Mormon Has More Than One Wife

Imagine a history class where the teacher unveils a photograph of a 19th-century family: a man, his several wives, and their many children. This image might prompt a flurry of questions, especially if the family is identified as Mormon. The common query that arises is: "Wait, Mormon has more than one wife?" The story of plural marriage within Mormon history is complex and often misunderstood, deeply intertwined with religious beliefs, societal pressures, and personal sacrifices.

Plural marriage, often referred to as polygamy, is one of the most controversial aspects of the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). While the practice has long been discontinued by the mainstream LDS Church, its legacy continues to spark curiosity and debate. Understanding the nuances of this practice requires exploring its origins, theological underpinnings, the reasons for its eventual abandonment, and its continuing presence in some splinter groups.

Main Subheading

The history of plural marriage within Mormonism is a complex and multifaceted topic, deeply intertwined with the early theological developments and social conditions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). This practice, often referred to as polygamy, was a significant part of Mormon history during the 19th century but was officially discontinued by the LDS Church in 1890. Understanding the context and evolution of plural marriage requires a careful examination of its origins, justifications, and eventual cessation.

The introduction of plural marriage was a gradual process, rooted in what the early leaders of the LDS Church believed to be divine revelation. This doctrine was not immediately publicized, and its initial practice was surrounded by secrecy. This secrecy was partly due to the prevailing social norms of the time, which strongly condemned polygamy. As the practice became more widespread, it led to significant legal and social challenges for the Mormon community, ultimately shaping their relationship with the United States government and the broader American society.

Comprehensive Overview

Origins and Early Practice

The doctrine of plural marriage was first taught to Joseph Smith, the founder of the LDS Church, in the 1830s. According to Smith, he received a revelation commanding him to restore the practice, which he believed was sanctioned by God in the Old Testament. Although the exact date of the first plural marriage is debated among historians, it is generally accepted that Smith entered into such unions in the early 1840s while the church was based in Nauvoo, Illinois.

The theological basis for plural marriage was rooted in several key beliefs. One was the idea of restoring "all things," referring to the restoration of practices and doctrines that early Mormons believed had been lost or corrupted over time. Plural marriage was seen as a way to increase the number of righteous individuals on earth and provide opportunities for more souls to be born into faithful families. Additionally, it was believed that plural marriage would create strong kinship networks that would help build and sustain the Mormon community.

Initially, the practice was kept highly confidential, with only a small circle of church leaders and trusted members participating. This secrecy was partly due to the social stigma associated with polygamy in 19th-century America. The public announcement of the doctrine did not occur until August 29, 1852, when Orson Pratt, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, publicly proclaimed it in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Public Announcement and Justification

The public announcement of plural marriage was a watershed moment in Mormon history. It marked a shift from a clandestine practice to an open declaration of faith. The LDS Church justified the practice on several grounds, including biblical precedent, divine revelation, and the need to raise up a righteous posterity. Church leaders pointed to figures in the Old Testament, such as Abraham, Jacob, and David, who had multiple wives. They argued that if God had sanctioned plural marriage in the past, it could be sanctioned again under specific circumstances and divine direction.

The announcement of plural marriage was met with widespread condemnation and hostility from the broader American society. Polygamy was seen as a moral and social evil, contrary to the values of monogamous marriage that were deeply ingrained in Western culture. This condemnation led to significant legal and political challenges for the Mormon community, particularly as the United States government sought to assert its authority over the Utah Territory.

Legal and Political Challenges

The practice of plural marriage became a central issue in the relationship between the LDS Church and the United States government. Beginning in the 1860s, the U.S. Congress passed a series of laws aimed at suppressing polygamy. These laws included the Morrill Anti-Bigamy Act of 1862, which prohibited polygamy in U.S. territories, and the Edmunds Act of 1882, which made polygamy a felony and disenfranchised polygamists.

These laws were rigorously enforced, leading to the arrest and imprisonment of many prominent Mormon leaders and members who practiced plural marriage. The U.S. government also seized church property, including temples and meetinghouses, as a means of pressuring the LDS Church to abandon the practice. These actions placed immense pressure on the Mormon community and created a sense of siege mentality.

