Death, Time, and Redemption: Structural Possibilities and Thematic Potential in Jacob 7:26

Title

Death, Time, and Redemption: Structural Possibilities and Thematic Potential in Jacob 7:26

Publication Type

Journal Article

Year of Publication

2015

Authors

Webb, Jenny (Primary)

Journal

Journal of Book of Mormon Studies

Pagination

231-237

Volume

24

Abstract

Jacob 7:26 has often been noted for its pathos and nostalgia. A close reading of the verse finds that these effects result from the author’s own problematic family relationships, specifically Jacob’s troubled relationship with his older brothers, Laman and Lemuel, who have potentially hated him since his birth because of his position and alignment with Nephi. While Nephi seeks reconciliation with his brothers, Jacob seeks redemption as a healing of a preexistent family breach. In other words, Jacob seeks sealing. This emphasis on sealing can be seen in his temporal orientation, which simultaneously looks toward the past as the source of the family conflict and toward the future (through Enos) as the ongoing hope for the family’s eventual healing.

Subject Keywords

Death
Structure
Redemption
Enos
Sherem
Time
Theme
Jacob (Son of Lehi)
Nephi (Son of Lehi)
Laman (Son of Lehi)
Lemuel (Son of Lehi)

Bibliographic Citation

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