The Signs of Christ’s Crucifixion

Thirty-three years passed after the people saw the signs of Jesus Christ’s birth. 3 Ne. 8:2

They watched for the sign of his death—three days of darkness—that Samuel the Lamanite had told them would come. 3 Ne. 8:3

Some did not believe that the sign would come. They argued with those who believed. 3 Ne. 8:4

One day there came a great storm. There was a terrible wind. 3 Ne. 8:5–6

Lightning flashed, and thunder shook the whole earth. 3 Ne. 8:6–7

The city of Zarahemla caught fire. The city of Moroni sank into the sea. The city of Moronihah was buried. 3 Ne. 8:8–10

Highways were broken up, and buildings crumbled. Many cities were destroyed, and many people were killed. 3 Ne. 8:13–15

The storm and the earthquake lasted about three hours. 3 Ne. 8:19

When the storm and earthquake stopped, thick darkness covered the land. There was no light anywhere. The people could even feel the darkness. 3 Ne. 8:20

For three days there was total darkness. Candles would not burn. The people could not see the sun, moon, or stars. 3 Ne. 8:21–23

The people cried because of the darkness, destruction, and death. They were sorry that they had not repented of their sins. 3 Ne. 8:23–25

Out of the darkness came a voice that said, “Behold, I am Jesus Christ the Son of God.” 3 Ne. 9:1, 15

Jesus told of the terrible destruction in the land. He said that the wickedest people had been killed. 3 Ne. 9:12–13

He said that those who had not been killed still needed to repent and that if they did and came unto him, he would bless them. 3 Ne. 9:13–14

The people were so amazed that they stopped crying. There was silence in the land for many hours. 3 Ne. 10:1–2

Jesus spoke again, saying that he had often tried to help them and that if they would repent, they could still return to him. 3 Ne. 10:3–6

At the end of three days, the darkness left and the earth stopped shaking. The people stopped crying and joyfully thanked the Savior. 3 Ne. 10:9–10

Illustrated by Jerry Thompson