KnoWhy #190 - Why was Giddianhi So Polite? (3 Nephi 3:2)

In ways that are both uniquely ancient and also culturally universal, Giddianhi’s letter to Lachoneus was startlingly polite. Yet accompanying his excessive praise and flattery, Giddianhi ultimately threatened the Nephites with complete destruction if they didn’t comply with his requests. Instead of being frightened by Giddianhi’s threats or being persuaded to join his cause, Lachoneus and his men placed their trust in the Lord and prepared to defend themselves. They recognized Giddianhi’s smooth and flattering words for what they really were: an attempt to overthrow their democratic government and destroy their religious freedoms.