017 Q&R! Tough Polygamy Questions with Dr. Brian Hales
Jun 27, 2023
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Dr. Brian Hales, an expert on polygamy and the history of Joseph Smith's plural marriages, discusses tough polygamy questions. He addresses Joseph Smith's regrets, denial of polygamy, marriage while men were away on missions, refusal of proposals, Emma's relationship to plural marriage, and the reasons behind its existence. The importance of unbiased historical analysis and debunking reductionist statements is emphasized. They also explore Joseph Smith's denials, approach to plural marriage, regrets, and the significance of keeping covenants.
Joseph Smith had certain aspects of his approach to plural marriage that he might have done differently, such as marrying other men's wives and not informing Emma of every plural wife, influenced by complexities and beliefs surrounding the practice.
There is evidence supporting Joseph Smith's practice of plural marriage, and the denial of this practice is growing among some church members, but it is not supported by the historical record or trained historians.
Emma Smith's relationship with plural marriage was complex, as she may have initially struggled with it, but evidence suggests that she knew about and acknowledged Joseph Smith's marriages to other women, and her role and reactions should be understood and judged with kindness.
Deep dives
Joseph Smith's Regrets and Approaches to Plural Marriage
Joseph Smith did not have regrets about plural marriage, but there were certain aspects of his approach that he might have done differently. For example, marrying other men's wives and not informing Emma of every plural wife. However, these choices were influenced by complexities and beliefs surrounding the practice, such as the sealing for eternity-only marriages and the desire for every worthy woman to have the opportunity for sealing. It is important to understand the historical context and Joseph's intentions when considering his approach to plural marriage.
Plural Marriage and the Denial of Practice
There is evidence supporting Joseph Smith's practice of plural marriage, and the denial of this practice is growing among some church members. However, this denial is not supported by the historical record or trained historians. Various documents and recollections confirm the existence of plural marriages, and no reputable historian denies Joseph Smith's involvement in plural marriage. Additionally, accusations that Joseph lied about practicing polygamy are not supported by the available evidence.
Emma's Relationship with Plural Marriage
Emma Smith's relationship with plural marriage was complex. While she may have initially struggled with the practice, there is evidence that she knew about and acknowledged Joseph Smith's marriages to other women. Emma's role and reactions to plural marriage should be understood and judged with kindness, considering the unique circumstances and challenges she faced.
Motives Behind Plural Marriage
The motives behind Joseph Smith's practice of plural marriage are multifaceted. While there is no definitive answer, evidence suggests that his motivations were rooted in religious beliefs and divine commandments rather than personal desires. Joseph's approach to plural marriage, such as marrying already married women for eternity-only sealings, reflects his effort to fulfill perceived religious responsibilities while considering individual circumstances and relationships.
Critiques and Regrets
Critiques and regrets regarding Joseph's approach to plural marriage are understandable, and there are aspects he might have approached differently if he had the opportunity. However, it is important to remember the complexities surrounding this practice and the limited understanding of historical and cultural contexts. Joseph's actions should be viewed in the broader context of his role as a prophet and the religious landscape of the time.
Did Joseph Smith have any regrets about plural marriage? Like, with full hindsight, if he could go back and change anything about the way he implemented plural marriage, what might he do differently? Also, more and more people are denying that Joseph Smith ever practiced polygamy or that he lied about doing so. Is there even a shred of truth to either of these claims? Did Joseph ever send men on missions and marry their wives while they were gone? Were there any women who denied Joseph’s proposals for plural marriage? If so, what happened to them? What was Emma’s relationship to plural marriage after the saints left Nauvoo for Utah? And is there any truth to the idea that plural marriage exists because there are more faithful women than men?
In today’s episode of Church History Matters we tackle all of these questions and more with our special guest, Dr. Brian Hales!