called after the man who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword. 8 And Alma went and began to declare the word of God unto the church which was established in the valley of Gideon, according to the revelation of the truth of the word which had been spoken by his fathers, and according to the spirit of prophecy which was in him, according to the testimony of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who should come to redeem his people from their sins, and the holy order by which he was called. And thus it is written. Amen. Alma 8:1 Alma 8 1 And now it came to pass that Alma returned from the land of Gideon, after having taught the people of Gideon many things which cannot be written, having established the order of the church, according as he had before done in the land of Zarahemla, yea, he returned to his own house at Zarahemla to rest himself from the labors which he had performed. Alma 17:1 Alma 17 1 And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying from the land of Gideon southward, away to the land of Manti, behold, to his astonishment, he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla. Alma 30:21 Alma 30 21 And it came to pass that he caused that he should be carried out of the land. And he came over into the land of Gideon, and began to preach unto them also; and here he did not have much success, for he was taken and bound and carried before the high priest, and also the chief judge over the land. Alma 61:4-5,8 Alma 61 4 And it is those who have sought to take away the judgment-seat from me that have been the cause of this great iniquity; for they have used great flattery, and they have led away the hearts of many people, which will be the cause of sore affliction among us; they have withheld our provisions, and have daunted our freemen that they have not come unto you. 5 And behold, they have driven me out before them, and I have fled to the land of Gideon, with as many men as it were possible that I could get. ... 8 They have got possession of the land, or the city, of Zarahemla; they have appointed a king over them, and he hath written unto the king of the Lamanites, in the which he hath joined an alliance with him; in the which alliance he hath agreed to maintain the city of Zarahemla, which maintenance he supposeth will enable the Lamanites to conquer the remainder of the land, and he shall be placed king over this people when they shall be conquered under the Lamanites. Alma 62:3-4,6 Alma 62 3 And it came to pass that Moroni took a small number of men, according to the desire of Pahoran, and gave Lehi and Teancum command over the remainder of his army, and took his march towards the land of Gideon. 4 And he did raise the standard of liberty in whatsoever place he did enter, and gained whatsoever force he could in all his march towards the land of Gideon. ... 6 And thus, when Moroni had gathered together whatsoever men he could in all his march, he came to the land of Gideon; and uniting his forces with those of Pahoran they became exceedingly strong, even stronger than the men of Pachus, who was the king of those dissenters who had driven the freemen out of the land of Zarahemla and had taken possession of the land. Helaman 13:12-16 Helaman 13 12 Yea, wo unto this great city of Zarahemla; for behold, it is because of those who are righteous that it is saved; yea, wo unto this great city, for I perceive, saith the Lord, that there are many, yea, even the more part of this great city, that will harden their hearts against me, saith the Lord. 13 But blessed are they who will repent, for them will I spare. But behold, if it were not for the righteous who are in this great city, behold, I would cause that fire should come down out of heaven and destroy it. 14 But behold, it is for the righteous' sake that it is spared. But behold, the time cometh, saith the Lord, that when ye shall cast out the righteous from among you, then shall ye be ripe for destruction; yea, wo be unto this great city, because of the wickedness and abominations which are in her. 15 Yea, and wo be unto the city of Gideon, for the wickedness and abominations which are in her. 16 Yea, and wo be unto all the cities which are in the land round about, which are possessed by the Nephites, because of the wickedness and abominations which are in them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Gimgimno +3 +[Gimgimno] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Gimgimno]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk into the earth2} +[Gimgimno]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jacob]{city2} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3 IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following: Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about Prairie du Chen WI. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = Prairie du Chen Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha Michigan, and Gimgimno = Red Wing Michigan. Modern city location: Red Wing, Michigan.	3 Nephi 1:27 3 Nephi 19 27 And it came to pass that the ninety and third year did also pass away in peace, save it were for the Gadianton robbers, who dwelt upon the mountains, who did infest the land; for so strong were their holds and their secret places that the people could not overpower them; therefore they did commit many murders, and did do much slaughter among the people. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9 8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Hagoth +5 +[Hagoth] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place1} ≈ AR1 +[Hagoth]{ships} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1} +[Hagoth]{ships} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{small narrow1} +[Hagoth]{ships} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1} +[Hagoth]{ships} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1} +[Hagoth]{ships} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,2} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.	Nephite technology included metal working, "machinery", monetary currency, writing, animal domestication, and ship building. Water craft must have been very important given the many rivers and proximity to the great lakes. Note that Hagoths ship was noteworthy not because he built it but because it was "exceedingly large". Five thousand and four hundred men, with their wives and their children plus timber is a lot to convey on this and "other ships" mentioned. Based on the description, the launch point is into the west sea (not Ste. Marie's River), and on the border of Bountiful near to the land Desolation. Modern land location: Cedar Point at Round Island Point Nature Preserve, Michigan.	Alma 63:4-9 Alma 63 4 And it came to pass that in the thirty and seventh year of the reign of the judges, there was a large company of men, even to the amount of five thousand and four hundred men, with their wives and their children, departed out of the land of Zarahemla into the land which was northward. 5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward. 6 And behold, there were many of the Nephites who did enter therein and did sail forth with much provisions, and also many women and children; and they took their course northward. And thus ended the thirty and seventh year. 7 And in the thirty and eighth year, this man built other ships. And the first ship did also return, and many more people did enter into it; and they also took much provisions, and set out again to the land northward. 8 And it came to pass that they were never heard of more. And we suppose that they were drowned in the depths of the sea. And it came to pass that one other ship also did sail forth; and whither she did go we know not. 9 And it came to pass that in this year there were many people who went forth into the land northward. And thus ended the thirty and eighth year. Helaman 3:10,14 Helaman 3 10 And it came to pass as timber was exceedingly scarce in the land northward, they did send forth much by the way of shipping. ... 14 But behold, a hundredth part of the proceedings of this people, yea, the account of the Lamanites and of the Nephites, and their wars, and contentions, and dissensions, and their preaching, and their prophecies, and their shipping and their building of ships, and their building of temples, and of synagogues and their sanctuaries, and their righteousness, and their wickedness, and their murders, and their robbings, and their plundering, and all manner of abominations and whoredoms, cannot be contained in this work.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Helam +9 +[Helam] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 AR3 AR7 AR9 AR10 +[Helam] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3} ≈ AR1 AR7 AR9 AR10 +[Helam]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {wilderness1,3} +[Helam]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {pure water1} +[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land1} +[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{land3} +[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land3} +[Helam]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1,2} +[Helam]{land}~[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1 day3} +[Helam]{land}~[WatersOfMormon]{fountain} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {8 days1} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph. AR9Water travel with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph. AR10Water travel with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph.	Helam is where the converted people of Alma travel to after being baptized at the WatersOfMormon. It is 8 days travel north in the direction of the land of Nephi until they reach Helam. We know Helam in the same general region as the city of Jerusalem -- and it is because of this that we know it is also in the region of Middoni, Anti-Anti, and Amulon. See Sections 4.3.5 and 4.3.5 travel charts for a detailed analysis on how the distances work out. In summary, the 8 days travel can be accounted for by either a land or river journey. Modern city location: Chrystal city, Missouri.	Mosiah 23:3-4,19-20,25-39 Mosiah 23 3 And they fled eight days' journey into the wilderness. 4 And they came to a land, yea, even a very beautiful and pleasant land, a land of pure water. ... 19 And it came to pass that they began to prosper exceedingly in the land; and they called the land Helam. 20 And it came to pass that they did multiply and prosper exceedingly in the land of Helam; and they built a city, which they called the city of Helam. ... 25 For behold, it came to pass that while they were in the land of Helam, yea, in the city of Helam, while tilling the land round about, behold an army of the Lamanites was in the borders of the land. 26 Now it came to pass that the brethren of Alma fled from their fields, and gathered themselves together in the city of Helam; and they were much frightened because of the appearance of the Lamanites. 27 But Alma went forth and stood among them, and exhorted them that they should not be frightened, but that they should remember the Lord their God and he would deliver them. 28 Therefore they hushed their fears, and began to cry unto the Lord that he would soften the hearts of the Lamanites, that they would spare them, and their wives, and their children. 29 And it came to pass the the Lord did soften the hearts of the Lamanites. And Alma and his brethren went forth and delivered themselves up into their hands; and the Lamanites took possession of the land of Helam. 30 Now the armies of the Lamanites, which had followed after the people of king Limhi, had been lost in the wilderness for many days. 31 And behold, they had found those priests of king Noah, in a place which they called Amulon; and they had begun to possess the land of Amulon and had begun to till the ground. 32 Now the name of the leader of those priests was Amulon. 33 And it came to pass that Amulon did plead with the Lamanites; and he also sent forth their wives, who were the daughters of the Lamanites, to plead with their brethren, that they should not destroy their husbands. 34 And the Lamanites had compassion on Amulon and his brethren, and did not destroy them, because of their wives. 35 And Amulon and his brethren did join the Lamanites, and they were traveling in the wilderness in search of the land of Nephi when they discovered the land of Helam, which was possessed by Alma and his brethren. 36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites promised unto Alma and his brethren, that if they would show them the way which led to the land of Nephi that they would grant unto them their lives and their liberty. 37 But after Alma had shown them the way that led to the land of Nephi the Lamanites would not keep their promise; but they set guards round about the land of Helam, over Alma and his brethren. 38 And the remainder of them went to the land of Nephi; and a part of them returned to the land of Helam, and also brought with them the wives and the children of the guards who had been left in the land. 39 And the king of the Lamanites had granted unto Amulon that he should be a king and a ruler over his people, who were in the land of Helam; nevertheless he should have no power to do anything contrary to the will of the king of the Lamanites. Mosiah 27:16 Mosiah 27 16 Now I say unto thee: Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them; for they were in bondage, and he has delivered them. And now I say unto thee, Alma, go thy way, and seek to destroy the church no more, that their prayers may be answered, and this even if thou wilt of thyself be cast off. Alma 24:1,20-23 Alma 24 1 And it came to pass that the Amlicites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amlicites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren. ... 20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness. 21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God. 22 And they gave thanks to God, yea, all their men and all their women and all their children that could speak lifted their voices in the praises of their God. 23 And now the Lord said unto Alma: Haste thee and get thou and this people out of this land, for the Lamanites have awakened and do pursue thee; therefore get thee out of this land, and I will stop the Lamanites in this valley that they come no further in pursuit of this people.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Hermounts +7 +[Hermounts] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {wilderness1} ≈ AR1 +[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {wild beasts1} +[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} +[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} +[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city1} +[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city1} +[Hermounts]{wilderness} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.	Hermounts is explicitly stated as being immediately north and west and Zarahemla so it is not difficult to place. Of interest, all directions in the Book of Mormon are stated in only one of the four cardinal directions, with Hermounts being the only exception as being both north and west of Zarahemla. See 3.3 Rules of Interpretation for explanation on the use of the term "wilderness" which is any place unfit for permanent habitation. It is most commonly used with river bottom land areas but in this case it is because of the wild beasts that inhabit the area. See also the Amlicite war and diagrams in Section 4.4.2. See also Section 3.4.4. Modern city location: greater area of Donnellson, Iowa.	Alma 2:26-28,35-38Alma 2 26 And it came to pass that the people of Nephi took their tents, and departed out of the valley of Gideon towards their city, which was the city of Zarahemla. 27 And behold, as they were crossing the river Sidon, the Lamanites and the Amlicites, being as numerous almost, as it were, as the sands of the sea, came upon them to destroy them. 28 Nevertheless, the Nephites being strengthened by the hand of the Lord, having prayed mightily to him that he would deliver them out of the hands of their enemies, therefore the Lord did hear their cries, and did strengthen them, and the Lamanites and the Amlicites did fall before them. ... 35 And it came to pass that when they had all crossed the river Sidon that the Lamanites and the Amlicites began to flee before them, notwithstanding they were so numerous that they could not be numbered. 36 And they fled before the Nephites towards the wilderness which was west and north, away beyond the borders of the land; and the Nephites did pursue them with their might, and did slay them. 37 Yea, they were met on every hand, and slain and driven, until they were scattered on the west, and on the north, until they had reached the wilderness, which was called Hermounts; and it was that part of the wilderness which was infested by wild and ravenous beasts. 38 And it came to pass that many died in the wilderness of their wounds, and were devoured by those beasts and also the vultures of the air; and their bones have been found, and have been heaped up on the earth.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Hill_NS +4 +[Hill_NS] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1,2} ≈ AR3 +[Hill_NS]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city1} +[Hill_NS]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1} +[Hill_NS]{hill} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Shilom]{land1,2} AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The Hill north of Shilom has no specific name so I designate it Hill_NS. It would be the highest spot with the best view and most immune to flooding where the original French settlers established St. Louis. Modern city location: Old Town St. Louis, Missouri.	Mosiah 7:3-7,16Mosiah 7 3 And it came to pass that on the morrow they started to go up, having with them one Ammon, he being a strong and mighty man, and a descendant of Zarahemla; and he was also their leader. 4 And now, they knew not the course they should travel in the wilderness to go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi; therefore they wandered many days in the wilderness, even forty days did they wander. 5 And when they had wandered forty days they came to a hill, which is north of the land of Shilom, and there they pitched their tents. 6 And Ammon took three of his brethren, and their names were Amaleki, Helem, and Hem, and they went down into the land of Nephi. 7 And behold, they met the king of the people who were in the land of Nephi, and in the land of Shilom; and they were surrounded by the king's guard, and were taken, and were bound, and were committed to prison. ... 16 And now, king Limhi commanded his guards that they should no more bind Ammon nor his brethren, but caused that they should go to hill which was north of Shilom, and bring their brethren into the city, that thereby they might eat, and drink, and rest themselves from the labors of their journey; for they had suffered many things; they had suffered hunger, thirst, and fatigue. Mosiah 11:8-13Mosiah 11 8 And it came to pass that king Noah built many elegant and spacious buildings; and he ornamented them with fine work of wood, and of all manner of precious things, of gold, and of silver, and of iron, and of brass, and of ziff, and of copper; 9 And he also built him a spacious palace, and a throne in the midst thereof, all of which was of fine wood and was ornamented with gold and silver and with precious things. 10 And he also caused that his workmen should work all manner of fine work within the walls of the temple, of fine wood, and of copper, and of brass. 11 And the seats which were set apart for the high priests, which were above all the other seats, he did ornament with pure gold; and he caused a breastwork to be built before them, that they might rest their bodies and their arms upon while they should speak lying and vain words to his people. 12 And it came to pass that he built a tower near the temple; yea, a very high tower, even so high that he could stand upon the top thereof and overlook the land of Shilom, and also the land of Shemlon, which was possessed by the Lamanites; and he could even look over all the land round about. 13 And it came to pass that he caused many buildings to be built in the land Shilom; and he caused a great tower to be built on the hill north of the land Shilom, which had been a resort for the children of Nephi at the time they fled out of the land; and thus he did do with the riches which he obtained by the taxation of his people.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : HillManti +3 +[HillManti] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill2} +[HillManti]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,2} +[HillManti]{hill} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {execution of Nehor1,2}	There is no indication that the hill Manti has any connection with the land/city of Manti. With Zarahemla being the capital city, it is assumed to be near the location of the judgement seat to which Nehor was brought (for example, see Helaman 7-9). Therefore the place of execution, the hill Manti, would likely also be nearby. The hill chosen is the most prominent at the approach to Zarahemla from the south. Modern city location: Bluff Park, Iowa.	Helaman 7:1 8:26-27 9:1-2Helaman 7 1 Behold, now it came to pass in the sixty and ninth year of the reign of the judges over the people of the Nephites, that Nephi, the son of Helaman, returned to the land of Zarahemla from the land northward. ... Helaman 8 26 Yea, even at this time ye are ripening, because of your murders and your fornication and wickedness, for everlasting destruction; yea, and except ye repent it will come unto you soon. 27 Yea, behold it is now even at your doors; yea, go ye in unto the judgment-seat, and search; and behold, your judge is murdered, and he lieth in his blood; and he hath been murdered by his brother, who seeketh to sit in the judgment-seat. ... Helaman 9 1 Behold, now it came to pass that when Nephi had spoken these words, certain men who were among them ran to the judgment-seat; yea, even there were five who went, and they said among themselves, as they went: 2 Behold, now we will know of a surety whether this man be a prophet and God hath commanded him to prophesy such marvelous things unto us. Behold, we do not believe that he hath; yea, we do not believe that he is a prophet; nevertheless, if this thing which he has said concerning the chief judge be true, that he be dead, then will we believe that the other words which he has spoken are true. Alma 1:2,8-10,13-15Alma 1 2 And it came to pass that in the first year of the reign of Alma in the judgment-seat, there was a man brought before him to be judged, a man who was large, and was noted for his much strength. ... 8 Now the name of the man was Gideon; and it was he who was an instrument in the hands of God in delivering the people of Limhi out of bondage. 9 Now, because Gideon withstood him with the words of God he was wroth with Gideon, and drew his sword and began to smite him. Now Gideon being stricken with many years, therefore he was not able to withstand his blows, therefore he was slain by the sword. 10 And the man who slew him was taken by the people of the church, and was brought before Alma, to be judged according to the crimes which he had committed. ... 13 And thou hast shed the blood of a righteous man, yea, a man who has done much good among this people; and were we to spare thee his blood would come upon us for vengeance. 14 Therefore thou art condemned to die, according to the law which has been given us by Mosiah, our last king; and it has been acknowledged by this people; therefore this people must abide by the law. 15 And it came to pass that they took him; and his name was Nehor; and they carried him upon the top of the hill Manti, and there he was caused, or rather did acknowledge, between the heavens and the earth, that what he had taught to the people was contrary to the word of God; and there he suffered an ignominious death.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Ishmael +11 +[Ishmael] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,5,6,7} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Sebus]{waters1} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city5} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land2,3,4,5} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land6} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city5} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1,4,7} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land5} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land5} +[Ishmael]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shimnilom]{city5} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Ishmael is in the heartland of Lamanite territory near the land of Nephi of about 76 BC and we know about Ishmael because of the missionary journeys of the sons of Mosiah. It was their first Lamanite city encountered in the trip from Zarahemla, where Ammon departed from his fellow misionaries.S ee Section 4.3.3. Modern city location: St. Charles, Missouri.	Alma 17:7-8,13,18-21,26,34Alma 17 7 Nevertheless they departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and took their swords, and their spears, and their bows, and their arrows, and their slings; and this they did that they might provide food for themselves while in the wilderness. 8 And thus they departed into the wilderness with their numbers which they had selected, to go up to the land of Nephi, to preach the word of God unto the Lamanites. ... 13 And it came to pass when they had arrived in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, that they separated themselves and departed one from another, trusting in the Lord that they should meet again at the close of their harvest; for they supposed that great was the work which they had undertaken. ... 17 Therefore they separated themselves one from another, and went forth among them, every man alone, according to the word and power of God which was given unto him. 18 Now Ammon being the chief among them, or rather he did administer unto them, and he departed from them, after having blessed them according to their several stations, having imparted the word of God unto them, or administered unto them before his departure; and thus they took their several journeys throughout the land. 19 And Ammon went to the land of Ishmael, the land being called after the sons of Ishmael, who also became Lamanites. 20 And as Ammon entered the land of Ishmael, the Lamanites took him and bound him, as was their custom to bind all the Nephites who fell into their hands, and carry them before the king; and thus it was left to the pleasure of the king to slay them, or to retain them in captivity, or to cast them into prison, or to cast them out of his land, according to his will and pleasure. 21 And thus Ammon was carried before the king who was over the land of Ishmael; and his name was Lamoni; and he was a descendant of Ishmael. 26 And after he had been in the service of the king three days, as he was with the Lamanitish servants going forth with their flocks to the place of water, which was called the water of Sebus, and all the Lamanites drive their flocks hither, that they may have water-- ... 34 Therefore, they did as Ammon commanded them, and he went forth and stood to contend with those who stood by the waters of Sebus; and they were in number not a few. Alma 20:14-15 Alma 20 14 Now the father of Lamoni commanded him that he should slay Ammon with the sword. And he also commanded him that he should not go to the land of Middoni, but that he should return with him to the land of Ishmael. 15 But Lamoni said unto him: I will not slay Ammon, neither will I return to the land of Ishmael, but I go to the land of Middoni that I may release the brethren of Ammon, for I know that they are just men and holy prophets of the true God. Alma 21:18-21 Alma 21 18 And it came to pass that Ammon and Lamoni returned from the land of Middoni to the land of Ishmael, which was the land of their inheritance. 19 And king Lamoni would not suffer that Ammon should serve him, or be his servant. 20 But he caused that there should be synagogues built in the land of Ishmael; and he caused that his people, or the people who were under his reign, should assemble themselves together. 21 And he did rejoice over them, and he did teach them many things. And he did also declare unto them that they were a people who were under him, and that they were a free people, that they were free from the oppressions of the king, his father; for that his father had granted unto him that he might reign over the people who were in the land of Ishmael, and in all the land round about. Alma 22:1,4 Alma 22 1 Now, as Ammon was thus teaching the people of Lamoni continually, we will return to the account of Aaron and his brethren; for after he departed from the land of Middoni he was led by the Spirit to the land of Nephi, even to the house of the king which was over all the land save it were the land of Ishmael; and he was the father of Lamoni. ... 4 And Aaron said unto the king: Behold, the Spirit of the Lord has called him another way; he has gone to the land of Ishmael, to teach the people of Lamoni. Alma 23:8-13 Alma 23 8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: 9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael; 10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni; 11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi; 12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom. 13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites. Alma 24:5 Alma 24 24 Now when Ammon and his brethren and all those who had come up with him saw the preparations of the Lamanites to destroy their brethren, they came forth to the land of Midian, and there Ammon met all his brethren; and from thence they came to the land of Ishmael that they might hold a council with Lamoni and also with his brother Anti-Nephi-Lehi, what they should do to defend themselves against the Lamanites. Alma 25:13 Alma 25 13 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that they could not overpower the Nephites they returned again to their own land; and many of them came over to dwell in the land of Ishmael and the land of Nephi, and did join themselves to the people of God, who were the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jacob +4 +[Jacob] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Jacob]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sunk and buried1,2} ≈ IR2 +[Jacob]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gimgimno]{city2} +[Jacob]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gadiomnah]{city2} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Gadiandi, Gadiomnah, Jacob, and Gimgimno are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by being "sunk" prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following: Since all these cities suffered the fate of being "sunk" or covered with earth, resulting in hills and valleys, it makes sense to find the location of Nephite lands that has the most hills and valleys. That location is the hilly region along the stretch of the Sidon/Mississippi between Hastings WI and down to about Prairie du Chen WI. Of note is that Gadiandi and Gadiomah appear to share the same root or be a derivative of the word Gadianton, as in "Gadianton robbers" which were said to "infest" the hilly regions. The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major cities today. From step 3, we get the following result: Gadiandi = Prairie du Chen Wisconsin, Gadiomnah = La Cross Wisconsin, Jacob = Wabasha Michigan, and Gimgimno = Red Wing Michigan. Modern city location: Wabasha, Michigan.	3 Nephi 1:27 3 Nephi 19 27 And it came to pass that the ninety and third year did also pass away in peace, save it were for the Gadianton robbers, who dwelt upon the mountains, who did infest the land; for so strong were their holds and their secret places that the people could not overpower them; therefore they did commit many murders, and did do much slaughter among the people. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9 8 And behold, the city of Gadiandi, and the city of Gadiomnah, and the city of Jacob, and the city of Gimgimno, all these have I caused to be sunk, and made hills and valleys in the places thereof; and the inhabitants thereof have I buried up in the depths of the earth, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up any more unto me against them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jacobugath +3 +[Jacobugath] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2} ≈ IR2 AR1 AR3 +[Jacobugath]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {fire2} +[Jacobugath]{city} ⇒ <northernmost> ⇒ {land1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The most northernmost part of the land is the Keweenaw peninsula, which is a key location due to the ore mines found there and thus a strategic location indeed. It could be as far north as Copper Harbor but an actual settlement makes more sense further inland but with good access to Lake Superior. See Section 3.5.2. Modern city location: Hancock, Michigan.	3 Nephi 7:9,12 3 Nephi 7 9 Now this secret combination, which had brought so great iniquity upon the people, did gather themselves together, and did place at their head a man whom they did call Jacob; ... 12 Therefore, Jacob seeing that their enemies were more numerous than they, he being the king of the band, therefore he commanded his people that they should take their flight into the northernmost part of the land, and there build up unto themselves a kingdom, until they were joined by dissenters, (for he flattered them that there would be many dissenters) and they become sufficiently strong to contend with the tribes of the people; and they did so. 3 Nephi 9:8 3 Nephi 9 9 And behold, that great city Jacobugath, which was inhabited by the people of king Jacob, have I caused to be burned with fire because of their sins and their wickedness, which was above all the wickedness of the whole earth, because of their secret murders and combinations; for it was they that did destroy the peace of my people and the government of the land; therefore I did cause them to be burned, to destroy them from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints should not come up unto me any more against them.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Jashon +9 +[Jashon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1+2} +[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Joshua]{land2} +[Jashon]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Shem]{city2} +[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Shem]{city2} +[Jashon]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Shem]{land2} +[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Shem]{land2} +[Jashon]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land2} +[Jashon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Joshua]{land2} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The city Jashon is mentioned as being near the hill Shim therefore Jashon must be near Antum since Shim is in Antum. Jashon is placed north of Shim and Antum at the most natural place available, which is where the Garden River flows and empties into the St. Marys river. Modern city location: Garden River, Ontario, Canada.	Mormon 1:1-5Mormon 1 1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. 2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe; 3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people. 4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people. 5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me. Mormon 2:16,17Mormon 2 5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David. 6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore. ... 16 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and forty and fifth year the Nephites did begin to flee before the Lamanites; and they were pursued until they came even to the land of Jashon, before it was possible to stop them in their retreat. 17 And now, the city of Jashon was near the land where Ammaron had deposited the records unto the Lord, that they might not be destroyed. And behold I had gone according to the word of Ammaron, and taken the plates of Nephi, and did make a record according to the words of Ammaron. ... 20 And it came to pass that in this year the people of Nephi again were hunted and driven. And it came to pass that we were driven forth until we had come northward to the land which was called Shem. 21 And it came to pass that we did fortify the city of Shem, and we did gather in our people as much as it were possible, that perhaps we might save them from destruction.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jershon +8 +[Jershon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city6} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Jershon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,5,6} +[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Antionum]{land4} +[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1} +[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Melek]{land5} +[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Antionum]{land4} +[Jershon]{land}~[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <separated by> ⇒ {wilderness1,2} +[Jershon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Jershon is a large land area in the center of Nephite territory. For map of the migrations of the People of Ammon, see Section 4.4.4. When the Nephites ceded this land to the People of Ammon, they gave up a vast but sparsely populated area in the center of their lands. Jershon extended far north and then to the East Sea (Lake Michigan). The location also provides buffer zones to for protection from Lamanite incursions. The city of Jershon is placed where the Iowa River meets the Rock Island river. Modern city location: Rock Island, Illinois.	Alma 27:22-26 Alma 27 22 And it came to pass that the voice of the people came, saying: Behold, we will give up the land of Jershon, which is on the east by the sea, which joins the land Bountiful, which is on the south of the land Bountiful; and this land Jershon is the land which we will give unto our brethren for an inheritance. 23 And behold, we will set our armies between the land Jershon and the land Nephi, that we may protect our brethren in the land Jershon; and this we do for our brethren, on account of their fear to take up arms against their brethren lest they should commit sin; and this their great fear came because of their sore repentance which they had, on account of their many murders and their awful wickedness. 24 And now behold, this will we do unto our brethren, that they may inherit the land Jershon; and we will guard them from their enemies with our armies, on condition that they will give us a portion of their substance to assist us that we may maintain our armies. 25 Now, it came to pass that when Ammon had heard this, he returned to the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, and also Alma with him, into the wilderness, where they had pitched their tents, and made known unto them all these things. And Alma also related unto them his conversion, with Ammon and Aaron, and his brethren. 26 And it came to pass that it did cause great joy among them. And they went down into the land of Jershon, and took possession of the land of Jershon; and they were called by the Nephites the people of Ammon; therefore they were distinguished by that name ever after. Alma 28:1,8 Alma 28 1 And now it came to pass that after the people of Ammon were established in the land of Jershon, and a church also established in the land of Jershon, and the armies of the Nephites were set round about the land of Jershon, yea, in all the borders round about the land of Zarahemla; behold the armies of the Lamanites had followed their brethren into the wilderness. ... 8 And this is the account of Ammon and his brethren, their journeyings in the land of Nephi, their sufferings in the land, their sorrows, and their afflictions, and their incomprehensible joy, and the reception and safety of the brethren in the land of Jershon. And now may the Lord, the Redeemer of all men, bless their souls forever. Alma 30:1,6,19 Alma 30 1 Behold, now it came to pass that after the people of Ammon were established in the land of Jershon, yea, and also after the Lamanites were driven out of the land, and their dead were buried by the people of the land-- ... 