KnoWhy #147 - Why Was Corianton’s Sin So Serious? (Alma 39:5)

Alma’s words to his young-adult son Corianton are striking in their uncompromising denouncement of sexual sins. Readers of Alma 39:5 have understandably identified sexual transgression as a “sin next to murder.” Certainly all sexual transgressions are serious matters, but reading Alma 39 more closely reveals some additional insights regarding Corianton’s behaviors. He was not just guilty of sexual sin, but was also guilty of leaving his mission to chase a harlot. His sin was a composite crime of sexual immorality and leading others into apostasy through neglecting the ministry, being unfaithful to his priesthood calling, and setting a poor example. Happily, Corianton did repent and soon returned successfully to the ministry alongside his brothers.