The Death of Ishmael

The trials given to Lehi's people continued.  In 1 Nephi 16:34 we read of Ishmael's death.  We don't know the cause of his death, but the mourning and accusations of his daughters seems to indicate that a lack of food contributed to it.  Or maybe they were looking to lay blame anywhere they could.

I know from personal experience that death is always difficult to deal with, but unexpected death can be especially heart-breaking.  Here are the words of Ishmael's daughters: "and after all these sufferings we must perish in the wilderness with hunger."

So they were grieving, they were hungry, and they were tired, and all these things contributed to their hearts being hardened, so much so that when Laman suggested that they murder Lehi and Nephi, their hearts were stirred up to anger.  Actually, I see upon reading more deeply that the daughters were grieving, but it was the sons of Ishmael who Laman appealed to for his mob action.


Trials have a way of bringing out the best or worst in people.  We can usually go along all right when things are going smoothly, but when things get hard, we usually react in one of two ways.  Some people increase their devotion to God, humble themselves, ask what God would have them do, and grow spiritually.  Others blame the Lord and harden their hearts and turn away from God.  They don't have enough faith in the Lord and understanding of His plan to trust that He will always do what is best for them. They don't understand the marvelous blessing that death is.  Without this understanding, and thinking that death is the end, they ask how a loving God could allow these things to be.  They rail against God and curse Him and turn away from Him.


Again, I am moved to thank God for the faith and knowledge and understanding I have of His great Plan, of His lovingkindness, of his great gift of peace.