6 But it came to pass in the latter end of the seventeenth year, there came a man into the land of Zarahemla, and he was Anti-Christ, for he began to preach unto the people against the prophecies which had been spoken by the prophets, concerning the coming of Christ. ... 19 Now this man went over to the land of Jershon also, to preach these things among the people of Ammon, who were once the people of the Lamanites. Alma 31:3 Alma 31 3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites. Alma 35:1,2,6,8,13,14 Alma 35 1 Now it came to pass that after Amulek had made an end of these words, they withdrew themselves from the multitude and came over into the land of Jershon. 2 Yea, and the rest of the brethren, after they had preached the word unto the Zoramites, also came over into the land of Jershon. ... 6 And it came to pass that after they had found out the minds of all the people, those who were in favor of the words which had been spoken by Alma and his brethren were cast out of the land; and they were many; and they came over also into the land of Jershon. ... 8 Now the people of the Zoramites were angry with the people of Ammon who were in Jershon, and the chief ruler of the Zoramites, being a very wicked man, sent over unto the people of Ammon desiring them that they should cast out of their land all those who came over from them into their land. ... 13 And the people of Ammon departed out of the land of Jershon, and came over into the land of Melek, and gave place in the land of Jershon for the armies of the Nephites, that they might contend with the armies of the Lamanites and the armies of the Zoramites; and thus commenced a war betwixt the Lamanites and the Nephites, in the eighteenth year of the reign of the judges; and an account shall be given of their wars hereafter. 14 And Alma, and Ammon, and their brethren, and also the two sons of Alma returned to the land of Zarahemla, after having been instruments in the hands of God of bringing many of the Zoramites to repentance; and as many as were brought to repentance were driven out of their land; but they have lands for their inheritance in the land of Jershon, and they have taken up arms to defend themselves, and their wives, and children, and their lands. Alma 43:4-5,15 Alma 43 4 For behold, it came to pass that the Zoramites became Lamanites; therefore, in the commencement of the eighteenth year the people of the Nephites saw that the Lamanites were coming upon them; therefore they made preparations for war; yea, they gathered together their armies in the land of Jershon. 5 And it came to pass that the Lamanites came with their thousands; and they came into the land of Antionum, which is the land of the Zoramites; and a man by the name of Zerahemnah was their leader. ... 15 And it came to pass as the armies of the Lamanites had gathered together in the land of Antionum, behold, the armies of the Nephites were prepared to meet them in the land of Jershon. ... 25 Now Moroni, leaving a part of his army in the land of Jershon, lest by any means a part of the Lamanites should come into that land and take possession of the city, took the remaining part of his army and marched over into the land of Manti.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Jerusalem +12 +[Jerusalem] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2} ≈ IR2 +[Jerusalem] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,3} ≈ IR2 AR1 AR3 +[Jerusalem]{city}~[Ani-Anti]{village} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {<1 day1} ≈ IR6 +[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land1} +[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mocum]{city3} +[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mormon]{land1} +[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Mormon]{land1} +[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {waters coming up3} +[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land2} +[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Helam]{land1} +[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land2} +[Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land2} +[Jerusalem]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Onihah]{city3} [Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <populated by> ⇒ {Amulonites1,2} [Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <populated by> ⇒ {Lamanites1} [Jerusalem]{land} ⇒ <populated by> ⇒ {Amlicites1,2} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Everywhere in the Book of Mormon where it says Amalekites, it should read Amlicites. See IR2 in section 3.2 Rules of Interpretation. Amlicites built the city of Jerusalem and named it after the Jerusalem in the old world. See also Section 4.3.3 for the city of Jerusalem in the missionary journeys of the sons of Mosiah which helps to pin-point the location. Modern city location: Near River City Casino, St. Louis, Missouri, .	Alma 21:1-2,4,11-13,18,20 Alma 21 1 Now when Ammon and his brethren separated themselves in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, behold Aaron took his journey towards the land which was called by the Lamanites, Jerusalem, calling it after the land of their fathers' nativity; and it was away joining the borders of Mormon. 2 Now the Lamanites and the Amlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city , which was called Jerusalem. ... 4 And it came to pass that Aaron came to the city of Jerusalem, and first began to preach to the Amlicites. And he began to preach to them in their synagogues, for they had built synagogues after the order of the Nehors; for many of the Amlicites and the Amulonites were after the order of the Nehors. ... 11 Therefore, when he saw that they would not hear his words, he departed out of their synagogue, and came over to a village which was called Ani-Anti, and there he found Muloki preaching the word unto them; and also Ammah and his brethren. And they contended with many about the word. 12 And it came to pass that they saw that the people would harden their hearts, therefore they departed and came over into the land of Middoni. And they did preach the word unto many, and few believed on the words which they taught. 13 Nevertheless, Aaron and a certain number of his brethren were taken and cast into prison, and the remainder of them fled out of the land of Middoni unto the regions round about. ... ... 18 And it came to pass that Ammon and Lamoni returned from the land of Middoni to the land of Ishmael, which was the land of their inheritance. ... 20 And it came to pass that their brethren, the Lamanites, made preparations for war, and came up to the land of Nephi for the purpose of destroying the king, and to place another in his stead, and also of destroying the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi out of the land. Alma 24:1 Alma 24 1 And it came to pass that the Amlicites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amlicites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren. 3 Nephi:9-7 3 Nephi 7 Yea, and the city of Onihah and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Mocum and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Jerusalem and the inhabitants thereof; and waters have I caused to come up in the stead thereof, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints shall not come up any more unto me against them.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Jordan +7 +[Jordan] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city3} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city2,3} +[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2{city2,3} +[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land2,3} +[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city2,3} +[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill2,3} +[Jordan]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	After the tremendous and tide-turning defeat at Desolation, the Nephites Nephites who are with Mormon retreat first to Boaz and then to Jordan. Antum is included because Mormon travels there, probably by water, (the hill Shim is in the land of Antum) to retrieve the plates. See section 4.8.2. By comparison to Desolation the sites of Boaz and Jordon are less defensible, but then a treaty deal is struck for the all the Nephites to gather, unimpeded, to Cumorah. Modern city location: Thessalon, Ontario Canada.	Mormon 1:1-3Mormon 1 1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. 2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe; 3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people. Mormon 4:1-9,19-23 Mormon 4 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. 4 And it was because the armies of the Nephites went up unto the Lamanites that they began to be smitten; for were it not for that, the Lamanites could have had no power over them. 5 But, behold, the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished; for it is the wicked that stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed. 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. 9 And now all these things had been done, and there had been thousands slain on both sides, both the Nephites and the Lamanites. ... 19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites. 20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time. 21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols. 22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages. 23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5 3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time. 4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land. 5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Josh +4 +[Josh] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR3 +[Josh]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Laman]{city1} +[Josh]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gad]{city1} +[Josh]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {fire1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in connection with being destroyed by fire in connection with the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following reasons: The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. It can reasonably be inferred that the first city, Laman, is in Lamanite territory. There is only two general areas mentioned as having a major Lamanite population where no cities have been identified at all via the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.2. That location is west of Nephi and west of Zarahemla which is populated with Lamanites according to Mormon. See Alma 22:28 in Section 4.2. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 and starting on the Missouri river west of the land of Nephi, we start with the best topographical location for cities that border the Missouri river. From steps 1-4, we get the following result: Laman = Jefferson City MO, Josh = Kansas City MO, Gad = Omaha NB. In the case of Kishcumen, we know that cities are named after the founder/first inhabitant and in the case of Kishcumen, we know he fled from Zarahemla and it makes the most sense that he would flee northwest via the Des Moines river to be away from major populations of both Nephites and Lamanites in order to find his own space, as he is a founder of the Gadianton robbers. So Kishcumen aligns best with Des Moines IO. Modern city location: Kansas City , Missouri	3 Nephi 9:10 3 Nephi 9 10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishcumen, have I caused to be burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof, because of their wickedness in casting out the prophets, and stoning those whom I did send to declare unto them concerning their wickedness and their abominations.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Joshua +7 +[Joshua] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} ≈ AR1 AR2 AR3 +[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {the west seashore1} +[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1} +[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Angola]{city1} +[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [David]{land1} +[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jashon]{city1} +[Joshua]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The Book of Mormon history picks up again nearly 300 years after the coming of Christ. It is to be expected there are new lands and cities with some new names too, and the Book of Mormon narrative seems to indicate that. We do know that the final conflict begins in Zarahemla and that Mormon's army retreats, step by step, to the north countries and end up eventually at Jashon in the land of Desolation. We're not given any details but the logical model combined with the topograchy of the physical provides the most direct and logical routes from Zarahemla Angola to David to Joshua and finally to Jashon in the land of Desolation. The proposed route is to first head north from Zarahemla in the direction of the Mississippi (Sidon) and then north in the direction of the Rock River until reaching Janesville Wisconsin (David), then an overland trip Joshua (Marionette Wisconsin) and finally, the last part of the journey to the city of Jashon (Garden River, Ontario, Canada). This trek involves a lot of soldiers and people over a long distance. They are likely gathering in new people to their group as they go. The text indicates they "marched" to these locations so that rules out any significant travel on Lake Michigan for this large group. We're told that Joshua "is in the borders west by the seashore". Green Bay is the best candidate for this as one can see both the east and west side of Green Bay from either side. Marionette WI is on the center west side of Green Bay where the Menominee river empties into the Green Bay. The Menominee River forms a border between Upper Michigan and Wisconsin. Modern city location: Marionette, Wisconsin.	Mormon 2:1-6Mormon 2 1 And it came to pass in that same year there began to be a war again between the Nephites and the Lamanites. And notwithstanding I being young, was large in stature; therefore the people of Nephi appointed me that I should be their leader, or the leader of their armies. 2 Therefore it came to pass that in my sixteenth year I did go forth at the head of an army of the Nephites, against the Lamanites; therefore three hundred and twenty and six years had passed away. 3 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and twenty and seventh year the Lamanites did come upon us with exceedingly great power, insomuch that they did frighten my armies; therefore they would not fight, and they began to retreat towards the north countries. 4 And it came to pass that we did come to the city of Angola, and we did take possession of the city, and make preparations to defend ourselves against the Lamanites. And it came to pass that we did fortify the city with our might; but notwithstanding all our fortifications the Lamanites did come upon us and did drive us out of the city. 5 And they did also drive us forth out of the land of David. 6 And we marched forth and came to the land of Joshua, which was in the borders west by the seashore.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Judea +8 +[Judea] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,3} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city2,4} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Judea]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city3} +[Judea]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city2,3} +[Judea]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1}   [Judea] ⇒ <supplied from> ⇒ [Zarahemla3,4} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The stripling soldiers campaign provides a wealth of information about Judea and the Land of Manti region and the cities in the neighborhood. See also Section 4.5.3. While Zarahemla is not in the neighborhood, it is a straight shot along the Sidon/Mississippi to travel between the two areas. The Lamanites invaded and held border cities along the Sidon. Therefore Judea, the home base for Helamans men and the stripling soldiers, is placed in the center of Manti along the Chippewa river which joins up with the Sidon. Modern city location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin.	Alma 53:8-9,22Alma 56 8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land. 9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances. ... 22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea. Alma 56:9,14-15,18 Alma 56 9 But behold, here is one thing in which we may have great joy. For behold, in the twenty and sixth year, I, Helaman, did march at the head of these two thousand young men to the city of Judea, to assist Antipus, whom ye had appointed a leader over the people of that part of the land. ... 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. 15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. Alma 56:18,27-28,31-34,57 Alma 56 ... 18 And now it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that Antipus had received a greater strength to his army, they were compelled by the orders of Ammoron to not come against the city of Judea, or against us, to battle. ... 27 And now it came to pass in the second month of this year, there was brought unto us many provisions from the fathers of those my two thousand sons. 28 And also there were sent two thousand men unto us from the land of Zarahemla. And thus we were prepared with ten thousand men, and provisions for them, and also for their wives and their children. ... 31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore. 32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city. 33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah. 34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous. 57 And as we had no place for our prisoners, that we could guard them to keep them from the armies of the Lamanites, therefore we sent them to the land of Zarahemla, and a part of those men who were not slain of Antipus, with them; and the remainder I took and joined them to my stripling Ammonites, and took our march back to the city of Judea. Alma 57:11-12,23-24,30-34 Alma 57 11 And notwithstanding the Lamanites being cut off from their support after this manner, they were still determined to maintain the city ; therefore it became expedient that we should take those provisions and send them to Judea, and our prisoners to the land of Zarahemla. 12 And it came to pass that not many days had passed away before the Lamanites began to lose all hopes of succor; therefore they yielded up the city unto our hands; and thus we had accomplished our designs in obtaining the city Cumeni. 23 And we retained our city Cumeni, and were not all destroyed by the sword; nevertheless, we had suffered great loss. ... 24 And it came to pass that after the Lamanites had fled, I immediately gave orders that my men who had been wounded should be taken from among the dead, and caused that their wounds should be dressed. ... 30 And now, these are the words which Gid said unto me: Behold, we did start to go down to the land of Zarahemla with our prisoners. And it came to pass that we did meet the spies of our armies, who had been sent out to watch the camp of the Lamanites. 31 And they cried unto us, saying--Behold, the armies of the Lamanites are marching towards the city of Cumeni; and behold, they will fall upon them, yea, and will destroy our people. 32 And it came to pass that our prisoners did hear their cries, which caused them to take courage; and they did rise up in rebellion against us. 33 And it came to pass because of their rebellion we did cause that our swords should come upon them. And it came to pass that they did in a body run upon our swords, in the which, the greater number of them were slain; and the remainder of them broke through and fled from us. 34 And behold, when they had fled and we could not overtake them, we took our march with speed towards the city Cumeni; and behold, we did arrive in time that we might assist our brethren in preserving the city.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Kishcumen +5 +[Kishcumen] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {fire1} +[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gad]{city1} +[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1,2} +[Kishcumen]{city} ⇒ <not in> ⇒ {Nephite lands2} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in connection with being destroyed by fire in connection with the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following reasons: The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. It can reasonably be inferred that the first city, Laman, is in Lamanite territory. There is only two general areas mentioned as having a major Lamanite population where no cities have been identified at all via the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.2. That location is west of Nephi and west of Zarahemla which is populated with Lamanites according to Mormon. See Alma 22:28 in Section 4.2. Using Rule 7 (listed order being bottom-to-top, left to right) as mentioned in Section 3.3 and starting on the Missouri river west of the land of Nephi, we start with the best topographical location for cities that border the Missouri river. From steps 1-4, we get the following result: Laman = Jefferson city MO, Josh = Kansas city MO, Gad = Omaha NB. In the case of Kishcumen, we know that cities are named after the founder/first inhabitant and in the case of Kishcumen, we know he fled from Zarahemla and it makes the most sense that he would flee northwest via the Des Moines river to be away from major populations of both Nephites and Lamanites in order to find his own space, as he is a founder of the Gadianton robbers. Modern city location: Des Moines IO.	3 Nephi 9:10 3 Nephi 9 10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishcumen, have I caused to be burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof, because of their wickedness in casting out the prophets, and stoning those whom I did send to declare unto them concerning their wickedness and their abominations. Helaman 2:11Helaman 2 11 But behold, when Gadianton had found that Kishcumen did not return he feared lest that he should be destroyed; therefore he caused that his band should follow him. And they took their flight out of the land, by a secret way, into the wilderness; and thus when Helaman sent forth to take them they could nowhere be found.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Laman +3 +[Laman] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR2 IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Laman]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {fire1} +[Laman]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Josh]{city1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Laman, Josh, Gad, and Kishcumen are difficult to place because they are only mentioned in connection with being destroyed by fire in connection with the visitation of the resurrected Christ. The cities are placed according to the following reasons: The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. It can reasonably be inferred that the first city, Laman, is in Lamanite territory. There is only two general areas mentioned as having a major Lamanite population where no cities have been identified at all via the Entity Relationship table in Section 3.2. That location is west of Nephi and west of Zarahemla which is populated with Lamanites according to Mormon. See Alma 22:28 in Section 4.2. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3 and starting on the Missouri river west of the land of Nephi, we start with the best topographical location for cities that border the Missouri river. From steps 1-4, we get the following result: Laman = Jefferson city MO, Josh = Kansas city MO, Gad = Omaha NB. In the case of Kishcumen, we know that cities are named after the founder/first inhabitant and in the case of Kishcumen, we know he fled from Zarahemla and it makes the most sense that he would flee northwest via the Des Moines river to be away from major populations of both Nephites and Lamanites in order to find his own space, as he is a founder of the Gadianton robbers. Modern city location: Jefferson City, Missouri.	3 Nephi 9:10 3 Nephi 9 10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishcumen, have I caused to be burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof, because of their wickedness in casting out the prophets, and stoning those whom I did send to declare unto them concerning their wickedness and their abominations.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : LEHI +2 +[LEHI] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land area1} +[LEHI]{land area} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [MULEK]{land area1}	From a more global perspective, the lands south and north (From the mouth of the Mississippi up to Canada and beyond) were named Lehi and Mulek although these designations were rarely used because most of the historical records focus on more limited areas. Going south to north, LEHI extends from the mouth of the Mississippi to somewhat north of St. Louis, inclusive. Modern land location: 100 miles north of St. Louis then south to the Gulf of Mexico.	Helaman 6:6-10Helaman 6 6 And it came to pass that many of the Lamanites did go into the land northward; and also Nephi and Lehi went into the land northward, to preach unto the people. And thus ended the sixty and third year. 7 And behold, there was peace in all the land, insomuch that the Nephites did go into whatsoever part of the land they would, whether among the Nephites or the Lamanites. 8 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did also go whithersoever they would, whether it were among the Lamanites or among the Nephites; and thus they did have free intercourse one with another, to buy and to sell, and to get gain, according to their desire. 9 And it came to pass that they became exceedingly rich, both the Lamanites and the Nephites; and they did have an exceeding plenty of gold, and of silver, and of all manner of precious metals, both in the land south and in the land north. 10 Now the land south was called Lehi and the land north was called Mulek, which was after the son of Zedekiah; for the Lord did bring Mulek into the land north, and Lehi into the land south.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Lehi +11 +[Lehi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,3} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Lehi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,4} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Lehi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Morionton]{city2,3} +[Lehi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moroni]{city2,3} +[Lehi]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Morionton]{city2,3} +[Lehi]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Lehi]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Morionton]{land1,3} +[Lehi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephihah]{city2,4} +[Lehi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephihah]{land4} +[Lehi]{land} ⇒ <sea journey to> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route1} +[Lehi]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Morionton]{land1} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Lehi is one of the cities on the seashore of the East Sea or Lake Michigan and part of Jershon so probably populated by the people of Ammon. Modern city location: Green Bay, Wisconsin. The "area of dispute" is at Marinette Wisconsin and Menominee Michigan. See the War of Amalickiah in Section 4.6.2.	Alma 50:25-36 Alma 50 25 And it came to pass that in the commencement of the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges, there would also have been peace among the people of Nephi had it not been for a contention which took place among them concerning the land of Lehi, and the land of Morionton, which joined upon the borders of Lehi; both of which were on the borders by the seashore. 26 For behold, the people who possessed the land of Morionton did claim a part of the land of Lehi; therefore there began to be a warm contention between them, insomuch that the people of Morionton took up arms against their brethren, and they were determined by the sword to slay them. 27 But behold, the people who possessed the land of Lehi fled to the camp of Moroni, and appealed unto him for assistance; for behold they were not in the wrong. 28 And it came to pass that when the people of Morionton, who were led by a man whose name was Morionton, found that the people of Lehi had fled to the camp of Moroni, they were exceedingly fearful lest the army of Moroni should come upon them and destroy them. 29 Therefore, Morionton put it into their hearts that they should flee to the land which was northward, which was covered with large bodies of water, and take possession of the land which was northward. 30 And behold, they would have carried this plan into effect, (which would have been a cause to have been lamented) but behold, Morionton being a man of much passion, therefore he was angry with one of his maid servants, and he fell upon her and beat her much. 31 And it came to pass that she fled, and came over to the camp of Moroni, and told Moroni all things concerning the matter, and also concerning their intentions to flee into the land northward. 32 Now behold, the people who were in the land Bountiful, or rather Moroni, feared that they would hearken to the words of Morionton and unite with his people, and thus he would obtain possession of those parts of the land, which would lay a foundation for serious consequences among the people of Nephi, yea, which consequences would lead to the overthrow of their liberty. 33 Therefore Moroni sent an army, with their camp, to head the people of Morionton, to stop their flight into the land northward. 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. 35 And it came to pass that the army which was sent by Moroni, which was led by a man whose name was Teancum, did meet the people of Morionton; and so stubborn were the people of Morionton, (being inspired by his wickedness and his flattering words) that a battle commenced between them, in the which Teancum did slay Morionton and defeat his army, and took them prisoners, and returned to the camp of Moroni. And thus ended the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi. 36 And thus were the people of Morionton brought back. And upon their covenanting to keep the peace they were restored to the land of Morionton, and a union took place between them and the people of Lehi; and they were also restored to their lands. Alma 51:24-26 Alma 50 24 And those who fled out of the city of Moroni came to the city of Nephihah; and also the people of the city of Lehi gathered themselves together, and made preparations and were ready to receive the Lamanites to battle. 25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it. 26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore. Alma 59:5 Alma 59 5 And it came to pass that while Moroni was thus making preparations to go against the Lamanites to battle, behold, the people of Nephihah, who were gathered together from the city of Moroni and the city of Lehi and the city of Morionton, were attacked by the Lamanites. Alma 62:30 Alma 62 30 Now it came to pass that Moroni, after he had obtained possession of the city of Nephihah, having taken many prisoners, which did reduce the armies of the Lamanites exceedingly, and having regained many of the Nephites who had been taken prisoners, which did strengthen the army of Moroni exceedingly; therefore Moroni went forth from the land of Nephihah to the land of Lehi.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Lehi-Nephi +5 +[Lehi-Nephi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2} ≈ IR2 AR1 AR3 +[Lehi-Nephi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2} +[Lehi-Nephi]{city} ⇒ <same as> ⇒ [Nephi]{city2} +[Lehi-Nephi]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Shilom]{land1,2} +[Lehi-Nephi]{land} ⇒ <same as> ⇒ [Nephi]{land2}   [Lehi-Nephi]{city} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {walls2} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The city of Nephi, abandoned by the Nephites about 280 BC, is later repopulated by Nephites in the 280 BC - 171 BC timeframe and it's walls were rebuilt. Originally called Nephi, it is referred to as Lehi-Nephi and then back to just Nephi again. Later, during the Reign of the Judges, Nephi becomes the capital city of the Lamanites. See also, Nephi. Modern city location: St Louis, Missouri.	Mosiah 7:1-4,21Mosiah 7 1 And now, it came to pass that after king Mosiah had had continual peace for the space of three years, he was desirous to know concerning the people who went up to dwell in the land of Lehi-Nephi, or in the city of Lehi-Nephi; for his people had heard nothing from them from the time they left the land of Zarahemla; therefore, they wearied him with their teasings. 2 And it came to pass that king Mosiah granted that sixteen of their strong men might go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi, to inquire concerning their brethren. 3 And it came to pass that on the morrow they started to go up, having with them one Ammon, he being a strong and mighty man, and a descendant of Zarahemla; and he was also their leader. 4 And now, they knew not the course they should travel in the wilderness to go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi; therefore they wandered many days in the wilderness, even forty days did they wander. ... 21 And ye all are witnesses this day, that Zeniff, who was made king over this people, he being over-zealous to inherit the land of his fathers, therefore being deceived by the cunning and craftiness of king Laman, who having entered into a treaty with king Zeniff, and having yielded up into his hands the possessions of a part of the land, or even the city of Lehi-Nephi, and the city of Shilom; and the land round about-- Mosiah 9:6-15Mosiah 9 6 And I went in unto the king, and he covenanted with me that I might possess the land of Lehi-Nephi, and the land of Shilom. 7 And he also commanded that his people should depart out of the land, and I and my people went into the land that we might possess it. 8 And we began to build buildings, and to repair the walls of the city, yea, even the walls of the city of Lehi-Nephi, and the city of Shilom. 9 And we began to till the ground, yea, even with all manner of seeds, with seeds of corn, and of wheat, and of barley, and with neas, and with sheum, and with seeds of all manner of fruits; and we did begin to multiply and prosper in the land. 10 Now it was the cunning and the craftiness of king Laman, to bring my people into bondage, that he yielded up the land that we might possess it. 11 Therefore it came to pass, that after we had dwelt in the land for the space of twelve years that king Laman began to grow uneasy, lest by any means my people should wax strong in the land, and that they could not overpower them and bring them into bondage. 12 Now they were a lazy and an idolatrous people; therefore they were desirous to bring us into bondage, that they might glut themselves with the labors of our hands; yea, that they might feast themselves upon the flocks of our fields. 13 Therefore it came to pass that king Laman began to stir up his people that they should contend with my people; therefore there began to be wars and contentions in the land. 14 For, in the thirteenth year of my reign in the land of Nephi, away on the south of the land of Shilom, when my people were watering and feeding their flocks, and tilling their lands, a numerous host of Lamanites came upon them and began to slay them, and to take off their flocks, and the corn of their fields. 15 Yea, and it came to pass that they fled, all that were not overtaken, even into the city of Nephi, and did call upon me for protection.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Lemuel +9 +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {fire1} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Lemuel] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land1} +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city1} +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land1} +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city1} +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land1} ≈ IR7 +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land1} +[Lemuel]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shimnilom]{city1} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Lemuel is placed on the perimeter of the former path of the Sidon river (Horseshoe Lake) that once existed west of the city of Nephi. Lemuel is so placed because it is mentioned with the other cities that are around the circle. Lemuel was once bordering on the Sidon and and is put at about one o-clock because that is the only place left after Shemlon, Shimnilom, and Shilom are placed. See Section 4.3.4 East of Nephi Modern city location: Granite City/Pontoon Beach, Illinois.	Alma 23:8-13 Alma 23 8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: 9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael; 10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni; 11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi; 12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom. 13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : LineBountifulDesolation +11 +[LineBountifulDesolation] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {passage3} ≈ AR9 AR10 +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {fortified line3} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{fortified line}⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1 day journey2} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{small narrow1} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route4} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {fortified line2} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route2} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1.5 days1} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {militarily strategic1,2} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <route to> ⇒ {land northward1,2} +[LineBountifulDesolation]{passage} ⇒ <route to> ⇒ {land southward1,3,4} AR9Water travel with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph. AR10Water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 3 mph.	The Line Bountiful Desolation is the route between Lake Superior and Lake Michigan/Huron and the border between Bountiful and Desolation (todays Upper Michigan and Ontario). The Book of Mormon says it is 1.5 days travel. This border/passage fits so well with the Book of Morman narrative that it is a major factor in favor on the Zarahemla Centric Heartland Model. This area was considered critically important for military reasons as well as for controlling trade and migration northward. The precise distance from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan/Huron is 63.2 miles. According to Section 3.3 Principles of Navigation, a day and a half journey with the current should be 72 miles and a day and a half journey against the current should be 48 miles for an average of 60 miles, so that is a pretty good match to the actual distance. See also, "Narrow Passage". Modern feature location: St Marys river ≈ border of Upper Michigan and Ontario Canada.	Alma 22:32-33 Alma 22 32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward. 33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward. Helaman 4:6-7Helaman 4 6 And the Nephites and the armies of Moronihah were driven even into the land of Bountiful; 7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country. Mormon 2:29Mormon 2 29 And the Lamanites did give unto us the land northward, yea, even to the narrow passage which led into the land southward. And we did give unto the Lamanites all the land southward. Mormon 3:4-5Mormon 3 4 And it came to pass that after this tenth year had passed away, making, in the whole, three hundred and sixty years from the coming of Christ, the king of the Lamanites sent an epistle unto me, which gave unto me to know that they were preparing to come again to battle against us. 5 And it came to pass that I did cause my people that they should gather themselves together at the land Desolation, to a city which was in the borders, by the narrow pass which led into the land southward. Ether 7:20-21Ether 7 20 And they built a great city by the narrow neck of land, by the place where the sea divides the land. 21 And they did preserve the land southward for a wilderness, to get game. And the whole face of the land northward was covered with inhabitants.