The Manifesto of 1890

The culmination of these legal and political pressures led to a significant turning point in Mormon history: the issuance of the Manifesto of 1890. This declaration, issued by LDS Church President Wilford Woodruff, officially advised members of the church to refrain from entering into any new plural marriages. The Manifesto was presented as a response to divine guidance and a necessary step to protect the church and its members from further persecution.

The Manifesto did not immediately end all plural marriages, as some existing relationships continued. However, it marked a clear shift in policy and paved the way for the eventual cessation of the practice. The LDS Church began to excommunicate members who entered into new plural marriages after 1890, and in 1904, President Joseph F. Smith issued a "Second Manifesto" that further clarified the church's stance against polygamy, explicitly prohibiting it both within and outside the United States.

Legacy and Contemporary Views

Today, the LDS Church strictly prohibits plural marriage and excommunicates members who practice it. The church emphasizes the importance of adhering to the laws of the land and upholding the sanctity of monogamous marriage. The official stance of the LDS Church is that plural marriage was a temporary practice, intended for a specific time and purpose in the early history of the church.

Despite the LDS Church's renunciation of polygamy, the practice continues to exist among various Mormon fundamentalist groups. These groups believe that the Manifesto of 1890 was a mistake and that plural marriage is still a divinely mandated practice. They often live in isolated communities and maintain a strict adherence to what they perceive as the original teachings of Joseph Smith.

The history of plural marriage remains a sensitive and complex issue, both for members of the LDS Church and for those outside the faith. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and sacrifices faced by early Mormons and the evolving nature of religious doctrine in the face of social and political pressures. Understanding this history requires a nuanced approach, one that acknowledges the diversity of perspectives and the deep-seated beliefs that have shaped the Mormon experience.

Trends and Latest Developments

Academic and Popular Interest

The history of Mormon plural marriage continues to be a subject of significant academic and popular interest. Historians, sociologists, and religious scholars have dedicated considerable research to understanding the origins, practice, and legacy of polygamy within Mormonism. This research has shed light on the motivations of those who practiced plural marriage, the social dynamics within polygamous families, and the impact of the practice on Mormon identity and culture.

Recent publications and documentaries have explored various aspects of Mormon plural marriage, often focusing on the experiences of women and children in polygamous communities. These accounts offer a more nuanced understanding of the complexities and challenges of plural marriage, as well as the diverse perspectives of those who have lived it. The popularity of these works reflects a growing interest in understanding marginalized communities and unconventional family structures.

Legal and Social Debates

The ongoing existence of Mormon fundamentalist groups who practice plural marriage continues to fuel legal and social debates. These groups often face legal challenges related to issues such as child custody, welfare fraud, and domestic violence. The legal system grapples with how to balance the rights of individuals to practice their religious beliefs with the need to protect vulnerable members of society, particularly women and children.

In recent years, there have been discussions about decriminalizing polygamy, similar to the decriminalization of same-sex relationships. Proponents of decriminalization argue that consenting adults should have the right to choose their family structures, as long as there is no coercion or abuse involved. However, opponents raise concerns about the potential for exploitation and abuse, particularly in communities where women may have limited autonomy.

Shifting Perspectives within the LDS Church

Within the LDS Church, there has been a gradual shift towards a more open and transparent discussion of its history, including the practice of plural marriage. While the church maintains its opposition to polygamy, it has made efforts to provide more information and context about its historical practice. This includes publishing essays and historical documents online and encouraging members to study and understand the complexities of Mormon history.

This increased transparency is part of a broader effort by the LDS Church to address controversial aspects of its past and foster greater understanding and reconciliation. By acknowledging the challenges and complexities of its history, the church hopes to build trust and credibility with both its members and the broader community.

Tips and Expert Advice

Understanding the Historical Context

To truly understand Mormon plural marriage, it is essential to study the historical context in which it arose. This includes understanding the religious beliefs, social conditions, and political pressures that shaped the practice. It is important to avoid presentism, which is the tendency to judge past actions and beliefs based on contemporary values and norms. Instead, seek to understand the motivations and perspectives of those who lived in a different time and place.

