Come, Follow Me - Additional Insights "Helaman 1:1-13 Greed, Pride, Politics and Secrecy"

Helaman 1:1-13 narrates a period of political instability and intrigue among the Nephites following the death of the chief judge, Pahoran. As the people attempted to appoint a new leader, contention arose between Pahoran's sons: Pahoran, Paanchi, and Pacumeni.

Greed and Ambition

The Peril of Greed and Ambition

In Helaman 1, we observe the destructive influence of greed and ambition through the conflicts that arose between Pahoran's sons following his death. This quest for power, typified by Paanchi and his supporters, underscores a profound scriptural theme about the dangers of covetousness and selfish ambition.

Scriptural Context of Greed

The Book of Mormon is not alone in addressing the dangers of greed; the Bible provides numerous teachings on this vice. For instance, Exodus 20:17 commands, "Thou shalt not covet," laying a foundational principle that warns against the desire for others' possessions or positions, which can lead to sin and destruction. Similarly, in the New Testament, Luke 12:15 Jesus warns,

"Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses."

The Consequences in Helaman 1

In Helaman 1, the division and contention triggered by ambition not only led to personal loss, with Paanchi being condemned to death for his rebellion, but also destabilized the Nephite government. This narrative serves as a stark reminder of how personal vices can escalate into communal crises.

General Conference Insights

In the April 2009 General Conference, Elder Quentin L. Cook spoke in his address "We Follow Jesus Christ" about the dangers of materialism and self-interest which align closely with the broader themes of greed and ambition. He taught,

"Materialism, which is a form of idolatry, impacts this and future generations. Witnesses to God, including prophets and inspired leaders, have always cautioned against this snare."

Modern Implications of Greed in Leadership

The repercussions of greed and selfish ambition in leadership can be seen not only in scriptural accounts but in modern history and daily news. Leaders who prioritize their personal gain over the welfare of those they lead often contribute to systemic corruption and societal instability. This mirrors the warning given in Doctrine and Covenants 121:35-37, where the Lord teaches that priestcrafts and unrighteous dominion lead to the downfall of individuals and their followers.

Scriptural Admonitions Against Greed

Proverbs 28:25 states, "He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat." This proverbial wisdom underscores the peace and prosperity that come from rejecting greed and depending on God. In the teachings of Jesus, we find a similar sentiment in Matthew 6:33: "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." This directive points us towards a correct orientation of our desires, prioritizing spiritual over worldly wealth.

Spiritual Safety in Humility and Service

Another protective measure against the perils of greed and ambition comes through cultivating humility and a sincere desire to serve. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf discussed this in his October 2010 General Conference talk, "Pride and the Priesthood," highlighting that "Pride is the great enemy of unity and growth" and advocating for humility and service as antidotes to selfish aspirations.

To Sum Up: A Call for Righteous Ambition

While ambition in itself isn't wrong, its orientation decides its moral value. Righteous ambition, directed towards serving others and fulfilling God's commandments, enhances lives and strengthens communities. As exemplified in Helaman 1, unchecked greed, and ambition for personal power can lead to tragic consequences. In contrast, a focus on Christlike service can uplift and unify individuals and societies.

By applying the lesson from Helaman 1, further illuminated by scriptural teachings and prophetic guidance, we can navigate the complexities of our desires and ambitions in a way that brings joy and peace both to us and to those around us.

Pride Leading to Rebellion

Paanchi's pride leads him to not only contest the judgment that placed his brother Pahoran as the new chief judge but also to rebel against it actively. This rebellion stems from a prideful heart, mirroring Proverbs 16:18, "Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Paanchi's pride ultimately leads to his downfall and death, echoing the fate of many biblical figures who let pride dictate their paths.

Leadership and Its Challenges

Leadership, a central theme in this passage, is shown in its complexity as Pacumeni reluctantly becomes the chief judge after the assassination of his brother, Pahoran. The rapid shifts in leadership highlight the challenges that come with governance—especially when leadership is contested or the transition is turbulent. Scripturally, this reflects the admonition seen in Doctrine and Covenants 121:41-42, where the principles of righteousness, persuasion, long-suffering, gentleness, meekness, and love unfeigned are marked as essentials for righteous leadership.

Secrecy and Conspiracy

Secrecy plays a pivotal role in the narrative, with Kishkumen, the assassin, operating in the shadows to shift the balance of power. This secrecy leads to further chaos and instability. Biblically, this reflects scenarios such as Absalom conspiring against David in secrecy (2 Samuel 15:12), showcasing the destructive potential of hidden plots and schemes.

Modern-Day Implications

These themes from Helaman 1 not only enrich our understanding of Nephite history but also serve as vivid reminders of the timeless nature of such challenges. In today's context, the pursuit of power can often lead to greed and pride, highlighting the necessity for transparency, integrity, and humility in leadership. It is a call to reflect on personal motives and the overarching impact of our actions on the community and beyond.

In Summary
Helaman 1:1-13, thus, stands out as a profound study on human behavior and leadership's ethical dilemmas. Through the lens of scripture, both ancient and modern, we are reminded of the vital need to cultivate virtues that uphold dignity and societal stability, cautioning against the perils of greed, pride, and secrecy in leadership roles.

By applying these scriptural lessons, we can strive to build communities rooted in equity, transparency, and accountability, promoting a leadership culture that is not just about authority but about service and responsibility.