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Manti +20 +[Manti] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city6,7,8} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Manti] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,4,6,8} ≈ IR2 +[Manti]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city6} +[Manti]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city6} +[Manti]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city6,7} +[Manti]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Judea]{city6} +[Manti]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city6} +[Manti]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city6} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1,3,4} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [SidonHead]{place3,4} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [SidonHead]{place3} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Riplah]{hill4} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [SidonHead]{place3,4} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river3} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {South Wilderness1} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Gideon]{land2} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ {South Wilderness1} +[Manti]{land}~[Antionum]{land} ⇒ <separated by> ⇒ {wilderness4} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Riplah]{hill4} +[Manti]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea3,5} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Most Book of Mormon maps place Manti as south of Zarahemla, which is incorrect. In fairness, the description of Alma's journey in Alma 17:1 can be read two ways: A) Alma is journeying south towards Manti starting at the land of Gideon (making Manti south of Gideon); or 2) Alma is journeying starting from Gideon located to the south then towards Manti (making Gideon south of Manti). So with Alma 17:1 being indeterminate, it is necessary to consider other factors, as follows: If the traditional reading were correct (Alma is traveling south) I would expect it to read instead "And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying southward from the land of Gideon". However, throughout the entire text of the Book of Mormon one never travels in a "direction" but rather to/from a place, so for that reason, to be consistent with the rest of the Book of Mormon and IR2 (section 3.4) -- Alma cannot be stated as traveling in the direction of south. One case for Manti being north of Zarahemla is because Alma meets up with the sons of Mosiah who are traveling to Zarahemla from Jershon, and Jershon is north of Zarahemla. To put Manti south of Gideon would require the Sidon/Mississippi to flow from south to north but that would be a violation of IR1 and the location of Zarahemla. Since the Sidon flows north to south, that makes Manti north. See also "SidonHead". The stripling soldiers campaigned in the land of Manti (Alma 53:22) with is just south of the west sea (lake Superior). That makes Manti quite north of both Gideon and Zarahemla. See Section 4.5.3. The actual city of Manti is placed due to its order (bottom to top, left to right) when named in relation to the other nearby cities in Alma 56, and also because of it's strategic position at the junction of the Mississippi and St. Croix rivers. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Modern city location: Prescott, Wisconsin.	Alma 16:6-7Alma 16 6 And it came to pass that Alma inquired of the Lord concerning the matter. And Alma returned and said unto them: Behold, the Lamanites will cross the river Sidon in the south wilderness, away up beyond the borders of the land of Manti. And behold there shall ye meet them, on the east of the river Sidon, and there the Lord will deliver unto thee thy brethren who have been taken captive by the Lamanites. 7 And it came to pass that Zoram and his sons crossed over the river Sidon, with their armies, and marched away beyond the borders of Manti into the south wilderness, which was on the east side of the river Sidon. Alma 17:1Alma 17 1 And now it came to pass that as Alma was journeying from the land of Gideon southward, away to the land of Manti, behold, to his astonishment, he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla. Alma 22:27Alma 22 (see section 4.2 commentary) 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. Alma 43:22-32,42Alma 43 22 Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone. 23 But it came to pass, as soon as they had departed into the wilderness Moroni sent spies into the wilderness to watch their camp; and Moroni, also, knowing of the prophecies of Alma, sent certain men unto him, desiring him that he should inquire of the Lord whither the armies of the Nephites should go to defend themselves against the Lamanites. 24 And it came to pass that the word of the Lord came unto Alma, and Alma informed the messengers of Moroni, that the armies of the Lamanites were marching round about in the wilderness, that they might come over into the land of Manti, that they might commence an attack upon the weaker part of the people. And those messengers went and delivered the message unto Moroni. 25 Now Moroni, leaving a part of his army in the land of Jershon, lest by any means a part of the Lamanites should come into that land and take possession of the city, took the remaining part of his army and marched over into the land of Manti. 26 And he caused that all the people in that quarter of the land should gather themselves together to battle against the Lamanites, to defend their lands and their country, their rights and their liberties; therefore they were prepared against the time of the coming of the Lamanites. 27 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his army should be secreted in the valley which was near the bank of the river Sidon, which was on the west of the river Sidon in the wilderness. 28 And Moroni placed spies round about, that he might know when the camp of the Lamanites should come. 29 And now, as Moroni knew the intention of the Lamanites, that it was their intention to destroy their brethren, or to subject them and bring them into bondage that they might establish a kingdom unto themselves over all the land; 30 And he also knowing that it was the only desire of the Nephites to preserve their lands, and their liberty, and their church, therefore he thought it no sin that he should defend them by stratagem; therefore, he found by his spies which course the Lamanites were to take. 31 Therefore, he divided his army and brought a part over into the valley, and concealed them on the east, and on the south of the hill Riplah; 32 And the remainder he concealed in the west valley, on the west of the river Sidon, and so down into the borders of the land Manti. 33 And thus having placed his army according to his desire, he was prepared to meet them. 42 And the Lamanites did flee again before them, towards the land of Manti; and they were met again by the armies of Moroni. Alma 53:8-9,22Alma 53 8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land. 9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances. ... 22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea. Alma 56:13-15Alma 56 13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men; 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. 15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. Alma 57:22-23 Alma 57 22 And now behold, it was these my sons, and those men who had been selected to convey the prisoners, to whom we owe this great victory; for it was they who did beat the Lamanites; therefore they were driven back to the city of Manti. 23 And we retained our city Cumeni, and were not all destroyed by the sword; nevertheless, we had suffered great loss. Alma 58:1,13-14,25-28,38-39Alma 58 1 And behold, now it came to pass that our next object was to obtain the city of Manti; but behold, there was no way that we could lead them out of the city by our small bands. For behold, they remembered that which we had hitherto done; therefore we could not decoy them away from their strongholds. ... 13 And thus we did go forth with all our might against the Lamanites, who were in the city of Manti; and we did pitch our tents by the wilderness side, which was near to the city. 14 And it came to pass that on the morrow, that when the Lamanites saw that we were in the borders by the wilderness which was near the city, that they sent out their spies round about us that they might discover the number and the strength of our army. ... 25 And behold, it was night and they did pitch their tents, for the chief captains of the Lamanites had supposed that the Nephites were weary because of their march; and supposing that they had driven their whole army therefore they took no thought concerning the city of Manti. 26 Now it came to pass that when it was night, I caused that my men should not sleep, but that they should march forward by another way towards the land of Manti. 27 And because of this our march in the night-time, behold, on the morrow we were beyond the Lamanites, insomuch that we did arrive before them at the city of Manti. 28 And thus it came to pass, that by this stratagem we did take possession of the city of Manti without the shedding of blood. ... 38 Behold, this is the twenty and ninth year, in the latter end, and we are in the possession of our lands; and the Lamanites have fled to the land of Nephi. 39 And those sons of the people of Ammon, of whom I have so highly spoken, are with me in the city of Manti; and the Lord had supported them, yea, and kept them from falling by the sword, insomuch that even one soul has not been slain.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Melek +8 +[Melek] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,3,4} ≈ IR2 AR4 AR5 AR10 +[Melek]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jershon]{land3} +[Melek]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,2,3} +[Melek]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Ammonihah]{city1} +[Melek]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Ammonihah]{land1} +[Melek]{land} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} +[Melek]{land} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ {the borders of wilderness1} +[Melek]{land}~[Ammonihah]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {3 days1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders. AR5The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. AR10Water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 3 mph.	Some care is taken in the Book of Mormon to describe the land of Melek so it can be placed with some confidence. However, there is no mention of a city of Melek even though the junction of the Iowa and Mississippi rivers would be a strategic area for a city. Because of the terrain there is no modern city (of any size) on the west side of the river at this junction, so maybe the same was also true in Book of Mormon times. The distance from Melek to Ammonihah is stated as 3 days journey. From AR10 the Iowa River journey upstream from Toolsboro Iowa (start of Melek) to Coralville Iowa (Ammonihah) should be calculated as 8 hrs X 3 mph X 3 days = 72 miles. The actual (google map trace) distance on the Book of Mormon map, following the river, is precisely 75.5 miles so that is an excellent fit. Modern land location: region enclosed by the Iowa, Cedar, Wapsipinicon and Mississippi rivers in eastern Iowa.	Alma 8:1-8Alma 8 1 And now it came to pass that Alma returned from the land of Gideon, after having taught the people of Gideon many things which cannot be written, having established the order of the church, according as he had before done in the land of Zarahemla, yea, he returned to his own house at Zarahemla to rest himself from the labors which he had performed. 2 And thus ended the ninth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi. 3 And it came to pass in the commencement of the tenth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, that Alma departed from thence and took his journey over into the land of Melek, on the west of the river Sidon, on the west by the borders of the wilderness. 4 And he began to teach the people in the land of Melek according to the holy order of God, by which he had been called; and he began to teach the people throughout all the land of Melek. 5 And it came to pass that the people came to him throughout all the borders of the land which was by the wilderness side. And they were baptized throughout all the land; 6 So that when he had finished his work at Melek he departed thence, and traveled three days' journey on the north of the land of Melek; and he came to a city which was called Ammonihah. 7 Now it was the custom of the people of Nephi to call their lands, and their cities, and their villages, yea, even all their small villages, after the name of him who first possessed them; and thus it was with the land of Ammonihah. 8 And it came to pass that when Alma had come to the city of Ammonihah he began to preach the word of God unto them. Alma 31:6-7Alma 31 6 Therefore he took Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner; and Himni he did leave in the church in Zarahemla; but the former three he took with him, and also Amulek and Zeezrom, who were at Melek; and he also took two of his sons. 7 Now the eldest of his sons he took not with him, and his name was Helaman; but the names of those whom he took with him were Shiblon and Corianton; and these are the names of those who went with him among the Zoramites, to preach unto them the word. Alma 35:13Alma 35 13 And the people of Ammon departed out of the land of Jershon, and came over into the land of Melek, and gave place in the land of Jershon for the armies of the Nephites, that they might contend with the armies of the Lamanites and the armies of the Zoramites; and thus commenced a war betwixt the Lamanites and the Nephites, in the eighteenth year of the reign of the judges; and an account shall be given of their wars hereafter. Alma 45:18Alma 45 18 And when Alma had done this he departed out of the land of Zarahemla, as if to go into the land of Melek. And it came to pass that he was never heard of more; as to his death or burial we know not of.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Middoni +9 +[Middoni] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3} ≈ IR2 AR4 AR5 +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ani-Anti]{village2} +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land1,2,3,4} +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{city2} +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city4} +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1,3,4} +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land4} +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land4} +[Middoni]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shimnilom]{city4} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders. AR5The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day.	Middoni is mentioned in relation to the missionary journeys of the sons of Mosiah. Aaron, Muloki and Ammah are imprisoned there and thus there are many references to Middoni. By the descriptions and by process of elimination Middoni is placed on the west of the Sidon and south of the city of Nephi. Note that Middoni is only a land (with a prison) but not designated as a city. I have placed it directly across the river from Ani-Anti (Dupo, Missouri) due to the phrase "came over". See 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Modern city location: Bella Villa/Lemay Missouri.	Alma 20: 1-7,14-15,28,30Alma 20 1 And it came to pass that when they had established a church in that land, that king Lamoni desired that Ammon should go with him to the land of Nephi, that he might show him unto his father. 2 And the voice of the Lord came to Ammon, saying: Thou shalt not go up to the land of Nephi, for behold, the king will seek thy life; but thou shalt go to the land of Middoni; for behold, thy brother Aaron, and also Muloki and Ammah are in prison. 3 Now it came to pass that when Ammon had heard this, he said unto Lamoni: Behold, my brother and brethren are in prison at Middoni, and I go that I may deliver them. 4 Now Lamoni said unto Ammon: I know, in the strength of the Lord thou canst do all things. But behold, I will go with thee to the land of Middoni; for the king of the land of Middoni, whose name is Antiomno, is a friend unto me; therefore I go to the land of Middoni, that I may flatter the king of the land, and he will cast thy brethren out of prison. Now Lamoni said unto him: Who told thee that thy brethren were in prison? 5 And Ammon said unto him: No one hath told me, save it be God; and he said unto me--Go and deliver thy brethren, for they are in prison in the land of Middoni. 6 Now when Lamoni had heard this he caused that his servants should make ready his horses and his chariots. 7 And he said unto Ammon: Come, I will go with thee down to the land of Middoni, and there I will plead with the king that he will cast thy brethren out of prison. ... 14 Now the father of Lamoni commanded him that he should slay Ammon with the sword. And he also commanded him that he should not go to the land of Middoni, but that he should return with him to the land of Ishmael. 15 But Lamoni said unto him: I will not slay Ammon, neither will I return to the land of Ishmael, but I go to the land of Middoni that I may release the brethren of Ammon, for I know that they are just men and holy prophets of the true God. ... ... 28 And it came to pass that Ammon and Lamoni proceeded on their journey towards the land of Middoni. And Lamoni found favor in the eyes of the king of the land; therefore the brethren of Ammon were brought forth out of prison. ... 30 And, as it happened, it was their lot to have fallen into the hands of a more hardened and a more stiffnecked people; therefore they would not hearken unto their words, and they had cast them out, and had smitten them, and had driven them from house to house, and from place to place, even until they had arrived in the land of Middoni; and there they were taken and cast into prison, and bound with strong cords, and kept in prison for many days, and were delivered by Lamoni and Ammon. Alma 21:3-4,11-13,18Alma 21 3 Now the Lamanites of themselves were sufficiently hardened, but the Amlicites and the Amulonites were still harder; therefore they did cause the Lamanites that they should harden their hearts, that they should wax strong in wickedness and their abominations. 4 And it came to pass that Aaron came to the city of Jerusalem, and first began to preach to the Amlicites. And he began to preach to them in their synagogues, for they had built synagogues after the order of the Nehors; for many of the Amlicites and the Amulonites were after the order of the Nehors. ... 11 Therefore, when he saw that they would not hear his words, he departed out of their synagogue, and came over to a village which was called Ani-Anti, and there he found Muloki preaching the word unto them; and also Ammah and his brethren. And they contended with many about the word. 12 And it came to pass that they saw that the people would harden their hearts, therefore they departed and came over into the land of Middoni. And they did preach the word unto many, and few believed on the words which they taught. 13 Nevertheless, Aaron and a certain number of his brethren were taken and cast into prison, and the remainder of them fled out of the land of Middoni unto the regions round about. ... ... 18 And it came to pass that Ammon and Lamoni returned from the land of Middoni to the land of Ishmael, which was the land of their inheritance. Alma 22:1-4Alma 22 1 Now, as Ammon was thus teaching the people of Lamoni continually, we will return to the account of Aaron and his brethren; for after he departed from the land of Middoni he was led by the Spirit to the land of Nephi, even to the house of the king which was over all the land save it were the land of Ishmael; and he was the father of Lamoni. 2 And it came to pass that he went in unto him into the king's palace, with his brethren, and bowed himself before the king, and said unto him: Behold, O king, we are the brethren of Ammon, whom thou hast delivered out of prison. 3 And now, O king, if thou wilt spare our lives, we will be thy servants. And the king said unto them: Arise, for I will grant unto you your lives, and I will not suffer that ye shall be my servants; but I will insist that ye shall administer unto me; for I have been somewhat troubled in mind because of the generosity and the greatness of the words of thy brother Ammon; and I desire to know the cause why he has not come up out of Middoni with thee. 4 And Aaron said unto the king: Behold, the Spirit of the Lord has called him another way; he has gone to the land of Ishmael, to teach the people of Lamoni. Alma 23:8-13 Alma 23 8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: 9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael; 10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni; 11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi; 12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom. 13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Midian +6 +[Midian] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1>} +[Midian]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land1} ≈ AR5 +[Midian]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1} +[Midian]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land1} +[Midian]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Helam]{land1} +[Midian]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{land1} AR5The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day.	Midian is placed north up the river from where the most hostile Amlicites and Amulonites were located (in Amulon and Jerusalem etc south), a more safe place to for a rendezvous. Also, from there they would have an easy water route traveling west to Ishmael for their council mentioned. The location of Midian is also chosen because it only place of major population left to consider in the crowded St. Louis region. Unless there are other prominent factors major population centers of modern times are assumed to mirror the major population centers of ancient times. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Modern city location: Alton, Illinois.	Alma 24:1,5,20Alma 24 1 And it came to pass that the Amalekites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam, and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amalekites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren. ... 5 Now when Ammon and his brethren and all those who had come up with him saw the preparations of the Lamanites to destroy their brethren, they came forth to the land of Midian, and there Ammon met all his brethren; and from thence they came to the land of Ishmael that they might hold a council with Lamoni and also with his brother Anti-Nephi-Lehi, what they should do to defend themselves against the Lamanites. ... 20 And it came to pass that their brethren, the Lamanites, made preparations for war, and came up to the land of Nephi for the purpose of destroying the king, and to place another in his stead, and also of destroying the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi out of the land.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Minon +5 +[Minon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} +[Minon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} +[Minon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley1} ≈ AR4 +[Minon]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} +[Minon]{land}~[Zarahemla]{city}⇒ <distance> ⇒ {<1 days1} AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders.	The Land of Minon is described during the Amlicite war. The Lamanites go right through Minon as they come up to join with the Amlicites battling at Zarahemla. The land of Minon was apparently used for farming as there is mention of the crops being trodden down by the advancing armies. See Section 4.4.2 Amlicite War - Battle of Zarahemla. Modern land location: Between Keokuk and Montrose, Iowa and between the Mississippi and Des Moines rivers.	Alma 2:15-27Alma 2 15 And it came to pass that the Amlicites came upon the hill Amnihu, which was east of the river Sidon, which ran by the land of Zarahemla, and there they began to make war with the Nephites. ... 17 And they began to slay the Amlicites upon the hill east of Sidon. And the Amlicites did contend with the Nephites with great strength, insomuch that many of the Nephites did fall before the Amlicites. ... 20 And it came to pass that when Alma could pursue the Amlicites no longer he caused that his people should pitch their tents in the valley of Gideon, the valley being called after that Gideon who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword; and in this valley the Nephites did pitch their tents for the night. 21 And Alma sent spies to follow the remnant of the Amlicites, that he might know of their plans and their plots, whereby he might guard himself against them, that he might preserve his people from being destroyed. 22 Now those whom he had sent out to watch the camp of the Amlicites were called Zeram, and Amnor, and Manti, and Limher; these were they who went out with their men to watch the camp of the Amlicites. 23 And it came to pass that on the morrow they returned into the camp of the Nephites in great haste, being greatly astonished, and struck with much fear, saying: 24 Behold, we followed the camp of the Amlicites, and to our great astonishment, in the land of Minon, above [EME before] the land of Zarahemla, in the course of the land of Nephi, we saw a numerous host of the Lamanites; and behold, the Amlicites have joined them; 25 And they are upon our brethren in that land; and they are fleeing before them with their flocks, and their wives, and their children, towards our city; and except we make haste they obtain possession of our city, and our fathers, and our wives, and our children be slain. 26 And it came to pass that the people of Nephi took their tents, and departed out of the valley of Gideon towards their city, which was the city of Zarahemla. 27 And behold, as they were crossing the river Sidon, the Lamanites and the Amlicites, being as numerous almost, as it were, as the sands of the sea, came upon them to destroy them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Mocum +4 +[Mocum] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Mocum]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {waters coming up1} +[Mocum]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{city1} +[Mocum]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Onihah]{city1} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Onihah, Mocum, and Jerusalem are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by flooding (waters that "come up") prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. This is an instance of river flooding and another indication that these cities bordered the waters of the Sidon. Note that, by contrast, the destroyed cities bordering the east sea were "sunk in the depths of the sea". The three cities mentioned with Mocum are placed according to the following: The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major populations today. From step 2, we get the following result: Onihah = Ste. Genevieve Missouri, Mocum = Oakville Missouri, Jerusalem = St. Louis, Missouri, near River City Casino. It is useful that we also have additional information on city of Jerusalem to use as an anchor point. Onihah could be placed at Peverly Missiouri or Ste. Genevieve Missouri. The reason the latter case was chosen is because the topography of Ste. Genevieve appears much more conducive to past and future flooding. Modern city location: Oakville, Missouri.	3 Nephi 9:73 Nephi 9 7 Yea, and the city of Onihah and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Mocum and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Jerusalem and the inhabitants thereof; and waters have I caused to come up in the stead thereof, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints shall not come up any more unto me against them.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Moriantum +3 +[Moriantum] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place1} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Moriantum]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sherrizah]{tower1} +[Moriantum]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city1+2} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Mention of the war atrocities at Sherrizah and Moriantum is in a letter from Mormon to Moroni that Moroni later shares with us later, outside the chronological narrative of Mormon. However it fits best with the situation described in Mormon 4 and therefore the near locale would be the city of Desolation (located on St Joseph Island). The most important location by far near to the city of Desolation is the "narrow pass" "leading by the sea" to the land northward. Such an strategic location would demand a city or military outpost and so this is what I propose for Moriantum. Modern city location: De Tour Village	Moroni 9:7-9,16-17Mormon 9 7 And now I write somewhat concerning the sufferings of this people. For according to the knowledge which I have received from Amoron, behold, the Lamanites have many prisoners, which they took from the tower of Sherrizah; and there were men, women, and children. 8 And the husbands and fathers of those women and children they have slain; and they feed the women upon the flesh of their husbands, and the children upon the flesh of their fathers; and no water, save a little, do they give unto them. 9 And notwithstanding this great abomination of the Lamanites, it doth not exceed that of our people in Moriantum. For behold, many of the daughters of the Lamanites have they taken prisoners; and after depriving them of that which was most dear and precious above all things, which is chastity and virtue-- ... 16 And again, my son, there are many widows and their daughters who remain in Sherrizah; and that part of the provisions which the Lamanites did not carry away, behold, the army of Zenephi has carried away, and left them to wander whithersoever they can for food; and many old women do faint by the way and die. 17 And the army which is with me is weak; and the armies of the Lamanites are betwixt Sherrizah and me; and as many as have fled to the army of Aaron have fallen victims to their awful brutality. Mormon 4:1-4Mormon 4 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. 4 And it was because the armies of the Nephites went up unto the Lamanites that they began to be smitten; for were it not for that, the Lamanites could have had no power over them. 5 But, behold, the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished; for it is the wicked that stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed. 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. 9 And now all these things had been done, and there had been thousands slain on both sides, both the Nephites and the Lamanites. 10 And it came to pass that the three hundred and sixty and sixth year had passed away, and the Lamanites came again upon the Nephites to battle; and yet the Nephites repented not of the evil they had done, but persisted in their wickedness continually. 11 And it is impossible for the tongue to describe, or for man to write a perfect description of the horrible scene of the blood and carnage which was among the people, both of the Nephites and of the Lamanites; and every heart was hardened, so that they delighted in the shedding of blood continually. 12 And there never had been so great wickedness among all the children of Lehi, nor even among all the house of Israel, according to the words of the Lord, as was among this people. 13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites. 14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Morionton +12 +[Morionton] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city2,3,4} ≈ AR3 +[Morionton] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} +[Morionton]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea2} +[Morionton]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gid]{city2} +[Morionton]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lehi]{city2,4} +[Morionton]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lehi]{land2,3} +[Morionton]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moroni]{city2} +[Morionton]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephihah]{city2} +[Morionton]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Omner]{city2} +[Morionton]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Morionton]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lehi]{land1,4} +[Morionton]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Lehi]{city2,4} +[Morionton]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Lehi]{land1} +[Morionton]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1} AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Morionton (spelling from BOMET) was the instigator of an internal dispute among the Nephites. The city of Morionton has his name. It should be noted that the city of Lehi was in the land of Jershon and therefore a city of the people of Ammon (Ammonites) who were previously Lamanites who had converted and joined with the Nephites, and the account says they "were not in the wrong" when it came to the dispute with the people of Morionton. The area of dispute is not difficult to surmise. Halfway between Morionton and Lehi is the Menominee River that empties into Lake Michigan. The river separates Bountiful from Jershon with the same border that separates today Upper Michigan from Wisconsin. One would think the people of Morionton would just take the north side of the Menominee River and let the Ammonites take the south side but apparently no such agreement was reached. Perhaps the south side was more desirable and the people of Morionton just wanted all it. Modern city location: Escanaba, Michigan. Modern land location: Menominee Michigan (north of river) and Marinette Wisconsin (south of river).	Alma 50:25-36Alma 50 25 And it came to pass that in the commencement of the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges, there would also have been peace among the people of Nephi had it not been for a contention which took place among them concerning the land of Lehi, and the land of Morionton, which joined upon the borders of Lehi; both of which were on the borders by the seashore. 26 For behold, the people who possessed the land of Morionton did claim a part of the land of Lehi; therefore there began to be a warm contention between them, insomuch that the people of Morionton took up arms against their brethren, and they were determined by the sword to slay them. 27 But behold, the people who possessed the land of Lehi fled to the camp of Moroni, and appealed unto him for assistance; for behold they were not in the wrong. 28 And it came to pass that when the people of Morionton, who were led by a man whose name was Morionton, found that the people of Lehi had fled to the camp of Moroni, they were exceedingly fearful lest the army of Moroni should come upon them and destroy them. 29 Therefore, Morionton put it into their hearts that they should flee to the land which was northward, which was covered with large bodies of water, and take possession of the land which was northward. 30 And behold, they would have carried this plan into effect, (which would have been a cause to have been lamented) but behold, Morionton being a man of much passion, therefore he was angry with one of his maid servants, and he fell upon her and beat her much. 31 And it came to pass that she fled, and came over to the camp of Moroni, and told Moroni all things concerning the matter, and also concerning their intentions to flee into the land northward. 32 Now behold, the people who were in the land Bountiful, or rather Moroni, feared that they would hearken to the words of Morionton and unite with his people, and thus he would obtain possession of those parts of the land, which would lay a foundation for serious consequences among the people of Nephi, yea, which consequences would lead to the overthrow of their liberty. 33 Therefore Moroni sent an army, with their camp, to head the people of Morionton, to stop their flight into the land northward. 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. 35 And it came to pass that the army which was sent by Moroni, which was led by a man whose name was Teancum, did meet the people of Morionton; and so stubborn were the people of Morionton, (being inspired by his wickedness and his flattering words) that a battle commenced between them, in the which Teancum did slay Morionton and defeat his army, and took them prisoners, and returned to the camp of Moroni. And thus ended the twenty and fourth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi. 36 And thus were the people of Morionton brought back. And upon their covenanting to keep the peace they were restored to the land of Morionton, and a union took place between them and the people of Lehi; and they were also restored to their lands. Alma 51:1,24-26Alma 51 1 And now it came to pass in the commencement of the twenty and fifth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, they having established peace between the people of Lehi and the people of Morionton concerning their lands, and having commenced the twenty and fifth year in peace; ... 22 Behold, it came to pass that while Moroni was thus breaking down the wars and contentions among his own people, and subjecting them to peace and civilization, and making regulations to prepare for war against the Lamanites, behold, the Lamanites had come into the land of Moroni, which was in the borders by the seashore. 23 And it came to pass that the Nephites were not sufficiently strong in the city of Moroni; therefore Amalickiah did drive them, slaying many. And it came to pass that Amalickiah took possession of the city, yea, possession of all their fortifications. 24 And those who fled out of the city of Moroni came to the city of Nephihah; and also the people of the city of Lehi gathered themselves together, and made preparations and were ready to receive the Lamanites to battle. 25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it. 26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore. Alma 55:7,33Alma 55 7 Now the Nephites were guarded in the city of Gid; therefore Moroni appointed Laman and caused that a small number of men should go with him. ... 33 And now it came to pass that it was expedient for Moroni to make preparations to attack the city Morionton; for behold, the Lamanites had, by their labors, fortified the city Morionton until it had become an exceeding stronghold. Alma 59:5Alma 59 5 And it came to pass that while Moroni was thus making preparations to go against the Lamanites to battle, behold, the people of Nephihah, who were gathered together from the city of Moroni and the city of Lehi and the city of Morionton, were attacked by the Lamanites.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Mormon +9 +[Mormon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {forest1} +[Mormon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place1} +[Mormon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {waters1,2,3} +[Mormon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {fountain1} +[Mormon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{land4} +[Mormon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephi]{land3} +[Mormon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{city4} +[Mormon]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [WatersOfMormon]{fountain1,2,3} +[Mormon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land4}	The land of Mormon is a large area of land covering most of western Missouri and contains the "waters of Mormon" in the southeastern region. Modern land location: Ozarks plateau. Modern feature location: Big Springs, Missouri.	Mosiah 18:4-8,16,30Mosiah 18 4 And it came to pass that as many as did believe him did go forth to a place which was called Mormon, having received its name from the king, being in the borders of the land having been infested, by times or at seasons, by wild beasts. 5 Now, there was in Mormon a fountain of pure water, and Alma resorted thither, there being near the water a thicket of small trees, where he did hide himself in the daytime from the searches of the king. 6 And it came to pass that as many as believed him went thither to hear his words. 7 And it came to pass after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord. 8 And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another's burdens, that they may be light; ... ... 