Reading primary sources, such as diaries, letters, and historical documents, can provide valuable insights into the experiences of those who practiced plural marriage. Academic research and scholarly articles can also offer a more nuanced and balanced perspective on the topic. By immersing yourself in the historical context, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and challenges of Mormon plural marriage.

Seeking Diverse Perspectives

When studying Mormon plural marriage, it is crucial to seek out diverse perspectives. This includes listening to the voices of those who practiced plural marriage, as well as those who opposed it. It also means considering the experiences of women, children, and men from different social and economic backgrounds.

Reading accounts from different perspectives can help you to avoid generalizations and stereotypes. It can also help you to understand the diverse motivations and experiences of those who were involved in plural marriage. By seeking out diverse perspectives, you can gain a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the topic.

Avoiding Stereotypes and Misconceptions

Mormon plural marriage is often portrayed in popular culture through stereotypes and misconceptions. These portrayals can be harmful and inaccurate, perpetuating negative images of those who practiced plural marriage. It is important to be aware of these stereotypes and to avoid perpetuating them.

One common misconception is that all Mormon women were forced into plural marriages against their will. While some women may have felt pressured or coerced, many others entered into plural marriages voluntarily, motivated by religious beliefs or a desire to build a strong family. It is important to recognize the agency and autonomy of women in these relationships.

Another common stereotype is that all polygamous families were dysfunctional or abusive. While there were undoubtedly challenges and difficulties in some polygamous families, many others were loving and supportive. It is important to avoid making generalizations and to recognize the diversity of experiences within polygamous communities.

Engaging in Respectful Dialogue

The topic of Mormon plural marriage can be sensitive and controversial, particularly for those who have personal connections to the history. When discussing the topic, it is important to engage in respectful dialogue and to avoid making judgmental or insensitive comments.

Listen actively to the perspectives of others and be willing to learn from them. Avoid interrupting or dominating the conversation. Be mindful of your language and avoid using derogatory or offensive terms. By engaging in respectful dialogue, you can foster greater understanding and empathy.

Understanding the Current LDS Church Stance

It is important to understand the current stance of the LDS Church on plural marriage. The church strictly prohibits the practice and excommunicates members who enter into new plural marriages. The church emphasizes the importance of adhering to the laws of the land and upholding the sanctity of monogamous marriage.

Understanding the current LDS Church stance can help to avoid confusion and misconceptions. It is also important to recognize that the church has made efforts to provide more information and context about its historical practice of plural marriage, as part of a broader effort to address controversial aspects of its past.

FAQ

Was polygamy always a part of Mormonism?

No, polygamy was introduced several years after the founding of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was practiced openly for a few decades in the mid-19th century before being officially discontinued.

Why did Mormons practice polygamy?

Early Mormon leaders believed it was a divine commandment, drawing from Old Testament practices and the idea of raising a righteous generation. They also saw it as a way to provide for women in a time of scarcity.

When did the Mormon Church stop practicing polygamy?

The LDS Church officially discontinued the practice in 1890 with the issuance of the Manifesto by President Wilford Woodruff. This decision was influenced by significant legal and social pressures from the U.S. government.

Are there still Mormons who practice polygamy?

Yes, but they are not affiliated with the mainstream LDS Church. These are fundamentalist Mormon groups who believe the 1890 Manifesto was a deviation from true doctrine.

What is the official stance of the LDS Church today on polygamy?

The LDS Church strictly prohibits polygamy and excommunicates members who practice it. The Church emphasizes monogamy as the divinely approved standard of marriage.

Conclusion

The history of whether a Mormon has more than one wife is a complex and fascinating chapter in the story of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Understanding its origins, justifications, and eventual abandonment provides valuable insights into the dynamics of religious belief, social change, and the challenges of living a faith that clashes with mainstream norms. While the practice has been discontinued by the mainstream LDS Church, its legacy continues to provoke curiosity and discussion.

To deepen your understanding, explore academic resources, historical documents, and diverse perspectives on this topic. Share your thoughts, questions, and insights in the comments below, and let’s foster a respectful dialogue about this intriguing aspect of Mormon history.