Alma 39:7
~73 BC
1830 Edition
And now my son, I would to God that ye had not been guilty of so great a crime. I would not dwell upon your crimes, to harrow up your soul, if it were not for your good.
Influences
Acts 26:29 (KJV)
And Paul said, I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.
Changes
And now, my son, I would to God that ye had not been guilty of so great a crime. I would not dwell upon your crimes, to harrow up your soul, if it were not for your good.
Simple English
My son, I wish you had not done such a terrible thing. I would not talk about your mistakes to hurt your feelings if it were not for your own good.
Paraphrase
I wish to God you hadn’t committed such a serious wrong. I wouldn’t bring up your sins to torment you if it weren’t for your own good.