Chapter 4
Destruction at Christ's Crucifixion
Book of Third Nephi
The Destruction Preceding Christ’s Visit to the Americas
The chapter heading for 3 Nephi 8 reads:
Tempests, earthquakes, fires, whirlwinds, and physical upheavals attest the crucifixion of Christ. (Highlights added)
Definition of “Attest”: to provide clear (easy to perceive, understand, or interpret); to be a witness to, or to certify formally or officially. Therefore, the disasters mentioned in the chapter heading can provide “clear evidence” of the crucifixion of Christ, and serve as “a witness to,” or “certify formally” the crucifixion of Christ.
How can the tumultuous events in America provide a clear understanding, and certify to us Christ’s Crucifixion? We would need to see the evidence of changes made at this timing.
The Book of Mormon testifies of Jesus Christ—his life, his atonement, his mission, his teachings—just as the Bible does. If people thought Jerusalem to be a mythical city, would the Biblical story of Christ’s life and teachings be relegated to the status of “nice tradition” because there was no evidence of truth? But Jerusalem is there. The place believed to be the garden tomb is there, and each bears testimony of Christ. Because of physical evidence, and corroborating texts, the Bible is widely accepted as truth, and thousands of years later, people can visit the places mentioned in the Bible. People can feel the spirit in each area. People can have a personal relationship and understanding at each location.
Now, we do not naively believe that because we diagrammed lands and cities of the Book of Mormon, that suddenly the world will accept the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in record numbers. We do feel, however, that our research and presentation may allow others to experience the Book of Mormon in a slightly different manner and may offer clear evidence to those who need to feel, understand the scriptures in a physical way. The Book of Mormon provides proof of our Heavenly Father’s plan of salvation, and the Savior’s divinity and mission on earth. It also testifies that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He loved His children and created this world for them.
Mapping out Paul’s missionary journeys in the Bible, seeing a diagram of the city Jerusalem at the time of Christ, or visiting the Sacred Grove in Palmyra, New York, do not bring to people a testimony of God the Father and Jesus Christ—but such things enhance our scripture study and add depth to our belief in those Beings. People say that it is not that important to know the location of the lands; the doctrine of the Book of Mormon converts us to Christ, and the Holy Ghost testifies to our minds and hearts that the book is true. While the doctrine converts us, the Spirit testifies. We believe that mapping the Book of Mormon lands and visiting these places can also enhance our scripture study, expand our knowledge, connect us more firmly to the reality of promises. These promises prophecies of America foretold in the Book of Mormon, deepen our appreciation for our Book of Mormon heroes, and strengthen our testimony of the mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith. Perhaps visiting these places may also allow us to feel the Holy Spirit and reaffirm our testimony of the marvelous work and a wonder that became the Restoration of the Gospel in these latter days.
I have visited the Sacred Grove in Palmyra, New York multiple times and enjoy the unique feeling of that place. I believe the Spirit can also testify to us in other areas where the Book of Mormon events occurred. I have felt the Spirit in Rochester and Buffalo, New York as I entered the cities—even before realizing the significance of those places in Jaredite and Nephite records. Conversely, I have felt an ominous spirit around a section in New York, before knowing it was a place inhabited anciently by the Gadianton Robbers. Traipsing all over the western New York and central Pennsylvania areas, I am now fascinated by rivers, lakes, mountains, and wilderness areas because I realize I am walking in places inhabited years ago by Book of Mormon peoples. Many changes in the land occurred at the time of Christ’s crucifixion, and I believe that land features also bear a physical testimony of that crucial event.
Would it be interesting to see where the Lord created new rivers or stretched the land to separate into many islands at that time? Or view a place where the Lord drained a sea, or in another area, lowered a different sea by 125 feet in 24 hours? Or see a situation where God pushed a tremendous amount of dirt around to create a big mountain, with “stretch marks” still evident? I believe the land itself bears testimony of Jesus Christ and his visit to America.
In this section, we will discuss the physical destruction mentioned in the Book of Mormon that occurred at the time of Christ’s Crucifixion. We will correlate scriptures to a general area where they happened, and examine other evidence showing destruction in the Book of Mormon lands.
It is essential to understand the significant Nephite and Lamanite groups who inhabited these areas. The following map describes the people that lived in each section, according to scriptures that have identified in this work.
Section 1
Division of the Different Groups in the Land
Each area is numbered to help us communicate clearly, explain fully, and understand what happened in each area.
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Area (1) we refer to as the territory for the “hard-core” Lamanites, or those who lived off the land and dwelt in tents. It is mountainous. Generally, in the Book of Mormon, attacks on the Nephites originated from this group of Lamanites, who would terrorize the Nephites in the land of Nephi (2) and the land of Zarahemla (5). Frequently Nephite dissenters (3) joined this group of Lamanites and encouraged them to attack the more righteous Nephites
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Area (2) is where Nephi and his followers settled for a time after leaving their landing area and moving farther away from Lamanites. In the Book of Mormon, it is sometimes called the land of Nephi, or “the land of first inheritance” by the Nephites. The Nephites hoped to find peace there, but Lamanites would travel to the land of Nephi and attack the Nephites, killing many and taking their food. Eventually, Mosiah (Mosiah I) was told to leave the area, and taking all those who would go with him, headed north to the land of Zarahemla. The more wicked part of the Nephites remained in the land of Nephi, and eventually became known as Lamanites. It appears the Ishmaelites also located here and were major converts to the church after hearing the preaching of Aaron, Ammon, and other Nephite missionaries that served with these sons of Mosiah II. Four lands and three cities of Lamanites in the land of Nephi accepted the gospel message and took the name of Anti-Nephi-Lehi. The 2000 stripling warriors in the book of Alma were sons of these converted Lamanites. Unlike the “hard-core” Lamanites in area 1, Lamanites in area 2 built homes and buildings, farmed, and raised animals. Their lifestyle was different than the Lamanites in area 1. People in the land of Nephi seemed easier converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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Area (3) lies in a valley between the “hard-core” Lamanites of area 1, and the land of Zarahemla (area 5). This valley contained the major access points for Lamanites entering or attacking Nephites in the land of Zarahemla. Later this area served as a gathering place for Nephite dissenters. When Nephites dissenters became upset with the government or the prophets, they would travel to the city of Jerusalem, where the Lamanites and the dissenters had common ground. The dissenters would feed the Lamanites’ hatred against the Nephites and stir them up to war against the Nephites. With the influence of Nephite dissenters such as Amulon, Amalickiah, and Amalekites, people living in this area established cities. Amalekites and the Amulonites worked with the Lamanites and built the city of Jerusalem.
