Sam, the third son of Lehi and Sariah, played a crucial but understated role in the early narrative of the Nephite lineage. Unlike his older brothers, Laman and Lemuel, Sam consistently demonstrated faith and loyalty, particularly in his support of his younger brother Nephi. He is first mentioned in the Book of Mormon journeying with his family away from Jerusalem into the wilderness (1 Nephi 2:5). When Nephi shared divine manifestations he had received, Sam believed without hesitation, showing his faith and humility (1 Nephi 2:17).
His father Lehi had a vision where he saw Sam, along with Nephi, partaking of the fruit of the tree of life, which was symbolic of acceptance and salvation, indicating that these two brothers—and many of their descendants—would be saved (1 Nephi 8:3). While Laman and Lemuel often murmured against their father Lehi and brother Nephi, Sam remained obedient and was spared much of the grief that plagued his dissenting siblings.
On the cusp of Lehi’s death, Sam received his father’s blessing, which foresaw his lineage being inherited alongside Nephi’s, promising a favored status upon him and his offspring (2 Nephi 4:11). Subsequent to the fracturing of the family after Lehi’s passing, Sam chose to follow Nephi when the latter was commanded by the Lord to separate from their brethren. Those who followed Nephi, including Sam and his family, were described as believing in the warnings and revelations of God (2 Nephi 5:6).
Sam’s alignment with Nephi secured his place among those identified as “just and holy men” by the record keeper Alma (Alma 3:6), underscoring Sam’s legacy as a devout and steadfast figure in the early periods of the Book of Mormon. Remaining steadfast in his faith throughout his life, Sam set a precedent of righteousness and loyalty that would carry forward with his descendants.