50 And they were a people friendly one with another; nevertheless they knew not God; neither did the brethren of Amulon teach them anything concerning the Lord their God, neither the law of Moses;
51 Nor did they teach them the words of Abinadi; but they taught them that they should keep their record, and that they might write one to another.
52 And thus the Lamanites began to increase in riches, and began to trade one with another, and wax great, and began to be a cunning and a wise people, as to the wisdom of the world;
53 Yea, a very cunning people; delighting in all manner of wickedness and plunder except it were among their own brethren.
54 And now it came to pass that Amulon began to exercise authority over Alma and his brethren, and began to persecute him, and cause that his children should persecute their children;
55 For Amulon knew Alma, that he had been one of the king's priests, and that it was he that believed the words of Abinadi, and was driven out before the king; and therefore he was wroth with him, for he was subject to King Laman;
56 Yet he exercised authority over them, and put tasks upon them, and put task-masters over them.
57 And it came to pass that so great were their afflictions, that they began to cry mightily to God.
58 And Amulon commanded them that they should stop their cries; and he put guards over them to watch them, that whosoever should be found calling upon God, should be put to death.
59 And Alma and his people did not raise their voices to the Lord their God, but did pour out their hearts to him; and he did know the thoughts of their hearts.
60 And it came to pass that the voice of the Lord came to them in their afflictions, saying, Lift up your heads and be of good comfort, for I know of the covenant which ye have made unto me; and I will covenant with this my people, and deliver them out of bondage.