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Area (4) is an area which also had Lamanites living. The Lamanites did attack the Nephites from this area at the different time of the Book of Mormon. Later the Gadianton Robbers established this area. They must have kicked out the Lamanites or joined them and established this land for themselves. Some were with cities, and some were mountainous and places in which the Gadianton Robbers could hide. Area four is also known as the land of the Lamanites.
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Area (5) is the land of Zarahemla. Zarahemla is the area that the Book of Mormon talks about the most, with cities clarified. These cities were not the ones destroyed in the destruction except for the city of Zarahemla and the city of Moroni.
3 Nephi chapter 9 describes the destruction and lists a few of the cities destroyed. Most of these cities are only mentioned once in the book of Mormon. The importance of placing these cities are in the description in the book of Mormon and the known information we have traced down before with the layout of the cities and known grouped areas. Let’s start and cover each one of the verses in chapter 9 and discuss each to position them.
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3 Nephi 9:11
And because they did cast them all out, that there were none righteous among them, I did send down fire and destroy them, that their wickedness and abominations might be hid from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints whom I sent among them might not cry unto me from the ground against them. (Highlights added)
3 Nephi 9:11 of the Book of Mormon says the wicked God destroyed. The Book of Mormon states that there was no righteous among them. Who is the most corrupt, where there is no righteous among them?
There are two groups of people who bring connection to the land position and the caliber of people mentioned being the most wicked and no righteous among them.
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One was the dissenters who in all their efforts wanted to take over all the lands to rule and control all people. They wanted power and possession. They wanted to be the leaders.
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The second group is the Gadianton Robbers. They had secret combinations to control government, stole, and murdered the Nephites to get gain and wealthy.
We will discuss the cities destroyed, the connection to the Dissenters and the Gadianton Robbers. Where they lived and where the destruction occurred. Let’s talk about the city of Moroni first. It seems that all the action in the Book of Mormon started at the Southeast portion of the land of Zarahemla. Let’s start there and build West and then North.
Section 2
Flooding
According to the Internet, the flooding area seems extensive flooding on the East rather than on the west of the Genesee River (River Sidon). West of the River Sidon we see things like main water breaks or some explainable flooding, but not from the weather as described in the Book of Mormon. Through the reports on the internet, it gives us a good picture of where the flood area is and how the flood occurred.
Tempests described as High winds, which usually are accompanied by heavy rain and lightning. The description above reminds me of a hurricane. In the dictionary, the word hurricane is synonymous with the word tempest. With the Hurricane which went through South Carolina in 2018, we can understand this storm exceptionally well and helps me picture the storm that raged in 3 Nephi of the Book of Mormon.
In Pennsylvania, there are many mountains. These mountains direct the water north to this western New York area. Because of this distribution of rainwater at one time to New York, there are flood areas. Floods happen with normal weather. As we put a hurricane or tempest here, flooding would occur without question. The writings in the Book of Mormon now become explainable.
As rainwater comes down mountains, it comes down with fury through canyons channeled down certain areas of the land. Groundwater raises and floods are imminent. As the soil gets saturated then different things happen.
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Groundwater raises from the ground the soil becomes saturated, and floods occur.
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Specific soil becomes like quicksand. Therefore, things above the ground start to sink.
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The Hills and valleys in New York are dirt and soil. When Hills and Mountains become saturated, they become weak and become liquid. Mudslides are imminent at that point. Not only do hills give way destroying everything on top of the slide but it also creates damage where the landslide ends up. The description of the Hills become low, and the valleys raised to give a different understanding.
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The floods, sinking, cities covered, etc. is explained and would account for all the flooding, ground unevenness, cities sunk, hills made low, and uneven roads and land being broken up.
Section 3
Moroni
3 Nephi 9:4 sunk in the depths of the sea.
We previously positioned the city of Moroni at Bath, New York.
The city of Moroni is at the southeast corner of the land of Zarahemla. The east boundary of the city of Moroni is the East Sea, and the border south is the South Wilderness or the Lamanite territory. The city of Moroni sunk in the depths of the sea (flooded or the waters raised). With Internet research, I found out that this area is known for floods. There has been a long history of floods at the Bath (Moroni) area.
Internet research shows this area as a known flood area. The internet also shows that this water comes from the mountains from Pennsylvania. This picture Left shows the Bath area in Blue. The red zone shows the hills to the south. The rainwater would flow in the valleys where the roads are. The roads travel toward the Bath area and the flow of water from the mountains flowing toward Bath. The water would go from the city of Bath to Keuka Lake. The water from the Keuka Lake would rush to the Seneca Lake or the east sea.
