brethren” (to distinguish them from his own descendants, the Nephites); and in 1 Nephi 12:23, they are characterized as “dark and loathsome and a filthy people, full of idleness and all manner of abominations.” This dark skin, according to 2 Nephi 5:21–23, had four characteristics. First, it was black; second, it marked the curse indelibly upon them; third, it made them loathsome to righteous people; so that, fourth, it would prevent the Nephites from intermarrying with them, thus mixing their blood and marking