Understanding Polygamy in the Mormon Community

The historical and current status of polygamy in the Mormon community is a complex and often misunderstood topic. While the practice is significantly less prevalent today, it has played a notable role in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) history. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the acceptance and embracement of the god-given doctrine of polygamy by Mormons.

Historical Context of Polygamy

Polygamy, or plural marriage as it was formally termed in the context of the LDS Church, was a significant practice for a considerable period. This chapter includes insights into who accepted or embraced this doctrine and the context in which it was practiced.

Acceptance and Embracement of Polygamy

When the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints did practice polygamy, it is estimated that up to 50% of the church was involved in the practice. This number is a gross estimate, as it includes both adults and children. When considering only adult marriages, the percentage drops significantly, perhaps to around 25% or less. This practice was not indiscriminate. Instead, it typically involved specific individuals receiving divine revelations that they should enter into plural marriages.

Joseph Smith, the founder and prophet of the LDS Church, introduced the doctrine of polygamy. However, even then, there was not a blanket mandate for all members to partake. In most cases, only individuals received specific revelations directing them to have a second spouse, and they would then seek their own confirmation from God. Requests to enter into polygamous marriages were considered, but in every situation, all parties involved had to consent. There was no forced polygamy.

Religious and Historical Recognition of Polygamy

The belief that polygamy is not unique to the Mormon community is important to note. The Old Testament and Mosaic Law provide multiple instances where polygamy was recognized and even commanded by God. For instance, if a brother died, his widow was expected to marry another man to ensure his descendants continued his lineage. Abraham and Jacob are also well-known examples of polygamous marriages.

Current Status and Modern Mormon Doctrine

Today, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints officially denounces polygamy. In 1890, President Wilford Woodruff issued the Manifesto, which officially ended the practice of plural marriage. The church’s official stance is that the standard for marriage is one man with one woman in a temple ceremony.

Personal Reflection on Polygamy

For many current Mormons, including myself, polygamy is not a practice we either accept or embrace. My family includes a polygamous marriage from a couple generations back, but I do not currently practice or support polygamy. The stance taken by the church is that it is an eternal principle, not a universal one.

From my experience, while there were a number of Latter-day Saints willing to accept the lifetime commitment that came with polygamy, it is relatively rare to find contemporary individuals who actively embrace the doctrine.

It is crucial to recognize that the church’s stance on polygamy has evolved. What was once an established practice and belief has been reinterpreted and officially rejected in its current form.