Similarities between Alma 7 and Alma 38 — "Temperate"

I\’m looking into Grant Hardy\’s theory that Alma\’s words to his sons intentionally parallel the descriptions of his missionary labors among the Nephites.

I have to say there is quite a bit of compelling evidence to support this theory.

Consider the word \”temperate\” as an example.  This word shows up 7 times in all of the standard works, and only twice in the entire Book of Mormon.

Once in Alma\’s words to the people of Gideon:

23 And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive. (Alma 7)

…and once in his words to his son Shiblon:

10 And now, as ye have begun to teach the word even so I would that ye should continue to teach; and I would that ye would be diligent and temperate in all things. (Alma 38)

This, to me, is either a remarkable coincidence or an indication of a pattern.