When the Shelf Breaks: Polygamy (Celestial Plural Marriage)

Introduction

The practice of polygamy, especially as it relates to Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has been a topic of much discussion and sometimes controversy. Joseph Smith introduced the practice of plural marriage in the early days of the church, and it has been the subject of various interpretations. This post explores Joseph Smith's practice of polygamy, including his marriages to young women, women already married to other men, and the secrecy surrounding it. We will also examine how this practice aligns with the teachings of scripture and modern prophets, offering a broader understanding of its spiritual significance.

Key Aspects/Points

Joseph Smith's Introduction of Plural Marriage Joseph Smith introduced the principle of plural marriage (polygamy) in the early 1840s, a practice that was not widely understood or accepted at the time. This principle was revealed to him by God as part of the restoration of all things, including eternal family structures. In Doctrine and Covenants 132:1, the Lord declared, “Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you, my servant Joseph, that inasmuch as you have inquired of my hand to know and understand wherein I, the Lord, justified my servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as also Moses, David, and Solomon, my servants, as touching the principle and doctrine of their having many wives and concubines…” This scripture clarifies that plural marriage was part of a divine plan that had been practiced by righteous men in ancient times.
Marriage to Young Women Joseph Smith’s marriages to young women, some as young as 14, have been one of the most debated aspects of his practice of polygamy. While these marriages were legal at the time and culturally accepted in some places, they raise questions today. However, it is important to note that Joseph’s practice of polygamy was rooted in spiritual purposes, not carnal desires. In Doctrine and Covenants 132:61, the Lord says, “And again, as pertaining to the law of the priesthood, if any man espouse a virgin, and desire to espouse another, and the first give her consent, and if he espouse another, and they are virgins, and if he espouse them, and they are virgins, and if he espouse them, and they are virgins, then he shall have one wife, and they shall be his.” This teaching emphasizes the sanctity and divine nature of marriage and family in God’s plan.
Marriage to Women Already Married to Other Men Joseph Smith also married women who were already married to other men, a practice that was controversial both then and now. These marriages were believed to be part of a divine plan to establish eternal family bonds. In Doctrine and Covenants 132:38, the Lord reveals, “David also received many wives and concubines, and also Solomon and Moses my servant, as touching the law of the priesthood, as I have revealed unto you.” This scripture acknowledges that even great leaders in scripture practiced plural marriage in alignment with God’s will. The principle of eternal marriage, which Joseph Smith taught, allowed for relationships to extend beyond this life, creating the foundation for a family structure that could continue eternally. In the Book of Mormon, we read about the importance of eternal families in 2 Nephi 2:25, where it says, "Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy."
The Secrecy Surrounding Polygamy The secrecy surrounding Joseph Smith's practice of polygamy was due to the societal and legal challenges that the practice would have presented. In the early days of the church, public knowledge of polygamy would have led to even greater persecution and perhaps legal consequences. Joseph Smith and other early leaders of the church practiced the principle of polygamy in a private and discreet manner to protect the church and its members. In Doctrine and Covenants 124:56, the Lord told Joseph, “And let my servant Joseph Smith, Jr., have the privilege of taking a wife, and let him be endowed with power from on high, and let him be sealed unto her for the remainder of her life.” This commandment emphasizes the sacred nature of these relationships and the importance of following God’s will in all things.

