222 Wherefore, the things which transpired before I made these plates, are, of a truth, more particularly made mention upon the first plates.
223 And after I had made these plates by way of commandment I, Nephi, received a commandment, that the ministry, and the prophecies, the more plain and precious parts of them should be written upon these plates;
224 And that the things which were written, should be kept for the instruction of my people, who should possess the land, and also for other wise purposes, which purposes are known unto the Lord;
225 Wherefore I, Nephi, did make a record upon the other plates, which gives an account, or which gives a greater account of the wars and contentions and destructions of my people.
226 And this have I done, and commanded my people what they should do, after I was gone, and that these plates should be handed down from one generation to another, or from one prophet to another, until further commandments of the Lord.
227 And an account of my making these plates shall be given hereafter;
228 And then, behold, I proceed according to that which I have spoken; and this I do, that the more sacred things may be kept for the knowledge of my people.
229 Nevertheless, I do not write anything upon plates, save it be that I think it be sacred.
230 And now, if I do err, even did they err of old.
231 Not that I would excuse myself because of other men, but because of the weakness which is in me, according to the flesh, I would excuse myself.
232 For the things which some men esteem to be of great worth, both to the body and soul, others set at nought, and trample under their feet.
