For behold, his designs were to stir up the Lamanites to anger against the Nephites; this he did that he might usurp great power over them, and also that he might gain power over the Nephites by bringing them into bondage.
Alma 43:8
We might mistakenly think “usurp great power over them” means “usurp great power over the Nephites” but it doesn’t, it means “usurp great power over the Lamanites.” When we get stirred up to anger we do thinking logically and we are not easily controlled by those who would manipulate and exploit us.
Behold, we are not of your faith; we do not believe that it is God that has delivered us into your hands; but we believe that it is your cunning that has preserved you from our swords. Behold, it is your breastplates and your shields that have preserved you.
Alma 44:9
Funny thing, Zerahemnah, if they were more cunning than you it is logical to expect they will continue to be more cunning. Even without sharing their faith it is unwise to insist that you will come fight again.
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