Christianity

Chapter2— The Fall and Opposition

◆ About this chapter

Chapter Two of the Book of Mormon, titled 'The Fall and Opposition,' serves as a foundational theological exposition within the larger work, establishing the necessity of moral agency and divine purpose. Through the voice of the prophet Jacob, the text articulates the principle that righteousness and wickedness are inextricably linked, arguing that the existence of opposition is essential for the creation of man to have meaning. Situated early in the narrative, this chapter sets the doctrinal stage for the subsequent history of the Nephites by defining the cosmic conditions under which human choice operates.

Translation:

About this translation

King James Version (1611)

1611 · Public domain

The most influential English translation ever made. Sometimes archaic, but the standard PD English text.

Translators commissioned by King James I of England, 1604–1611

And now, Jacob, I speak unto you: Thou art my firstborn in the days of my tribulation in the wilderness. And behold, in thy childhood thou hast suffered afflictions and much sorrow, because of the rudeness of thy brethren. ²Nevertheless, Jacob, my firstborn in the wilderness, thou knowest the greatness of God; and he shall consecrate thine afflictions for thy gain. ³Wherefore, thy soul shall be blessed, and thou shalt dwell safely with thy brother, Joseph; and thou shalt dwell in the land of promise, and thy seed shall be blessed. ⁴For behold, it is expedient that there should be an opposition; for without opposition there could be no righteousness, neither wickedness, neither holiness, neither misery. ⁵And if there should be no opposition, there would have been no purpose in the creation of man; and there would have been no end to the works of God.

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Chapter Discussion

Discussion

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What in this chapter surprised you, or stopped you?
Where does this passage cut against your expectation?
What questions does it raise that you don't have an answer to yet?

— 2 —sacredatlas.org