THE LIAHONA — A Compass That Worked Only by Faith

Scripture Setting: 1 Nephi 16–18; Alma 37

The Liahona appeared one quiet morning outside Lehi’s tent—a small, round ball made of curious metal, unlike anything the family had ever seen. Inside its surface were two spindles, one pointing the way they should go in the wilderness. It didn’t run on gears, magnets, or craftsmanship. It ran on faith.

The Liahona taught Lehi’s family something vital: God guides us, but only when our hearts are right. When they were humble and obedient, the spindles worked perfectly, leading them through the desert to food, water, and safety. When they murmured or rebelled, the pointers stopped. The writing on the ball faded. Progress halted.

Sometimes the Liahona revealed new words—messages of warning, comfort, or direction. Other times it simply pointed forward, asking the family to trust that God knew the way even when they did not.

Later in the Book of Mormon, Alma explained that the Liahona is a symbol for the word of Christ, which can guide us just as clearly if we follow it with faith.

For families today, the Liahona becomes a reminder that guidance is real—but it requires effort, humility, and willingness to act.

In Rumors of War, the Liahona card represents divine direction. Drawing it boosts players with clarity and spiritual momentum, reminding them that God’s guidance is steady for those who choose to follow it.