Ammon (Book of Mormon missionary)

Ammon is a prominent figure in the Book of Mormon, a religious text of the Latter Day Saint movement. He is primarily known for his missionary work among the Lamanites, a group described as being culturally and spiritually separate from the Nephites.

Ammon was one of four sons of King Mosiah II, who reigned over the Nephites in the land of Zarahemla. He initially resisted accepting the kingship after his father's proposal to transition from monarchy to a system of judges. He expressed a desire to preach the gospel to the Lamanites instead.

He and his brothers, Aaron, Omner, and Himni, undertook a mission to the land of Nephi to convert the Lamanites. Their efforts met with initial resistance and hardship, including imprisonment. Ammon eventually separated from his brothers and entered the service of King Lamoni, a Lamanite ruler.

Ammon’s humility, diligence, and remarkable strength earned him the king’s trust. He protected the king’s flocks from robbers and demonstrated unwavering loyalty. His service led to Lamoni's conversion to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Following Lamoni's conversion, Ammon played a pivotal role in teaching the gospel to other Lamanites, including Lamoni's queen and many of his people. Many Lamanites, influenced by Ammon's teachings and example, were converted and covenanted to forsake their traditions of violence. These converts became known as Anti-Nephi-Lehies, and they chose to bury their weapons of war deep in the earth, demonstrating their commitment to peace.

Ammon’s missionary efforts significantly impacted the relationship between the Nephites and Lamanites. His story is often cited as an example of selfless service, faith, and the power of conversion in the Book of Mormon.