If the water flow were as described in the Book of Mormon, then all the downpour of many inches from the tempest and rainfall from the mountains would have come down with fury and headed towards the city of Bath (Moroni). Moroni was said to sink in the depths of the sea. If this was like a hurricane that came, we could understand the amount of water and flooding that would occur in this area. In this picture, we can see the flow and the direction would have put all the water from the mountains directly toward the Bath area. The city of Moroni would have sunk into the depths of the sea as described in the Book of Mormon. Here are some pictures of the Bath area and the floods of which has occurred throughout time.
Here is an article which gives the area flooded in the year 1972. It is the whole southeast portion of the land. This area does correlate with the approximate area of the pre-discussed dissenter’s area number 3. I have underlined the city names that were affected in flood.
“Flood of June 1972: Cohocton River at Bath, New York
Open-File Report 72-432 By: L.A. Wagner and P.H. Hamecher
In June 1972, tropical storm Agnes caused severe flooding in Pennsylvania and southern New York. The flood, on many major streams, was the highest known since the river valleys were settled. Maximum discharges were as much as twice the discharge of a 50-year flood. In southern New York, large areas in Corning, Elmira, Wellsville, Salamanca, and in many smaller communities were inundated to depths of several feet. Levels of all the Finger Lakes were higher than any previously recorded, and extensive flooding of lakeside properties resulted.” (Highlights added)
Section 4
Sunk Into the Depth of the Earth
Gilgal- 3 Nephi 9:6 sunk and buried in the depths of the earth.
The description “sunk and buried in the depths of the earth” is close to the same explanation for the city of Moroni. In this correlation, we must first look in the area of Moroni. The city of Olean stands out. It is a city on the Lamanite side which we have not positioned yet. It is in the area of the Dissenters which also match the description of the most wicked people and non-righteous among them. It would fit well here both from the Book of Mormon as well as to the geography of New York. Olean also has the same internet stories and pictures available of past flooding and does fit the Book of Mormon destruction description. You can see in this picture that Orleans surrounded by mountains. You can also see it is in a sunken area. Whether by sunken or mudslides covering this area, it appears to be the right place.
Section 5
City of Alma, Alma’s Pond, Alma’s Hill
Before we can discuss the Great Mountain, we need to position other area’s first to show the connection. One of those is that of the waters of Mormon. We have already designated that the city of Alma is close to the border of New York and Pennsylvania. We also know that Alma baptized 2500 people in the waters of Mormon. The scriptures are very clear that Alma hid in the thicket of trees next to the waters of Mormon. Remember the Bible Dictionary description of the Jordan River:
BD= Jordan River-
The most important river of Palestine, formed by the union of several springs rising in Mount Hermon. It passes through the Huleh Valley (the waters of Merom), then descends to the Sea of Galilee. The total length of the river is well over 100 miles. (Highlights added)
With this information, it makes sense that the waters of Mormon would also connect to the River Sidon. The area of Alma’s pond and the Honeoye Creek is a perfect place for the waters of Mormon. The waters of Mormon connects to the River Sidon and is also near the city of Alma, which places the waters of Mormon or the land of Mormon next to the city of Alma. Interesting enough that Alma is close to the start of the River Sidon. Alma is also in the area of the Lamanites. We also know that Alma hid from the Kingsman. Alma is in the outskirts of the land of Nephi and part of the land of the Lamanites. The Book of Mormon talks that Alma hid from the King. All of this makes sense of how Alma was off the path and could hide and baptize so many people. I feel that Alma baptized in more than just one area. It says waters, not the water of Mormon. The Honeoye creek makes sense as being the waters of Mormon.
“Honeoye Creek and Genesee River (Rush to Scottsville)
Honeoye Creek was a clear-water stream
The exciting descriptions for the Alma’s Pond…it’s all natural, a lowland nestled at the base of steep hills.”
Mosiah 18:4-5
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 (Natural Spring Water) of pure water, and Alma resorted thither, there being near the water a thicket (a dense group) of small trees, where he did hide himself in the daytime from the searches of the king. (Highlights added)
The water of Mormon is a fountain which according to the dictionary is a Natural spring water- pure water. On the internet, it states the Honeoye River is a clear water stream. Alma hides in a thicket of trees. In this area, there is a mountain called Alma’s mountain. This whole area is a perfect place to hide in a thicket of trees. It also fits this description.
Mosiah 18:6-8, 16
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. (Highlights added)
Mosiah 18:6-8 states that the waters of Mormon are in the land of Mormon. If the waters of Mormons named after the waters of Merom. The Jordan River flows through the waters of Merom matches the River Sidon through the waters of Mormon or the land of Mormon. The stories of the Book of Mormon fits this placement. Well, this part of the land was taken over by the Lamanites as Alma moved to the land of Zarahemla.
The described in Mosiah 18:30 fits this place exceptionally well.
Mosiah 18:30
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. (Highlights added)
It does say that Alma took the people and departed into the wilderness further away from the land of the Nephi area. The south wilderness is just north of this area and would also fit this description in their departure talked about in Mosiah 18:32-34
Mosiah 18:32-34
32 But behold, it came to pass that the king, having discovered a movement among the people, sent his servants to watch them. Therefore on the day that they were assembling themselves together to hear the word of the Lord they were discovered unto the king.
33 And now the king said that Alma was stirring up the people to rebellion against him; therefore he sent his army to destroy them.