16 And after this manner he did baptize every one that went forth to the place of Mormon; and they were in number about two hundred and four souls; yea, and they were baptized in the waters of Mormon, and were filled with the grace of God. ... ... 30 And now it came to pass that all this was done in Mormon, yea, by the waters of Mormon, in the forest that was near the waters of Mormon; yea, the place of Mormon, the waters of Mormon, the forest of Mormon, how beautiful are they to the eyes of them who there came to the knowledge of their Redeemer; yea, and how blessed are they, for they shall sing to his praise forever. Mosiah 25:18Mosiah 25 18 Therefore, Alma did go forth into the water and did baptize them; yea, he did baptize them after the manner he did his brethren in the waters of Mormon; yea, and as many as he did baptize did belong to the church of God; and this because of their belief on the words of Alma. Alma 5:3Alma 5 3 I, Alma, having been consecrated by my father, Alma, to be a high priest over the church of God, he having power and authority from God to do these things, behold, I say unto you that he began to establish a church in the land which was in the borders of Nephi; yea, the land which was called the land of Mormon; yea, and he did baptize his brethren in the waters of Mormon. Alma 21:1-2Alma 21 1 Now when Ammon and his brethren separated themselves in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, behold Aaron took his journey towards the land which was called by the Lamanites, Jerusalem, calling it after the land of their fathers' nativity; and it was away joining the borders of Mormon. 2 Now the Lamanites and the Amlicites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem. 3 Nephi 5:123 Nephi 5 12 And behold, I am called Mormon, being called after the land of Mormon, the land in which Alma did establish the church among the people, yea, the first church which was established among them after their transgression.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Moroni +13 +[Moroni] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2,3} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Moroni] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2,3} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Lamanite/Nephite border1,4} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {seashore2,4} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {sinking into the sea5} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Aaron]{city1} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lehi]{city2,3} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lehi]{land4} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Morionton]{city3} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephihah]{city1,2,3,4} +[Moroni]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {people of Ammon4} +[Moroni]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Aaron]{land1} +[Moroni]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephihah]{land1} +[Moroni]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {wilderness east1,4} +[Moroni]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {wilderness south1,4} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Moroni is a city founded on the southwest corner of Lake Michigan at the entrance of the Chicago river. Being close to the Lamanite borders, Moroni was the location of a lot of military activity. Moroni is south of all the locations listed as being "near". "Near" is a relative term in that these cities by the sea are not that near by land but have easy access to each via the east sea (Lake Michigan). Therefore in the Book of Mormon narrative there is a lot of migration mentioned between these coastal cities for safety and military reasons. Modern city location: Chicago, Illinois.	Alma 50:10-14Alma 50 10 And he also placed armies on the south, in the borders of their possessions, and caused them to erect fortifications that they might secure their armies and their people from the hands of their enemies. 11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure. 12 Thus Moroni, with his armies, which did increase daily because of the assurance of protection which his works did bring forth unto them, did seek to cut off the strength and the power of the Lamanites from off the lands of their possessions, that they should have no power upon the lands of their possession. 13 And it came to pass that the Nephites began the foundation of a city, and they called the name of the city Moroni; and it was by the east sea; and it was on the south by the line of the possessions of the Lamanites. 14 And they also began a foundation for a city between the city of Moroni and the city of Aaron, joining the borders of Aaron and Moroni; and they called the name of the city, or the land, Nephihah. Alma 51:22-24Alma 51 22 Behold, it came to pass that while Moroni was thus breaking down the wars and contentions among his own people, and subjecting them to peace and civilization, and making regulations to prepare for war against the Lamanites, behold, the Lamanites had come into the land of Moroni, which was in the borders by the seashore. 23 And it came to pass that the Nephites were not sufficiently strong in the city of Moroni; therefore Amalickiah did drive them, slaying many. And it came to pass that Amalickiah took possession of the city, yea, possession of all their fortifications. 24 And those who fled out of the city of Moroni came to the city of Nephihah; and also the people of the city of Lehi gathered themselves together, and made preparations and were ready to receive the Lamanites to battle. Alma 59:5Alma 59 5 And it came to pass that while Moroni was thus making preparations to go against the Lamanites to battle, behold, the people of Nephihah, who were gathered together from the city of Moroni and the city of Lehi and the city of Morionton, were attacked by the Lamanites. Alma 62:25-34Alma 62 25 And now when Moroni saw that they were fleeing before him, he did cause that his men should march forth against them, and slew many, and surrounded many others, and took them prisoners; and the remainder of them fled into the land of Moroni, which was in the borders by the seashore. 26 Thus had Moroni and Pahoran obtained the possession of the city of Nephihah without the loss of one soul; and there were many of the Lamanites who were slain. 27 Now it came to pass that many of the Lamanites that were prisoners were desirous to join the people of Ammon and become a free people. 28 And it came to pass that as many as were desirous, unto them it was granted according to their desires. 29 Therefore, all the prisoners of the Lamanites did join the people of Ammon, and did begin to labor exceedingly, tilling the ground, raising all manner of grain, and flocks and herds of every kind; and thus were the Nephites relieved from a great burden; yea, insomuch that they were relieved from all the prisoners of the Lamanites. 30 Now it came to pass that Moroni, after he had obtained possession of the city of Nephihah, having taken many prisoners, which did reduce the armies of the Lamanites exceedingly, and having regained many of the Nephites who had been taken prisoners, which did strengthen the army of Moroni exceedingly; therefore Moroni went forth from the land of Nephihah to the land of Lehi. 31 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that Moroni was coming against them, they were again frightened and fled before the army of Moroni. 32 And it came to pass that Moroni and his army did pursue them from city to city, until they were met by Lehi and Teancum; and the Lamanites fled from Lehi and Teancum, even down upon the borders by the seashore, until they came to the land of Moroni. 33 And the armies of the Lamanites were all gathered together, insomuch that they were all in one body in the land of Moroni. Now Ammoron, the king of the Lamanites, was also with them. 34 And it came to pass that Moroni and Lehi and Teancum did encamp with their armies round about in the borders of the land of Moroni, insomuch that the Lamanites were encircled about in the borders by the wilderness on the south, and in the borders by the wilderness on the east. 3 Nephi 3:83 Nephi 3 9 And the city of Moroni did sink into the depths of the sea, and the inhabitants thereof were drowned.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Moronihah +1 +[Moronihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Moronihah]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {covered with earth1,2} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	For the city of Moronihah, the name indicates the Nephite general, the son of Moroni, so it would be somewhere in Nephite territory. We also know the city was destroyed by being buried under a mountain. So I have placed it in hilly region near to other cities covered with earth, and in a prime and elevated location not yet claiming a Nephite cities nearby - at the junction of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers. Modern city location: Wyalusing State Park, Wisconsin.	3 Nephi 8:10,253 Nephi 8 10 And the earth was carried up upon the city of Moronihah, that in the place of the city there became a great mountain. ... 25 And in another place they were heard to cry and mourn, saying: O that we had repented before this great and terrible day, and had not killed and stoned the prophets, and cast them out; then would our mothers and our fair daughters, and our children have been spared, and not have been buried up in that great city Moronihah. And thus were the howlings of the people great and terrible. 3 Nephi 9:53 Nephi 9 5 And behold, that great city Moronihah have I covered with earth, and the inhabitants thereof, to hide their iniquities and their abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints shall not come any more unto me against them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : MULEK +2 +[MULEK] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land area1} +[MULEK]{land area} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [LEHI]{land area1}	From a more global perspective, the lands south and north (From the mouth of the Mississippi up to Canada and beyond) were named Lehi and Mulek although these designations were rarely used because most of the historical records focus on more limited areas. Going south to north, LEHI extends from the mouth of the Mississippi to somewhat north of St. Louis, inclusive. Modern land location: Starting 100 miles north of St. Louis and extending to Lake Superior.	Helaman 6:6-10Helaman 6 6 And it came to pass that many of the Lamanites did go into the land northward; and also Nephi and Lehi went into the land northward, to preach unto the people. And thus ended the sixty and third year. 7 And behold, there was peace in all the land, insomuch that the Nephites did go into whatsoever part of the land they would, whether among the Nephites or the Lamanites. 8 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did also go whithersoever they would, whether it were among the Lamanites or among the Nephites; and thus they did have free intercourse one with another, to buy and to sell, and to get gain, according to their desire. 9 And it came to pass that they became exceedingly rich, both the Lamanites and the Nephites; and they did have an exceeding plenty of gold, and of silver, and of all manner of precious metals, both in the land south and in the land north. 10 Now the land south was called Lehi and the land north was called Mulek, which was after the son of Zedekiah; for the Lord did bring Mulek into the land north, and Lehi into the land south.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Mulek +4 +[Mulek] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2,3,4} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Mulek]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Bountiful]{city2,3,4} +[Mulek]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Mulek]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gid]{city1,4} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Mulek is an important city mentioned during the war of Amalickiah. It is in the land of Bountiful and separated from the city of Bountiful by "plains". Mulek is thus placed in St. Ignace which qualifies by being separated from the city of Bountiful by plains and by being strategically situated near the Straits of Mackinac. In this location, Mulek would be the first city the Lamanites would encounter coming up, either by land or sea, from the south on the way to the Bountiful/Desolation border (St Marys river) and on the way to Bountiful. Modern city location: St Ignace, Michigan.	Alma 51:25-26Alma 51 25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it. 26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore. Alma 52:2,16-34Alma 52 2 And now, when the Lamanites saw this they were affrighted; and they abandoned their design in marching into the land northward, and retreated with all their army into the city of Mulek, and sought protection in their fortifications. ... 16 And it came to pass that Teancum had received orders to make an attack upon the city of Mulek, and retake it if it were possible. 17 And it came to pass that Teancum made preparations to make an attack upon the city of Mulek, and march forth with his army against the Lamanites; but he saw that it was impossible that he could overpower them while they were in their fortifications; therefore he abandoned his designs and returned again to the city Bountiful, to wait for the coming of Moroni, that he might receive strength to his army. 18 And it came to pass that Moroni did arrive with his army at the land of Bountiful, in the latter end of the twenty and seventh year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi. 19 And in the commencement of the twenty and eighth year, Moroni and Teancum and many of the chief captains held a council of war--what they should do to cause the Lamanites to come out against them to battle; or that they might by some means flatter them out of their strongholds, that they might gain advantage over them and take again the city of Mulek. 20 And it came to pass they sent embassies to the army of the Lamanites, which protected the city of Mulek, to their leader, whose name was Jacob, desiring him that he would come out with his armies to meet them upon the plains between the two cities. But behold, Jacob, who was a Zoramite, would not come out with his army to meet them upon the plains. 21 And it came to pass that Moroni, having no hopes of meeting them upon fair grounds, therefore, he resolved upon a plan that he might decoy the Lamanites out of their strongholds. 22 Therefore he caused that Teancum should take a small number of men and march down near the seashore; and Moroni and his army, by night, marched in the wilderness, on the west of the city Mulek; and thus, on the morrow, when the guards of the Lamanites had discovered Teancum, they ran and told it unto Jacob, their leader. 23 And it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites did march forth against Teancum, supposing by their numbers to overpower Teancum because of the smallness of his numbers. And as Teancum saw the armies of the Lamanites coming out against him he began to retreat down by the seashore, northward. 24 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that he began to flee, they took courage and pursued them with vigor. And while Teancum was thus leading away the Lamanites who were pursuing them in vain, behold, Moroni commanded that a part of his army who were with him should march forth into the city, and take possession of it. 25 And thus they did, and slew all those who had been left to protect the city, yea, all those who would not yield up their weapons of war. 26 And thus Moroni had obtained possession of the city Mulek with a part of his army, while he marched with the remainder to meet the Lamanites when they should return from the pursuit of Teancum. 27 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did pursue Teancum until they came near the city Bountiful, and then they were met by Lehi and a small army, which had been left to protect the city Bountiful. 28 And now behold, when the chief captains of the Lamanites had beheld Lehi with his army coming against them, they fled in much confusion, lest perhaps they should not obtain the city Mulek before Lehi should overtake them; for they were wearied because of their march, and the men of Lehi were fresh. 29 Now the Lamanites did not know that Moroni had been in their rear with his army; and all they feared was Lehi and his men. 30 Now Lehi was not desirous to overtake them till they should meet Moroni and his army. 31 And it came to pass that before the Lamanites had retreated far they were surrounded by the Nephites, by the men of Moroni on one hand, and the men of Lehi on the other, all of whom were fresh and full of strength; but the Lamanites were wearied because of their long march. 32 And Moroni commanded his men that they should fall upon them until they had given up their weapons of war. 33 And it came to pass that Jacob, being their leader, being also a Zoramite, and having an unconquerable spirit, he led the Lamanites forth to battle with exceeding fury against Moroni. 34 Moroni being in their course of march, therefore Jacob was determined to slay them and cut his way through to the city of Mulek. But behold, Moroni and his men were more powerful; therefore they did not give way before the Lamanites. Alma 53:2-6Alma 53 2 And Moroni went to the city of Mulek with Lehi, and took command of the city and gave it unto Lehi. Now behold, this Lehi was a man who had been with Moroni in the more part of all his battles; and he was a man like unto Moroni, and they rejoiced in each other's safety; yea, they were beloved by each other, and also beloved by all the people of Nephi. 3 And it came to pass that after the Lamanites had finished burying their dead and also the dead of the Nephites, they were marched back into the land Bountiful; and Teancum, by the orders of Moroni, caused that they should commence laboring in digging a ditch round about the land, or the city, Bountiful. 4 And he caused that they should build a breastwork of timbers upon the inner bank of the ditch; and they cast up dirt out of the ditch against the breastwork of timbers; and thus they did cause the Lamanites to labor until they had encircled the city of Bountiful round about with a strong wall of timbers and earth, to an exceeding height. 5 And this city became an exceeding stronghold ever after; and in this city they did guard the prisoners of the Lamanites; yea, even within a wall which they had caused them to build with their own hands. Now Moroni was compelled to cause the Lamanites to labor, because it was easy to guard them while at their labor; and he desired all his forces when he should make an attack upon the Lamanites. 6 And it came to pass that Moroni had thus gained a victory over one of the greatest of the armies of the Lamanites, and had obtained possession of the city of Mulek, which was one of the strongest holds of the Lamanites in the land of the Nephites; and thus he had also built a stronghold to retain his prisoners. Helaman 5:14,15Helaman 5 14 And they did remember his words; and therefore they went forth, keeping the commandments of God, to teach the word of God among all the people of Nephi, beginning at the city Bountiful; And from thenceforth to the city of Gid; and from the city of Gid to the city of Mulek;
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : NarrowPass +10 +[NarrowPass] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {sea route1} ≈ IR2 AR3 +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land2} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land3} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage1} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {militarily strategic2} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <leads to> ⇒ {land northward1,2} +[NarrowPass]{sea route} ⇒ <leads to> ⇒ {land southward1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The "narrow pass" is the entrance to the "narrow passage" (see also the entity "LineBountifulDesolation") which is the route between the east and west seas that forms the border between the lands Bountiful and Desolation. As a militarily strategic place the narrow pass, narrow passage, line Bountiful/Desolation, narrow neck of land, Bountiful, and Desolation are all in the same area and well described in the Book of Mormon narrative. No other place on earth fits the description like the present day border areas between upper Michigan and Ontario Canada. Modern feature location: De Tour Passage, Michigan.	Alma 50:33-34Alma 50 33 Therefore Moroni sent an army, with their camp, to head the people of Morionton, to stop their flight into the land northward. 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. Alma 52:9Alma 52 9 And he also sent orders unto him that he should fortify the land Bountiful, and secure the narrow pass which led into the land northward, lest the Lamanites should obtain that point and should have power to harass them on every side. Mormon 3:4-5Mormon 3 4 And it came to pass that after this tenth year had passed away, making, in the whole, three hundred and sixty years from the coming of Christ, the king of the Lamanites sent an epistle unto me, which gave unto me to know that they were preparing to come again to battle against us. 5 And it came to pass that I did cause my people that they should gather themselves together at the land Desolation, to a city which was in the borders, by the narrow pass which led into the land southward.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : NarrowPassage +3 +[NarrowPassage] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {border1} ≈ IR2 AR3 +[NarrowPassage]{border} ⇒ <same as> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage2} +[NarrowPassage]{border} ⇒ <leads to> ⇒ {land southward1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The "narrow passage" is a border between the land south and the land north (see also the entity "LineBountifulDesolation") which forms the border between the lands Bountiful and Desolation. As a militarily strategic place the narrow passage, narrow pass, line Bountiful/Desolation, narrow neck of land, Bountiful, and Desolation are all in the same area and well described in the Book of Mormon narrative. No other place on earth fits the description like the present day border areas between upper Michigan and Ontario Canada. Modern city location: St Marys river OR border of Upper Michigan and Ontario Canada.	Mormon 2:29Alma 50 29 And the Lamanites did give unto us the land northward, yea, even to the narrow passage which led into the land southward. And we did give unto the Lamanites all the land southward. Helaman 4:6-7Helaman 4 6 And the Nephites and the armies of Moronihah were driven even into the land of Bountiful; 7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : NeckofLand +11 +[NeckOfLand] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {small narrow1,2,3} ≈ AR9 AR10 +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1,2} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Hagoth]{ships2} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [LineBountifulDesolation]{passage1,2} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,2} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {land northward1,2} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {land southward1,2} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {where sea divides the land3} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,2} +[NeckOfLand]{small narrow} ⇒ <separates> ⇒ {lands south from north1,2,3} AR9Water travel with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph. AR10Water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 3 mph.	The "narrow neck of land" is part of the land of Bountiful and is included in the geographical description of the most important, strategical area of Nephite territory. Upper Michigan and the St Marys river border, between Michigan and Ontario, is by far the most extensively described area in all of the Book of Mormon. The fact that Upper Michigan fits so well with the Book of Morman narrative is a major factor in favor on the Zarahemla Centric Heartland Map. This area was considered critically important for military reasons as well as for controlling trade and migration northward. The precise distance from Lake Superior to Lake Michigan/Huron is 63.2 miles. According to Section 3.3 Principles of Navigation, a day and a half journey with the current should be 72 miles and a day and a half journey against the current should be 48 miles for an average of 60 miles, so that is a pretty good match to the actual distance. Modern feature location: Upper Michigan.	Alma 22:32-33Alma 22 32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite, on the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water, there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward. 33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward. Alma 63:4-10Alma 63 4 And it came to pass that in the thirty and seventh year of the reign of the judges, there was a large company of men, even to the amount of five thousand and four hundred men, with their wives and their children, departed out of the land of Zarahemla into the land which was northward. 5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward. 6 And behold, there were many of the Nephites who did enter therein and did sail forth with much provisions, and also many women and children; and they took their course northward. And thus ended the thirty and seventh year. 7 And in the thirty and eighth year, this man built other ships. And the first ship did also return, and many more people did enter into it; and they also took much provisions, and set out again to the land northward. 8 And it came to pass that they were never heard of more. And we suppose that they were drowned in the depths of the sea. And it came to pass that one other ship also did sail forth; and whither she did go we know not. 9 And it came to pass that in this year there were many people who went forth into the land northward. And thus ended the thirty and eighth year. 10 And it came to pass in the thirty and ninth year of the reign of the judges, Shiblon died also, and Corianton had gone forth to the land northward in a ship, to carry forth provisions unto the people who had gone forth into that land. Ether 10:20-21Ether 10 20 And they built a great city by the narrow neck of land, by the place where the sea divides the land. 21 And they did preserve the land southward for a wilderness, to get game. And the whole face of the land northward was covered with inhabitants.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : NarrowStripWilderness +6 +[NarrowStrip] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {wilderness1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11} +[NarrowStrip]{wilderness} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {12 days6} ≈ AR7 +[NarrowStrip]{wilderness} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {many days5} +[NarrowStrip]{wilderness} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {travel route2,3,4,5,6,7,8,10,11} +[NarrowStrip]{wilderness} ⇒ <leads to> ⇒ [Nephi]{land2,7,8,9} +[NarrowStrip]{wilderness} ⇒ <leads to> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11} AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph.	This important feature defines an homogeneous piece of land separating Nephi from Zarahemla (see 3.3 Rules of Interpretation IR4). It is the alluvial plain of the Mississippi river north of St. Louis Missouri and is called a "wilderness" and a "narrow strip of wilderness" in the Book of Mormon. We know it was frequently traveled and it was a twelve days journey for Limhi's people to walk/flee with their flocks and herds, starting two days south of the city of Nephi. So the estimated 10 days distance based on 3.3 Rules of Interpretation is 200 miles with Rule 7 (IR7). The google map distance between the city of Nephi (St. Louis Missouri) and Zarahemla is 188 miles when following the modern highway route. The "narrow strip of wilderness" part is 188 miles (travel is not in a straight line) with the last 12 miles being overland (land of Minon) away from the river because of the Des Moines rapids. Modern feature location: Mississippi river valley between St. Louis Missouri and Keokuk Iowa.	Alma 22:27Alma 22 (see section 4.2 commentary) 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. Omni 1:12-13,28Omni 1 12 Behold, I am Amaleki, the son of Abinadom. Behold, I will speak unto you somewhat concerning Mosiah, who was made king over the land of Zarahemla; for behold, he being warned of the Lord that he should flee out of the land of Nephi, and as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord should also depart out of the land with him, into the wilderness-- 13 And it came to pass that he did according as the Lord had commanded him. And they departed out of the land into the wilderness, as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord; and they were led by many preachings and prophesyings. And they were admonished continually by the word of God; and they were led by the power of his arm, through the wilderness until they came down into the land which is called the land of Zarahemla. 28 Wherefore, they went up into the wilderness. And their leader being a strong and mighty man, and a stiffnecked man, wherefore he caused a contention among them; and they were all slain, save fifty, in the wilderness, and they returned again to the land of Zarahemla. Mosiah 8:7Mosiah 8 7 And the king said unto him: Being grieved for the afflictions of my people, I caused that forty and three of my people should take a journey into the wilderness, that thereby they might find the land of Zarahemla, that we might appeal unto our brethren to deliver us out of bondage. Mosiah 21:25Mosiah 21 25 Now king Limhi had sent, previous to the coming of Ammon, a small number of men to search for the land of Zarahemla; but they could not find it, and they were lost in the wilderness. Mosiah 22:11,13Mosiah 22 11 And it came to pass that the people of king Limhi did depart by night into the wilderness with their flocks and their herds, and they went round about the land of Shilom in the wilderness, and bent their course towards the land of Zarahemla, being led by Ammon and his brethren. 13 And after being many days in the wilderness they arrived in the land of Zarahemla, and joined Mosiah's people, and became his subjects. Mosiah 24:25Mosiah 24 25 And after they had been in the wilderness twelve days they arrived in the land of Zarahemla; and king Mosiah did also receive them with joy. Mosiah 25:2Mosiah 25 2 Now there were not so many of the children of Nephi, or so many of those who were descendants of Nephi, as there were of the people of Zarahemla, who was a descendant of Mulek, and those who came with him into the wilderness. Alma 17:7-8Alma 17 7 Nevertheless they departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and took their swords, and their spears, and their bows, and their arrows, and their slings; and this they did that they might provide food for themselves while in the wilderness. 8 And thus they departed into the wilderness with their numbers which they had selected, to go up to the land of Nephi, to preach the word of God unto the Lamanites. Alma 27:14Alma 27 14 And they gathered together all their people, yea, all the people of the Lord, and did gather together all their flocks and herds, and departed out of the land, and came into the wilderness which divided the land of Nephi from the land of Zarahemla, and came over near the borders of the land. Alma 47:29Alma 47 27 And it came to pass that Amalickiah commanded that his armies should march forth and see what had happened to the king; and when they had come to the spot, and found the king lying in his gore, Amalickiah pretended to be wroth, and said: Whosoever loved the king, let him go forth, and pursue his servants that they may be slain. 28 And it came to pass that all they who loved the king, when they heard these words, came forth and pursued after the servants of the king. 29 Now when the servants of the king saw an army pursuing after them, they were frightened again, and fled into the wilderness, and came over into the land of Zarahemla and joined the people of Ammon. Alma 48:5-6Alma 48 5 And thus he did appoint chief captains of the Zoramites, they being the most acquainted with the strength of the Nephites, and their places of resort, and the weakest parts of their cities; therefore he appointed them to be chief captains over his armies. 6 And it came to pass that they took their camp, and moved forth toward the land of Zarahemla in the wilderness.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Nephi +28 +[Nephi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city3,4,7,8,20,25,26} ≈ AR1 AR3 AR5 AR11 +[Nephi] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27} ≈ AR4 +[Nephi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Hill_NS]{hill3,5} +[Nephi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city20} +[Nephi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land11} +[Nephi]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shimnilom]{city20} ≈ AR11 +[Nephi]{city} ⇒ <same as> ⇒ [Lehi-Nephi]{city3+4+8+20+25} +[Nephi]{city}~[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {10 days8+9+10} ≈ IR6 AR2 AR6 AR7 +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Mormon]{land15} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Shilom]{land3,4,20} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Antipas]{mount25} ≈ IR9 +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Oneidah]{place of arms25} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <leads from> ⇒ [NarrowStrip]{wilderness1+16+19} ≈ IR2 +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land10,11} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Helam]{land10,12,21} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land19,20,21,22} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{land21} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land18,19,19} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Midian]{land21} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sebus]{waters17} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land7,11,20} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{city3,4} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {west wilderness19} ≈ IR4 +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1,3,4,6,7,8,10,16,19,24} ≈ IR4 +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <same as> ⇒ [Lehi-Nephi]{land3+4} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [EastWilderness]{travel route26} ≈ IR4 AR2 +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land26} +[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ {wilderness26} ≈ IR4 +[Nephi]{land}~[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <separated by> ⇒ {wilderness1,3,4,8,16,24} ≈ IR6 AR2 AR6 AR7   [Nephi]{city} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ {walls4} ≈ AR5   [Nephi]{land} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {Nephite first inheritance1,2,4} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location. AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders. AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model. AR6Average civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 1.5 mph. AR7Average military or emergency civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 2.5 mph. AR11Unless indicated or implied otherwise in scripture, the current scientific evidence is assumed to be pre-emininent in matters of dating and geology and climate.	After Zarahemla, Nephi is the second most mentioned city, with the most geographical references, in the Book of Mormon. It is the original settlement site of Nephi and during the reign of the Judges and later becomes a vast Lamanite centered metropolis and capital, with the most populated and concentrated cities of any location. In addition to the ER model entity relationships, there are many reasons to designate St Louis and nearby areas as Nephi. Also, because [Shilom] is established as south of the city of Nephi, we know Limhi's people went south when they fled the Lamanites and we're also informed by the Book of Mormon that the Lamanites followed them for two days before Limhi's people "bent their course" towards Zarahemla and the Lamanites lost their tracks. Then these same Lamanites found the people of Alma. Later, when the people of Alma flee the Lamanites and go to Zarahemla, it takes them 12 days. Thus, at most, the distance from the city of Nephi to Zarahemla is 12 minus 2 or 10 days travel. See Section 4.3. Modern city location: St. Louis Missouri	Omni 1:12-13,27Omni 1 12 Behold, I am Amaleki, the son of Abinadom. Behold, I will speak unto you somewhat concerning Mosiah, who was made king over the land of Zarahemla; for behold, he being warned of the Lord that he should flee out of the land of Nephi, and as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord should also depart out of the land with him, into the wilderness-- 13 And it came to pass that he did according as the Lord had commanded him. And they departed out of the land into the wilderness, as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord; and they were led by many preachings and prophesyings. And they were admonished continually by the word of God; and they were led by the power of his arm, through the wilderness until they came down into the land which is called the land of Zarahemla. ... 27 And now I would speak somewhat concerning a certain number who went up into the wilderness to return to the land of Nephi; for there was a large number who were desirous to possess the land of their inheritance. Words of Mormon 1:12-14Words of Mormon 1 12 And now, concerning this king Benjamin--he had somewhat of contentions among his own people. 13 And it came to pass also that the armies of the Lamanites came down out of the land of Nephi, to battle against his people. But behold, king Benjamin gathered together his armies, and he did stand against them; and he did fight with the strength of his own arm, with the sword of Laban. 14 And in the strength of the Lord they did contend against their enemies, until they had slain many thousands of the Lamanites. And it came to pass that they did contend against the Lamanites until they had driven them out of all the lands of their inheritance. Mosiah 7:1-7,21Mosiah 7 1 And now, it came to pass that after king Mosiah had had continual peace for the space of three years, he was desirous to know concerning the people who went up to dwell in the land of Lehi-Nephi, or in the city of Lehi-Nephi; for his people had heard nothing from them from the time they left the land of Zarahemla; therefore, they wearied him with their teasings. 2 And it came to pass that king Mosiah granted that sixteen of their strong men might go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi, to inquire concerning their brethren. 3 And it came to pass that on the morrow they started to go up, having with them one Ammon, he being a strong and mighty man, and a descendant of Zarahemla; and he was also their leader. 4 And now, they knew not the course they should travel in the wilderness to go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi; therefore they wandered many days in the wilderness, even forty days did they wander. 5 And when they had wandered forty days they came to a hill, which is north of the land of Shilom, and there they pitched their tents. 6 And Ammon took three of his brethren, and their names were Amaleki, Helem, and Hem, and they went down into the land of Nephi. 7 And behold, they met the king of the people who were in the land of Nephi, and in the land of Shilom; and they were surrounded by the king's guard, and were taken, and were bound, and were committed to prison. ... 21 And ye all are witnesses this day, that Zeniff, who was made king over this people, he being over-zealous to inherit the land of his fathers, therefore being deceived by the cunning and craftiness of king Laman, who having entered into a treaty with king Zeniff, and having yielded up into his hands the possessions of a part of the land, or even the city of Lehi-Nephi, and the city of Shilom; and the land round about-- Mosiah 9:1-8,14-15Mosiah 9 1 I, Zeniff, having been taught in all the language of the Nephites, and having had a knowledge of the land of Nephi, or of the land of our fathers' first inheritance, and having been sent as a spy among the Lamanites that I might spy out their forces, that our army might come upon them and destroy them--but when I saw that which was good among them I was desirous that they should not be destroyed. 