KnoWhy #553 - Why Did Jacob Highlight Nephi’s Role as a Protector? (Jacob 1:10)

Jacob twice refers to his older brother Nephi as a “protector” (2 Nephi 6:2; Jacob 1:10). These are the only two places in all of scripture this word shows up. Interestingly, Jacob’s name means “may he (God) protect.” Jacob was born in the wilderness, at a time when Lehi and Sariah were depending on the Lord to protect and preserve them and their family. Thus, his name expressed their prayers for protection upon him. Nephi became the answer to that prayer, providing protection and safety to Jacob, along with the rest of his people; but Nephi did this by ultimately relying on the Lord.