34 And it came to pass that Alma and the people of the Lord were apprised of the coming of the king’s army; therefore they took their tents and their families and departed into the wilderness. (Highlights added)
Alma Pond
A thicket of trees surrounds Alma Pond. Honeoye creek is starting by Alma’s pond. Alma’s Pond is next to the City of Alma and also Alma’s Hill. This Creek flows to the River Sidon. Just like the Waters of Merom River which flows to the river Jordan.
Section 6
Alma’s Hill
“Alma Hill, the wide rise which dominates the southern half of town, is at 2,548 feet (777 m) not only the highest point in Allegany County but the entire western half of the state. The section of Alma Hill Road that runs near the summit is, at approximately 2,500 feet (760 m), the highest free paved public road in the state outside of the Catskills.
The south town line is the Pennsylvania border.” Web source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alma,_New_York (Highlights added)
Section 7
The Great Mountain
In 3 Nephi 9:4 talks about the city of Moroni. Verse 5 speaks about the city of Mormonihah. In verse 6 tells about the city of Gilgal. In verse 7 says about the city of Onihah and the inhabitants thereof, with the city of Mocum and the inhabitants thereof, and the city of Jerusalem.
Verses 4-9 is all in the same and Dissenters area. Not knowing where to put the cities of Onihah and Mocum yet but we know they are close to this area. Here is how we see the layout so far in our research.
Let’s discuss 3 Nephi 9:5
3 Nephi 9:5
And behold, that great city Moronihah have I covered with earth and the inhabitants thereof,
Moronihah- The name Moronihah means son of Moroni (Captain Moroni). Placing Moronihah close to the city of Moroni makes sense. Moroni is where Captain Moroni built security from the Lamanites. Nothing in the Book of Mormon gives any description of the location of Moronihah. We do know that Moroni is at the east and south corner of the land of Zarahemla. The Book of Mormon is very clear as to the boundaries on the east side as being the east sea. Moroni is on the Southeastern boundary of the land of Zarahemla. If Moronihah is in this area, then it would need to be west of Moroni.
Mormon is the father of Moroni (not captain Moroni). Moroni is the one that sealed the record and hid it in the Hill Cumorah. This Moroni is the Father of Moronihah. Would Captain Moroni be named after Moroni, son of Mormon, no? Moroni was at the end of the book of Mormon, 400 AD. Captain Moroni was at the timing of 100 BC. Could Moroni be named after Captain Moroni? This thought seems possible. There is an area not designated yet next to the city Moroni. Moronihah could fit this area. It would also put Alma, Mormon, Waters of Mormon, Moronihah, and Moroni in the same general area together. Putting all this together here fits for me for those reasons of names and relationships.
There is one more possibility of the location of Moronihah, and that is at another site of a high Mountain two. We will discuss that possibility later.
Section 8
Hills and Valleys- Dissenters
Next area to discuss is 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 (Highlights added)
In verse 8 there are two cities which starts with the name of Gad. We feel there is a connection with the cities which begin with Gad. Gad is a person. “Ton” on the end of a word means town. So, in interpretation, the Gadianton Robbers means Gad’s town of Robbers. If the cities which start with Gad are related and are a part of the Gadianton Robbers group, then they would be located around the Gadianton Robbers area. In this description of Sunk and made hills and valleys of which God buried the inhabitants in the depth of the earth. There is an area just west of Olean where we just laid out Gilgal. There are hills and valleys at Olean. Olean and the surrounding area is also the Gadianton Robbers designated area before.
Highway 86 goes through not only Olean but through mountains also. The area shaded on the map has cities also. Destruction is very easy to understand how this occurred. Olean surrounding area still receives enough water that would cause the sinking and landslides as described in the book of Mormon. In 3 Nephi 9:8 defines that it is in the hills and cities areas. For the cities to be buried and hills low made it has to be in the field of mountains, valleys, and cities.
Because of heavy rains in the mountain areas, and the soil became saturated. This area would have sunk, and the mountains lowered. The mountains in New York (or hills) are dirt or soil not rock. The real capacity of quicksand is high with the makeup of the ground in the New York area. The book of Mormon description in 3 Nephi 9 does explain how this destruction happened.
In disasters today as mudslides occur, cities stay in the same place. We clean up the area and repair the roads destroyed. With this understanding, it makes sense that it would still look the same today. The cities and the streets would still be in the same places because cities are positioned to sustain life. After earthquakes and mudslides happen, cities built where water, food, and a way to support life. Towns would be re-established again. Most towns in Western New York are smaller cities and has not grown for thousands of years. All of this makes sense as we take the writing of the book of Mormon and relate it to what we see now. The book of Mormon still proves the layout before destruction and after the destruction of Christ's crucifixion.
Section 9
Second Flood Area
Second flood area clarified- An interesting fact that the region of the River Sidon or the Genesee area, is known as a flood area and is known to flood every ten years. For this reason, they built a big dam to stop the water from coming so fast down the canyon. Even after the building of the dam, in 1992 there was a flood in this area. The flood happened because of all the water which flows to the dam area. With the 1992 flooding, says that it most likely flooded this area also at the time of Christ’s crucifixion. To make it clear, in the Book of Mormon writings we don’t feel it describes this flooding area.
Section 10
Cities Burned
Now let’s go to the second kind of destruction, that of fires. The fire area seems to be on the west side of the Sidon River. Fires could not have occurred where flood occurred. Fires would have been in a whole different area.
Zarahemla-3 Nephi 9:3
3 Nephi 9:3
Behold, that great city Zarahemla have I burned with fire, and the inhabitants thereof.
