Pahoran assumed the role of third chief judge and governor over the Nephites following the death of his father, Nephihah, in the latter part of the twenty-fourth year of the reign of the judges (Alma 50:39-40). Inaugurated with a solemn oath to judge righteously, maintain peace, and secure the liberty of his people, Pahoran’s leadership was characterized by his steadfast defense of the governing system of judges and the Nephite democratic principles against those who sought to establish a monarchy, known as the king-men (Alma 51:2-5). His refusal to alter the law despite significant pressure demonstrated his commitment to the established free government.
During his time as chief judge, Pahoran confronted significant challenges, including internal insurrection and threats from the Lamanites. The contentions escalated to a point where Captain Moroni, the commander of the Nephite armies, called upon Pahoran for reinforcements and supplies, misinterpreting the lack of resources as neglect (Alma 59:3; Alma 60:1-36). Moroni’s scathing epistle prompted Pahoran to clarify the situation: far from neglect, Pahoran himself had been forcefully removed from his judgment-seat by the very same king-men who now controlled Zarahemla (Alma 61:5). In a remarkable display of composure and benevolence, Pahoran responded to Moroni’s accusations without anger, rejoicing instead in the strength of Moroni’s resolve to protect the freedom of their people and inviting Moroni’s assistance to reclaim the capital (Alma 61:9).
Pahoran’s resolute defense of the Nephite liberties and his collaborative efforts with Moroni led to the successful expulsion of the dissenters, the restoration of peace in Zarahemla, and the eventual recapture of the city of Nephihah from the Lamanites without loss to the Nephites (Alma 62:14, 26). Following the conclusion of these conflicts, Pahoran returned to his judgment-seat (Alma 62:44). Pahoran’s judgeship, marked by his dedication to justice and freedom, lasted for approximately fifteen years until his death around 52 BC, after which a dispute among his sons for succession arose (Helaman 1:2-4). His legacy as a leader who valued the principles of liberty and justice and his example of personal forgiveness and commitment to the governing laws of the Nephites remained influential in the subsequent Nephite generations.