2 Therefore, I contended with my brethren in the wilderness, for I would that our ruler should make a treaty with them; but he being an austere and a blood-thirsty man commanded that I should be slain; but I was rescued by the shedding of much blood; for father fought against father, and brother against brother, until the greater number of our army was destroyed in the wilderness; and we returned, those of us that were spared, to the land of Zarahemla, to relate that tale to their wives and their children. 3 And yet, I being over-zealous to inherit the land of our fathers, collected as many as were desirous to go up to possess the land, and started again on our journey into the wilderness to go up to the land; but we were smitten with famine and sore afflictions; for we were slow to remember the Lord our God. 4 Nevertheless, after many days' wandering in the wilderness we pitched our tents in the place where our brethren were slain, which was near to the land of our fathers. 5 And it came to pass that I went again with four of my men into the city, in unto the king, that I might know of the disposition of the king, and that I might know if I might go in with my people and possess the land in peace. 6 And I went in unto the king, and he covenanted with me that I might possess the land of Lehi-Nephi, and the land of Shilom. 7 And he also commanded that his people should depart out of the land, and I and my people went into the land that we might possess it. 8 And we began to build buildings, and to repair the walls of the city, yea, even the walls of the city of Lehi-Nephi, and the city of Shilom. ... 14 For, in the thirteenth year of my reign in the land of Nephi, away on the south of the land of Shilom, when my people were watering and feeding their flocks, and tilling their lands, a numerous host of Lamanites came upon them and began to slay them, and to take off their flocks, and the corn of their fields. 15 Yea, and it came to pass that they fled, all that were not overtaken, even into the city of Nephi, and did call upon me for protection. Mosiah 11:8-13Mosiah 11 8 And it came to pass that king Noah built many elegant and spacious buildings; and he ornamented them with fine work of wood, and of all manner of precious things, of gold, and of silver, and of iron, and of brass, and of ziff, and of copper; 9 And he also built him a spacious palace, and a throne in the midst thereof, all of which was of fine wood and was ornamented with gold and silver and with precious things. 10 And he also caused that his workmen should work all manner of fine work within the walls of the temple, of fine wood, and of copper, and of brass. 11 And the seats which were set apart for the high priests, which were above all the other seats, he did ornament with pure gold; and he caused a breastwork to be built before them, that they might rest their bodies and their arms upon while they should speak lying and vain words to his people. 12 And it came to pass that he built a tower near the temple; yea, a very high tower, even so high that he could stand upon the top thereof and overlook the land of Shilom, and also the land of Shemlon, which was possessed by the Lamanites; and he could even look over all the land round about. 13 And it came to pass that he caused many buildings to be built in the land Shilom; and he caused a great tower to be built on the hill north of the land Shilom, which had been a resort for the children of Nephi at the time they fled out of the land; and thus he did do with the riches which he obtained by the taxation of his people. Mosiah 19:15-24Mosiah 19 15 Therefore the Lamanites did spare their lives, and took them captives and carried them back to the land of Nephi, and granted unto them that they might possess the land, under the conditions that they would deliver up king Noah into the hands of the Lamanites, and deliver up their property, even one half of all they possessed, one half of their gold, and their silver, and all their precious things, and thus they should pay tribute to the king of the Lamanites from year to year. 16 And now there was one of the sons of the king among those that were taken captive, whose name was Limhi. 17 And now Limhi was desirous that his father should not be destroyed; nevertheless, Limhi was not ignorant of the iniquities of his father, he himself being a just man. 18 And it came to pass that Gideon sent men into the wilderness secretly, to search for the king and those that were with him. And it came to pass that they met the people in the wilderness, all save the king and his priests. 19 Now they had sworn in their hearts that they would return to the land of Nephi, and if their wives and their children were slain, and also those that had tarried with them, that they would seek revenge, and also perish with them. 20 And the king commanded them that they should not return; and they were angry with the king, and caused that he should suffer, even unto death by fire. 21 And they were about to take the priests also and put them to death, and they fled before them. 22 And it came to pass that they were about to return to the land of Nephi, and they met the men of Gideon. And the men of Gideon told them of all that had happened to their wives and their children; and that the Lamanites had granted unto them that they might possess the land by paying a tribute to the Lamanites of one half of all they possessed. 23 And the people told the men of Gideon that they had slain the king, and his priests had fled from them farther into the wilderness. 24 And it came to pass that after they had ended the ceremony, that they returned to the land of Nephi, rejoicing, because their wives and their children were not slain; and they told Gideon what they had done to the king. Mosiah 20:1-7Mosiah 20 1 Now there was a place in Shemlon where the daughters of the Lamanites did gather themselves together to sing, and to dance, and to make themselves merry. 2 And it came to pass that there was one day a small number of them gathered together to sing and to dance. 3 And now the priests of king Noah, being ashamed to return to the city of Nephi, yea, and also fearing that the people would slay them, therefore they durst not return to their wives and their children. 4 And having tarried in the wilderness, and having discovered the daughters of the Lamanites, they laid and watched them; 5 And when there were but few of them gathered together to dance, they came forth out of their secret places and took them and carried them into the wilderness; yea, twenty and four of the daughters of the Lamanites they carried into the wilderness. 6 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites found that their daughters had been missing, they were angry with the people of Limhi, for they thought it was the people of Limhi. 7 Therefore they sent their armies forth; yea, even the king himself went before his people; and they went up to the land of Nephi to destroy the people of Limhi. Mosiah 21:1,24-27Mosiah 21 1 And it came to pass that Limhi and his people returned to the city of Nephi, and began to dwell in the land again in peace. ... 24 But when he found that they were not, but that they were his brethren, and had come from the land of Zarahemla, he was filled with exceedingly great joy. 25 Now king Limhi had sent, previous to the coming of Ammon, a small number of men to search for the land of Zarahemla; but they could not find it, and they were lost in the wilderness. 26 Nevertheless, they did find a land which had been peopled; yea, a land which was covered with dry bones; yea, a land which had been peopled and which had been destroyed; and they, having supposed it to be the land of Zarahemla, returned to the land of Nephi, having arrived in the borders of the land not many days before the coming of Ammon. 27 And they brought a record with them, even a record of the people whose bones they had found; and it was engraven on plates of ore. Mosiah 22:11-16 Mosiah 22 11 And it came to pass that the people of king Limhi did depart by night into the wilderness with their flocks and their herds, and they went round about the land of Shilom in the wilderness, and bent their course towards the land of Zarahemla, being led by Ammon and his brethren. 12 And they had taken all their gold, and silver, and their precious things, which they could carry, and also their provisions with them, into the wilderness; and they pursued their journey. 13 And after being many days in the wilderness they arrived in the land of Zarahemla, and joined Mosiah's people, and became his subjects. 14 And it came to pass that Mosiah received them with joy; and he also received their records, and also the records which had been found by the people of Limhi. 15 And now it came to pass when the Lamanites had found that the people of Limhi had departed out of the land by night, that they sent an army into the wilderness to pursue them; 16 And after they had pursued them two days, they could no longer follow their tracks; therefore they were lost in the wilderness. Mosiah 23:29-38Mosiah 23 18 Now it came to pass that Alma and his people in the night-time gathered their flocks together, and also of their grain; yea, even all the night-time were they gathering the flocks together. ... 24 And it came to pass that they departed out of the valley, and took their journey into the wilderness. 25 And after they had been in the wilderness twelve days they arrived in the land of Zarahemla; and king Mosiah II did also receive them with joy. 29 And it came to pass the the Lord did soften the hearts of the Lamanites. And Alma and his brethren went forth and delivered themselves up into their hands; and the Lamanites took possession of the land of Helam. 30 Now the armies of the Lamanites, which had followed after the people of king Limhi, had been lost in the wilderness for many days. 31 And behold, they had found those priests of king Noah, in a place which they called Amulon; and they had begun to possess the land of Amulon and had begun to till the ground. ... 35 And Amulon and his brethren did join the Lamanites, and they were traveling in the wilderness in search of the land of Nephi when they discovered the land of Helam, which was possessed by Alma and his brethren. 36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites promised unto Alma and his brethren, that if they would show them the way which led to the land of Nephi that they would grant unto them their lives and their liberty. 37 But after Alma had shown them the way that led to the land of Nephi the Lamanites would not keep their promise; but they set guards round about the land of Helam, over Alma and his brethren. 38 And the remainder of them went to the land of Nephi; and a part of them returned to the land of Helam, and also brought with them the wives and the children of the guards who had been left in the land. Mosiah 24:2-4Mosiah 24 1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon. 2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands. 3 And now the name of the king of the Lamanites was Laman, being called after the name of his father; and therefore he was called king Laman. And he was king over a numerous people. 4 And he appointed teachers of the brethren of Amulon in every land which was possessed by his people; and thus the language of Nephi began to be taught among all the people of the Lamanites. Mosiah 27:16Mosiah 27 16 Now I say unto thee: Go, and remember the captivity of thy fathers in the land of Helam, and in the land of Nephi; and remember how great things he has done for them; for they were in bondage, and he has delivered them. And now I say unto thee, Alma, go thy way, and seek to destroy the church no more, that their prayers may be answered, and this even if thou wilt of thyself be cast off. Mosiah 28:1,5Mosiah 28 1 Now it came to pass that after the sons of Mosiah had done all these things, they took a small number with them and returned to their father, the king, and desired of him that he would grant unto them that they might, with these whom they had selected, go up to the land of Nephi that they might preach the things which they had heard, and that they might impart the word of God to their brethren, the Lamanites-- ... 5 And it came to pass that they did plead with their father many days that they might go up to the land of Nephi. Mosiah 29:3Mosiah 29 3 Now Aaron had gone up to the land of Nephi, therefore the king could not confer the kingdom upon him; neither would Aaron take upon him the kingdom; neither were any of the sons of Mosiah willing to take upon them the kingdom. Alma 5:3Alma 5 3 I, Alma, having been consecrated by my father, Alma, to be a high priest over the church of God, he having power and authority from God to do these things, behold, I say unto you that he began to establish a church in the land which was in the borders of Nephi; yea, the land which was called the land of Mormon; yea, and he did baptize his brethren in the waters of Mormon. Alma 17:7-9Alma 17 7 Nevertheless they departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and took their swords, and their spears, and their bows, and their arrows, and their slings; and this they did that they might provide food for themselves while in the wilderness. 8 And thus they departed into the wilderness with their numbers which they had selected, to go up to the land of Nephi, to preach the word of God unto the Lamanites. 9 And it came to pass that they journeyed many days in the wilderness, and they fasted much and prayed much that the Lord would grant unto them a portion of his Spirit to go with them, and abide with them, that they might be an instrument in the hands of God to bring, if it were possible, their brethren, the Lamanites, to the knowledge of the truth, to the knowledge of the baseness of the traditions of their fathers, which were not correct. Alma 18:6-9Alma 18 6 For he had slain many of them because their brethren had scattered their flocks at the place of water; and thus, because they had had their flocks scattered they were slain. 7 Now it was the practice of these Lamanites to stand by the waters of Sebus to scatter the flocks of the people, that thereby they might drive away many that were scattered unto their own land, it being a practice of plunder among them. 8 And it came to pass that king Lamoni inquired of his servants, saying: Where is this man that has such great power? 9 And they said unto him: Behold, he is feeding thy horses. Now the king had commanded his servants, previous to the time of the watering of their flocks, that they should prepare his horses and chariots, and conduct him forth to the land of Nephi; for there had been a great feast appointed at the land of Nephi, by the father of Lamoni, who was king over all the land. Alma 20:1-3Alma 20 1 And it came to pass that when they had established a church in that land, that king Lamoni desired that Ammon should go with him to the land of Nephi, that he might show him unto his father. 2 And the voice of the Lord came to Ammon, saying: Thou shalt not go up to the land of Nephi, for behold, the king will seek thy life; but thou shalt go to the land of Middoni; for behold, thy brother Aaron, and also Muloki and Ammah are in prison. 3 Now it came to pass that when Ammon had heard this, he said unto Lamoni: Behold, my brother and brethren are in prison at Middoni, and I go that I may deliver them. Alma 22:1,27-34Alma 22 (see section 4.2 commentary) 1 Now, as Ammon was thus teaching the people of Lamoni continually, we will return to the account of Aaron and his brethren; for after he departed from the land of Middoni he was led by the Spirit to the land of Nephi, even to the house of the king which was over all the land save it were the land of Ishmael; and he was the father of Lamoni. ... [for the following verses, see Section 4.2 for detailed analysis] 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. 28 Now, the more idle part of the Lamanites lived in the wilderness, and dwelt in tents; and they were spread: through the wilderness on the west in the land of Nephi; yea, and also on the west of the land of Zarahemla; in the borders by the seashore; and on the west in the land of Nephi; in the place of their fathers' first inheritance and thus bordering along by the seashore; and also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them. Alma 23:8-13Alma 23 8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: 9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael; 10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni; 11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi; 12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom. 13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites. Alma 24:1,5,20Alma 24 1 And it came to pass that the Amlicites and the Amulonites and the Lamanites who were in the land of Amulon, and also in the land of Helam and who were in the land of Jerusalem, and in fine, in all the land round about, who had not been converted and had not taken upon them the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi, were stirred up by the Amlicites and by the Amulonites to anger against their brethren. 5 Now when Ammon and his brethren and all those who had come up with him saw the preparations of the Lamanites to destroy their brethren, they came forth to the land of Midian, and there Ammon met all his brethren; and from thence they came to the land of Ishmael that they might hold a council with Lamoni and also with his brother Anti-Nephi-Lehi, what they should do to defend themselves against the Lamanites. ... 20 And it came to pass that their brethren, the Lamanites, made preparations for war, and came up to the land of Nephi for the purpose of destroying the king, and to place another in his stead, and also of destroying the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi out of the land. Alma 25:13Alma 25 13 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that they could not overpower the Nephites they returned again to their own land; and many of them came over to dwell in the land of Ishmael and the land of Nephi, and did join themselves to the people of God, who were the people of Anti-Nephi-Lehi. Alma 26:23Alma 26 23 Now do ye remember, my brethren, that we said unto our brethren in the land of Zarahemla, we go up to the land of Nephi, to preach unto our brethren, the Lamanites, and they laughed us to scorn? Alma 27:14Alma 27 14 And they gathered together all their people, yea, all the people of the Lord, and did gather together all their flocks and herds, and departed out of the land, and came into the wilderness which divided the land of Nephi from the land of Zarahemla, and came over near the borders of the land. Alma 47:1,5-10,20,31,35Alma 47:1,20,31,35 1 Now we will return in our record to Amalickiah and those who had fled with him into the wilderness; for, behold, he had taken those who went with him, and went up in the land of Nephi among the Lamanites, and did stir up the Lamanites to anger against the people of Nephi, insomuch that the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation throughout all his land, among all his people, that they should gather themselves together again to go to battle against the Nephites. ... 5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Oneidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Oneidah, to the place of arms. 6 And they had appointed a man to be a king and a leader over them, being fixed in their minds with a determined resolution that they would not be subjected to go against the Nephites. 7 And it came to pass that they had gathered themselves together upon the top of the mount which was called Antipas, in preparation to battle. ... 9 And behold, it came to pass that he caused his army to pitch their tents in the valley which was near the mount Antipas. ... 10 And it came to pass that when it was night he sent a secret embassy into the mount Antipas, desiring that the leader of those who were upon the mount, whose name was Lehonti, that he should come down to the foot of the mount, for he desired to speak with him. ... 20 And it came to pass that Amalickiah marched with his armies (for he had gained his desires) to the land of Nephi, to the city of Nephi, which was the chief city. ... 31 And it came to pass on the morrow he entered the city Nephi with his armies, and took possession of the city. ... 35 And it came to pass that Amalickiah sought the favor of the queen, and took her unto him to wife; and thus by his fraud, and by the assistance of his cunning servants, he obtained the kingdom; yea, he was acknowledged king throughout all the land, among all the people of the Lamanites, who were composed of the Lamanites and the Lemuelites and the Ishmaelites, and all the dissenters of the Nephites, from the reign of Nephi down to the present time. Alma 50:7-9,11Alma 50 7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla. 8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west. 9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land. ... 11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure. Helaman 5:19-21Helaman 5 19 Therefore they did speak unto the great astonishment of the Lamanites, to the convincing them, insomuch that there were eight thousand of the Lamanites who were in the land of Zarahemla and round about baptized unto repentance, and were convinced of the wickedness of the traditions of their fathers. 20 And it came to pass that Nephi and Lehi did proceed from thence to go to the land of Nephi. 21 And it came to pass that they were taken by an army of the Lamanites and cast into prison; yea, even in that same prison in which Ammon and his brethren were cast by the servants of Limhi.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Nephihah +11 +[Nephihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2,3,4} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Nephihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,4} +[Nephihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {plains4} +[Nephihah]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Nephihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lehi]{city1,2} ≈ IR7 +[Nephihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lehi]{land4} +[Nephihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Morionton]{city2,3} +[Nephihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moroni]{city1,2,3,4} ≈ IR7 +[Nephihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Omner]{city2} +[Nephihah]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Aaron]{land1} ≈ IR7 +[Nephihah]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Moroni]{land1} ≈ IR7 IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Scriptures in Alma give much information on the coastal cities along the "east sea" or Lake Michigan, and indicates the relative order (bottom to top - see Section 3.3, item 5) of the cities which is (1) Moroni, (2) Nephihah, and (3) Aaron (Moronihah and Lehi come later). The final location of these cities is determined by assuming the most favorable topography of Book of Mormon times would still match that of today, which leads me to place Aaron in the location of present day Milwaulkie, Wisconsin. Milwaukie borders the east side of Lake Michigan and is the largest city in Wisconsin. A European trading post was first established there if 1785. The Milwaulkie area is where the Kinnickinnic, Menomonee, and Milwaulkie rivers join before empting into Lake Michigan. Note that the people of Moroni, Lehi, and Morionton were gathered to Nephihah for defense. If walking this is a long journey but is of course much easier by sea. In the entity relationship, the term "near" refers more to ease of travel rather than a proximity in miles. See also, Section 4.6.3 and the city entity Moroni. Modern city location: Milwaukie, Wisconsin.	Alma 50:13-15Alma 50 13 And it came to pass that the Nephites began the foundation of a city, and they called the name of the city Moroni; and it was by the east sea; and it was on the south by the line of the possessions of the Lamanites. 14 And they also began a foundation for a city between the city of Moroni and the city of Aaron, joining the borders of Aaron and Moroni; and they called the name of the city, or the land, Nephihah. 15 And they also began in that same year to build many cities on the north, one in a particular manner which they called Lehi, which was in the north by the borders of the seashore. Alma 51:23-26Alma 51 23 And it came to pass that the Nephites were not sufficiently strong in the city of Moroni; therefore Amalickiah did drive them, slaying many. And it came to pass that Amalickiah took possession of the city, yea, possession of all their fortifications. 24 And those who fled out of the city of Moroni came to the city of Nephihah; and also the people of the city of Lehi gathered themselves together, and made preparations and were ready to receive the Lamanites to battle. 25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it. 26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore. Alma 59:5-11Alma 59 5 And it came to pass that while Moroni was thus making preparations to go against the Lamanites to battle, behold, the people of Nephihah, who were gathered together from the city of Moroni and the city of Lehi and the city of Morionton, were attacked by the Lamanites. 6 Yea, even those who had been compelled to flee from the land of Manti, and from the land round about, had come over and joined the Lamanites in this part of the land. 7 And thus being exceedingly numerous, yea, and receiving strength from day to day, by the command of Ammoron they came forth against the people of Nephihah, and they did begin to slay them with an exceedingly great slaughter. 8 And their armies were so numerous that the remainder of the people of Nephihah were obliged to flee before them; and they came even and joined the army of Moroni. 9 And now as Moroni had supposed that there should be men sent to the city of Nephihah, to the assistance of the people to maintain that city, and knowing that it was easier to keep the city from falling into the hands of the Lamanites than to retake it from them, he supposed that they would easily maintain that city. 10 Therefore he retained all his force to maintain those places which he had recovered. 11 And now, when Moroni saw that the city of Nephihah was lost he was exceedingly sorrowful, and began to doubt, because of the wickedness of the people, whether they should not fall into the hands of their brethren. Alma 62:19-30Alma 59 18 And it came to pass that when they had sent them away they pursued their march towards the land of Nephihah. And it came to pass that when they had come to the city of Nephihah, they did pitch their tents in the plains of Nephihah, which is near the city of Nephihah. 19 Now Moroni was desirous that the Lamanites should come out to battle against them, upon the plains; but the Lamanites, knowing of their exceedingly great courage, and beholding the greatness of their numbers, therefore they durst not come out against them; therefore they did not come to battle in that day. 20 And when the night came, Moroni went forth in the darkness of the night, and came upon the top of the wall to spy out in what part of the city the Lamanites did camp with their army. 21 And it came to pass that they were on the east, by the entrance; and they were all asleep. And now Moroni returned to his army, and caused that they should prepare in haste strong cords and ladders, to be let down from the top of the wall into the inner part of the wall. 22 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his men should march forth and come upon the top of the wall, and let themselves down into that part of the city, yea, even on the west, where the Lamanites did not camp with their armies. 23 And it came to pass that they were all let down into the city by night, by the means of their strong cords and their ladders; thus when the morning came they were all within the walls of the city. 24 And now, when the Lamanites awoke and saw that the armies of Moroni were within the walls, they were affrighted exceedingly, insomuch that they did flee out by the pass. 25 And now when Moroni saw that they were fleeing before him, he did cause that his men should march forth against them, and slew many, and surrounded many others, and took them prisoners; and the remainder of them fled into the land of Moroni, which was in the borders by the seashore. 26 Thus had Moroni and Pahoran obtained the possession of the city of Nephihah without the loss of one soul; and there were many of the Lamanites who were slain. 27 Now it came to pass that many of the Lamanites that were prisoners were desirous to join the people of Ammon and become a free people. 28 And it came to pass that as many as were desirous, unto them it was granted according to their desires. 29 Therefore, all the prisoners of the Lamanites did join the people of Ammon, and did begin to labor exceedingly, tilling the ground, raising all manner of grain, and flocks and herds of every kind; and thus were the Nephites relieved from a great burden; yea, insomuch that they were relieved from all the prisoners of the Lamanites. 30 Now it came to pass that Moroni, after he had obtained possession of the city of Nephihah, having taken many prisoners, which did reduce the armies of the Lamanites exceedingly, and having regained many of the Nephites who had been taken prisoners, which did strengthen the army of Moroni exceedingly; therefore Moroni went forth from the land of Nephihah to the land of Lehi.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Noah +6 +[Noah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city3} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Noah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2,3} +[Noah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ammonihah]{city2,3} +[Noah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ammonihah]{land1} +[Noah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidom]{land1} +[Noah]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness2,3} ≈ AR4   [Noah] ⇒ <fortified by> ⇒ {Moroni3} IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Both Noah and Ammonihah are mentioned twice in separate Lamanite military campaigns and these lands apparently border each other. Each time the Lamanites come in from the west and attack first Ammonihah and then Noah. See also, Section 4.4.7. Modern city location: Iowa City, Iowa.	Alma 15:1-4,11-17Alma 15 1 And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek were commanded to depart out of that city ; and they departed, and came out even into the land of Sidom; and behold, there they found all the people who had departed out of the land of Ammonihah, who had been cast out and stoned, because they believed in the words of Alma. 2 And they related unto them all that had happened unto their wives and children, and also concerning themselves, and of their power of deliverance. 3 And also Zeezrom lay sick at Sidom, with a burning fever, which was caused by the great tribulations of his mind on account of his wickedness, for he supposed that Alma and Amulek were no more; and he supposed that they had been slain because of his iniquity. And this great sin, and his many other sins, did harrow up his mind until it did become exceedingly sore, having no deliverance; therefore he began to be scorched with a burning heat. 4 Now, when he heard that Alma and Amulek were in the land of Sidom, his heart began to take courage; and he sent a message immediately unto them, desiring them to come unto him. ... 11 And when Alma had said these words, Zeezrom leaped upon his feet, and began to walk; and this was done to the great astonishment of all the people; and the knowledge of this went forth throughout all the land of Sidom. 12 And Alma baptized Zeezrom unto the Lord; and he began from that time forth to preach unto the people. 13 And Alma established a church in the land of Sidom, and consecrated priests and teachers in the land, to baptize unto the Lord whosoever were desirous to be baptized. 14 And it came to pass that they were many; for they did flock in from all the region round about Sidom, and were baptized. 15 But as to the people that were in the land of Ammonihah, they yet remained a hard-hearted and a stiffnecked people; and they repented not of their sins, ascribing all the power of Alma and Amulek to the devil; for they were of the profession of Nehor, and did not believe in the repentance of their sins. 16 And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek, Amulek having forsaken all his gold, and silver, and his precious things, which were in the land of Ammonihah, for the word of God, he being rejected by those who were once his friends and also by his father and his kindred; 17 Therefore, after Alma having established the church at Sidom, seeing a great check, yea, seeing that the people were checked as to the pride of their hearts, and began to humble themselves before God, and began to assemble themselves together at their sanctuaries to worship God before the altar, watching and praying continually, that they might be delivered from Satan, and from death, and from destruction-- Alma 16:2-3Alma 16 2 For behold, the armies of the Lamanites had come in upon the wilderness side, into the borders of the land, even into the city of Ammonihah, and began to slay the people and destroy the city. 3 And now it came to pass, before the Nephites could raise a sufficient army to drive them out of the land, they had destroyed the people who were in the city of Ammonihah, and also some around the borders of Noah, and taken others captive into the wilderness. Alma 49:10-15Alma 49 10 Now, if king Amalickiah had come down out of the land of Nephi, at the head of his army, perhaps he would have caused the Lamanites to have attacked the Nephites at the city of Ammonihah; for behold, he did care not for the blood of his people. 11 But behold, Amalickiah did not come down himself to battle. And behold, his chief captains durst not attack the Nephites at the city of Ammonihah, for Moroni had altered the management of affairs among the Nephites, insomuch that the Lamanites were disappointed in their places of retreat and they could not come upon them. 12 Therefore they retreated into the wilderness, and took their camp and marched towards the land of Noah, supposing that to be the next best place for them to come against the Nephites. 13 For they knew not that Moroni had fortified, or had built forts of security, for every city in all the land round about; therefore, they marched forward to the land of Noah with a firm determination; yea, their chief captains came forward and took an oath that they would destroy the people of that city. 14 But behold, to their astonishment, the city of Noah, which had hitherto been a weak place, had now, by the means of Moroni, become strong, yea, even to exceed the strength of the city Ammonihah. 15 And now, behold, this was wisdom in Moroni; for he had supposed that they would be frightened at the city Ammonihah; and as the city of Noah had hitherto been the weakest part of the land, therefore they would march thither to battle; and thus it was according to his desires.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Omner +5 +[Omner] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Omner]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea1} +[Omner]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gid]{city1} ≈ IR7 +[Omner]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Morionton]{city1} ≈ IR7 +[Omner]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephihah]{city1} IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Major cities on the eastern seashore taken by the Lamanite king Amalickiah are listed and Omner is one of them. This is all we know of the city. Modern city location: Manistique, Michigan.	Alma 51:25-26Alma 51 25 But it came to pass that Amalickiah would not suffer the Lamanites to go against the city of Nephihah to battle, but kept them down by the seashore, leaving men in every city to maintain and defend it. 26 And thus he went on, taking possession of many cities, the city of Moroni, and the city of Lehi, and the city of Morionton, and the city of Omner, and the city of Gid, and the city of Mulek, all of which were on the east borders by the seashore.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Oneidah +4 +[Oneidah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place of arms1} ≈ IR2 AR3 AR5 +[Oneidah]{place of arms} ⇒ <contains> ⇒ [Antipas]{mount1} ≈ IR2 AR5 AR9 +[Oneidah]{place of arms} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1} ≈ AR3 AR5 IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model. IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location.	The spelling of Oneidah as "Onidah" (in the standard text) for this location is an copy error. It should read "Oneidah". See Royal Skousen, The Book of Mormon, The Earliest Text (BOMET), Alma 47:5. The commonly accepted Hebraic root meaning for the name "Antipas" is "for all, or against all" which ties in well for a gathering place in "Oneidah" the "place of arms" (where troops gather). Antipas is therefore clearly a fortified location and not a "mountain" per se. As to the location of the fortified Antipas mount know it to be in the land of Nephi and probably not far from the king in the capital city of Nephi. The ancient mounds once near East St. Louis (destroyed in late 1800's) is a logical location for Antipas and Oneidah, the place-of-arms. Modern feature location: near East St. Louis.	Alma 47:1,5-12 Alma 47 1 Now we will return in our record to Amalickiah and those who had fled with him into the wilderness; for, behold, he had taken those who went with him, and went up in the land of Nephi among the Lamanites, and did stir up the Lamanites to anger against the people of Nephi, insomuch that the king of the Lamanites sent a proclamation throughout all his land, among all his people, that they should gather themselves together again to go to battle against the Nephites. ... ... 5 And now he had got the command of those parts of the Lamanites who were in favor of the king; and he sought to gain favor of those who were not obedient; therefore he went forward to the place which was called Oneidah, for thither had all the Lamanites fled; for they discovered the army coming, and, supposing that they were coming to destroy them, therefore they fled to Oneidah, to the place of arms. 6 And they had appointed a man to be a king and a leader over them, being fixed in their minds with a determined resolution that they would not be subjected to go against the Nephites. 7 And it came to pass that they had gathered themselves together upon the top of the mount which was called Antipas, in preparation to battle. 8 Now it was not Amalickiah's intention to give them battle according to the commandments of the king; but behold, it was his intention to gain favor with the armies of the Lamanites, that he might place himself at their head and dethrone the king and take possession of the kingdom. 9 And behold, it came to pass that he caused his army to pitch their tents in the valley which was near the mount Antipas. 10 And it came to pass that when it was night he sent a secret embassy into the mount Antipas, desiring that the leader of those who were upon the mount, whose name was Lehonti, that he should come down to the foot of the mount, for he desired to speak with him. 11 And it came to pass that when Lehonti received the message he durst not go down to the foot of the mount. And it came to pass that Amalickiah sent again the second time, desiring him to come down. And it came to pass that Lehonti would not; and he sent again the third time. 12 And it came to pass that when Amalickiah found that he could not get Lehonti to come down off from the mount, he went up into the mount, nearly to Lehonti's camp; and he sent again the fourth time his message unto Lehonti, desiring that he would come down, and that he would bring his guards with him.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Onidah +2 +[Onidah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1} ≈ IR9 AR3 +[Onidah]{hill} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Antionum]{land1} IR9The word "hill" means an elevated area of land but without a clearly defined peak, whereas a "mount" is a natural or man-made structure that has a clearly defined summit or as part of a fortified location. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	There is apparently a city, village or gathering place in Antionum where the hill Onidah and the Rameumptom were located but it is never mentioned by name. We only know that Alma and his sons were preaching to the Zoramites there. On the master map in Section 1.1 it is only referred to as "Zoramite City". Onidah is either in or near this gathering place. Modern city location: Peoria, Illinois	Alma 31:2-11 Alma 31 2 For it was the cause of great sorrow to Alma to know of iniquity among his people; therefore his heart was exceedingly sorrowful because of the separation of the Zoramites from the Nephites. 3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites. ... 5 And now, as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just--yea, it had had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened unto them--therefore Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God. 6 Therefore he took Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner; and Himni he did leave in the church in Zarahemla; but the former three he took with him, and also Amulek and Zeezrom, who were at Melek; and he also took two of his sons. ... 8 Now the Zoramites were dissenters from the Nephites; therefore they had had the word of God preached unto them. 9 But they had fallen into great errors, for they would not observe to keep the commandments of God, and his statutes, according to the law of Moses. 10 Neither would they observe the performances of the church, to continue in prayer and supplication to God daily, that they might not enter into temptation. 11 Yea, in fine, they did pervert the ways of the Lord in very many instances; therefore, for this cause, Alma and his brethren went into the land to preach the word unto them. Alma 32:4-5Alma 32 4 Now, as Alma was teaching and speaking unto the people upon the hill Onidah, there came a great multitude unto him, who were those of whom we have been speaking, of whom were poor in heart, because of their poverty as to the things of the world. 5 And they came unto Alma; and the one who was the foremost among them said unto him: Behold, what shall these my brethren do, for they are despised of all men because of their poverty, yea, and more especially by our priests; for they have cast us out of our synagogues which we have labored abundantly to build with our own hands; and they have cast us out because of our exceeding poverty; and we have no place to worship our God; and behold, what shall we do?
