The Shema — the central prayer of Judaism, from Deuteronomy 6:4-9 — is never quoted in the Book of Mormon, but its influence is pervasive. Echoes of the Shema appear as Nephite prophets teach their children, cultivate a holistic religious practice, and urge people to let God's word sink deep into their hearts.
Beware Lest Thou Forget the Lord
At the end of Moses's life, he delivered a series of discourses to prepare his people to enter their promised land. Book of Mormon prophets quote from these sermons, applying them to their own people and to us. Moses's words in Deuteronomy can help us prepare to enter our promised lands.
Balaam’s Integrity
Even under intense pressure from the Moabite king, Balaam refused to curse Israel. He repeatedly affirmed that he took his direction from God and would not deviate from God's instructions. Book of Mormon prophets including Samuel, Abinadi, and Mormon showed the same integrity, sharing messages from God with exactness even to hostile audiences.
An Offering for Sin
Lehi and his descendants followed the law of Moses, including offering sacrifices. Book of Mormon prophets used that practice to teach their people about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and to encourage them to live a consecrated life.
Holiness to the Lord
Through Moses, the Lord gave the children of Israel a law. It's a wondrous set of objects, activities, and sacred times all intended to point their hearts to the salvation He would provide them. The Nephites lived this law, recognizing that it pointed their minds forward to Jesus Christ.
Love Your Enemies
When Jesus taught "love your enemies" in the Sermon on the Mount, He was reclaiming the original meaning of the law He gave to Moses, not superseding it. He reminded the Nephites that He gave that law. The imperative to love people who are difficult to love has been taught by prophets in all ages.
Thy Man-Servant nor Thy Maid-Servant
The sabbath commandment isn't just an injunction to rest from our labors but to help other people rest from theirs. God specified that the commandment extended to our children, our employees, our guests, and even our animals. We should look for ways to lighten other people's burdens on the Lord's day.
Abinadi and the Ten Commandments
Like Moses, Abinadi understood that the Ten Commandments are a means to an end. Obedience to them brings us closer to God, but it's important to see the law as a reflection of the Lawgiver, who has the power to sanctify and redeem us.
“All That the Lord Hath Spoken We Will Do”
Moses received more than tablets of stone on Mount Sinai. He received glory which was visible on his countenance, and he received a law which pointed his people toward salvation. Abinadi taught that the law was tailored to the needs of a stiffnecked people and that it pointed them toward the Savior, Jesus Christ.
“He Will Swallow Up Death in Victory”
Jesus explained to His disciples that Old Testament prophets had prophesied of Him. Abinadi taught that all prophets have spoken of Christ. This week, as we celebrate Holy Week, let's pay attention to ways in which Old Testament writings not only anticipated but also help us understand His atoning sacrifice.