Refuting Common Misunderstandings

Polygamy Was Not a Personal Desire One common misconception is that Joseph Smith practiced polygamy out of personal desire or lust. However, the teachings of the Church and the accounts of those who knew Joseph Smith suggest that he was following a divine commandment. The practice of plural marriage was introduced as part of God’s plan for eternal families and was not based on worldly motivations. In Doctrine and Covenants 132:52, the Lord explains, “For behold, I reveal unto you a new and an everlasting covenant; and if ye abide not that covenant, then are ye damned; for no one can reject this covenant and be permitted to enter into my glory.”
Joseph Smith’s Marriages Were Not Secretive for Immoral Reasons Another misconception is that Joseph Smith’s marriages were secretive because they were immoral or illicit. In reality, the secrecy surrounding polygamy was primarily due to the persecution that would have arisen had the practice been publicly known. Joseph and his followers were committed to following God’s commandments, and the secrecy was a practical measure, not an indication of wrongdoing. In Doctrine and Covenants 124:49, the Lord instructed Joseph, “And let my servant Joseph Smith, Jr., have the privilege of taking a wife, and let him be endowed with power from on high.”
The Principle of Polygamy Was Not Unique to Joseph Smith Some critics argue that polygamy was a practice unique to Joseph Smith and the early Saints. However, the principle of plural marriage is found in the scriptures. In the Old Testament, figures such as Abraham, Jacob, and David practiced polygamy under God’s direction. The Book of Mormon also teaches about the importance of family and the eternal nature of relationships, providing a scriptural foundation for the practice of plural marriage. In Jacob 2:30, it states, “But I, the Lord God, will not suffer that this people shall do like unto them of old. Wherefore, my brethren, hear me, and hearken to the word of the Lord: For there shall not any man among you have save it be one wife; and concubines he shall have none.”

The Spiritual Benefits

Understanding the practice of polygamy in its proper context offers several spiritual benefits:

Eternal Families The practice of plural marriage was tied to the concept of eternal families. It allowed for the creation of families that could be sealed together for eternity, ensuring that relationships would continue beyond this life. This understanding of eternal families brings hope and comfort to members of the Church today, knowing that their family bonds can extend into the next life. President Gordon B. Hinckley emphasized this in his address, “The Great Things Which God Has Revealed,” where he stated, “God has revealed the great plan of happiness, and it is centered in the family.”
Obedience to God’s Commandments Joseph Smith’s adherence to the principle of polygamy, despite the difficulties and persecution it brought, demonstrates a powerful example of obedience to God’s commandments. His willingness to follow God’s will, even when it was difficult or unpopular, provides a model for all who seek to live according to divine principles. President Brigham Young, who succeeded Joseph Smith as the leader of the church, said, “When the Lord commands, we must obey, and we must be willing to sacrifice for the sake of the kingdom of God.”
Understanding God’s Plan The practice of polygamy helps to illuminate God’s eternal plan for His children. It teaches about the eternal nature of marriage and family relationships, which are central to God’s plan for His children. By following this principle, early Latter-day Saints sought to participate in the fullness of God’s plan, which was to restore all things, including the sealing power. In Doctrine and Covenants 132:19, the Lord promises, “And again, verily I say unto you, if a man marry a wife according to my word, and they are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, according to mine appointment, and he or she shall commit any sin or transgression of the new and everlasting covenant, and repenteth not, but dieth, they shall be damned.”

Practical Steps

For those seeking to understand the principle of polygamy more deeply, here are some practical steps:

Study the Scriptures A deeper study of the scriptures, particularly the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and Old Testament, will provide a broader understanding of the principle of plural marriage. The practice is rooted in the teachings of the scriptures and was part of God’s eternal plan.
Learn from Modern Prophets Modern prophets have provided additional insights into the practice of polygamy and its role in the gospel. President Gordon B. Hinckley, for example, spoke about the principle of polygamy and its eventual cessation in the latter days. Understanding the evolution of this doctrine can help provide clarity. In his statement, he said, “We believe in the practice of eternal marriage. We do not practice plural marriage. We believe in the law of monogamy as it is taught in the New Testament.”
Seek Personal Revelation As with any principle, personal revelation is key. Seeking guidance from the Lord through prayer and scripture study will help individuals understand how the principle of plural marriage fits into God’s eternal plan.

Conclusion

Joseph Smith’s practice of polygamy was not a matter of personal desire, but a commandment from God. It was part of the restoration of the gospel and the establishment of eternal families. While the practice is often misunderstood, understanding its spiritual significance can provide a clearer picture of God’s plan for His children. By studying the scriptures and the teachings of modern prophets, we can gain greater insight into the eternal nature of marriage and family.

If you are interested in learning more about the doctrine of eternal families and the practice of polygamy, consider studying the scriptures, seeking personal revelation, and reflecting on the teachings of modern prophets. The principles of eternal marriage and the sealing power are central to the gospel, and understanding them can bring great peace and understanding in your life.

Shalom,
Raphael