The city of Zarahemla burned with fire and previously positioned on the map. After Zarahemla destruction, it took 60 years to rebuild. In the history of Batavia, the city workers say this area has been a city of counsel and people did not live here for the most part. We know that the Prophet lived in Zarahemla. It is easy to understand that the city of Zarahemla would not be the priority to rebuild and would have done that after other areas of priority.
First, they would have secured a livable place for themselves
Second, they would have obtained a way to earn a living or a way of life crops, farmland, animals, etc.
Third, they would have rebuilt the community areas such as Zarahemla.
The sharp lightening spoken of in the Book of Mormon started the fire. The rest of the cities and scriptures seems to have a connection with the Gadianton Robbers area. This area is south of the city of Zarahemla.
Section 11
Destruction of Jacobugath
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 then 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. (Highlights added)
Jacobugath (city of the followers of Jacob) - Burned with fire because of secret murders and combinations. Because it says secret combinations and murders, this area needs to be close to Zarahemla. That is where all that took place. The Gadianton Robbers were the people who carried out the killings and the secret combinations. So, it must be close to where the Gadianton robbers lived. Because of the secret combinations and murders, we bring this area closer to Zarahemla than the rest. With Jacobugath position closer to Zarahemla, it fits the layout well together.
Section 12
Destruction of city of Laman, city of Josh, city of Gad, and Kishkumen
3 Nephi 9:10-11
10 And behold, the city of Laman, and the city of Josh, and the city of Gad, and the city of Kishkumen, 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.
11 And because they did cast them all out, that there were none righteous among them, I did send down fire and destroy them, that their wickedness and abominations might be hid from before my face, that the blood of the prophets and the saints whom I sent among them might not cry unto me from the ground against them. (Highlights added)
They were burned with fire because they cast out prophets. The prophets lived in the city of Zarahemla area. Seeing Gad and Kishkumen in the same verse brings the connection with Gad. Gad was a real person confirming the logic of the meaning of the Gadianton Robbers.
We also know that Kishkumen was the leader of the Gadianton Robbers. We have placed the area of the Gadianton Robbers before. It would make sense that these cities were in the same vicinity as the Gadianton Robbers. With this being their camp, it would be in the mountains and further away from Zarahemla. Nothing mentioned about the secret combinations. That would make sense because they would not need to have secret combinations in their city or area. There was none righteous among them in Dissenters and the Gadianton Robbers area.
Section 13
Land of Nephi
3 Nephi 9:7 (land of 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. (Highlights added)
Jerusalem- In the land of Nephi, in Alma 21, around 90-77 B.C. Jerusalem was built (area 3). The hard-core Lamanites never built cities- only Nephites dissenters or those in the land of Nephi made cities (area 2). The southeast corner just south of the land of Zarahemla is the dissenter’s area. In clarification, the Lamanites did help the Dissenters build Jerusalem. Let’s further discuss and position the city of Jerusalem area.
Alma 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. (Highlights added)
The land of Mormon is in the borders of Nephi. Borders defined is “form an edge along or beside (something):”
So, this means the land of Mormon is near the borders or the line between the land of Nephi and the land of Zarahemla. We have designated the area of the waters of Mormon. The waters of Mormon would be in the land of Mormon. The waters of Mormon and the land of Mormon is next to the city of Alma. Alma (the prophet) baptized many people in the waters of Mormon. Positioning it here makes perfect sense.
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. (Highlights added)
Alma 21:1 is saying that the city of Jerusalem was joining the borders of Mormon.
Alma 21:2
Now the Lamanites and the Amalekites and the people of Amulon had built a great city, which was called Jerusalem.
Alma 21:2 states that the dissenters (Amalekites and the people of Amulon) built the city of Jerusalem with the help of the Lamanites. Many times, in the Book of Mormon the Dissenters went and got the Lamanites angry with the Nephites enough to attack the Nephites. Many times, it was the Amalekites and the people of Amulon which did cause the confliction and war. This place or city of Jerusalem now makes sense that it is adjoining the borders of Mormon. It is close to the Nephites and is between the land of Lamanites and the Nephites. The placement of Jerusalem and the land of Mormon would be a common ground for both the Lamanites and the dissenters to go. Especially when they both helped build it.
In this picture the scriptures have placed the city of Jerusalem joining the borders of Mormon. Here we have shown that position.
As we look at a map closer then we can see a crucial crossroads south and east of Alma. This area is just west of Bingham, Pa. We feel this is the city of Zarahemla area and Mormon is just north of this area. It makes sense that in the city of Jerusalem roads would go out in many directions. The dissenters and the Lamanites would come from all over to get to the town — the dissenters from the North and the Lamanites from the South.
Here are pictures of Bingham, Pa. It also is part of the River Sidon and is at the start of River Sidon, such an important river for the Nephites and the Lamanites.
Example of how this also fits with the story in Alma 17:1. It states that Alma journeyed from the land of Gideon southward to the land of Manti.
Alma 17:1,12-14
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.
12 And it came to pass that the hearts of the sons of Mosiah, and also those who were with them, took courage to go forth unto the Lamanites to declare unto them the word of God. (Highlights added)
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.
14 And assuredly it was great, for they had undertaken to preach the word of God to a wild and a hardened and a ferocious people; a people who delighted in murdering the Nephites, and robbing and plundering them; and their hearts were set upon riches, or upon gold and silver, and precious stones; yet they sought to obtain these things by murdering and plundering, that they might not labor for them with their own hands. (Highlights added)
South of the land of Gideon (Alma 17:1) they went to the borders of the Lamanite land (Alma 17:13). Then they separated. With the description of the Lamanites, they were describing the Dissenters, not the hard-core Lamanites. The Lamanites did not care about the riches of Gold and Silver or precious stones.
