Mormon Has More Than One Wife

Imagine stepping back in time to the mid-19th century, a period of intense religious fervor and social experimentation in the United States. Picture a community seeking divine guidance, interpreting ancient scriptures in new ways, and challenging conventional norms. This was the world in which the practice of plural marriage, often referred to as polygamy, emerged within the early Latter-day Saint movement, commonly known as Mormonism.

The narrative surrounding Mormonism and plural marriage is complex and often misunderstood. It is a story of faith, controversy, legal battles, and ultimately, a shift in doctrine that continues to shape the identity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today. Understanding this history requires a deep dive into the motivations, theological justifications, and societal pressures that influenced this unique chapter in Mormon history.

The Doctrine of Plural Marriage in Early Mormonism

Plural marriage, the practice of a man having more than one wife, was a controversial and defining aspect of early Mormonism. Although it was officially discontinued by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1890, its origins and impact continue to be a significant part of the Church's history and identity. To understand why this practice was adopted and eventually abandoned, it’s essential to delve into the religious, social, and historical context of the time.

The roots of plural marriage in Mormonism trace back to the Church's founder, Joseph Smith. While the exact details of when and how Smith began practicing plural marriage are debated among historians, it is generally accepted that he introduced the practice to a select group of leaders in the early 1840s in Nauvoo, Illinois. The revelation on plural marriage, as recorded in Doctrine and Covenants Section 132, outlines the theological justifications for the practice. This revelation is central to understanding the beliefs of those who practiced plural marriage.

Theological Foundations

The theological underpinnings of plural marriage are complex and multifaceted. Key justifications included:

1. Restoration of Ancient Practices: Early Mormon leaders believed that plural marriage was a practice sanctioned by God in the Old Testament, citing figures like Abraham, Jacob, and David as examples. They saw the restoration of this practice as part of a broader restoration of ancient religious principles and covenants.

2. Raising Up a Righteous Posterity: Another justification was the idea that plural marriage would allow more righteous individuals to be born into the world. By having multiple wives, a man could father more children, increasing the number of faithful members of the Church. This was seen as a way to hasten the Lord’s work and populate the earth with righteous souls.

3. A Test of Faith and Obedience: The practice of plural marriage was also seen as a trial of faith and obedience for Church members. It required them to set aside societal norms and personal preferences to follow what they believed was a direct commandment from God. This obedience was considered a demonstration of their commitment to the restored gospel.

4. Sealing and Eternal Families: Plural marriage was linked to the Mormon concept of eternal families. The idea was that through temple sealings, families could be bound together for eternity. Plural marriage was seen as a way to extend these eternal family connections.

Historical Context and Practice

The practice of plural marriage was not widely publicized in the early years of the Church. It was primarily practiced by Church leaders and a select group of members who were considered faithful and trustworthy. This secrecy was partly due to the social stigma and legal prohibitions against polygamy in the United States.

The move to Utah in the mid-19th century provided a more isolated environment where the practice could be more openly followed. As the Mormon population grew in Utah, so did the number of families practicing plural marriage. By the late 19th century, it had become a significant aspect of Mormon culture, despite continued opposition from the U.S. government.

Life for those in plural marriages was often challenging. Women in these arrangements had to navigate complex family dynamics and often faced economic hardships. However, many women also spoke of the spiritual blessings and sense of community that came with being part of a plural family.

Legal and Social Challenges

The practice of plural marriage brought the Mormon community into direct conflict with the U.S. government. In 1862, Congress passed the Morrill Anti-Bigamy Act, which prohibited plural marriage in U.S. territories. This was followed by a series of increasingly stringent laws, including the Edmunds Act of 1882 and the Edmunds-Tucker Act of 1887, which disenfranchised polygamists and allowed the government to seize Church assets.

These laws led to widespread persecution of Mormons practicing plural marriage. Many men were imprisoned, and families were forced to go into hiding to avoid prosecution. The conflict between the Mormon community and the U.S. government reached a crisis point in the late 1880s, with the very existence of the Church threatened.

