Question
Gramps,
In 2 Nephi, chapter 5, verse 6 refers to Nephi’s sisters. That seems to be the only place they are mentioned. Did they follow from Jerusalem? Is any more known about them??
Bruce
Answer
Bruce,
In the annals of the Book of Mormon, Nephi’s sisters are mentioned only once in 2 Nephi 5:6; yet, their presence holds significant implications for understanding the early Nephite community. Hopefully, I can provide some contextual insights, historical interpretations, and cultural significance of these oft-overlooked figures, shedding light on their journey from Jerusalem, possible identities, roles within Nephite society, and the broader teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints regarding women and family in scripture.
Nephi’s sisters embarked on a monumental journey alongside their family as they fled the dangers of Jerusalem. In 2 Nephi 5:6, Nephi lists those who chose to follow him, which includes his sisters, highlighting their commitment to the faith and the prophetic warnings they received. This journey from Jerusalem to the promised land was not merely a physical migration but a spiritual pilgrimage, one that established the foundations for the Nephite civilization.
The identity of Nephi’s sisters has been a topic of much speculation. Possible interpretations include:
1. Biological Sisters: Some scholars suggest that Nephi’s sisters could have been his biological siblings, born to Lehi and Sariah during their time in the wilderness. However, given that Jacob and Joseph’s births are specifically noted, the likelihood of additional daughters being born in the wilderness seems less probable. This raises questions about the number of daughters Lehi and Sariah had and when they were born.
2. Sisters-in-Law: An alternative theory posits that Nephi may have been referring to the wives of his brothers, particularly those of Ishmael’s sons, who may have been their sisters through marriage. This theory is supported by historical accounts that indicate the marrying of Ishmael’s daughters by Lehi’s sons, suggesting a close familial connection.
3. Symbolic Representation: Another interpretation suggests that Nephi’s use of “sisters” could refer more broadly to fellow believers in Christ, akin to how members of the Church today refer to one another as “brothers” and “sisters.”
Another explanation can be found here:
“This is the only specific reference in the Book of Mormon that Nephi had sisters as well as brothers. How many sisters there were, whether they were older or younger than Nephi, or what their names may have been are questions not answered in our present Book of Mormon. However, the following statement by Erastus Snow may provide information on some of the sisters of Nephi:
‘The Prophet Joseph informed us that the record of Lehi, was contained on the 116 pages that were first translated and subsequently stolen, and of which an abridgment is given us in the first Book of Nephi, which is the record of Nephi individually, he himself being of the lineage of Manasseh; but that Ishmael was of the lineage of Ephraim, and that his sons married into Lehi’s family, and Lehi’s sons married Ishmael’s daughters…. ‘ (Journal of Discourses, 23:184.)
“The words that Ishmael’s sons ‘married into Lehi’s family’ would seem to indicate that the two sons of Ishmael (see 1 Nephi 7:6) were married to Lehi’s daughters (and thus to two of the sisters of Nephi). However, the sisters referred to in 2 Nephi 5:6 are evidently still other sisters, because the sisters mentioned here follow Nephi when the schism with Laman occurs, whereas the sisters of Nephi who were married to the sons of Ishmael evidently stayed with their husbands and joined with Laman. (See Alma 3:7 and 47:35).” (Daniel Ludlow, A Companion to Your Study of the Book of Mormon, pp. 131-2).
The cultural context of Nephi’s sisters is essential in understanding their roles in the Nephite community. Historical accounts indicate that women in ancient Israelite societies held significant responsibilities within their families and communities. Nephi’s sisters likely participated actively in the establishment of their new society, as they chose to follow Nephi and uphold the commandments of God. This action underscores their strength of character and commitment to faith amid adversity. As noted in 2 Nephi 5:10, they “kept the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments of the Lord in all things,” contributing to the righteous foundations of the Nephite nation.
The teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasize the importance of women in the gospel and their vital roles in family and community life. The Church recognizes that women are essential to the spiritual and temporal well-being of families and communities. Leaders within the Church often highlight the contributions of women in various capacities, affirming that they are “the essence of life, the crown of creation.”
Nephi’s sisters, as pioneers, symbolize the courage and faith of women who have played crucial roles throughout scriptural history. Their legacy serves as a reminder of the integral part that women have in fulfilling the divine plan and establishing communities grounded in faith.
Nephi’s sisters, though mentioned only briefly, represent the silent but powerful presence of women in the scriptures. Their journey from Jerusalem, potential identities, and roles in the Nephite community highlight the importance of understanding the contributions of women in religious narratives. Their actions paved the way for future generations, embodying the principles of faith and righteousness that continue to resonate within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today.
Gramps
