The Book of Mormon

Mosiah 11:25

1830 Edition

And except they repent in sackcloth and ashes, and cry mightily to the Lord their God, I will not hear their prayers, neither will I deliver them out of their afflictions; and thus saith the Lord, and thus hath he commanded me.

Simple English

“If they don’t truly feel sorry, wear rough clothes, put ashes on themselves, and cry loudly to the Lord their God, I will not listen to their prayers. I will not save them from their troubles. This is what the Lord says. He told me to say this.”

Paraphrase

“Unless you repent in sackcloth and ashes and cry out desperately to the Lord your God, I won’t listen to your prayers. I won’t rescue you from your suffering. This is what the Lord says. This is what he commanded me to tell you.”