For help in understanding the curse that had been placed on the Lamanites, see the commentary and background information for 2 Nephi 5:20–25 at the end of lesson 27. Also see the commentary and background information for Alma 3:6–17 at the end of lesson 70.
Throughout their history, the Nephites used three different points of reference for measuring time with their calendars: (1) the time when Lehi left Jerusalem; (2) the time when the government changed from kings to judges; and (3) the time when the sign of the birth of Jesus Christ was given. It is not known exactly when the Nephites began to reckon their calendar from the time of Jesus Christ’s birth, but Mormon acknowledges this change in 3 Nephi 2:7–8.