Understanding Joseph Smith’s Practice of Polygamy

During the critical period in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the practice of polygamy, or plural marriage, has been a subject of intense scrutiny and controversy. Understanding the complexities of Joseph Smith's personal beliefs and actions involves a deep dive into historical accounts and contemporary perspectives. This article aims to provide a clearer picture of Joseph Smith's polygamous practices and the societal context in which they occurred.

History and Controversy

The story of Joseph Smith's polygamy began as a rumor and has been largely misunderstood. It is important to separate fact from fiction to truly understand the historical context. Here are some key points:

1. The Alleged Teenage Marriage

One of the most debated aspects of Joseph Smith's polygamy is the alleged marriage to a teenage girl named Fanny Alger. Historians agree that this event did not happen prior to Joseph's revelation on polygamy. Fanny was working as a maid in the Smith household, and the affair was not approved or sanctioned by Joseph at the time.

2. The Growth of the Rumor

The idea of a teenage marriage spread over time as the story was embellished and retold. This led to the mistaken belief that Fanny and Joseph were married for eternity in the Kirtland Temple. However, the concept of eternal marriage was not even in practice until the Nauvoo Temple was established.

Joseph Smith's View on Polygamy

Joseph Smith's beliefs regarding polygamy were not widely known or practiced among the church members in his lifetime. Many within the church were unaware of his polygamous marriages. Here are some additional insights:

1. The Origin of Polygamy

Polygamy, or spiritual wifery, did not originate with Joseph. It was initially practiced by a group called the Cochranites, and Brigham Young and his associates began performing these marriages behind Joseph's back. These practices were likely influenced by the social and religious climate of the time.

2. Joseph's Viewpoint

Joseph Smith never codified or publicly endorsed the practice of polygamy. In fact, he publicly condemned such rumors when they came to his attention. He did not practice or encourage polygamy until he received divine revelations affirming it.

Polygamy has been a topic of much research and reflection within the Latter-day Saint community. Laura Harris Hales, a prominent historian, has shed light on the subject in her work, helping to provide a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the practices and beliefs surrounding polygamy.

Joseph Smith's Personal Practice of Polygamy

Joseph Smith had a series of marriages that were secret and clandestine. Some accounts suggest that he may have been married to up to 36 women. The motivations behind these marriages are complex and not fully understood. It is important to consider both the historical and contextual factors when evaluating these marriages.

Processing Polygamy: A Monogamous Mindset

The concept of plural marriage can be difficult for individuals with a monogamous background to comprehend. Understanding the emotional and spiritual aspects of these marriages can help provide a deeper understanding of the experiences of the early Saints.

Case Study: Helen Mar Kimball

The marriage of Helen Mar Kimball to Joseph Smith at the age of 14 provides a compelling case study. Her father, Heber C. Kimball, initially introduced the concept to her, explaining the principle of plural marriage. Helen was later sealed to Joseph for time and eternity. Despite her initial reluctance, Helen eventually embraced the principle and supported it for the rest of her life.

Conclusion

Joseph Smith's practice of polygamy has been a contentious issue within the Latter-day Saint community. By examining historical accounts and the experiences of early Saints, we can gain a better understanding of the complexities involved. It is essential to approach this topic with an open mind and a willingness to consider the historical and social context.