The 1890 Manifesto and the End of Plural Marriage

The culmination of decades of legal pressure and social opposition led to a pivotal moment in Mormon history: the issuance of the 1890 Manifesto by Church President Wilford Woodruff. This declaration officially advised members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to refrain from entering into any marriage forbidden by the law of the land. The Manifesto marked a significant turning point, signaling the beginning of the end for the official practice of plural marriage within the Church.

Motivations Behind the Manifesto

Several factors contributed to the decision to issue the Manifesto. The most immediate was the intense legal pressure from the U.S. government. The Edmunds-Tucker Act had severely crippled the Church's financial resources and threatened its ability to function. Church leaders recognized that continuing to defy federal law would likely lead to the complete dissolution of the Church.

Additionally, there was a growing recognition among Church members that the practice of plural marriage was isolating them from the rest of American society. Many Mormons desired to integrate more fully into the national fabric and saw the abandonment of plural marriage as a necessary step in that direction.

Impact and Aftermath

The 1890 Manifesto was met with mixed reactions within the Mormon community. While many members welcomed the change, others struggled to reconcile it with their understanding of divine revelation and eternal covenants. Some continued to practice plural marriage secretly, leading to further complications and eventual excommunication for those who were discovered.

The Manifesto did not immediately resolve all the legal issues facing the Church. It wasn’t until 1896, after Utah officially banned polygamy in its state constitution, that Utah was granted statehood. Even after statehood, the issue of plural marriage remained a sensitive topic, and the Church continued to distance itself from the practice.

In 1904, Church President Joseph F. Smith issued a Second Manifesto, which further clarified the Church's stance against plural marriage and instituted stricter penalties for members who continued to practice it. This solidified the Church's commitment to monogamy and its desire to be seen as a mainstream Christian denomination.

Modern-Day Stance

Today, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints unequivocally condemns the practice of plural marriage. Church members who enter into or advocate for plural marriage are subject to excommunication. The Church emphasizes that monogamy is the standard for marriage and that adherence to the law of the land is a fundamental principle of the faith.

The history of plural marriage remains a complex and often sensitive topic for members of the Church. While it is acknowledged as part of the Church's past, it is not something that is currently practiced or encouraged. The Church focuses on building strong, monogamous families and participating in civic life as responsible citizens.

Trends and Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the history of plural marriage within Mormonism, both among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and in broader academic and cultural circles. This renewed interest has led to new research, documentaries, and discussions that seek to provide a more nuanced understanding of this controversial practice.

Academic Research and Publications

Scholars continue to explore the historical, social, and theological aspects of plural marriage in Mormonism. New research is shedding light on the experiences of women in plural marriages, the motivations of Church leaders who promoted the practice, and the impact of anti-polygamy legislation on the Mormon community.

Several recent publications have offered fresh perspectives on the topic, challenging traditional narratives and providing new insights into the complexities of plural marriage. These works often draw on previously unavailable primary sources, such as diaries, letters, and Church records, to offer a more comprehensive and accurate portrayal of the past.

Media Representation

The history of plural marriage has also been explored in various media formats, including documentaries, films, and television series. These portrayals have often sparked debate and discussion, raising questions about the accuracy and fairness of the representations.

While some media depictions have been criticized for sensationalizing or misrepresenting the topic, others have been praised for their efforts to provide a balanced and nuanced portrayal of the lives of those who practiced plural marriage. These media representations have helped to bring the topic to a wider audience and have contributed to a more informed public discourse.

Dialogue and Understanding

Within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there has been an increasing emphasis on open and honest dialogue about the history of plural marriage. Church leaders have encouraged members to study the topic and to approach it with empathy and understanding.

The Church has also published essays and historical resources on its official website, providing members with access to accurate and reliable information about the history of plural marriage. These resources are intended to help members better understand the complexities of the past and to approach the topic with faith and sensitivity.

