Isabel was a woman whose activities are recorded in the Book of Mormon, specifically within the land of Siron which was located among the borders of the Lamanites. Notorious for her profession as a harlot, she is mentioned in the context of leading astray Corianton, the son of Alma the Younger, a missionary and a leader in the Nephite community (Alma 39:3). Her influence was such that it “did steal away the hearts of many,” implying her actions had a significant impact on the community and individuals therein (Alma 39:4).
The issues surrounding Isabel came to a head around 74 B.C. when Corianton forsook his missionary labors to follow after her, thus compromising his integrity and the effectiveness of the missionaries’ work among the Zoramites. Alma, Corianton’s father, highlighted the severity of Isabel’s actions in contributing to the disbelief of the Zoramites regarding the missionaries’ teachings, considering her actions to be exceedingly sinful (Alma 39:11).
Despite the brief mention of Isabel in the scriptural record, her interactions with Corianton had far-reaching effects, demonstrating the profound moral challenges that could arise during the proselytizing efforts of Alma and his fellow missionaries. Isabel’s story served as a grave reminder to Alma’s people concerning the consequences of moral transgression and the need for steadfastness in the face of temptation.