Amulek, a notable figure in the Book of Mormon narrative, emerged as a significant missionary companion to Alma². His lineage stretched back through prominent ancestors, including Nephi, Lehi, and Manasseh (Alma 10:2-3). Amulek hailed from the Nephite city of Ammonihah and was esteemed within his community as a man of considerable wealth, friends, and influence (Alma 10:4).
Though his life was initially marked by material success and social standing, Amulek experienced a profound spiritual awakening after an angel directed him to take Alma² into his home (Alma 8:20; 10:7-9). Upon caring for the prophet, Amulek received Alma’s blessings over his household (Alma 10:11). Beyond such blessings, Amulek was personally transformed by the teachings of Alma² and the angel regarding the gospel of Jesus Christ (Alma 10:11).
Under divine command, he joined Alma² to preach repentance and condemn iniquity in Ammonihah (Alma 8:29). Amulek delivered powerful testimonies corroborating Alma’s prophecies, leaving his fellow citizens astonished and earning respect as a spiritual witness (Alma 10:12). However, his newfound devotion was not met without adversity. Amulek stood resolute against the cunning lawyer Zeezrom, who attempted to ensnare him through intellectual and spiritual deceit. Supported by the Spirit, Amulek rebuked Zeezrom’s temptations and presented vital doctrines, including the resurrection and eternal judgment, with clarity and conviction (Alma 10:17; Alma 11:21-46).
Amulek’s spiritual journey was a tumultuous one; he and Alma² were persecuted, bearing witness to the immolation of believers—-a scene that deeply distressed Amulek, compelling him to suggest intervening with God’s power, only to be counseled by Alma to desist due to the Spirit’s restraining command (Alma 14:10-11). Ultimately, Amulek and Alma² were imprisoned, enduring mockery and physical abuse, but were miraculously delivered when the Lord intervened, causing the prison walls to collapse and granting them escape while their persecutors perished (Alma 14:17-28).
The aftermath of Amulek’s missionary work was characterized by sacrifice and rejection; he forfeited his wealth and was disowned by family and friends, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the cause of Christ (Alma 15:16). Having lost his former life, Amulek found solace and strength in companionship with Alma², who ministered to him in Zarahemla (Alma 15:18).
Continuing their mission, the two served as bearers of repentance among the Nephites (Alma 16:13-15) and later journeyed among the Zoramites, where Amulek delivered profound sermons on the Atonement and its vital role in salvation (Alma 31:6-7; 34:1-41). He concluded his recorded missionary labors in Jershon, where he ministered to the people alongside other disciples of Christ (Alma 35:1).
Amulek’s teachings and experiences underscore the centrality of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, the critical nature of repentance and its urgency within mortal life, and the certainty of resurrection and judgment. His legacy within the scriptural canon stands as a witness that the earthly relinquishment for the gospel’s sake can yield an eternal harvest of righteousness and divine affirmation.