3 Nephi 8:11-17
11 And there was a great and terrible destruction in the land southward.
12 But behold, there was more great and terrible destruction in the land northward; for behold, the whole face of the land was changed, because of the tempest and the whirlwinds, and the thunderings and the lightning, and the exceedingly great quaking of the whole earth;
13 And the highways were broken up, and the level roads were spoiled, and many smooth places became rough.
14 And many great and notable cities were sunk, and many were burned, and many were shaken till the buildings thereof had fallen to the earth, and the inhabitants thereof were slain, and the places were left desolate.
15 And there were some cities which remained, but the damage thereof was exceedingly great, and there were many in them who were slain.
16 And there were some who were carried away in the whirlwind; and whither they went no man knoweth, save they know that they were carried away.
17 And thus the face of the whole earth became deformed, because of the tempests, and the thunderings, and the lightnings, and the quaking of the earth. (Highlights added)
In 3 Nephi 8:11-17 it states that all the land, broken raised or sunk. All the roads had destruction. Evidence and the layout show that positioning many of the cities as we have seemed to fit still.
Example: The roads which go by the East Sea north and south would still go past the East Sea. Each one of the streets going east and west would still be the shortest pathways from the cities internal to the external parts of the land and would rebuild in the same areas. There are signs of land shifts at the valley going south to the land of Nephi. With these signs, we still feel that it would not have changed the entrance to Zarahemla.
The roads layout now is crucial and would be like the layout of the roads two thousand years ago. The cities are at the crossroads from one town to the other. Whether they are at the exact location as the towns are now or a little east or west it does not matter. It is in the same general area as positioned in the book of Mormon. Going south to north and going west to east, the roads and cities would still be in the same general area. The resources and the capacity to sustain life appears to have stayed the same. The cities of today would be in the same position today.
If Salt Lake City had an earthquake and it destroyed the city, people would work to build it back at the same place.
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They own the land
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They have water there
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They have food available for them
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They have a way to earn a living.
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It is easier to rebuild a place rather than to move and start all over.
The cities on the south would also fit in the same capacity. In the description in the Book of Mormon, it appears there were changes in the land here too, but these changes were not to the point of changing the whole location of travel and the placement of the cities. The description in the Book of Mormon show with real evidence and correlation too close to be coincidental to the layout of the State of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, and Canada. The hills, Roads, and cities are the same today as well as in earlier time.
Section 14
The Destruction Northward
3 Nephi 8:11-12
11 And there was a great and terrible destruction in the land southward.
12 But behold, there was a more great and terrible destruction in the land northward; for behold, the whole face of the land was changed, because of the tempest and the whirlwinds, and the thunderings and the lightnings, and the exceedingly great quaking of the whole earth (Highlights added);
Even though the book of Mormon clarifies the destruction on the south, the book of Mormon also says the most significant damage is in the north. The book of Mormon talks nothing of the devastation in the land northward. There is other proof, and History bares truth of these changes. Let’s list the ones we know.
Known history of New York can explain where and what happened at the time of Christ Crucifixion.
Section 15
The Great Mountain
Events started with a great mountain raised. This mountain also is a possibility as it being Moronihah. It matches the description of the great mountain but is out of the normal boundaries of the Nephites and Lamanites writings. The Book of Mormon east boundary is the East Sea. This area of the great Mountain is a lot of further east and North. We feel it is a separate event from the Book of Mormon descriptions but just as important as the ones mentioned.
Were taught at the creation of the earth; Heavenly Father organized from matter already in existence. It was not just created out of thin air magically. As mountains increase, then the dirt/soil had to come from somewhere. It was moved or shifted from one place to another. As the land gathered up the other areas was torn apart, moved, and split open. There are two pieces of evidence which bring us to this conclusion.
Section 16
Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes- The finger lakes shows a circular pattern toward the mountain which shows the earth stretched apart and the dirt being pushed up to create the great mountain as described. As you look at the Finger Lakes area, you can see
See how the finger lakes curve towards the mountain. The closure it goes it moves to the north facing.
the circular angles (stretch marks) of the Finger Lakes pointing to the Mountain area. This area stretched as the dirt gathered and pushed up towards the designated mountain. These could be called stretch marks just like on our skin. As our skin stretches from growth so did the land here at the finger lakes. The lakes furthest west is more straight North and South direction. The further you go East at each Finger Lake it curves more Northeast direction. As if it was bending towards the mountain. We could add as if it was being pulled apart and stretched.
These lakes are not explainable through any happening in history. Many scholars are confused at how these Finger Lakes formed. Many geologists think glaciers created them. Other Geologists say the Finger Lakes do not follow that pattern of glaciers retreating because pools and wide lakes form with glaciers. Not slender lakes like these at the Finger Lakes. There is only one way which explains the creation. The Book of Mormon helps us understand it better.
Let’s see what other things tie this together.
Section 17
1000 Islands
It is well known that the St. Lawrence River drained Lake Ontario 125 feet. History says that something happened to drain Lake Ontario. What happened and when is the question. The book of Mormon description explains what happened to create this exit in a short period. The mountain raised at the time of Christ crucifixion.
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The area of the 1000 islands show signs that the lake did not break apart. It shows that something more drastically and tore apart the St Lawrence River. Earthquake creates craters of separation. The 1000 Islands are different. Little Islands were left in the middle of the craters as the earth broke apart from Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean.