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Onihah +3 +[Onihah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Onihah]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {waters coming up1} +[Onihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jerusalem]{city1} ≈ IR7 +[Onihah]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Mocum]{city1} ≈ IR7 IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The cities of Onihah, Mocum, and Jerusalem are only mentioned in relation to being destroyed by flooding (waters that "come up") prior to the visitation of the resurrected Christ. This is an instance of river flooding and another indication that these cities bordered the waters of the Sidon. Note that, by contrast, the destroyed cities bordering the east sea were "sunk in the depths of the sea". The three cities mentioned with Mocum are placed according to the following: The cities listed are assumed to have an order, bottom to top. See Section 3.3 Rules of Interpretation. Using the Rule of listed order being bottom-to-top as mentioned in Section 3.3, we get the map results by placing the Nephite cities in the same location as major populations today. From step 2, we get the following result: Onihah = Ste. Genevieve Missouri, Mocum = Oakville Missouri, Jerusalem = St. Louis, Missouri, near River City Casino. It is useful that we also have additional information on city of Jerusalem to use as an anchor point. Onihah could be placed at Peverly Missiouri or Ste. Genevieve Missouri. The reason the latter case was chosen is because the topography of Ste. Genevieve appears much more conducive to past and future flooding. Modern city location: St. Genevieve, Missouri.	3 Nephi 9:73 Nephi 9 7 Yea, and the city of Onihah and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Mocum and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Jerusalem and the inhabitants thereof; and waters have I caused to come up in the stead thereof, to hide their wickedness and abominations from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints shall not come up any more unto me against them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Riplah +6 +[Riplah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1} ≈ IR2 AR3 +[Riplah]{hill} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} +[Riplah]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{land1} ≈ AR3 +[Riplah]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river1} +[Riplah]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {valley1} +[Riplah]{hill} ⇒ <north of> of> ⇒ [Manti]{land1} ≈ AR3 IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The hill Riplah has a prominent mention in the Battle of Manti and Moroni vs Zarahemnah. See section 4.5.2. Modern feature location: Hill north of Prescott Wisconsin.	Alma 43:23-35Alma 43 23 But it came to pass, as soon as they had departed into the wilderness Moroni sent spies into the wilderness to watch their camp; and Moroni, also, knowing of the prophecies of Alma, sent certain men unto him, desiring him that he should inquire of the Lord whither the armies of the Nephites should go to defend themselves against the Lamanites. 24 And it came to pass that the word of the Lord came unto Alma, and Alma informed the messengers of Moroni, that the armies of the Lamanites were marching round about in the wilderness, that they might come over into the land of Manti, that they might commence an attack upon the weaker part of the people. And those messengers went and delivered the message unto Moroni. 25 Now Moroni, leaving a part of his army in the land of Jershon, lest by any means a part of the Lamanites should come into that land and take possession of the city, took the remaining part of his army and marched over into the land of Manti. 26 And he caused that all the people in that quarter of the land should gather themselves together to battle against the Lamanites, to defend their lands and their country, their rights and their liberties; therefore they were prepared against the time of the coming of the Lamanites. 27 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his army should be secreted in the valley which was near the bank of the river Sidon, which was on the west of the river Sidon in the wilderness. 28 And Moroni placed spies round about, that he might know when the camp of the Lamanites should come. 29 And now, as Moroni knew the intention of the Lamanites, that it was their intention to destroy their brethren, or to subject them and bring them into bondage that they might establish a kingdom unto themselves over all the land; 30 And he also knowing that it was the only desire of the Nephites to preserve their lands, and their liberty, and their church, therefore he thought it no sin that he should defend them by stratagem; therefore, he found by his spies which course the Lamanites were to take. 31 Therefore, he divided his army and brought a part over into the valley, and concealed them on the east, and on the south of the hill Riplah; 32 And the remainder he concealed in the west valley, on the west of the river Sidon, and so down into the borders of the land Manti. 33 And thus having placed his army according to his desire, he was prepared to meet them. 34 And it came to pass that the Lamanites came up on the north of the hill, where a part of the army of Moroni was concealed. 35 And as the Lamanites had passed the hill Riplah, and came into the valley, and began to cross the river Sidon, the army which was concealed on the south of the hill, which was led by a man whose name was Lehi, and he led his army forth and encircled the Lamanites about on the east in their rear.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Sebus +3 +[Sebus] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {waters1,2,3} ≈ IR3 +[Sebus]{waters} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land1} +[Sebus]{waters} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1,3} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.	There are two candidates for the waters of Sebus that are near to the land of Ishmael (in the region of St. Charles Missouri). There minor small lakes scattered about in the Mississippi bottom lands to the north, about 2-3 miles away, and two lakes to the west and in the highlands that are adjacent to each other and within 10 miles of St. Charles. These two regions are the most likely candidates for the waters (plural) of Sebus. Most likely, in my opinion, are the bottom land lakes as a flat fertile area to feed, tend, and water livestock. Modern feature location: Lakeside and/or Fountain Lakes Missouri.	Alma 17:19-26,34Alma 17 19 And Ammon went to the land of Ishmael, the land being called after the sons of Ishmael, who also became Lamanites. 20 And as Ammon entered the land of Ishmael, the Lamanites took him and bound him, as was their custom to bind all the Nephites who fell into their hands, and carry them before the king; and thus it was left to the pleasure of the king to slay them, or to retain them in captivity, or to cast them into prison, or to cast them out of his land, according to his will and pleasure. 21 And thus Ammon was carried before the king who was over the land of Ishmael; and his name was Lamoni; and he was a descendant of Ishmael. 22 And the king inquired of Ammon if it were his desire to dwell in the land among the Lamanites, or among his people. 23 And Ammon said unto him: Yea, I desire to dwell among this people for a time; yea, and perhaps until the day I die. 24 And it came to pass that king Lamoni was much pleased with Ammon, and caused that his bands should be loosed; and he would that Ammon should take one of his daughters to wife. 25 But Ammon said unto him: Nay, but I will be thy servant. Therefore Ammon became a servant to king Lamoni. And it came to pass that he was set among other servants to watch the flocks of Lamoni, according to the custom of the Lamanites. 26 And after he had been in the service of the king three days, as he was with the Lamanitish servants going forth with their flocks to the place of water, which was called the water of Sebus, and all the Lamanites drive their flocks hither, that they may have water-- ... 34 Therefore, they did as Ammon commanded them, and he went forth and stood to contend with those who stood by the waters of Sebus; and they were in number not a few. Alma 18:6-9Alma 18 6 For he had slain many of them because their brethren had scattered their flocks at the place of water; and thus, because they had had their flocks scattered they were slain. 7 Now it was the practice of these Lamanites to stand by the waters of Sebus to scatter the flocks of the people, that thereby they might drive away many that were scattered unto their own land, it being a practice of plunder among them. 8 And it came to pass that king Lamoni inquired of his servants, saying: Where is this man that has such great power? 9 And they said unto him: Behold, he is feeding thy horses. Now the king had commanded his servants, previous to the time of the watering of their flocks, that they should prepare his horses and chariots, and conduct him forth to the land of Nephi; for there had been a great feast appointed at the land of Nephi, by the father of Lamoni, who was king over all the land. Alma 19:19-21Alma 19 19 And now the people began to murmur among themselves; some saying that it was a great evil that had come upon them, or upon the king and his house, because he had suffered that the Nephite should remain in the land. 20 But others rebuked them, saying: The king hath brought this evil upon his house, because he slew his servants who had had their flocks scattered at the waters of Sebus. 21 And they were also rebuked by those men who had stood at the waters of Sebus and scattered the flocks which belonged to the king, for they were angry with Ammon because of the number which he had slain of their brethren at the waters of Sebus, while defending the flocks of the king.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : SeaEast +4 +[SeaEast] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {ocean1,2,3} ≈ IR2 +[SeaEast]{ocean} ⇒ <is extent of> ⇒ {Lamanite lands1} +[SeaEast]{ocean} ⇒ <is extent of> ⇒ {Nephite migrations2,3} +[SeaEast]{ocean} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [SeaWest]{ocean2,3} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.	There is a distinction between the "east sea" and the "sea east". The "east sea" is a specific local sea and is always Lake Michigan/Huron. The "sea east" is a more general description used when describing the bigger picture of the Book of Mormon lands. Modern feature location: Lake Michigan/Huron or Atlantic Ocean (depending on context).	Alma 22:27Alma 22 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about, which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west, and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness, which ran from the sea east even to the sea west, and round about on the borders of the seashore, and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla, through the borders of Manti, by the head of the river Sidon, running from the east towards the west--and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. Helaman 3:8Helaman 3 8 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east. Helaman 11:20Helaman 3 20 And thus it did come to pass that the people of Nephi began to prosper again in the land, and began to build up their waste places, and began to multiply and spread, even until they did cover the whole face of the land, both on the northward and on the southward, from the sea west to the sea east.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Sea North +3 +[SeaNorth] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {ocean1}owi.541.568.2000@gmail.com +[SeaNorth]{ocean} ⇒ <is extent of> ⇒ {Nephite migrations1} +[SeaNorth]{ocean} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [SeaSouth]{ocean1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.	The sea north is globally all-inclusive in it's extent, when describing the Book of Mormon lands. Modern feature location: Hudson Bay, Ontario Canada.	Helaman 3:3-4, 8Helaman 3 3 And it came to pass in the forty and sixth, yea, there was much contention and many dissensions; in the which there were an exceedingly great many who departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and went forth unto the land northward to inherit the land. 4 And they did travel to an exceedingly great distance, insomuch that they came to large bodies of water and many rivers. ... 8 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Sea South +3 +[SeaSouth] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {sea1} ≈ IR2 +[SeaSouth]{ocean} ⇒ <is extent of> ⇒ {Lamanite lands1} +[SeaSouth]{ocean} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [SeaNorth]{ocean1} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.	The sea south is globally all-inclusive in it's extent, when describing the Book of Mormon lands. Modern feature location: Gulf of Mexico.	Helaman 3:8Helaman 3 8 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Sea West +4 +[SeaWest]{ocean} ⇒ <is> ⇒ {sea1} ≈ IR2 +[SeaWest]{ocean} ⇒ <is extent of> ⇒ {Lamanite lands1} +[SeaWest]{ocean} ⇒ <is extent of> ⇒ {Nephite migrations2,3} +[SeaWest]{ocean} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [SeaEast]{ocean2,3} IR2Assume a tight controlled translation and treat the precise wording of the text as being significant. Give priority to our best available rendition of the original text.	There is a distinction between the "west sea" and the "sea west". The "west sea" is a specific local sea and is always Lake Michigan/Huron. The "sea west" is a more general description used when describing the bigger picture of the Book of Mormon lands. Modern feature location: Lake Superior or Pacific Ocean (depending on context).	Alma 22:27Alma 22 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about, which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west, and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness, which ran from the sea east even to the sea west, and round about on the borders of the seashore, and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla, through the borders of Manti, by the head of the river Sidon, running from the east towards the west--and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. Helaman 3:8Helaman 3 8 And it came to pass that they did multiply and spread, and did go forth from the land southward to the land northward, and did spread insomuch that they began to cover the face of the whole earth, from the sea south to the sea north, from the sea west to the sea east. Helaman 11:20Helaman 3 20 And thus it did come to pass that the people of Nephi began to prosper again in the land, and began to build up their waste places, and began to multiply and spread, even until they did cover the whole face of the land, both on the northward and on the southward, from the sea west to the sea east.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Shem +6 +[Shem] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 +[Shem] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} ≈ AR3 +[Shem]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jashon]{city1} +[Shem]{city} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1} +[Shem]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jashon]{city1} +[Shem]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Jashon]{land1} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Shem appears to be the northernmost city mentioned for this time period and it is also north of Jashon and the records depository. The most strategic place for a city north of Jashon would be a city that borders the Ste Marys river and which has Lake Superior (the west sea) as it's source. Modern city location: Sault Ste Marie, Ontario Canada.	Mormon 2:16-21Mormon 2 16 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and forty and fifth year the Nephites did begin to flee before the Lamanites; and they were pursued until they came even to the land of Jashon, before it was possible to stop them in their retreat. 17 And now, the city of Jashon was near the land where Ammaron had deposited the records unto the Lord, that they might not be destroyed. And behold I had gone according to the word of Ammaron, and taken the plates of Nephi, and did make a record according to the words of Ammaron. 18 And upon the plates of Nephi I did make a full account of all the wickedness and abominations; but upon these plates I did forbear to make a full account of their wickedness and abominations, for behold, a continual scene of wickedness and abominations has been before mine eyes ever since I have been sufficient to behold the ways of man. 19 And wo is me because of their wickedness; for my heart has been filled with sorrow because of their wickedness, all my days; nevertheless, I know that I shall be lifted up at the last day. 20 And it came to pass that in this year the people of Nephi again were hunted and driven. And it came to pass that we were driven forth until we had come northward to the land which was called Shem. 21 And it came to pass that we did fortify the city of Shem, and we did gather in our people as much as it were possible, that perhaps we might save them from destruction.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Shemlon +12 +[Shemlon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,5,6} ≈ IR7 AR1 AR3 +[Shemlon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place4} ≈ AR3 +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city6} ≈ IR7 +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Shilom]{land1,2,5,6} ≈ IR7 +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Alma]{valley7} ≈ AR3 +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land5} +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land6} +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land6} +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city4,6} ≈ AR3 +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land4} +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shimnilom]{city6} ≈ AR5 +[Shemlon]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1,3,4} ≈ IR4 IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. city IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model.	Shemlon is placed east of Nephi and north of Shilom, bordering the river. It is placed north because Shilom is to the south. Shemlon is mentioned as being visible from the tower in near the Temple in the city of Nephi. See Section 4.3.4 East of Nephi. Modern city location: Madison, Illinois.	Mosiah 10:7-9Mosiah 10 7 But I had sent my spies out round about the land of Shemlon, that I might discover their preparations, that I might guard against them, that they might not come upon my people and destroy them. 8 And it came to pass that they came up upon the north of the land of Shilom, with their numerous hosts, men armed with bows, and with arrows, and with swords, and with cimeters, and with stones, and with slings; and they had their heads shaved that they were naked; and they were girded with a leathern girdle about their loins. 9 And it came to pass that I caused that the women and children of my people should be hid in the wilderness; and I also caused that all my old men that could bear arms, and also all my young men that were able to bear arms, should gather themselves together to go to battle against the Lamanites; and I did place them in their ranks, every man according to his age. Mosiah 11:12-13Mosiah 11 12 And it came to pass that he built a tower near the temple; yea, a very high tower, even so high that he could stand upon the top thereof and overlook the land of Shilom, and also the land of Shemlon, which was possessed by the Lamanites; and he could even look over all the land round about. 13 And it came to pass that he caused many buildings to be built in the land Shilom; and he caused a great tower to be built on the hill north of the land Shilom, which had been a resort for the children of Nephi at the time they fled out of the land; and thus he did do with the riches which he obtained by the taxation of his people. Mosiah 19:5-9Mosiah 19 5 And it came to pass that he fought with the king; and when the king saw that he was about to overpower him, he fled and ran and got upon the tower which was near the temple. 6 And Gideon pursued after him and was about to get upon the tower to slay the king, and the king cast his eyes round about towards the land of Shemlon, and behold, the army of the Lamanites were within the borders of the land. 7 And now the king cried out in the anguish of his soul, saying: Gideon, spare me, for the Lamanites are upon us, and they will destroy us; yea, they will destroy my people. 8 And now the king was not so much concerned about his people as he was about his own life; nevertheless, Gideon did spare his life. 9 And the king commanded the people that they should flee before the Lamanites, and he himself did go before them, and they did flee into the wilderness, with their women and their children. Mosiah 20:1-7Mosiah 20 1 Now there was a place in Shemlon where the daughters of the Lamanites did gather themselves together to sing, and to dance, and to make themselves merry. 2 And it came to pass that there was one day a small number of them gathered together to sing and to dance. 3 And now the priests of king Noah, being ashamed to return to the city of Nephi, yea, and also fearing that the people would slay them, therefore they durst not return to their wives and their children. 4 And having tarried in the wilderness, and having discovered the daughters of the Lamanites, they laid and watched them; 5 And when there were but few of them gathered together to dance, they came forth out of their secret places and took them and carried them into the wilderness; yea, twenty and four of the daughters of the Lamanites they carried into the wilderness. 6 And it came to pass that when the Lamanites found that their daughters had been missing, they were angry with the people of Limhi, for they thought it was the people of Limhi. 7 Therefore they sent their armies forth; yea, even the king himself went before his people; and they went up to the land of Nephi to destroy the people of Limhi. Mosiah 24:1-4Mosiah 24 1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon. 2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands. 3 And now the name of the king of the Lamanites was Laman, being called after the name of his father; and therefore he was called king Laman. And he was king over a numerous people. 4 And he appointed teachers of the brethren of Amulon in every land which was possessed by his people; and thus the language of Nephi began to be taught among all the people of the Lamanites. Alma 23:8-13Alma 23 8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: 9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael; 10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni; 11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi; 12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom. 13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites. Mosiah 24:1-2,19-25Mosiah 24 1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon. 2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands. ... 19 And in the morning the Lord caused a deep sleep to come upon the Lamanites, yea, and all their task-masters were in a profound sleep. 20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness. 21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Sherrizah +3 +[Sherrizah] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {tower1} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Sherrizah]{tower} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Moriantum]{place1+2} +[Sherrizah]{tower} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city1+2} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	Mention of the war atrocities at Sherrizah and Moriantum is in a letter from Mormon to Moroni that Moroni later shares with us later, outside the chronological narrative of Mormon. However it fits best with the situation described in Mormon 4 and therefore the near locale would be the city of Desolation (located on St. Joseph Island). Near to Desolation is a passageway between the west sea (lake Superior) and the east sea (lake Michigan) with a point of land that juts out that would be a logical and necessary place for a light house to be placed. So I propose that the tower of Sherrizah was most likely a marker beacon or lighthouse in this location. The name of the place today is Johnson Point which is the most eastern point of Neebish island overlooking a narrow straight. Any ships passing here would need a point of reference for safety. There is a modern structure on this spot currently. Modern city location: Johnson Point.	Moroni 9:7-9,16-17Mormon 9 7 And now I write somewhat concerning the sufferings of this people. For according to the knowledge which I have received from Amoron, behold, the Lamanites have many prisoners, which they took from the tower of Sherrizah; and there were men, women, and children. 8 And the husbands and fathers of those women and children they have slain; and they feed the women upon the flesh of their husbands, and the children upon the flesh of their fathers; and no water, save a little, do they give unto them. 9 And notwithstanding this great abomination of the Lamanites, it doth not exceed that of our people in Moriantum. For behold, many of the daughters of the Lamanites have they taken prisoners; and after depriving them of that which was most dear and precious above all things, which is chastity and virtue-- ... 16 And again, my son, there are many widows and their daughters who remain in Sherrizah; and that part of the provisions which the Lamanites did not carry away, behold, the army of Zenephi has carried away, and left them to wander whithersoever they can for food; and many old women do faint by the way and die. 17 And the army which is with me is weak; and the armies of the Lamanites are betwixt Sherrizah and me; and as many as have fled to the army of Aaron have fallen victims to their awful brutality. Mormon 4:1-4Mormon 4 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. 4 And it was because the armies of the Nephites went up unto the Lamanites that they began to be smitten; for were it not for that, the Lamanites could have had no power over them. 5 But, behold, the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished; for it is the wicked that stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed. 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. 9 And now all these things had been done, and there had been thousands slain on both sides, both the Nephites and the Lamanites. 10 And it came to pass that the three hundred and sixty and sixth year had passed away, and the Lamanites came again upon the Nephites to battle; and yet the Nephites repented not of the evil they had done, but persisted in their wickedness continually. 11 And it is impossible for the tongue to describe, or for man to write a perfect description of the horrible scene of the blood and carnage which was among the people, both of the Nephites and of the Lamanites; and every heart was hardened, so that they delighted in the shedding of blood continually. 12 And there never had been so great wickedness among all the children of Lehi, nor even among all the house of Israel, according to the words of the Lord, as was among this people. 13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites. 14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Shilom +17 +[Shilom] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1,2} ≈ AR1 AR3 AR5 +[Shilom] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8} ≈ AR1 +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lehi-Nephi]{city1,2} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Lehi-Nephi]{land1,2} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Nephi]{land1,2} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land3,4,6,7} ≈ IR7 +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {hill1} ≈ IR7 +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Alma]{valley8} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amulon]{land6,8} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land7} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city7} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land7} +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city3,7} ≈ AR1 AR3 +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{land7} ≈ AR1 +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shimnilom]{city7} ≈ AR1 AR3 AR5 +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ {wilderness1,2,3,5} ≈ AR1 +[Shilom]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Hill_NS]{hill1,4} IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model.	Shilom, frequently mentioned in the Book of Mormon, was next to the city of Nephi, just across on the southeast side of the river, near the "horseshoe bend," that the river course used to follow in ancient times. The hill mentioned is the bluff where the original settlement of St. Louis was founded. See Section 4.3.4 East of Nephi. Modern city location: Cahokia, Illinois.	Mosiah 7:1-7,16,21Mosiah 7 1 And now, it came to pass that after king Mosiah had had continual peace for the space of three years, he was desirous to know concerning the people who went up to dwell in the land of Lehi-Nephi, or in the city of Lehi-Nephi; for his people had heard nothing from them from the time they left the land of Zarahemla; therefore, they wearied him with their teasings. 2 And it came to pass that king Mosiah granted that sixteen of their strong men might go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi, to inquire concerning their brethren. 3 And it came to pass that on the morrow they started to go up, having with them one Ammon, he being a strong and mighty man, and a descendant of Zarahemla; and he was also their leader. 4 And now, they knew not the course they should travel in the wilderness to go up to the land of Lehi-Nephi; therefore they wandered many days in the wilderness, even forty days did they wander. 5 And when they had wandered forty days they came to a hill, which is north of the land of Shilom, and there they pitched their tents. 6 And Ammon took three of his brethren, and their names were Amaleki, Helem, and Hem, and they went down into the land of Nephi. 7 And behold, they met the king of the people who were in the land of Nephi, and in the land of Shilom; and they were surrounded by the king's guard, and were taken, and were bound, and were committed to prison. ... 16 And now, king Limhi commanded his guards that they should no more bind Ammon nor his brethren, but caused that they should go to hill which was north of Shilom, and bring their brethren into the city, that thereby they might eat, and drink, and rest themselves from the labors of their journey; for they had suffered many things; they had suffered hunger, thirst, and fatigue. ... 21 And ye all are witnesses this day, that Zeniff, who was made king over this people, he being over-zealous to inherit the land of his fathers, therefore being deceived by the cunning and craftiness of king Laman, who having entered into a treaty with king Zeniff, and having yielded up into his hands the possessions of a part of the land, or even the city of Lehi-Nephi, and the city of Shilom; and the land round about-- Mosiah 9:1-8,14Mosiah 9 1 I, Zeniff, having been taught in all the language of the Nephites, and having had a knowledge of the land of Nephi, or of the land of our fathers' first inheritance, and having been sent as a spy among the Lamanites that I might spy out their forces, that our army might come upon them and destroy them--but when I saw that which was good among them I was desirous that they should not be destroyed. 2 Therefore, I contended with my brethren in the wilderness, for I would that our ruler should make a treaty with them; but he being an austere and a blood-thirsty man commanded that I should be slain; but I was rescued by the shedding of much blood; for father fought against father, and brother against brother, until the greater number of our army was destroyed in the wilderness; and we returned, those of us that were spared, to the land of Zarahemla, to relate that tale to their wives and their children. 3 And yet, I being over-zealous to inherit the land of our fathers, collected as many as were desirous to go up to possess the land, and started again on our journey into the wilderness to go up to the land; but we were smitten with famine and sore afflictions; for we were slow to remember the Lord our God. 4 Nevertheless, after many days' wandering in the wilderness we pitched our tents in the place where our brethren were slain, which was near to the land of our fathers. 5 And it came to pass that I went again with four of my men into the city, in unto the king, that I might know of the disposition of the king, and that I might know if I might go in with my people and possess the land in peace. 6 And I went in unto the king, and he covenanted with me that I might possess the land of Lehi-Nephi, and the land of Shilom. 7 And he also commanded that his people should depart out of the land, and I and my people went into the land that we might possess it. 8 And we began to build buildings, and to repair the walls of the city, yea, even the walls of the city of Lehi-Nephi, and the city of Shilom. ... 14 For, in the thirteenth year of my reign in the land of Nephi, away on the south of the land of Shilom, when my people were watering and feeding their flocks, and tilling their lands, a numerous host of Lamanites came upon them and began to slay them, and to take off their flocks, and the corn of their fields. Mosiah 10:6-9Mosiah 10 6 And it came to pass that king Laman died, and his son began to reign in his stead. And he began to stir his people up in rebellion against my people; therefore they began to prepare for war, and to come up to battle against my people. 7 But I had sent my spies out round about the land of Shemlon, that I might discover their preparations, that I might guard against them, that they might not come upon my people and destroy them. 8 And it came to pass that they came up upon the north of the land of Shilom, with their numerous hosts, men armed with bows, and with arrows, and with swords, and with cimeters, and with stones, and with slings; and they had their heads shaved that they were naked; and they were girded with a leathern girdle about their loins. 9 And it came to pass that I caused that the women and children of my people should be hid in the wilderness; and I also caused that all my old men that could bear arms, and also all my young men that were able to bear arms, should gather themselves together to go to battle against the Lamanites; and I did place them in their ranks, every man according to his age. Mosiah 11:8-13Mosiah 11 8 And it came to pass that king Noah built many elegant and spacious buildings; and he ornamented them with fine work of wood, and of all manner of precious things, of gold, and of silver, and of iron, and of brass, and of ziff, and of copper; 9 And he also built him a spacious palace, and a throne in the midst thereof, all of which was of fine wood and was ornamented with gold and silver and with precious things. 10 And he also caused that his workmen should work all manner of fine work within the walls of the temple, of fine wood, and of copper, and of brass. 11 And the seats which were set apart for the high priests, which were above all the other seats, he did ornament with pure gold; and he caused a breastwork to be built before them, that they might rest their bodies and their arms upon while they should speak lying and vain words to his people. 12 And it came to pass that he built a tower near the temple; yea, a very high tower, even so high that he could stand upon the top thereof and overlook the land of Shilom, and also the land of Shemlon, which was possessed by the Lamanites; and he could even look over all the land round about. 13 And it came to pass that he caused many buildings to be built in the land Shilom; and he caused a great tower to be built on the hill north of the land Shilom, which had been a resort for the children of Nephi at the time they fled out of the land; and thus he did do with the riches which he obtained by the taxation of his people. Mosiah 22:7-16Mosiah 22 7 And I will go according to thy command and pay the last tribute of wine to the Lamanites, and they will be drunken; and we will pass through the secret pass on the left of their camp when they are drunken and asleep. 8 Thus we will depart with our women and our children, our flocks, and our herds into the wilderness; and we will travel around the land of Shilom. 9 And it came to pass that the king hearkened unto the words of Gideon. 10 And king Limhi caused that his people should gather their flocks together; and he sent the tribute of wine to the Lamanites; and he also sent more wine, as a present unto them; and they did drink freely of the wine which king Limhi did send unto them. 11 And it came to pass that the people of king Limhi did depart by night into the wilderness with their flocks and their herds, and they went round about the land of Shilom in the wilderness, and bent their course towards the land of Zarahemla, being led by Ammon and his brethren. 12 And they had taken all their gold, and silver, and their precious things, which they could carry, and also their provisions with them, into the wilderness; and they pursued their journey. 13 And after being many days in the wilderness they arrived in the land of Zarahemla, and joined Mosiah's people, and became his subjects. 14 And it came to pass that Mosiah received them with joy; and he also received their records, and also the records which had been found by the people of Limhi. 