In the early days of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), leaders like Joseph Smith and Brigham Young preached that plural marriage was an essential part of God's plan for human salvation. They claimed it was a way to ensure eternal happiness in the afterlife and help families achieve exaltation. Polygamy was also seen as a test of faith, obedience, and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good of the church community. It was believed that men who practiced polygamy were showing their commitment to the teachings of God and would be rewarded with more wives in heaven. Women who accepted plural marriages were seen as selfless and committed to the church, even if they had to share their husbands with other women. This belief system justified polygamy as something necessary and beneficial for both sexes within the Mormon hierarchy.
Polygamy was officially discontinued in the late 19th century due to public pressure and legal challenges.
Some members continued to practice secretly until the practice was outlawed by the federal government in 1890. Despite this, many Mormons still believe that polygamy is a valid form of marriage and have been fighting to have it recognized legally since then. The current church position is that polygamy is no longer required but that monogamy is encouraged.
The historical justifications for polygamy continue to shape sexual dynamics within the LDS church today. Men are expected to take on leadership roles and be responsible for providing financially for their families, while women are often relegated to domestic duties like childrearing and housekeeping. This creates a power imbalance between the genders that can lead to sexual tensions and unequal relationships.
The idea that men should marry multiple women and bear children with them continues to create an atmosphere where female sexuality is seen as secondary or subordinate to male desires.
The historical context of Mormon polygamy has also shaped modern-day debates about gender equality and sexuality. While many LDS members support traditional family values, others argue that monogamy is more practical and healthy for modern society. They point out that plural marriages can lead to jealousy, competition, and emotional instability among partners. In recent years, there have been calls for greater recognition of same-sex relationships within the church and a shift away from the rigid gender roles that have defined Mormonism for centuries.
These changes face resistance from some conservative members who see them as a challenge to traditional beliefs and practices.
Despite its controversial history, polygamy remains an important part of Mormon culture and identity. It continues to inform discussions around gender roles, sexuality, and family life in the present day. As the church grapples with changing social norms and evolving attitudes towards marriage, it will be interesting to see how this legacy continues to shape religious practice and personal lives.
What religious and historical justifications were used to sustain Mormon polygamy, and how did these inform sexual hierarchy?
Religious and historical justifications have been utilized to sustain Mormon polygamy over the course of its history. According to Mormon doctrine, God commands his followers to practice plural marriage as he once commanded ancient prophets Abraham, David, Solomon, and Jacob. The doctrine also states that plural marriages are an essential part of the Latter-day Saints' quest for exaltation within the highest realms of heaven.