We believe that the land was pushed up toward the mountain and gathered earth at the great Mountain location. This area was also stretched and tore apart leaving little islands all over this area, hence that is why this is called 1000 Islands. Here are some pictures of this area. These pictures are not the earth opening from an earthquake. These Islands are rocks which have latterly torn apart. The scripture says that rocks will be rent in twain. Could this be the area God was explaining?
3 Nephi 8:18
And behold, the rocks were rent in twain; they were broken up upon the face of the whole earth, insomuch that they were found in broken fragments, and in seams and in cracks, upon all the face of the land. (Highlights added)
Helaman 14:21
Yea, at the time that he shall yield up the ghost there shall be thunderings and lightnings for the space of many hours, and the earth shall shake and tremble; and the rocks which are upon the face of this earth, which are both above the earth and beneath, which ye know at this time are solid, or the more part of it is one solid mass, shall be broken up; (Highlights added)
Helaman 14:22
Yea, they shall be rent in twain, and shall ever after be found in seams and in cracks, and in broken fragments upon the face of the whole earth, yea, both above the earth and beneath. (Highlights added)
3 Nephi 8:18
And behold, the rocks were rent in twain; they were broken up upon the face of the whole earth, insomuch that they were found in broken fragments, and in seams and in cracks, upon all the face of the land. (Highlights added)
3 Nephi says the rocks above the earth and below will be rent in twain. That accurately describes the area of the Thousand Islands. This place was rent in twain and has left much evidence of this broken up area.
Section 18
Escarpment
2- The Escarpment
es·carp·ment- long, steep slope, especially one at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at different heights.
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The water receded on the North and opened 15 miles of land. This movement of water level now shows the escarpment. With the new land seashore placement, it places the city of Teancum now inland instead of it being on the seashore. In that 15 miles, there is no evidence of Archeological evidence for the Nephites or the Jaredites. On the top side of the escarpment are hundreds of Native American sites. In the Batavia (city of Zarahemla) area, there is over 200 archeology evidence alone.
Section 19
The East Sea
3- The East Sea- The east sea was also drained. The East Sea used to drain at the Hudson River. In this map, you can see the pathway of this waterway. As Lake Ontario drained and exited from the St. Lawrence River, we believe that the groundwater lowered also. The East Sea is now lower than the Hudson River. Which created a new level for the east sea.
Section 20
Niagara Falls
4- Niagara Falls- Something else happened as St Lawrence drop considerably and quickly. It occurred at the narrow pass area. In the Book of Mormon, it does not talk of any resistance going from the land of desolation to the land of Bountiful. Snakes and wild beasts went from the northland to the land south. They could not have crossed the Niagara Falls area. Nothing hindered the passageway from East to West. We feel That this created Niagara Falls at this same time of the destruction, 34 A.D. Lake Ontario is lowered, and the earthquakes would have been a part of this magnificent creation.
The Nephites also secured the land Northward from the land Southward at the narrow neck. They would not have had to do it if the Niagara Falls River were there. The time of Mormon with the last battle the Nephites would only be able to go to the east after the Niagara River creation. Access west is now cut off to the land of Desolation. The Niagara River is on the west side of Buffalo (the city of Desolation). The Niagara stops all traffic from going west at this spot.
Millions of people visit Niagara Falls each year. We look at power.
The undercurrent would have swept them away. Although several people have survived a trip down the American side of Niagara Falls, no one has survived going down the Canadian side of the falls. With the rushing water above the falls and the speed of which it goes as well as the undercurrent there is no way for the animals to cross without being swept away over the falls.
We believe that the falls also was created at the time of Christ’s crucifixion. The book of Mormon alludes to this in a roundabout way. The area split of the land of Desolation and left part of it on the American side and part on the Canadian side. The city of Desolation now on the side of the Americans. At this time, it also created boundaries of the land of Liberty and the land northward. The Land of Desolation. It is interesting that God has divided the nation exactly where the description of the land of Liberty is explained in the book of Mormon — clarifying the boundaries from the land of Freedom to the land northland.
Section 21
Testimony of Jesus Christ only the Savior can give.
The Old Testament is the preparation for the most fabulous event ever known to man. In the Old Testament God taught and built the foundation for the gospel of Jesus Christ. It prepares the world for Christ’s coming and His mission here on earth. God performed many miracles through his prophets to build confidence or faith in him that he would take care of them if they obeyed His commandments.
The New Testament is the First witness of Christ’s personal life and the importance He plays to each one of us. It records His life and miracles. The New Testament has given much evidence that with Christ all things are possible and with the power of the Priesthood. We have further evidence of Christ life as we can see where Jerusalem is, the Garden of Gethsemane, Where Christ was crucified, where the tombs located, etc. The knowledge of the land and layout helps us understand the distance of His suffering, how far He had to carry the cross and the challenges of the Bible prophets.
The Book of Mormon is the second testimony of Christ’s life. I believe that the Book of Mormon has given us enough information to layout not only the lands but cities, seas, roads, and hills. This all, so we could see and understand the destruction that occurred at the time of Christ’s crucifixion. It is the second testimony of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. Christ came to America’s and set up His church in the same way as in the New Testament at Jerusalem. The establishment is essential as we understand all of this brings more of a reality of things that occurred many years ago. It is not just a traditional story from our ancestors. It is true. Christ’s was crucified and resurrected. Christ has visited the people in America’s. We feel he has visited all the twelve tribes of Israel. If one believes in the bible, they should also accept the Book of Mormon. It is another testament that confirms the writing in the Bible and stands as a second witness to His life and purpose.
