King Benjamin

According to the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin, son of King Mosiah the first, was the second Nephite king to rule over Zarahemla. An account of his life and teachings are recorded in both the Words of Mormon and the Book of Mosiah. Based on the kind of man he was, and the ecclesiastical structure of the day, he is considered a king and a prophet, and was the spiritual and governmental leader of his people.

He is perhaps best associated with a speech to the people. This famous oration begins in Mosiah Chapter 2. He talks about righteous living, he shares some of his philosophies of government, stating that the laws that he and his father before him have made are based on the commandments of God. He reminds the people that he has not oppressed them with taxes but worked with his own hands to support himself. He then prophesies of Jesus Christ -- His birth which is more than 100 years away, His life, His ministry, His death and resurrection. Benjamin explains Jesus' atonement for the sins of mankind, and persuades the people to accept Jesus as their Savior.

King Benjamin also proclaims that his son Mosiah will become the next king over the people. Benjamin, while still alive, is handing over the throne to his son.

Benjamin was a humble man who worked with his own hands to maintain himself and his family, refusing to live off his people or to surround himself with the trappings of wealth and power.