15 And now it came to pass when the Lamanites had found that the people of Limhi had departed out of the land by night, that they sent an army into the wilderness to pursue them; 16 And after they had pursued them two days, they could no longer follow their tracks; therefore they were lost in the wilderness. Mosiah 24:1-4Mosiah 24 1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon. 2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands. 3 And now the name of the king of the Lamanites was Laman, being called after the name of his father; and therefore he was called king Laman. And he was king over a numerous people. 4 And he appointed teachers of the brethren of Amulon in every land which was possessed by his people; and thus the language of Nephi began to be taught among all the people of the Lamanites. Alma 23:8-13Alma 23 8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: 9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael; 10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni; 11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi; 12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom. 13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites. Mosiah 24:1-2,19-25Mosiah 24 1 And it came to pass that Amulon did gain favor in the eyes of the king of the Lamanites; therefore, the king of the Lamanites granted unto him and his brethren that they should be appointed teachers over his people, yea, even over the people who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the land of Shilom, and in the land of Amulon. 2 For the Lamanites had taken possession of all these lands; therefore, the king of the Lamanites had appointed kings over all these lands. ... 19 And in the morning the Lord caused a deep sleep to come upon the Lamanites, yea, and all their task-masters were in a profound sleep. 20 And Alma and his people departed into the wilderness; and when they had traveled all day they pitched their tents in a valley, and they called the valley Alma, because he led their way in the wilderness. 21 Yea, and in the valley of Alma they poured out their thanks to God because he had been merciful unto them, and eased their burdens, and had delivered them out of bondage; for they were in bondage, and none could deliver them except it were the Lord their God.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Shim +9 +[Shim] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {hill1} ≈ AR2 +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Antum]{land1} +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Teancum]{city2} +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city2} +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land2} +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Boaz]{city2} +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Ablom]{place3} +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city3} +[Shim]{hill} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1} AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon.	Note that the hill Shim is not the hill Cumorah, neither is it in the land of Cumorah but rather in the Nephite land of Antum. The two hills are often conflated because of Ether 9:1 (" ...Omer departed out of the land with his family, and traveled many days, and came over and passed by the hill of Shim, and came over by the place where the Nephites were destroyed ...") but note that this does not refer to the final destruction of the Nephites which took place at Cumorah. The place of destruction refers to the 2nd Battle of the city Desolation, in Mormon 3:18-23, where the Nephites suffered a major defeat. This is the tipping point where the war was was really lost for the Nephites. According to Mormon, prior to that they still had a chance. It is immediately after the defeat of Mormon 3:18-23 that Mormon goes to the Hill Shim to retrieve the records. The hill Shim is tied directly to the events in Mormon 3:18-23 and not to Cumorah. Modern feature location: 1.5 miles southeast of Echo Bay, Ontario.	Mormon 1:1-12Mormon 1 1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. 2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe; 3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people. 4 And behold, ye shall take the plates of Nephi unto yourself, and the remainder shall ye leave in the place where they are; and ye shall engrave on the plates of Nephi all the things that ye have observed concerning this people. 5 And I, Mormon, being a descendant of Nephi, (and my father's name was Mormon) I remembered the things which Ammaron commanded me. 6 And it came to pass that I, being eleven years old, was carried by my father into the land southward, even to the land of Zarahemla. 7 The whole face of the land had become covered with buildings, and the people were as numerous almost, as it were the sand of the sea. 8 And it came to pass in this year there began to be a war between the Nephites, who consisted of the Nephites and the Jacobites and the Josephites and the Zoramites; and this war was between the Nephites, and the Lamanites and the Lemuelites and the Ishmaelites. 9 Now the Lamanites and the Lemuelites and the Ishmaelites were called Lamanites, and the two parties were Nephites and Lamanites. 10 And it came to pass that the war began to be among them in the borders of Zarahemla, by the waters of Sidon. 11 And it came to pass that the Nephites had gathered together a great number of men, even to exceed the number of thirty thousand. And it came to pass that they did have in this same year a number of battles, in which the Nephites did beat the Lamanites and did slay many of them. 12 And it came to pass that the Lamanites withdrew their design, and there was peace settled in the land; and peace did remain for the space of about four years, that there was no bloodshed. Mormon 4:1-3,6-8,13-23Mormon 1 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. ... 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. ... 13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites. 14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods. 15 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and seventh year, the Nephites being angry because the Lamanites had sacrificed their women and their children, that they did go against the Lamanites with exceedingly great anger, insomuch that they did beat again the Lamanites, and drive them out of their lands. 16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year. 17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number. 18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun. 19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites. 20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time. 21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols. 22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages. 23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord. Ether 9:3Ether 9 3 And the Lord warned Omer in a dream that he should depart out of the land; wherefore Omer departed out of the land with his family, and traveled many days, and came over and passed by the hill of Shim, and came over by the place where the Nephites were destroyed, and from thence eastward, and came to a place which was called Ablom, by the seashore, and there he pitched his tent, and also his sons and his daughters, and all his household, save it were Jared and his family.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Shimnilom +8 +[Shimnilom] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR1 AR5 +[Shimnilom]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land1} +[Shimnilom]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ishmael]{land1} +[Shimnilom]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Lemuel]{city1} +[Shimnilom]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Middoni]{land1} +[Shimnilom]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Nephi]{city1} +[Shimnilom]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shemlon]{land1} +[Shimnilom]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shilom]{land1} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains. AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model.	Shimnilom borders the ancient course of the Mississippi river, the remains of which is Horseshoe Lake. The location is somewhat distant from current modern population centers so the evidence of prior occupation are still evident. See Section 4.3.4 East of Nephi.Modern city location: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Illinois.	Alma 23:8-13Alma 23 8 Now, these are they who were converted unto the Lord: 9 The people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Ishmael; 10 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Middoni; 11 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the city of Nephi; 12 And also of the people of the Lamanites who were in the land of Shilom, and who were in the land of Shemlon, and in the city of Lemuel, and in the city of Shimnilom. 13 And these are the names of the cities of the Lamanites which were converted unto the Lord; and these are they that laid down the weapons of their rebellion, yea, all their weapons of war; and they were all Lamanites.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Sidom +3 +[Sidom] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} ≈ AR1 +[Sidom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Ammonihah]{land1} +[Sidom]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Noah]{land1,2} AR1When compatible with Entity Relationships, cities and features are placed along navigable rivers or water ways, especially near where the mouth of the river empties into a lake or sea or where two rivers meet, but not in river flood plains.	Sidom is near to Ammonihah because the believers go there immediately after fleeing Ammonihah. So it makes sense it would be down river and also where two rivers meet (the Iowa river and the Cedar river). Sidom is also close to Noah because Noah borders Ammonihah. Modern city location: Columbus Junction, Iowa.	Alma 15:1-4,11-17Alma 15 1 And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek were commanded to depart out of that city ; and they departed, and came out even into the land of Sidom; and behold, there they found all the people who had departed out of the land of Ammonihah, who had been cast out and stoned, because they believed in the words of Alma. 2 And they related unto them all that had happened unto their wives and children, and also concerning themselves, and of their power of deliverance. 3 And also Zeezrom lay sick at Sidom, with a burning fever, which was caused by the great tribulations of his mind on account of his wickedness, for he supposed that Alma and Amulek were no more; and he supposed that they had been slain because of his iniquity. And this great sin, and his many other sins, did harrow up his mind until it did become exceedingly sore, having no deliverance; therefore he began to be scorched with a burning heat. 4 Now, when he heard that Alma and Amulek were in the land of Sidom, his heart began to take courage; and he sent a message immediately unto them, desiring them to come unto him. ... 11 And when Alma had said these words, Zeezrom leaped upon his feet, and began to walk; and this was done to the great astonishment of all the people; and the knowledge of this went forth throughout all the land of Sidom. 12 And Alma baptized Zeezrom unto the Lord; and he began from that time forth to preach unto the people. 13 And Alma established a church in the land of Sidom, and consecrated priests and teachers in the land, to baptize unto the Lord whosoever were desirous to be baptized. 14 And it came to pass that they were many; for they did flock in from all the region round about Sidom, and were baptized. 15 But as to the people that were in the land of Ammonihah, they yet remained a hard-hearted and a stiffnecked people; and they repented not of their sins, ascribing all the power of Alma and Amulek to the devil; for they were of the profession of Nehor, and did not believe in the repentance of their sins. 16 And it came to pass that Alma and Amulek, Amulek having forsaken all his gold, and silver, and his precious things, which were in the land of Ammonihah, for the word of God, he being rejected by those who were once his friends and also by his father and his kindred; 17 Therefore, after Alma having established the church at Sidom, seeing a great check, yea, seeing that the people were checked as to the pride of their hearts, and began to humble themselves before God, and began to assemble themselves together at their sanctuaries to worship God before the altar, watching and praying continually, that they might be delivered from Satan, and from death, and from destruction-- Alma 16:2-3Alma 16 2 For behold, the armies of the Lamanites had come in upon the wilderness side, into the borders of the land, even into the city of Ammonihah, and began to slay the people and destroy the city. 3 And now it came to pass, before the Nephites could raise a sufficient army to drive them out of the land, they had destroyed the people who were in the city of Ammonihah, and also some around the borders of Noah, and taken others captive into the wilderness.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 420 AD] : Sidon +23 +[Sidon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {river1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9} ≈ IR4 +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Manti]{land6} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2,9} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,9}] +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Melek]{land4} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2,3} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{land1,4} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <east of> of> ⇒ [Hermounts]{wilderness2} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <leads to> ⇒ {to the sea2} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amnihu]{hill1,6,7} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gideon]{land4} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley1,2} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Hermounts]{wilderness2} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{land5,6,7} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Riplah]{hill6,7} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Zarahemla]{city2,3} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Amnihu]{hill1} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Gideon]{city3} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley1,2,3} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Riplah]{hill6,7} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ {south wilderness5} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <west of> of> ⇒ [Gideon]{city3} +[Sidon]{river} ⇒ <west of> of> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley1,2,3} IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.	The Sidon is the only named river in the promised land of the Book of Mormon. In all other cases river areas are referred to a wilderness and most often in the context of travel (e.g. "they departed out of the valley, and took their journey into the wilderness"). See examples in section 3.2 for IR4. In modern terms the Sidon is the upper Mississippi except that it diverges to the St. Croix river at Prescott Wisconsin. See also, section 4.5.1. In the Book of Mormon, the "Sidon" begins at Upper St. Croix lake as the "source" and continues southward to Zarahemla (Montrose Iowa). The Sidon is stated as emptying to the sea but past Zarahemla is not referred to as the Sidon. Starting at St. Louis (land of Nephi) the upper Mississippi river joins with the Iowa river then the Missouri river and then the Ohio river. Note that a north to south running Sidon river requires Manti to be north by the head of Sidon rather than south (as some other models place Manti with the Sidon running south to north). See also Manti for more information on this. Modern feature location: Upper and Middle Mississippi River.	Alma 2:11-25Alma 2 15 And it came to pass that the Amlicites came upon the hill Amnihu, which was east of the river Sidon, which ran by the land of Zarahemla, and there they began to make war with the Nephites. 16 Now Alma, being the chief judge and the governor of the people of Nephi, therefore he went up with his people, yea, with his captains, and chief captains, yea, at the head of his armies, against the Amlicites to battle. 17 And they began to slay the Amlicites upon the hill east of Sidon. And the Amlicites did contend with the Nephites with great strength, insomuch that many of the Nephites did fall before the Amlicites. 18 Nevertheless the Lord did strengthen the hand of the Nephites, that they slew the Amlicites with great slaughter, that they began to flee before them. 19 And it came to pass that the Nephites did pursue the Amlicites all that day, and did slay them with much slaughter, insomuch that there were slain of the Amlicites twelve thousand five hundred thirty and two souls; and there were slain of the Nephites six thousand five hundred sixty and two souls. 20 And it came to pass that when Alma could pursue the Amlicites no longer he caused that his people should pitch their tents in the valley of Gideon, the valley being called after that Gideon who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword; and in this valley the Nephites did pitch their tents for the night. 21 And Alma sent spies to follow the remnant of the Amlicites, that he might know of their plans and their plots, whereby he might guard himself against them, that he might preserve his people from being destroyed. 22 Now those whom he had sent out to watch the camp of the Amlicites were called Zeram, and Amnor, and Manti, and Limher; these were they who went out with their men to watch the camp of the Amlicites. 23 And it came to pass that on the morrow they returned into the camp of the Nephites in great haste, being greatly astonished, and struck with much fear, saying: 24 Behold, we followed the camp of the Amlicites, and to our great astonishment, in the land of Minon, above the land of Zarahemla, in the course of the land of Nephi, we saw a numerous host of the Lamanites; and behold, the Amlicites have joined them; 25 And they are upon our brethren in that land; and they are fleeing before them with their flocks, and their wives, and their children, towards our city ; and except we make haste they obtain possession of our city, and our fathers, and our wives, and our children be slain. Alma 2:26-38Alma 2 26 And it came to pass that the people of Nephi took their tents, and departed out of the valley of Gideon towards their city, which was the city of Zarahemla. 27 And behold, as they were crossing the river Sidon, the Lamanites and the Amlicites, being as numerous almost, as it were, as the sands of the sea, came upon them to destroy them. 28 Nevertheless, the Nephites being strengthened by the hand of the Lord, having prayed mightily to him that he would deliver them out of the hands of their enemies, therefore the Lord did hear their cries, and did strengthen them, and the Lamanites and the Amlicites did fall before them. 29 And it came to pass that Alma fought with Amlici with the sword, face to face; and they did contend mightily, one with another. 30 And it came to pass that Alma, being a man of God, being exercised with much faith, cried, saying: O Lord, have mercy and spare my life, that I may be an instrument in thy hands to save and preserve this people. 31 Now when Alma had said these words he contended again with Amlici; and he was strengthened, insomuch that he slew Amlici with the sword. 32 And he also contended with the king of the Lamanites; but the king of the Lamanites fled back from before Alma and sent his guards to contend with Alma. 33 But Alma, with his guards, contended with the guards of the king of the Lamanites until he slew and drove them back. 34 And thus he cleared the ground, or rather the bank, which was on the west of the river Sidon, throwing the bodies of the Lamanites who had been slain into the waters of Sidon, that thereby his people might have room to cross and contend with the Lamanites and the Amlicites on the west side of the river Sidon. 35 And it came to pass that when they had all crossed the river Sidon that the Lamanites and the Amlicites began to flee before them, notwithstanding they were so numerous that they could not be numbered. 36 And they fled before the Nephites towards the wilderness which was west and north, away beyond the borders of the land; and the Nephites did pursue them with their might, and did slay them. 37 Yea, they were met on every hand, and slain and driven, until they were scattered on the west, and on the north, until they had reached the wilderness, which was called Hermounts; and it was that part of the wilderness which was infested by wild and ravenous beasts. 38 And it came to pass that many died in the wilderness of their wounds, and were devoured by those beasts and also the vultures of the air; and their bones have been found, and have been heaped up on the earth. Alma 3:1-3Alma 3 1 And it came to pass that the Nephites who were not slain by the weapons of war, after having buried those who had been slain--now the number of the slain were not numbered, because of the greatness of their number--after they had finished burying their dead they all returned to their lands, and to their houses, and their wives, and their children. 2 Now many women and children had been slain with the sword, and also many of their flocks and their herds; and also many of their fields of grain were destroyed, for they were trodden down by the hosts of men. 3 And now as many of the Lamanites and the Amlicites who had been slain upon the bank of the river Sidon were cast into the waters of Sidon; and behold their bones are in the depths of the sea, and they are many. Alma 6:4-8Alma 6 4 And thus they began to establish the order of the church in the city of Zarahemla. 5 Now I would that ye should understand that the word of God was liberal unto all, that none were deprived of the privilege of assembling themselves together to hear the word of God. 6 Nevertheless the children of God were commanded that they should gather themselves together oft, and join in fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls of those who knew not God. 7 And now it came to pass that when Alma had made these regulations he departed from them, yea, from the church which was in the city of Zarahemla, and went over upon the east of the river Sidon, into the valley of Gideon, there having been a city built, which was called the city of Gideon, which was in the valley that was called Gideon, being called after the man who was slain by the hand of Nehor with the sword. 8 And Alma went and began to declare the word of God unto the church which was established in the valley of Gideon, according to the revelation of the truth of the word which had been spoken by his fathers, and according to the spirit of prophecy which was in him, according to the testimony of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who should come to redeem his people from their sins, and the holy order by which he was called. And thus it is written. Amen. Alma 8:1-8Alma 8 1 And now it came to pass that Alma returned from the land of Gideon, after having taught the people of Gideon many things which cannot be written, having established the order of the church, according as he had before done in the land of Zarahemla, yea, he returned to his own house at Zarahemla to rest himself from the labors which he had performed. 2 And thus ended the ninth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi. 3 And it came to pass in the commencement of the tenth year of the reign of the judges over the people of Nephi, that Alma departed from thence and took his journey over into the land of Melek, on the west of the river Sidon, on the west by the borders of the wilderness. 4 And he began to teach the people in the land of Melek according to the holy order of God, by which he had been called; and he began to teach the people throughout all the land of Melek. 5 And it came to pass that the people came to him throughout all the borders of the land which was by the wilderness side. And they were baptized throughout all the land; 6 So that when he had finished his work at Melek he departed thence, and traveled three days' journey on the north of the land of Melek; and he came to a city which was called Ammonihah. 7 Now it was the custom of the people of Nephi to call their lands, and their cities, and their villages, yea, even all their small villages, after the name of him who first possessed them; and thus it was with the land of Ammonihah. 8 And it came to pass that when Alma had come to the city of Ammonihah he began to preach the word of God unto them. Alma 16:3-8Alma 3 3 And now it came to pass, before the Nephites could raise a sufficient army to drive them out of the land, they had destroyed the people who were in the city of Ammonihah, and also some around the borders of Noah, and taken others captive into the wilderness. 4 Now it came to pass that the Nephites were desirous to obtain those who had been carried away captive into the wilderness. 5 Therefore, he that had been appointed chief captain over the armies of the Nephites, (and his name was Zoram, and he had two sons, Lehi and Aha)--now Zoram and his two sons, knowing that Alma was high priest over the church, and having heard that he had the spirit of prophecy, therefore they went unto him and desired of him to know whither the Lord would that they should go into the wilderness in search of their brethren, who had been taken captive by the Lamanites. 6 And it came to pass that Alma inquired of the Lord concerning the matter. And Alma returned and said unto them: Behold, the Lamanites will cross the river Sidon in the south wilderness, away up beyond the borders of the land of Manti. And behold there shall ye meet them, on the east of the river Sidon, and there the Lord will deliver unto thee thy brethren who have been taken captive by the Lamanites. 7 And it came to pass that Zoram and his sons crossed over the river Sidon, with their armies, and marched away beyond the borders of Manti into the south wilderness, which was on the east side of the river Sidon. 8 And they came upon the armies of the Lamanites, and the Lamanites were scattered and driven into the wilderness; and they took their brethren who had been taken captive by the Lamanites, and there was not one soul of them had been lost that were taken captive. And they were brought by their brethren to possess their own lands. Alma 43:22-33Alma 43 22 Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone. 23 But it came to pass, as soon as they had departed into the wilderness Moroni sent spies into the wilderness to watch their camp; and Moroni, also, knowing of the prophecies of Alma, sent certain men unto him, desiring him that he should inquire of the Lord whither the armies of the Nephites should go to defend themselves against the Lamanites. 24 And it came to pass that the word of the Lord came unto Alma, and Alma informed the messengers of Moroni, that the armies of the Lamanites were marching round about in the wilderness, that they might come over into the land of Manti, that they might commence an attack upon the weaker part of the people. And those messengers went and delivered the message unto Moroni. 25 Now Moroni, leaving a part of his army in the land of Jershon, lest by any means a part of the Lamanites should come into that land and take possession of the city, took the remaining part of his army and marched over into the land of Manti. 26 And he caused that all the people in that quarter of the land should gather themselves together to battle against the Lamanites, to defend their lands and their country, their rights and their liberties; therefore they were prepared against the time of the coming of the Lamanites. 27 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his army should be secreted in the valley which was near the bank of the river Sidon, which was on the west of the river Sidon in the wilderness. 28 And Moroni placed spies round about, that he might know when the camp of the Lamanites should come. 29 And now, as Moroni knew the intention of the Lamanites, that it was their intention to destroy their brethren, or to subject them and bring them into bondage that they might establish a kingdom unto themselves over all the land; 30 And he also knowing that it was the only desire of the Nephites to preserve their lands, and their liberty, and their church, therefore he thought it no sin that he should defend them by stratagem; therefore, he found by his spies which course the Lamanites were to take. 31 Therefore, he divided his army and brought a part over into the valley, and concealed them on the east, and on the south of the hill Riplah; 32 And the remainder he concealed in the west valley, on the west of the river Sidon, and so down into the borders of the land Manti. 33 And thus having placed his army according to his desire, he was prepared to meet them. Alma 43:34-42Alma 43 34 And it came to pass that the Lamanites came up on the north of the hill, where a part of the army of Moroni was concealed. 35 And as the Lamanites had passed the hill Riplah, and came into the valley, and began to cross the river Sidon, the army which was concealed on the south of the hill, which was led by a man whose name was Lehi, and he led his army forth and encircled the Lamanites about on the east in their rear. 36 And it came to pass that the Lamanites, when they saw the Nephites coming upon them in their rear, turned them about and began to contend with the army of Lehi. 37 And the work of death commenced on both sides, but it was more dreadful on the part of the Lamanites, for their nakedness was exposed to the heavy blows of the Nephites with their swords and their cimeters, which brought death almost at every stroke. 38 While on the other hand, there was now and then a man fell among the Nephites, by their swords and the loss of blood, they being shielded from the more vital parts of the body, or the more vital parts of the body being shielded from the strokes of the Lamanites, by their breastplates, and their armshields, and their head-plates; and thus the Nephites did carry on the work of death among the Lamanites. 39 And it came to pass that the Lamanites became frightened, because of the great destruction among them, even until they began to flee towards the river Sidon. 40 And they were pursued by Lehi and his men; and they were driven by Lehi into the waters of Sidon, and they crossed the waters of Sidon. And Lehi retained his armies upon the bank of the river Sidon that they should not cross. 41 And it came to pass that Moroni and his army met the Lamanites in the valley, on the other side of the river Sidon, and began to fall upon them and to slay them. 42 And the Lamanites did flee again before them, towards the land of Manti; and they were met again by the armies of Moroni. Alma 43:49-54Alma 43 49 And it came to pass that they turned upon the Lamanites, and they cried with one voice unto the Lord their God, for their liberty and their freedom from bondage. 50 And they began to stand against the Lamanites with power; and in that selfsame hour that they cried unto the Lord for their freedom, the Lamanites began to flee before them; and they fled even to the waters of Sidon. 51 Now, the Lamanites were more numerous, yea, by more than double the number of the Nephites; nevertheless, they were driven insomuch that they were gathered together in one body in the valley, upon the bank by the river Sidon. 52 Therefore the armies of Moroni encircled them about, yea, even on both sides of the river, for behold, on the east were the men of Lehi. 53 Therefore when Zerahemnah saw the men of Lehi on the east of the river Sidon, and the armies of Moroni on the west of the river Sidon, that they were encircled about by the Nephites, they were struck with terror. 54 Now Moroni, when he saw their terror, commanded his men that they should stop shedding their blood. Alma 44:19-23Alma 44 19 Now Zerahemnah, when he saw that they were all about to be destroyed, cried mightily unto Moroni, promising that he would covenant and also his people with them, if they would spare the remainder of their lives, that they never would come to war again against them. 20 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that the work of death should cease again among the people. And he took the weapons of war from the Lamanites; and after they had entered into a covenant with him of peace they were suffered to depart into the wilderness. 21 Now the number of their dead was not numbered because of the greatness of the number; yea, the number of their dead was exceedingly great, both on the Nephites and on the Lamanites. 22 And it came to pass that they did cast their dead into the waters of Sidon, and they have gone forth and are buried in the depths of the sea. 23 And the armies of the Nephites, or of Moroni, returned and came to their houses and their lands. Mormon 1:8-12Mormon 1 8 And it came to pass in this year there began to be a war between the Nephites, who consisted of the Nephites and the Jacobites and the Josephites and the Zoramites; and this war was between the Nephites, and the Lamanites and the Lemuelites and the Ishmaelites. 9 Now the Lamanites and the Lemuelites and the Ishmaelites were called Lamanites, and the two parties were Nephites and Lamanites. 10 And it came to pass that the war began to be among them in the borders of Zarahemla, by the waters of Sidon. 11 And it came to pass that the Nephites had gathered together a great number of men, even to exceed the number of thirty thousand. And it came to pass that they did have in this same year a number of battles, in which the Nephites did beat the Lamanites and did slay many of them.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : SidonHead +9 +[SidonHead] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place1,2,3,4} ≈ AR3 +[SidonHead]{place} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Manti]{land1} ≈ IR8 +[SidonHead]{place} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ {northern lands1,3,4} ≈ IR8 +[SidonHead]{place} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Manti]{land1,2} ≈ IR6 IR8 +[SidonHead]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [WestSea]{sea1,3} ≈ IR8 +[SidonHead]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antiparah]{city4} ≈ IR8 IR9 +[SidonHead]{place} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Manti]{land2,4} ≈ IR6 IR8 IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. IR8The phrase "round about" indicates "circuitous or indirect, as a road, journey" IR9When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3). AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	The source or "headwaters" of the St Croix/Sidon River is Upper St Croix Lake. See also [Sidon]. The head of a River is clearly its place of origin, it's source. 1 Nephi 8:13,141 Nephi 8:13,14 13 And as I cast my eyes round about, that perhaps I might discover my family also, I beheld a river of water; and it ran along, and it was near the tree of which I was partaking the fruit. 14 And I looked to behold from whence it came; and I saw the head thereof a little way off; and at the head thereof I beheld your mother Sariah, and Sam, and Nephi; and they stood as if they knew not whither they should go. also backs up this interpretation, showing that is how the Book of Mormon used the word "head" for a river source. See also Section 4.5 The Lands Near Manti. In Alma 17, "away" means "on the way to". See Section 3.4.4. The head of the Sidon get frequent mention in the Book of Mormon which indicates it was a well known and major feature. The St Croix lake is 855 acres in size and is fed by small streams and springs. Technically the small St Croix Creek north of Upper St Croix lake is the "true" source of the St. Croix river as it straddles the continental divide just barely north of the lake (the line where water goes south to the Gulf of Mexico or north to Lake Superior and the Atlantic ocean). However local residents refer to the lake itself as the headwaters/source of the St Croix and apparently so did the Nephites of old. Modern feature location: Upper St. Croix Lake, Wisconsin.	Alma 22:27-29Alma 22 (see section 4.2 commentary) 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. 28 Now, the more idle part of the Lamanites lived in the wilderness, and dwelt in tents; and they were spread: through the wilderness on the west in the land of Nephi; Yea, and also on the west of the land of Zarahemla; in the borders by the seashore; and on the west in the land of Nephi; in the place of their fathers' first inheritance and thus bordering along by the seashore; and also there were many Lamanites on the east by the seashore, whither the Nephites had driven them. 29 And thus the Nephites were nearly surrounded by the Lamanites. Nevertheless, the Nephites had taken possession of all the northern parts of the land: bordering on the wilderness at the head of the river Sidon; from the east to the west round about on the wilderness side; on the north even until they came to the land which they called Bountiful. Alma 43:22Alma 43 22 Behold, now it came to pass that they durst not come against the Nephites in the borders of Jershon; therefore they departed out of the land of Antionum into the wilderness, and took their journey round about in the wilderness, away by the head of the river Sidon, that they might come into the land of Manti and take possession of the land; for they did not suppose that the armies of Moroni would know whither they had gone. Alma 50:6-11Alma 50 6 Thus Moroni did prepare strongholds against the coming of their enemies, round about every city in all the land. 7 And it came to pass that Moroni caused that his armies should go forth into the east wilderness; yea, and they went forth and drove all the Lamanites who were in the east wilderness into their own lands, which were south of the land of Zarahemla. 8 And the land of Nephi did run in a straight course from the east sea to the west. 9 And it came to pass that when Moroni had driven all the Lamanites out of the east wilderness, which was north of the lands of their own possessions, he caused that the inhabitants who were in the land of Zarahemla and in the land round about should go forth into the east wilderness, even to the borders by the seashore, and possess the land. 10 And he also placed armies on the south, in the borders of their possessions, and caused them to erect fortifications that they might secure their armies and their people from the hands of their enemies. 11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure. Alma 56:13-25,29-31Alma 56 13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men; 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. 15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. 16 Yea, and they were depressed in body as well as in spirit, for they had fought valiantly by day and toiled by night to maintain their cities; and thus they had suffered great afflictions of every kind. 17 And now they were determined to conquer in this place or die; therefore you may well suppose that this little force which I brought with me, yea, those sons of mine, gave them great hopes and much joy. 18 And now it came to pass that when the Lamanites saw that Antipus had received a greater strength to his army, they were compelled by the orders of Ammoron to not come against the city of Judea, or against us, to battle. 19 And thus were we favored of the Lord; for had they come upon us in this our weakness they might have perhaps destroyed our little army; but thus were we preserved. 20 They were commanded by Ammoron to maintain those cities which they had taken. And thus ended the twenty and sixth year. And in the commencement of the twenty and seventh year we had prepared our city and ourselves for defence. 21 Now we were desirous that the Lamanites should come upon us; for we were not desirous to make an attack upon them in their strongholds. 22 And it came to pass that we kept spies out round about, to watch the movements of the Lamanites, that they might not pass us by night nor by day to make an attack upon our other cities which were on the northward. 23 For we knew in those cities they were not sufficiently strong to meet them; therefore we were desirous, if they should pass by us, to fall upon them in their rear, and thus bring them up in the rear at the same time they were met in the front. We supposed that we could overpower them; but behold, we were disappointed in this our desire. 24 They durst not pass by us with their whole army, neither durst they with a part, lest they should not be sufficiently strong and they should fall. 25 Neither durst they march down against the city of Zarahemla; neither durst they cross the head of Sidon, over to the city of Nephihah. 26 And thus, with their forces, they were determined to maintain those cities which they had taken. ... 29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength. 30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city. 31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : Siron +4 +[Siron] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land1} +[Siron]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Lamanites1,2} ≈ IR4 IR6 +[Siron]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antionum]{land1} ≈ IR4 +[Siron]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Antionum]{land1} ≈ IR4 IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day.	There is only one direct mention of Siron. It is in reference to the missionary journey of Alma and his sons to the Zoramites in the land of Antionum and the unnamed Zoramite city or gathering place that was the location of the Rameumptum and the hill Onidah, from where Alma preached. North from this place is the land on Antiomum, as described, and south is Lamanite land with the border being the wilderness of the Illinois river. That Siron is south of Antionum is indicated by being at the "borders of the Lamanites" and the "wilderness south". See section 4.4.3. Modern land location: South of Peoria Illinois.	Alma 31:3-6 Alma 31 3 Now the Zoramites had gathered themselves together in a land which they called Antionum, which was east of the land of Zarahemla, which lay nearly bordering upon the seashore, which was south of the land of Jershon, which also bordered upon the wilderness south, which wilderness was full of the Lamanites. 4 Now the Nephites greatly feared that the Zoramites would enter into a correspondence with the Lamanites, and that it would be the means of great loss on the part of the Nephites. 5 And now, as the preaching of the word had a great tendency to lead the people to do that which was just--yea, it had had more powerful effect upon the minds of the people than the sword, or anything else, which had happened unto them--therefore Alma thought it was expedient that they should try the virtue of the word of God. 6 Therefore he took Ammon, and Aaron, and Omner; and Himni he did leave in the church in Zarahemla; but the former three he took with him, and also Amulek and Zeezrom, who were at Melek; and he also took two of his sons. Alma 39:2-3,11Alma 39 2 For thou didst not give so much heed unto my words as did thy brother, among the people of the Zoramites. Now this is what I have against thee; thou didst go on unto boasting in thy strength and thy wisdom. 3 And this is not all, my son. Thou didst do that which was grievous unto me; for thou didst forsake the ministry, and did go over into the land of Siron among the borders of the Lamanites, after the harlot Isabel. ... 11 Suffer not yourself to be led away by any vain or foolish thing; suffer not the devil to lead away your heart again after those wicked harlots. Behold, O my son, how great iniquity ye brought upon the Zoramites; for when they saw your conduct they would not believe in my words.
