Joseph Smith and the Endorsement of Polygamy in 1843

Name: Joseph Smith and the Endorsement of Polygamy in 1843
Start: 1805-07-12
Location: Unspecified

The Announcement of Polygamy by Joseph Smith

In the year 1843, a controversial decision arose within the early Mormon Church, led by its founder Joseph Smith. In this pivotal year, Smith declared that God endorsed the practice of polygamy, also known as plural marriage, claiming that it was a divine commandment. This revelation not only influenced the lives of thousands but also shaped the trajectory of Mormonism as a religion. Joseph Smith's announcement marked the beginning of a practice that would spark significant debate and controversy both within and outside the church.

Joseph Smith's Revelation on Polygamy

Joseph Smith, born in 1805, received a revelation that polygamy was sanctioned by God and that faithful men should marry multiple wives. This declaration came with theological justifications rooted in the scriptures, particularly emphasizing the importance of building a righteous seed. Smith's revelation was not just a personal belief but a cornerstone that would lead many followers to adopt the practice, which would later become a hallmark of the Latter-day Saint movement.

The Impact of Polygamy on Mormon Society

The endorsement of polygamy by Smith transformed the Mormon community profoundly. Families were restructured, and numerous women became part of polygamous marriages. This shift encouraged the growth of the community, as it was believed that having multiple souls added to the church would bring blessings. However, it also drew sharp criticism and suspicion from outsiders, leading to increased tensions between Mormons and non-Mormons.

Controversies and Challenges of Polygamy

The practice of polygamy initiated a plethora of challenges for the church, particularly as the movement grew. Critics argued that polygamy was immoral and violated societal norms. This criticism led to legal repercussions and the persecution of Mormons in various regions, especially in areas where the church sought to establish their communities.

Legal Battles and Public Perception

As national sentiments shifted against polygamy, particularly in the 1850s and onwards, legal battles emerged. The United States government took measures to suppress the practice, leading to laws that targeted polygamous families and the church. These legal challenges were often rooted in the broader societal conflict between traditional values and the emerging new practices advocated by the Mormons.

Resilience of the Mormon Community

Despite external pressures, the Mormon Church remained resilient. Although the formal practice of polygamy faced significant diminishment in the late 19th century—culminating in the church officially renouncing the practice in 1890—it left an indelible mark on the church's history and identity. The early practice of polygamy served to unite many within the church while also causing friction with broader society.

Fun Fact

Polygamy's Place in Mormon History

Did you know that polygamy was not only a religious but also a social strategy for the early Mormon Church? It helped to ensure that women had protection and provision in a society often marked by instability and harsh living conditions.