1 Nephi 8:3 - 8:7

1 Nephi 8:3 And behold, because of the thing which I have seen, I have reason to rejoice in the Lord because of Nephi and also of Sam; for I have reason to suppose that they, and also many of their seed, will be saved.

Lehi’s reaction to the dream is part joy and part deep concern. His dream concerned his family and his four sons. Nephi and Sam are seen as having a righteous seed and they will enjoy the joys of the gospel and salvation.

1 Nephi 8:4 But behold, Laman and Lemuel, I fear exceedingly because of you; for behold, methought I saw in my dream, a dark and dreary wilderness.

Laman and Lemuel did not fair so well in their father’s dream. The dream start by Lehi finding himself in a dark and depressing place. Much like finding yourself in a slum in the dark I would imagine.

1 Nephi 8:5 And it came to pass that I saw a man, and he was dressed in a white robe; and he came and stood before me.

An angle comes to Lehi and he is dressed in a white robe. Probably dressed like Moroni was in his appearance to Joseph Smith in 1823.

1 Nephi 8:6 And it came to pass that he spake unto me, and bade me follow him.

The angel then told Lehi to follow him.

1 Nephi 8:7 And it came to pass that as I followed him I beheld myself that I was in a dark and dreary waste.

The darkness of the place continued as Lehi followed the angel. He notices that the place is a waste land much like in the desert. This waste land must be symbolic of the earth life and the need for celestial help to get through it.