Giddonah was a notable figure in early Nephite society, known primarily for being the father of Amulek, a central missionary companion of the prophet Alma the Younger. Stemming from a prestigious lineage, Giddonah was the son of Ishmael and a descendant of Aminadi, who was renowned for interpreting the divine writing on the temple wall—a message directly inscribed by the finger of God (Alma 10:2-3). The record suggests Giddonah enjoyed a position of influence or wealth, as implied by the circumstances described when Amulek took Alma into his home, suggesting a household capable of extending generous hospitality (Alma 8:20–27, 10:11, 15:16).
Despite his notable heritage, Giddonah’s reaction to the preaching of Alma and his own son’s conversion was less than favorable. In fact, Giddonah and his kinsmen rejected Amulek after Amulek chose to support Alma and embrace the teachings of the Lord (Alma 15:16). This decision indicates that despite his lineage and the faith of his ancestors, Giddonah chose not to accept the word of God as preached by Alma and affirmed by his son, reflecting a personal struggle or disagreement with the principles or changes espoused by the Nephite prophets of his time.