Lamoni’s wife, the queen of the Lamanites, is a notable figure in the Book of Mormon for her exceptional faith and her role in the conversion of her people. When her husband fell into a deep, deathlike trance after being taught by Ammon, she remained hopeful, despite the murmurs from her servants about Lamoni’s supposed death. Demonstrating her love and faith, she sought Ammon’s counsel, sharing that to her, Lamoni did not “stink” as others claimed, signifying her belief that he was yet alive (Alma 19:5). Ammon reassured her that Lamoni was not dead but sleeping in God and would rise on the morrow (Alma 19:8).
She expressed her belief in Ammon’s words without hesitation. Ammon commended her for her faith, remarking that such great faith had not been found among all the Nephites (Alma 19:10). Her faith did not waver as she watched over Lamoni until he awoke. Upon his rising, Lamoni bore a powerful testimony of his vision of the Redeemer, leaving both himself and the queen overcome by the Spirit once more.
When Abish, another converted Lamanite, saw the couple and others overpowered by the Spirit, she used the opportunity to gather a crowd. Amid this gathering, the queen was the first to rise, testifying of Jesus and asking for His mercy upon the people (Alma 19:29). She assisted her husband upon his return to consciousness, further spreading the testimony of their divine experience. Their example and sincere witnessing were pivotal in converting many of the Lamanites, leading to the establishment of the Church among them. Their faith and actions significantly contributed to the commencement of the Lord’s work among the Lamanite people, who would no longer seek to do evil but would desire righteousness instead (Alma 19:33).