The story has not ended with the Bible. We further bare testimony that the Gospel has been restored and has further evidence with the restoration of the Gospel, the priesthood being back on earth, and a Prophet in today’s world.
Knowing the Book of Mormon lands like the land in Jerusalem helps us understand things more in-depth in the scriptures. They fit and bare testimony of Christ with the Jaredites, Nephites, and the people of Zarahemla lands now designated. This evidence is too much to be coincidence; it all fits perfectly and comes together with one real message from Adam and Eve to the prophets today.
Let’s look at the evidence of today and the evidence of the Restoration.
Section 22
Present Day Evidences of New York and what has Been Left to Ponder
The Sacred Grove
Entrance to the Sacred Grove
It all started here where a 14-year-old boy prayed with faith and prayers were answered. The spirit here is one of peaceful and one of comfort.
Hill Cumorah - is where Joseph Smith receives the Book of Mormon records. This place has
a lot more critical than just where the records where given to Joseph Smith but it is the end of both societies of the Jaredites and the Nephites with the people of Zarahemla. The feeling here is also peaceful but also one of Awe as we think of the millions of people who gave their lives to the end not necessarily for righteousness but as a testimony of disobedience.
Section 23
Peter Whitmer Farm
Peter Whitmer Farm is where The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints started. The church organized here. The power of the spirit was overwhelming for me as I thought about the great men who had been here. I thought of the priesthood and the restoration of Gods power here on earth. The ability to heal, bless, and the sealing power for eternity. The spirit to me was an overpowering feeling within me.
Section 24
Joseph Smith Farm
Joseph Smith’s Sr. 2nd home Alvin’s Personal Home
The Girls Room- This is the girls’ room at the 2nd home. One night when Joseph Smith heard the mob coming, he hid the gold plates between the girls while they slept. The mob was determined to find them and tore the house apart. When they headed to the girls’ room, Joseph asked them to leave them alone because they were sleeping. The mob went without disturbing them.
The Fireplace-
This brick on the floor in front of the fireplace became another hiding place for the gold plates. Joseph Smith took up a few of the bricks and dug a hole, put in the gold plates, then replaced the bricks. The mob did not find the plates in this time either.
The Box- Here is a replica of the box that once hid the golden plates for Joseph Smith. The mob never looked inside to find them. It was right in plain sight.
Section 25
The Cooper Shed
The Cooper shed in the back, hid the gold plates. They were hidden up in this loft. Still they did not find them.
Section 26
The Grandin Printing Shop
Where the Book of Mormon was published
Section 27
The Whole Picture
Let us now consider the whole picture. We have the Old Testament. A record to help us understand the gospel before Christ comes. We have the New Testament while Christ was here and further understanding the purpose of life and existence. We have the Book of Mormon that bear testimony and a second witness to his life extended in America’s. Two records show the setup of his church — two records which testify of His divine mission and his atonement and resurrection for each of us.
Then we have the restoration of the gospel now. The gospel is now, again, setup how Christ did many years ago. Further evidence of his love even to us. We have all the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have all the blessing God offers to men. Not a story of the tradition of our fathers, but one complete story from the beginning. We have it here today so that we can prepare the world for his second coming. We can now see all the evidence of the Book of Mormon to testify further Christ was here and is still with us.
I think of all of this and feel of the prior discussion of the signs and time of the Book of Mormon. It fits even more perfectly. I know without question that the Book of Mormon is true. I know without question that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God. I know that the gospel restored, and the priesthood power is here on earth today. I know with high confidence that we are members of His gospel. We are a part of his grand plan to represent him. May we do this and be his representatives here on earth. Many people see his light in us and desire to gain His peace; He freely offers them.
Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, as we put it all together, they fit. Niagara Falls, Escarpment, Letchworth Park, Finger Lakes, The Great Mountain, Hills, and Valleys; too much for me to think it just happened. There is excellent evidence of all the Book of Mormon brings with truth to the real story of Christ. John the Baptist has brought back the Aaronic priesthood, Peter, James, and John have brought back the priesthood of God. Isaiah has brought back the sealing power of God.
All of this brings real evidence of the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon is a second witness of Christ. The Book of Mormon bears truth. Even in the latter day's locations continues to bear witness of Christ and the restoration of God’s love for us with the Restoration. Overwhelming evidence with the Bible, Book of Mormon, and the Doctrine and Covenants. One complete History continues written today. The story continues. God’s scriptures will come true and will come to pass. Christ will return.
In the introduction to the Book of Mormon, it says:
“We invite all men everywhere to read the Book of Mormon, to ponder in their hearts the message it contains, and then to ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ if the book is true. Those who pursue this course and ask in faith will gain a testimony of its truth and divinity by the power of the Holy Ghost. (See Moroni 10:3–5.)
Those who gain a divine witness from the Holy Spirit will also come to know by the same power that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world, that Joseph Smith is His revelator and prophet in these last days, and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s kingdom once again established on the earth, preparatory to the Second Coming of the Messiah.”
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If we read the Book of Mormon
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And Ponder in our hearts
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Then ask God the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ if the book is true
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If you ask with Faith- Faith without works is dead.
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It says that they will gain knowledge of the truth. All we need to do is ask with real intent. We need to desire to know for ourselves and will be willing to make a difference in our lives. Then God will answer our prayers.
After God answers their prayers of the Book of Mormon, then they will also know:
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Jesus is the Christ and the Savior of the world
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Joseph Smith a Prophet of God in these Latter Day
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord Kingdom Restored.