Contemporary Polygamist Groups

It's important to distinguish between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and contemporary polygamist groups. While these groups often claim historical ties to Mormonism, they are not affiliated with the Church and do not represent its teachings or practices.

These groups continue to practice plural marriage in defiance of the law and often operate on the fringes of society. Their practices and beliefs can vary widely, and they are not endorsed or supported by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Tips and Expert Advice

Navigating the complexities surrounding the history of plural marriage in Mormonism requires a thoughtful and informed approach. Here are some tips and expert advice for understanding this sensitive topic:

1. Consult Reliable Sources: When researching the history of plural marriage, it's essential to rely on credible sources. Look for scholarly articles, books, and historical documents that are based on thorough research and sound methodology. Avoid sensationalized or biased accounts that may distort the facts.

   • Example: Reputable sources include academic journals, university presses, and official publications from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These sources are more likely to provide accurate and balanced information.

2. Consider Multiple Perspectives: The history of plural marriage is complex and multifaceted, and it's important to consider multiple perspectives when studying the topic. Seek out accounts from women who were in plural marriages, Church leaders who promoted the practice, and historians who have studied the issue from different angles.

   • Example: Reading diaries and letters from women in plural marriages can provide valuable insights into their experiences and motivations. Similarly, examining the writings and sermons of Church leaders can shed light on the theological justifications for the practice.

3. Understand the Historical Context: To fully understand the history of plural marriage, it's essential to consider the historical context in which it occurred. This includes the religious, social, and political climate of the time, as well as the specific circumstances that influenced the development and practice of plural marriage within Mormonism.

   • Example: Understanding the broader context of religious experimentation and social reform movements in 19th-century America can help to shed light on the motivations and beliefs of those who practiced plural marriage.

4. Approach with Empathy and Sensitivity: The history of plural marriage is a sensitive topic, and it's important to approach it with empathy and understanding. Recognize that those who practiced plural marriage often did so out of deep religious conviction, and that their experiences were complex and varied.

   • Example: Avoid making judgments or generalizations about individuals or groups based on their involvement in plural marriage. Instead, strive to understand their motivations and experiences with compassion and respect.

5. Distinguish Between Past and Present: It's important to distinguish between the historical practice of plural marriage and the current teachings and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Church has unequivocally condemned plural marriage and does not condone or support the practice in any way.

   • Example: When discussing the history of plural marriage, make it clear that it is a past practice that is no longer part of the Church's doctrine or culture. Emphasize that the Church today is committed to monogamy and that adherence to the law of the land is a fundamental principle of the faith.

FAQ

Q: Was polygamy always a part of Mormonism?

A: No, polygamy was introduced in the early 1840s, years after the founding of the Church in 1830, and officially discontinued in 1890.

Q: Why did Mormons practice plural marriage?

A: Early Mormons believed it was a divine commandment, a restoration of ancient practices, and a means to raise up a righteous posterity.

Q: Does The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints still practice polygamy?

A: No. The Church officially condemns polygamy, and members found practicing it are subject to excommunication.

Q: What was the 1890 Manifesto?

A: A declaration by Church President Wilford Woodruff advising members to refrain from entering into any marriage forbidden by the law of the land, effectively ending the official practice of plural marriage.

Q: Are there still groups practicing polygamy who claim to be Mormon?

A: Yes, but these groups are not affiliated with or endorsed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Conclusion

The story of Mormonism and plural marriage is a complex and multifaceted chapter in American religious history. From its theological justifications to the legal battles and eventual abandonment of the practice, it remains a significant part of the Church's past. Understanding this history requires a deep dive into the motivations, societal pressures, and shifts in doctrine that influenced this unique period.

Today, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints unequivocally condemns plural marriage, emphasizing monogamy as the standard. By exploring this history with empathy, informed perspectives, and reliance on credible sources, we can gain a more nuanced understanding of the past and its impact on the present. We invite you to delve deeper into this history, consult reliable resources, and engage in respectful dialogue to further your understanding.