The Book of Mormon shows that real peace can only come if the roots of a conflict are identified and the foundational stories and beliefs that gave rise to the conflict are rejected. These foundational narratives were at the heart of Nephite and Lamanite hatred, trapping both communities in a cycle of violence. By looking closely at the slaying of Laban, we can see how it fits into the larger Book of Mormon structure and reveals both the cause of and solution to violent conflicts.

Joshua Madson