KnoWhy #184 - Why Did Samuel Give Such Chronologically Precise Prophecies? (Helaman 13:5)

Samuel the Lamanite made two very specific prophecies: one, that the Nephites would be destroyed in 400 years, and second, that a sign would be given marking the birth of Christ in five years. In Mesoamerican time-keeping, both 400 and five are important and sacred time periods. The prophetic use of these highly symbolic time periods in Book of Mormon prophecy appears to be an example of the Lord speaking “unto men according to their language, unto their understanding” (2 Nephi 31:3; cf. Doctrine and Covenants 1:24).