Lamanites

The Lamanites are a designation used in the Book of Mormon to describe a broad group of people descended from Laman, the elder son of Lehi, and his followers. The term is often used to distinguish these groups from the Nephites, who are descended from Nephi, Lehi’s other son. In the narrative, the Lamanites and Nephites are repeatedly portrayed as two large, rival factions that struggle for political and military dominance, though intermarriage and interaction occur at various points.

Over the course of the Book of Mormon, the Lamanites are depicted as more numerous than the Nephites for long periods and are frequently described as adversaries to the Nephite righteous leadership. The text also records episodes of conversion and reconciliation, including periods when Lamanites adopt the Nephite faith and form alliances or families with Nephites. Some Lamanites who embrace the gospel are described as joining communities led by Nephite-inspired leaders, and later names such as the people of Ammon appear in association with Lamanite conversion.

In modern usage, the term Lamanite is primarily a scriptural and historical label within Latter-day Saint thought. It is used to refer to the ancient inhabitants described in the Book of Mormon who are not counted among the Nephites. The term has also been a subject of discussion in church and scholarly contexts regarding its implications for race, ethnicity, and identity, with contemporary leaders emphasizing spiritual and moral interpretations over racial classifications.

Scholarly and religious discussions about Lamanites vary. Within Mormon studies, the term is treated as a literary and theological category tied to the Book of Mormon narrative, while outside observers evaluate the historicity and cultural implications of the text.