Hearthom, a ruler within the Jaredite lineage, succeeded Lib, his father, as king. His ascendancy to the throne continued the hereditary monarchy established by his ancestors, who had been appointed after the great journey led by Jared and his brother to the promised land described in early Jaredite history. Hearthom’s reign spanned twenty-four years, during which time it was noted that he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, suggesting a period of prosperity and adherence to the commandments (Ether 10:16).
However, Hearthom’s period of governance concluded with a significant personal and political upheaval. His kingdom was wrested from him, and Hearthom was subsequently taken into captivity. This abrupt change of fortune led to him spending the remainder of his life as a captive (Ether 10:30). The years of Hearthom’s bondage remain undocumented, save for the fact that they encompassed the remaining duration of his life.
Despite Hearthom’s personal misfortunes, his lineage continued through his offspring. He was the father of Heth, who would follow Hearthom’s footsteps to rule as king. Hearthom’s legacy, therefore, persisted through his son, and his name was recorded as part of the extended genealogy of the rulers among the Jaredite civilization (Ether 1:16–17; 10:31).