Do Mormons Believe in Having More Than One Wife?
The topic of polygamy has long been a subject of interest and debate, particularly in relation to the Latter-day Saints, commonly known as Mormons. Central to this discussion is the question of whether Mormons believe in having more than one wife. To understand this, it is crucial to delve into the historical and religious context of polygamy within the Mormon faith.
Polygamy, the practice of having more than one spouse, was indeed a fundamental belief and practice among early Mormons. This practice was most prevalent during the 19th century, particularly in the United States. The founder of the Mormon Church, Joseph Smith, is often cited as the primary figure responsible for introducing polygamy to the faith. Smith himself was married to multiple wives, and he encouraged his followers to follow suit.
The reasons behind the Mormon belief in polygamy were multifaceted. One of the primary motivations was the belief in eternal life and the concept of exaltation. Mormons believe that through faith, obedience, and celestial marriage, individuals can achieve eternal life and exaltation in the afterlife. Polygamy was seen as a means to increase the number of celestial marriages and, consequently, the chances of achieving exaltation.
Moreover, early Mormons faced persecution and expulsion from various locations, which led to a sense of community and unity. Polygamy was believed to strengthen the family unit and provide for the needs of the community. It was also seen as a way to honor and respect women, as it allowed them to have multiple sources of support and companionship.
However, the practice of polygamy within the Mormon Church faced significant opposition and legal challenges. In 1890, the Church officially abandoned the practice of polygamy, under pressure from the United States government. This change was a result of the Edmunds-Tucker Act, which imposed harsh penalties on Mormons who continued to practice polygamy.
Despite the abandonment of polygamy as an official doctrine, the belief in polygamy persists among a small subset of Mormons. These individuals, known as Fundamentalist Mormons, continue to practice polygamy in secret and outside the mainstream Mormon Church. They believe that polygamy is a divine commandment and that it remains an essential aspect of their faith.
In conclusion, while the official Mormon Church abandoned the practice of polygamy in 1890, the belief in having more than one wife remains a part of the faith for some Mormons. Understanding the historical and religious context of polygamy within the Mormon Church is crucial to comprehending this complex and controversial aspect of their faith.