Late History [314 AD to 420 AD] : Teancum +7 +[Teancum] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city1} ≈ AR2 AR3 +[Teancum]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {seashore2} ≈ AR3 +[Teancum]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Antum]{land1+2} +[Teancum]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Jordan]{city3} +[Teancum]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Shim]{hill1+2} +[Teancum]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{land2} +[Teancum]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Desolation2]{city2} AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements.	By the detailed description of Mormon, the city Teancum is so close to the city Desolation that they must both be located on St. Joseph Island, with Teancum on the north side of the island. Modern city location: Richards Landing at St. Joseph Island, Ontario, Canada.	Mormon 1:1-12Mormon 1 1 And now I, Mormon, make a record of the things which I have both seen and heard, and call it the Book of Mormon. 2 And about the time that Ammaron hid up the records unto the Lord, he came unto me, (I being about ten years of age, and I began to be learned somewhat after the manner of the learning of my people) and Ammaron said unto me: I perceive that thou art a sober child, and art quick to observe; 3 Therefore, when ye are about twenty and four years old I would that ye should remember the things that ye have observed concerning this people; and when ye are of that age go to the land Antum, unto a hill which shall be called Shim; and there have I deposited unto the Lord all the sacred engravings concerning this people. Mormon 4:1-9,16-23Mormon 4 1 And now it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and third year the Nephites did go up with their armies to battle against the Lamanites, out of the land Desolation. 2 And it came to pass that the armies of the Nephites were driven back again to the land of Desolation. And while they were yet weary, a fresh army of the Lamanites did come upon them; and they had a sore battle, insomuch that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and did slay many of the Nephites, and did take many prisoners. 3 And the remainder did flee and join the inhabitants of the city Teancum. Now the city Teancum lay in the borders by the seashore; and it was also near the city Desolation. 4 And it was because the armies of the Nephites went up unto the Lamanites that they began to be smitten; for were it not for that, the Lamanites could have had no power over them. 5 But, behold, the judgments of God will overtake the wicked; and it is by the wicked that the wicked are punished; for it is the wicked that stir up the hearts of the children of men unto bloodshed. 6 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did make preparations to come against the city Teancum. 7 And it came to pass in the three hundred and sixty and fourth year the Lamanites did come against the city Teancum, that they might take possession of the city Teancum also. 8 And it came to pass that they were repulsed and driven back by the Nephites. And when the Nephites saw that they had driven the Lamanites they did again boast of their own strength; and they went forth in their own might, and took possession again of the city Desolation. 9 And now all these things had been done, and there had been thousands slain on both sides, both the Nephites and the Lamanites. ... 13 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did take possession of the city Desolation, and this because their number did exceed the number of the Nephites. 14 And they did also march forward against the city Teancum, and did drive the inhabitants forth out of her, and did take many prisoners both women and children, and did offer them up as sacrifices unto their idol gods. 15 And it came to pass that in the three hundred and sixty and seventh year, the Nephites being angry because the Lamanites had sacrificed their women and their children, that they did go against the Lamanites with exceedingly great anger, insomuch that they did beat again the Lamanites, and drive them out of their lands. 16 And the Lamanites did not come again against the Nephites until the three hundred and seventy and fifth year. 17 And in this year they did come down against the Nephites with all their powers; and they were not numbered because of the greatness of their number. 18 And from this time forth did the Nephites gain no power over the Lamanites, but began to be swept off by them even as a dew before the sun. 19 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come down against the city Desolation; and there was an exceedingly sore battle fought in the land Desolation, in the which they did beat the Nephites. 20 And they fled again from before them, and they came to the city Boaz; and there they did stand against the Lamanites with exceeding boldness, insomuch that the Lamanites did not beat them until they had come again the second time. 21 And when they had come the second time, the Nephites were driven and slaughtered with an exceedingly great slaughter; their women and their children were again sacrificed unto idols. 22 And it came to pass that the Nephites did again flee from before them, taking all the inhabitants with them, both in towns and villages. 23 And now I, Mormon, seeing that the Lamanites were about to overthrow the land, therefore I did go to the hill Shim, and did take up all the records which Ammaron had hid up unto the Lord. Mormon 5:3-5 Mormon 5 3 And it came to pass that the Lamanites did come against us as we had fled to the city of Jordan; but behold, they were driven back that they did not take the city at that time. 4 And it came to pass that they came against us again, and we did maintain the city. And there were also other cities which were maintained by the Nephites, which strongholds did cut them off that they could not get into the country which lay before us, to destroy the inhabitants of our land. 5 And it came to pass that whatsoever lands we had passed by, and the inhabitants thereof were not gathered in, were destroyed by the Lamanites, and their towns, and villages, and cities were burned with fire; and thus three hundred and seventy and nine years passed away.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : WatersOfMormon +4 +[WatersOfMormon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {fountain1} ≈ IR4 +[WatersOfMormon]{fountain} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {forest1} ≈ IR4 +[WatersOfMormon]{fountain} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ [Mormon]{land1,5} ≈ IR4 +[WatersOfMormon]{fountain}~[Helam]{land} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {8 days2} ≈ IR4 IR6 AR6 AR9 AR10   [WatersOfMormon] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {place for baptism1,3,4,5} ≈ IR4 IR4"wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. AR6Average civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 1.5 mph. AR9Water travel with the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 5 mph. AR10Water travel against the river current, is calculated at an average speed of 8 hours traveling per day at 3 mph.	One definition of the word "waters" is "flowing water, or water moving in waves". The ocean or a river current fits this definition but a bubbling spring fits the best. The waters of Mormon is also described as a "fountain" which is "a spring or source of water; the source or head of a stream.". Near the center of the Missouri Ozarks (land of Mormon) is a most beautiful location matching the descriptions of the "waters of Mormon". It is also 8 days journey from the city of Nephi, both by land and by river. I favor the river route since it is less hazardous and strenuous. I have been through the Ozarks by car and it's very difficult terrain without a well marked out and maintained trail. Also since there were in total, including children, 440 people in Alma's little group with 204 people actually baptized in the waters of Mormon, it seems like a manageable number for a river trip over a period of time. The text seems indicates the people of Alma did not all gather at once (Mosiah 18:7). See section 4.3.5 on the pro's and cons of a river trip vs a land journey. Modern feature location: Big Springs, Missouri. WatersOfMormon	Mosiah 18:4-8,16,30-31Mosiah 18 4 And it came to pass that as many as did believe him did go forth to a place which was called Mormon, having received its name from the king, being in the borders of the land having been infested, by times or at seasons, by wild beasts. 5 Now, there was in Mormon a fountain of pure water, and Alma resorted thither, there being near the water a thicket of small trees, where he did hide himself in the daytime from the searches of the king. 6 And it came to pass that as many as believed him went thither to hear his words. 7 And it came to pass after many days there were a goodly number gathered together at the place of Mormon, to hear the words of Alma. Yea, all were gathered together that believed on his word, to hear him. And he did teach them, and did preach unto them repentance, and redemption, and faith on the Lord. 8 And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another's burdens, that they may be light; ... 16 And after this manner he did baptize every one that went forth to the place of Mormon; and they were in number about two hundred and four souls; yea, and they were baptized in the waters of Mormon, and were filled with the grace of God. ... 30 And now it came to pass that all this was done in Mormon, yea, by the waters of Mormon, in the forest that was near the waters of Mormon; yea, the place of Mormon, the waters of Mormon, the forest of Mormon, how beautiful are they to the eyes of them who there came to the knowledge of their Redeemer; yea, and how blessed are they, for they shall sing to his praise forever. 31 And these things were done in the borders of the land, that they might not come to the knowledge of the king. Mosiah 23:3-4,19-20Mosiah 23 3 And they fled eight days' journey into the wilderness. 4 And they came to a land, yea, even a very beautiful and pleasant land, a land of pure water. ... 19 And it came to pass that they began to prosper exceedingly in the land; and they called the land of Helam. 20 And it came to pass that they did multiply and prosper exceedingly in the land of Helam; and they built a city, which they called the city of Helam. Mosiah 25:14-18Mosiah 25 14 And now it came to pass that when Mosiah had made an end of speaking and reading to the people, he desired that Alma should also speak to the people. 15 And Alma did speak unto them, when they were assembled together in large bodies, and he went from one body to another, preaching unto the people repentance and faith on the Lord. 16 And he did exhort the people of Limhi and his brethren, all those that had been delivered out of bondage, that they should remember that it was the Lord that did deliver them. 17 And it came to pass that after Alma had taught the people many things, and had made an end of speaking to them, that king Limhi was desirous that he might be baptized; and all his people were desirous that they might be baptized also. 18 Therefore, Alma did go forth into the water and did baptize them; yea, he did baptize them after the manner he did his brethren in the waters of Mormon; yea, and as many as he did baptize did belong to the church of God; and this because of their belief on the words of Alma. Mosiah 26:14-15Mosiah 26 14 And it came to pass that after he had poured out his whole soul to God, the voice of the Lord came to him, saying: 15 Blessed art thou, Alma, and blessed are they who were baptized in the waters of Mormon. Thou art blessed because of thy exceeding faith in the words alone of my servant Abinadi. Alma 5:2-5Alma 5 2 And these are the words which he spake to the people in the church which was established in the city of Zarahemla, according to his own record, saying: 3 I, Alma, having been consecrated by my father, Alma, to be a high priest over the church of God, he having power and authority from God to do these things, behold, I say unto you that he began to establish a church in the land which was in the borders of Nephi; yea, the land which was called the land of Mormon; yea, and he did baptize his brethren in the waters of Mormon. 4 And behold, I say unto you, they were delivered out of the hands of the people of king Noah, by the mercy and power of God. 5 And behold, after that, they were brought into bondage by the hands of the Lamanites in the wilderness; yea, I say unto you, they were in captivity, and again the Lord did deliver them out of bondage by the power of his word; and we were brought into this land, and here we began to establish the church of God throughout this land also.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 30 AD] : WestSea +18 +[WestSea] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {sea1} ≈ AR3 +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [CityBySeashore]{city5} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,7} ≈ AR2 +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Desolation]{land1} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Hagoth]{ships6} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NeckOfLand]{small narrow1,6} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [NarrowPass]{sea route2} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Nephite land1,2,3} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {fortified line7} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land1,2,3,6,7} ≈ AR3 +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [EastSea]{sea7} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [SidonHead]{place2} +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Antipara]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Cumeni]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Judea]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Manti]{land1,4} ≈ IR7 +[WestSea]{sea} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Zeezrom]{city4} ≈ IR7 +[WestSea]{sea}~[EastSea]{sea} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {1.5 days1} ≈ AR2 AR2Trade and travel routes are on lakes and rivers as a first choice. This applies to exploration, military travel, migrations, and missionary journeys in the Book of Mormon. AR3Present day cities, towns, features or topography serve as a positive indicator of appropriate placements. IR7When cities are listed, order is clockwise bottom to top (6 to 12) and left to right (12 to 3).	The East and West sea are often mentioned together and are separated by a 1.5 day water journey. The West sea, Lake Superior, is west of the East Sea, lake Michigan/Huron and although it is also north, it is more west than north, and so it is called the West Sea. By the reverse logic, the East Sea is considered east rather than south. In the Book of Mormon, Nephite lands in Manti is also mentioned as being south of the West Sea, so that means the West Sea is north of Nephite lands (Alma 53:8 and Section 4.5.3) and the East Sea is east of both Nephite lands and the West Sea. Modern feature location: Lake Superior.	For detailed analysis and maps regarding Alma 22, see Section 4.2. Alma 22:27,32-33Alma 22 (see section 4.2 commentary) 27 And it came to pass that the king sent a proclamation throughout all the land, amongst all his people who were in all his land, who were in all the regions round about: which was bordering even to the sea, on the east and on the west; and which was divided from the land of Zarahemla by a narrow strip of wilderness; which ran from the sea east even to the sea west and round about on the borders of the seashore; and the borders of the wilderness which was on the north by the land of Zarahemla; through the borders of Manti by the head of the river Sidon running from the east towards the west; and thus were the Lamanites and the Nephites divided. ... 32 And now, it was only the distance of a day and a half's journey for a Nephite: On the line between the land Bountiful and the land Desolation, from the east to the west sea; and thus the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla were nearly surrounded by water; there being a small neck of land between the land northward and the land southward. 33 And it came to pass that the Nephites had inhabited the land Bountiful, even from the east unto the west sea, and thus the Nephites in their wisdom, with their guards and their armies, had hemmed in the Lamanites on the south, that thereby they should have no more possession on the north, that they might not overrun the land northward. Alma 50:10-11,33-34Alma 50 10 And he also placed armies on the south, in the borders of their possessions, and caused them to erect fortifications that they might secure their armies and their people from the hands of their enemies. 11 And thus he cut off all the strongholds of the Lamanites in the east wilderness, yea, and also on the west, fortifying the line between the Nephites and the Lamanites, between the land of Zarahemla and the land of Nephi, from the west sea, running by the head of the river Sidon--the Nephites possessing all the land northward, yea, even all the land which was northward of the land Bountiful, according to their pleasure. ... 33 Therefore Moroni sent an army, with their camp, to head the people of Morionton, to stop their flight into the land northward. 34 And it came to pass that they did not head them until they had come to the borders of the land Desolation; and there they did head them, by the narrow pass which led by the sea into the land northward, yea, by the sea, on the west and on the east. Alma 52:9-13Alma 52 12 Now, the king (Ammoron) had departed out of the land of Zarahemla, and had made known unto the queen concerning the death of his brother, and had gathered together a large number of men, and had marched forth against the Nephites on the borders by the west sea. 13 And thus he was endeavoring to harass the Nephites, and to draw away a part of their forces to that part of the land, while he had commanded those whom he had left to possess the cities which he had taken, that they should also harass the Nephites on the borders by the east sea, and should take possession of their lands as much as it was in their power, according to the power of their armies. Alma 53:8-9,22/56:13-14Alma 53 Alma 56 8 And now it came to pass that the armies of the Lamanites, on the west sea, south, while in the absence of Moroni on account of some intrigue amongst the Nephites, which caused dissensions amongst them, had gained some ground over the Nephites, yea, insomuch that they had obtained possession of a number of their cities in that part of the land. 9 And thus because of iniquity amongst themselves, yea, because of dissensions and intrigue among themselves they were placed in the most dangerous circumstances. ... 22 And now it came to pass that Helaman did march at the head of his two thousand stripling soldiers, to the support of the people in the borders of the land on the south by the west sea. Alma 56:13-14 13 And now these are the cities of which the Lamanites have obtained possession by the shedding of the blood of so many of our valiant men; 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. Alma 56:14-15,29-36Alma 56 14 The land of Manti, or the city of Manti, and the city of Zeezrom, and the city of Cumeni, and the city of Antiparah. 15 And these are the cities which they possessed when I arrived at the city of Judea; and I found Antipus and his men toiling with their might to fortify the city. ... ... 29 And the Lamanites, thus seeing our forces increase daily, and provisions arrive for our support, they began to be fearful, and began to sally forth, if it were possible to put an end to our receiving provisions and strength. 30 Now when we saw that the Lamanites began to grow uneasy on this wise, we were desirous to bring a stratagem into effect upon them; therefore Antipus ordered that I should march forth with my little sons to a neighboring city, as if we were carrying provisions to a neighboring city. 31 And we were to march near the city of Antiparah, as if we were going to the city beyond, in the borders by the seashore. 32 And it came to pass that we did march forth, as if with our provisions, to go to that city. 33 And it came to pass that Antipus did march forth with a part of his army, leaving the remainder to maintain the city. But he did not march forth until I had gone forth with my little army, and came near the city Antiparah. 34 And now, in the city Antiparah were stationed the strongest army of the Lamanites; yea, the most numerous. 35 And it came to pass that when they had been informed by their spies, they came forth with their army and marched against us. 36 And it came to pass that we did flee before them, northward. And thus we did lead away the most powerful army of the Lamanites; Alma 63:4-10Alma 63 4 And it came to pass that in the thirty and seventh year of the reign of the judges, there was a large company of men, even to the amount of five thousand and four hundred men, with their wives and their children, departed out of the land of Zarahemla into the land which was northward. 5 And it came to pass that Hagoth, he being an exceedingly curious man, therefore he went forth and built him an exceedingly large ship, on the borders of the land Bountiful, by the land Desolation, and launched it forth into the west sea, by the narrow neck which led into the land northward. 6 And behold, there were many of the Nephites who did enter therein and did sail forth with much provisions, and also many women and children; and they took their course northward. And thus ended the thirty and seventh year. 7 And in the thirty and eighth year, this man built other ships. And the first ship did also return, and many more people did enter into it; and they also took much provisions, and set out again to the land northward. 8 And it came to pass that they were never heard of more. And we suppose that they were drowned in the depths of the sea. And it came to pass that one other ship also did sail forth; and whither she did go we know not. 9 And it came to pass that in this year there were many people who went forth into the land northward. And thus ended the thirty and eighth year. 10 And it came to pass in the thirty and ninth year of the reign of the judges, Shiblon died also, and Corianton had gone forth to the land northward in a ship, to carry forth provisions unto the people who had gone forth into that land. Helaman 4:5-10Helaman 4:7 5 And in the fifty and seventh year they did come down against the Nephites to battle, and they did commence the work of death; yea, insomuch that in the fifty and eighth year of the reign of the judges they succeeded in obtaining possession of the land of Zarahemla; yea, and also all the lands, even unto the land which was near the land Bountiful. 6 And the Nephites and the armies of Moronihah were driven even into the land of Bountiful; 7 And there they did fortify against the Lamanites, from the west sea, even unto the east; it being a day's journey for a Nephite, on the line which they had fortified and stationed their armies to defend their north country. 8 And thus those dissenters of the Nephites, with the help of a numerous army of the Lamanites, had obtained all the possession of the Nephites which was in the land southward. And all this was done in the fifty and eighth and ninth years of the reign of the judges. 9 And it came to pass in the sixtieth year of the reign of the judges, Moronihah did succeed with his armies in obtaining many parts of the land; yea, they regained many cities which had fallen into the hands of the Lamanites. 10 And it came to pass in the sixty and first year of the reign of the judges they succeeded in regaining even the half of all their possessions.
Reign of the Judges [91 BC to 420 AD] : Zarahemla +40 +[Zarahemla] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {city15,18,19,40,44,45,46,48,53,54,59} ≈ IR1 AR5 +[Zarahemla] ⇒ <is> ⇒ {land2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,21,13,15,16,17,18,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32,33,34,35, 36,37,38,39,40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,48,49,50,51,52,53,55,56,57,58,60} ≈ [cUMAR5 +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ {Nauvoo Illinois1} ≈ IR1 +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <destroyed> ⇒ {fire54,59} +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <east of> ⇒ [Hermounts]{wilderness2,15} +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <leads from> ⇒ [NarrowStrip]{wilderness2,6,8,9,10,11,23,24,27,34,35} ≈ IR6 IR4 +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley19} +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Hermounts]{wilderness2,15} +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Sidon]{river19} +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Hermounts]{wilderness2,15} +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Gideon]{city19} +[Zarahemla]{city} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Gideon]{valley19} +[Zarahemla]{city}~[Alma]{valley} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {12 days10} +[Zarahemla]{city}~[Minon]{land} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {<1 days10} +[Zarahemla]{city}~[Nephi]{city} ⇒ <distance> ⇒ {10 days10} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Ammonihah]{land25,60} ≈ AR4 +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Minon]{land15} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <borders> ⇒ [Sidon]{river15,17,19} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <is in> ⇒ {center of the land49,58} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <leads from> ⇒ [NarrowStrip]{wilderness25} ≈ IR4 +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Amnihu]{hill16} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [EastWilderness]{travel route11} ≈ IR4 +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gideon]{Valley16,24} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gideon]{city55} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Gideon]{land15,21,23,29,46} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [HillManti]{hill14} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <near> ⇒ [Melek]{land21,30,31,32} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Gideon]{land21,23} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Minon]{land15} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <north of> ⇒ [Nephi]{land24,36,52} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Angola]{city61} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Antum]{land60} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Bountiful]{land24,27,36,48} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [David]{land61} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Hagoth]{ships47,49} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <south of> ⇒ [Shim]{hill60} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Antionum]{land30} +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [EastWilderness]{travel route25,36} ≈ IR4 +[Zarahemla]{land} ⇒ <west of> ⇒ [Sidon]{river15,19} +[Zarahemla]{land}~[Nephi]{land} ⇒ <separated by> ⇒ {wilderness2,5,6,7,9,10,21,23,23,27,28,33,34,35,42} ≈ IR6 IR1When a modern location is associated with an ancient location in scripture or the writings of the prophets then that association is always honored. IR6The word "journey" indicates a trip of one day or more, otherwise the trip is less than one full day. For example, "came over to" means less than one day. AR4Book of Mormon "lands" are located in the areas between the rivers so that the rivers serve as the natural borders. AR5Sites with archaeological remains are preferred as likely Book of Mormon sites if they are compatible with the Logical Model. AR6Average civilian travel marching distances are calculated at 8 hours traveling per day at 1.5 mph. IR4"Wilderness" areas are river bottom-land areas, and are therefore synonymous with "river", unless otherwise specified in the text.	The location of Zarahemla is given in Doctrine and Covenants 125:3. Zarahemla joins Cumorah as the only two Book of Mormon place-names directly identified in modern scripture. This location has been named by the Lord as Zarahemla. See section 2.2.3. The Zarahemla location is also abundantly supported by the Logical Model. Zarahemla is at the center of Nephite/Lamanite lands and is the Nephite capital city and the location of the judgement seat and Nephite government. Thus, Zarahemla is at the center of everything Nephite. See section 4.4 and specifically section 4.4.1. There are four main reasons for being "Zarahemla Centric": The Book of Mormon says that the city of Zarahemla was a "great" city (great means large/big) and the "capital city" in the "heart" and "center" of the land. (Helaman 1:14-33) Zarahemla is easily mentioned more times (139 verses, 424 occurrences) than any other location in the Book of Mormon, indicating its central role in the Book of Mormon narrative from 280 BC onward. Zarahemla is identified specifically in the Doctrine and Covenants as being across the river from Nauvoo . See "Zarahemla" in Section 2.2.3 regarding Doctrine & Covenants 125:1,3. The Lord himself indicated we should name this area "Zarahemla". In my opinion, placing Zarahemla in the center and according to Doctrine & Covenants 125:1,3 is the approach that is the most compatible with Logical Model. Modern city location: greater area of Montrose, Iowa.	D&C 125:3Doctrine & Covenants 125 3 Let them build up a city unto my name upon the land opposite the city of Nauvoo, and let the name of Zarahemla be named upon it. Omni 1:12-30Omni 1 12 Behold, I am Amaleki, the son of Abinadom. Behold, I will speak unto you somewhat concerning Mosiah, who was made king over the land of Zarahemla; for behold, he being warned of the Lord that he should flee out of the land of Nephi, and as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord should also depart out of the land with him, into the wilderness. 13 And it came to pass that he did according as the Lord had commanded him. And they departed out of the land into the wilderness, as many as would hearken unto the voice of the Lord; and they were led by many preachings and prophesyings. And they were admonished continually by the word of God; and they were led by the power of his arm, through the wilderness until they came down into the land which is called the land of Zarahemla. 14 And they discovered a people, who were called the people of Zarahemla. Now, there was great rejoicing among the people of Zarahemla; and also Zarahemla did rejoice exceedingly, because the Lord had sent the people of Mosiah with the plates of brass which contained the record of the Jews. 15 Behold, it came to pass that Mosiah discovered that the people of Zarahemla came out from Jerusalem at the time that Zedekiah, king of Judah, was carried away captive into Babylon. 16 And they journeyed in the wilderness, and were brought by the hand of the Lord across the great waters, into the land where Mosiah discovered them; and they had dwelt there from that time forth. 17 And at the time that Mosiah discovered them, they had become exceedingly numerous. Nevertheless, they had had many wars and serious contentions, and had fallen by the sword from time to time; and their language had become corrupted; and they had brought no records with them; and they denied the being of their Creator; and Mosiah, nor the people of Mosiah, could understand them. 18 But it came to pass that Mosiah caused that they should be taught in his language. And it came to pass that after they were taught in the language of Mosiah, Zarahemla gave a genealogy of his fathers, according to his memory; and they are written, but not in these plates. 19 And it came to pass that the people of Zarahemla, and of Mosiah, did unite together; and Mosiah was appointed to be their king. 20 And it came to pass in the days of Mosiah, there was a large stone brought unto him with engravings on it; and he did interpret the engravings by the gift and power of God. 21 And they gave an account of one Coriantumr, and the slain of his people. And Coriantumr was discovered by the people of Zarahemla; and he dwelt with them for the space of nine moons. 22 It also spake a few words concerning his fathers. And his first parents came out from the tower, at the time the Lord confounded the language of the people; and the severity of the Lord fell upon them according to his judgments, which are just; and their bones lay scattered in the land northward. 23 Behold, I, Amaleki, was born in the days of Mosiah; and I have lived to see his death; and Benjamin, his son, reigneth in his stead. 24 And behold, I have seen, in the days of king Benjamin, a serious war and much bloodshed between the Nephites and the Lamanites. But behold, the Nephites did obtain much advantage over them; yea, insomuch that king Benjamin did drive them out of the land of Zarahemla. 25 And it came to pass that I began to be old; and, having no seed, and knowing king Benjamin to be a just man before the Lord, wherefore, I shall deliver up these plates unto him, exhorting all men to come unto God, the Holy One of Israel, and believe in prophesying, and in revelations, and in the ministering of angels, and in the gift of speaking with tongues, and in the gift of interpreting languages, and in all things which are good; for there is nothing which is good save it comes from the Lord; and that which is evil cometh from the devil. 26 And now, my beloved brethren, I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him, and continue in fasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved. 27 And now I would speak somewhat concerning a certain number who went up into the wilderness to return to the land of Nephi; for there was a large number who were desirous to possess the land of their inheritance. 28 Wherefore, they went up into the wilderness. And their leader being a strong and mighty man, and a stiffnecked man, wherefore he caused a contention among them; and they were all slain, save fifty, in the wilderness, and they returned again to the land of Zarahemla. 29 And it came to pass that they also took others to a considerable number, and took their journey again into the wilderness. 30 And I, Amaleki, had a brother, who also went with them; and I have not since known concerning them. And I am about to lie down in my grave; and these plates are full. And I make an end of my speaking. Mosiah 1:9-10,18Mosiah 1 9 And it came to pass that after king Benjamin had made an end of teaching his sons, that he waxed old, and he saw that he must very soon go the way of all the earth; therefore, he thought it expedient that he should confer the kingdom upon one of his sons. 10 Therefore, he had Mosiah brought before him; and these are the words which he spake unto him, saying: My son, I would that ye should make a proclamation throughout all this land among all this people, or the people of Zarahemla, and the people of Mosiah who dwell in the land, that thereby they may be gathered together; for on the morrow I shall proclaim unto this my people out of mine own mouth that thou art a king and a ruler over this people, whom the Lord our God hath given us. ... 18 And now, it came to pass that Mosiah went and did as his father had commanded him, and proclaimed unto all the people who were in the land of Zarahemla that thereby they might gather themselves together, to go up to the temple to hear the words which his father should speak unto them. Alma 2:3-7,35-38Alma 2 3 And they also took of the firstlings of their flocks, that they might offer sacrifice and burnt offerings according to the law of Moses; 4 And also that they might give thanks to the Lord their God, who had brought them out of the land of Jerusalem, and who had delivered them out of the hands of their enemies, and had appointed just men to be their teachers, and also a just man to be their king, who had established peace in the land of Zarahemla, and who had taught them to keep the commandments of God, that they might rejoice and be filled with love towards God and all men. 5 And it came to pass that when they came up to the temple, they pitched their tents round about, every man according to his family, consisting of his wife, and his sons, and his daughters, and their sons, and their daughters, from the eldest down to the youngest, every family being separate one from another. 6 And they pitched their tents round about the temple, every man having his tent with the door thereof towards the temple, that thereby they might remain in their tents and hear the words which king Benjamin should speak unto them; 7 For the multitude being so great that king Benjamin could not teach them all within the walls of the temple, therefore he caused a tower to be erected, that thereby his people might hear the words which he should speak unto them. ... 35 And it came to pass that when they had all crossed the river Sidon that the Lamanites and the Amlicites began to flee before them, notwithstanding they were so numerous that they could not be numbered. 36 And they fled before the Nephites towards the wilderness which was west and north, away beyond the borders of the land; and the Nephites did pursue them with their might, and did slay the