“Chapter 42: The Signs of Christ’s Crucifixion,” Book of Mormon Stories (1997), 117–19
“The Signs of Christ’s Crucifixion,” Book of Mormon Stories, 117–19
Chapter 42
The Signs of Christ’s Crucifixion
Thirty-three years had passed since the people had seen the signs of Jesus Christ’s birth.
They now watched for the sign of his death: three days of darkness.
Some did not believe that the sign would come. They argued with those who did believe.
One day a fierce storm came. There was a terrible wind.
Lightning flashed, and thunder shook the whole earth.
The city of Zarahemla caught on fire. The city of Moroni sank into the sea. The city of Moronihah was buried.
An earthquake shook the whole earth. Highways were broken up, and buildings crumbled. Many cities were destroyed, and many people were killed.
The storm and the earthquake lasted about three hours.
When the storm and earthquake stopped, thick darkness covered the land. There was no light anywhere. The people could even feel the darkness.
The darkness lasted for three days. Candles would not burn, and the people could not see the sun, moon, or stars.
The people cried because of the darkness, destruction, and death. They were sorry they had not repented of their sins.
Then the people heard the voice of Jesus Christ.
Jesus told them about the terrible destruction in the land. He said that the most wicked people had been killed.
He said that those who had not been killed needed to repent. If they did and came unto him, he would bless them.
The people were so amazed after hearing the voice that they stopped crying. Everything was silent for many hours.
Then Jesus spoke again, saying he had often tried to help the people. If they would repent now, they could still return to him.
After three days the darkness left. The people rejoiced and joyfully thanked the Lord.