Editing Book of Jacob (section)

=== Sherem ===
Riess contrasts [[Sherem]] with biblical instances of Ish Elohim, different anonymous "men of God" who appear to a leader and inform them of a needed change. The story often involves a sign of the Ish Elohim's prophetic status and revolves around God's punishment to those who take part in false worship.{{sfn|Riess|2017|p=2-6}} Sherem, according to Riess, is an "upholder of the law" and reproaches Jacob for leaving behind the established religion by preaching of a Christ. Despite this alignment with the "man of God" outline, Jacob includes more information about Sherem than is typically included in the anonymous Ish Elohim stories. Additionally, rather than revealing a sign of his prophetic calling, Sherem demands a sign and Jacob demonstrates his own calling.{{sfn|Riess|2017|p=6-7}}

Riess also compares Sherem's story to [[René Girard]]'s scapegoat theory. The Nephites, she writes, were upset over some of Jacob's teachings regarding their sins. Just as two brothers fighting over a toy unite again after insulting a common enemy, Sherem's story may have been vital to bring the Nephites onto common ground.{{sfn|Riess|2017|p=9}}

Comparative religion researcher Jacob Rennaker identifies that Sherem's smiting is never directly attributed to God in the text. The description that he was suffering for "many days" before dying may suggest inner turmoil and "self-inflicted madness".{{sfn|Rennaker|2017|p=50}}