Some scripture passages linger in the mind not only because of what they teach, but because of how vividly they speak. Alma 14:29 is one of those verses for me. It contains an image so clear and unexpected that it feels almost cinematic—fear, deliverance, and sudden motion captured in a single comparison.

“…they fled from the presence of Alma and Amulek even as a goat fleeth with her young from two lions.”

When I read that line, I felt drawn to it immediately—not as a metaphor to analyze, but as a scene to see.

Drawing an Idiom Literally

I’ve always enjoyed drawing animals, especially moments where instinct and care tell a story without words. Animals communicate emotion through movement—how they run, turn, shield, and respond to danger. That natural language of motion made this verse feel uniquely suited for visual interpretation.

Rather than treating the phrase symbolically alone, I wanted to explore what it might look like if taken literally: a mother fleeing with her young, urgency in every step, protection driving her forward. The image became a way to translate scripture into motion—letting the animals carry the meaning.

Strength Beyond Nature

While this piece focuses on a specific comparison in Alma 14:29, it also reflects the broader message of the verse: that strength can be given in moments of need. The flight in this scene isn’t about overpowering danger—it’s about escape made possible, movement granted, and fear giving way to action.

That idea resonates deeply with me. Sometimes strength doesn’t look like standing firm. Sometimes it looks like running—carrying what matters most and trusting that help has already been provided.

Materials & Process

This artwork was created using traditional mixed media, allowing the energy of the drawing process to remain visible and expressive:

• Mechanical pencil

• Kneaded eraser

• India ink pens

• Acrylic paint pens

• Colored pencils

I enjoy working this way because it preserves both intention and spontaneity—much like the moment the scripture describes.

A Visual Reflection on Scripture

Even as a Goat Fleeth: Visualizing Alma 14:29 is part of my ongoing effort to explore scripture through animal imagery. Rather than illustrating verses scene-for-scene, I aim to reflect their meaning through symbolism, motion, and natural storytelling.

This piece invites quiet reflection on protection, urgency, and divine help—reminding us that strength often appears right when it is needed most.

📖 Scripture Note

Inspired by Alma 14:29, from the Book of Mormon, illustrating the image of deliverance “even as a goat fleeth with her young from two lions.”

🦌 Strength Beyond Nature — Art Print
👉View the available print of Strength Beyond Nature, a scripture-inspired animal illustration based on Alma 14:29