Literary: This verse is a transition from the preparations of the Zeniffites to a description of the perceived wrongs of the Lamanites. Zeniff changes subject on the concept of relying upon the strength of the Lord. In the previous verse the Zeniffites go to battle in the strength of the Lord. Zeniff can now contrast this with the lack of knowledge of the power of the Lord on behalf of the Lamanites. This device allows him to bring the Lamanites into the text, discuss them as military opponents, and now discuss the reasons for the Lamanite hatred of the Zeniffites/Nephites – which is yet another reason Zeniff gives for their attack upon the Zeniffites.