×
When it comes to historical figures, few have sparked as much fascination and controversy as Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).One question that has persistently intrigued both scholars and casual observers alike is: Why did Joseph Smith practice polygamy?Before we dive into the specifics, let's set the stage with a little background.
Setting the Scene
Joseph Smith was born in 1805 in Sharon, Vermont, and grew up in a family that moved frequently.By the age of 24, he had translated the Book of Mormon and established the LDS Church. To say he lived an eventful life would be an understatement.But among the many doctrines and practices he introduced, none has generated as much debate as polygamy.The Revelation
Polygamy, or "plural marriage," was not a concept Joseph Smith plucked out of thin air.According to LDS Church history, Smith received a revelation from God instructing him to practice polygamy.This revelation is documented in Doctrine and Covenants Section 132, where God supposedly commanded Smith to take multiple wives as part of restoring "all things."Spiritual and Theological Justifications
While it might sound like a convenient excuse, Smith and his followers believed that polygamy had deep spiritual and theological significance. Here are some key reasons why:- Restoration of Ancient Practices: Smith taught that polygamy was a practice that harks back to biblical times. Patriarchs like Abraham, Jacob, and David practiced polygamy, and Smith felt it was his duty to restore these ancient practices.
- Multiplying and Replenishing the Earth: The idea of be fruitful and multiply is a recurrent theme in the Bible. Polygamy, in this context, was seen as a way to rapidly grow the number of faithful adherents to God's teachings.
- Celestial Marriage: Smith introduced the concept of "Celestial Marriage," which was believed to be essential for attaining the highest level of heaven. Polygamy was thus viewed as a divine mechanism to bind families eternally across generations.
Social and Practical Considerations
But wait, there's more! Beyond the theological justifications, several social and practical factors played into Smith's practice of polygamy.- Community Building: Early Latter-day Saints were a close-knit and often persecuted community. Polygamy helped to create strong intra-community bonds, providing a safety net in times of crisis.
- Economic Stability: In the 19th century, having multiple wives could actually be economically beneficial. More family members meant more hands to work the land, support businesses, and contribute to the overall economic stability of the community.
- Care for Widows and Orphans: The early LDS Church was often under siege, and many men died leaving behind widows and orphans. Polygamy provided a way to care for these vulnerable members of the community.
