What Does Multiple Wives Mean in the LDS Church
The phrase multiple wives in the LDS Church refers to plural marriage, a historically practiced form of polygamy rooted in 19th century revelations. Today, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) formally prohibits plural marriage and excommunicates members who enter into or solemnize such unions. This overview explains the theological origins, historical implementation, doctrinal shift, policy enforcement, and current lived reality to clarify what multiple wives means within the LDS context.
Key Takeaways at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Current LDS Policy | Plural marriage is prohibited; practitioners are excommunicated | Church Handbook and official statements |
| Historical Period | Approximately 1840s–1890s, ended with the 1890 Manifesto | Church historical records |
| Terminology | Plural marriage or polygamy, not polyamory | LDS doctrinal language |
| Offshoot Groups | Some fundamentalist Mormon communities continue the practice | Academic and media reporting |
| Purpose (historical theology) | Seen as a divine trial and part of a larger eternal family plan | LDS scripture and canon |
| Legal Status | Illegal under U.S. law; civil penalties apply | Federal and state statutes |
Plural Marriage in LDS Scripture and Theology
Within LDS theology, plural marriage is framed as a divine principle revealed to restore ancient biblical practices. Section 132 of the Doctrine and Covenants contains revelations that outline the basis for plural marriage, describing it as a test of faith and obedience with potential exaltation rewards under specific conditions. The theology emphasizes covenants, eternal families, and the role of righteous priesthood authority in administering such marriage. While presented as a higher principle in these scriptural passages, modern church governance and law both discourage and prohibit the practice, reflecting an evolved administrative and legal stance.
A Historical Overview of Multiple Wives in the LDS Church
LDS adoption of plural marriage grew gradually from the 1840s, publicly announced in 1852 by church leadership in Utah. During this period, the practice was tied to the establishment of settlements and community building in the American West. As federal laws intensified and local opposition grew, the church officially directed its cessation in 1890 through the Manifesto, which suspended new plural marriages while allowing existing unions to continue. Later, in the early 20th century, the church formally disciplined members who entered new plural marriages, solidifying the break between mainstream LDS practice and fundamentalist offshoots.
Notable Milestones in LDS Plural Marriage History
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1840s | Early private practice and gradual public acknowledgment | Contextualizes the origin of plural families in Utah |
| 1852 | Public announcement by church leadership | Marks formal theological and public endorsement |
| 1882–1887 | U.S. federal laws disincorporating the church and disenfranchising polygamists | Legal pressure that reshaped LDS policy |
| 1890 | Manifesto suspending new plural marriages | Key turning point separating mainstream LDS from fundamentalist practice |
| Early 1900s | Church discipline of members entering new plural marriages | Reinforces doctrinal and administrative closure |
Modern LDS Church Policy and Practice
Contemporary LDS policy defines marriage as a voluntary union between one man and one woman. Church handbooks direct leaders to deny temple ordinances and recommend ecclesiastical discipline, including disfellowshipping or excommunication, for members who enter into or facilitate plural marriage. Congregational leaders are instructed to report known violations to higher authorities. This policy applies worldwide, reflecting alignment with both civic law and the institutional structure of the church. As a result, mainstream LDS members today do not practice or endorse multiple wives as part of their religious life.
Offshoot Fundamentalist Groups and Civil Law
Some fundamentalist Mormon groups continue to practice plural marriage, often living in isolated communities and maintaining separate ecclesiastical structures. These groups are not affiliated with the mainstream LDS Church and typically reject its modern policies. In the United States, plural marriage is illegal under federal law, with provisions in statutes such as the Edmunds Act and Edmunds–Tucker Act criminalizing the practice. Civil penalties can include fines and imprisonment, and child welfare oversight may also apply. Legal cases have consistently upheld these statutes, reinforcing the state interest in prohibiting plural marriage.
Lived Experience and Community Dynamics
For individuals raised in communities that historically practiced or currently practice multiple wives, experiences vary widely. Some describe strong communal support and cohesive family networks, while others highlight tensions, limited autonomy, and challenges accessing education and economic opportunities. Within mainstream LDS communities, discussions of plural marriage are largely historical, and younger generations may encounter references only in lessons on church history or doctrine. Understanding these differing contexts helps clarify why perspectives on multiple wives differ across LDS-related groups.
Common Misunderstandings and Clarifications
- Plural marriage is not the same as polyamory; it is a religiously framed legal and marital structure, not a secular relationship model.
- The mainstream LDS Church has not practiced plural marriage for more than a century and actively disciplines those who do.
- Offshoot fundamentalist groups are distinct from the LDS Church and represent a minority continuity of older practice.
- Legal consequences for plural marriage can involve both criminal charges and loss of custody or guardianship.
- Historical teachings about plural marriage within LDS scripture are interpreted within modern policy and law, not uniformly applied today.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer | Clarification |
|---|---|---|
| Does the LDS Church still teach plural marriage as a principle? | No; current doctrine prohibits it and treats it as a violation of church law. | Historical teachings are studied contextually, not practiced. |
| Are children in plural marriages protected by law? | Yes, child welfare laws apply; plural marriage does not override protections. | Courts may intervene to ensure children’s safety and basic rights. |
| Can a person from a fundamentalist group join the mainstream LDS Church? | Individuals must discontinue plural marriage and adhere to church standards to be baptized. | Compliance with current policy is required for membership. |
| How does the LDS Church address historical references to multiple wives? | Historically contextualized in lessons; emphasis is on present policy and doctrine. | Acknowledges history without endorsing current practice. |
| What resources exist for those leaving plural marriage communities? | Some organizations and local leaders offer support; legal and social services vary by region. | Availability depends on location and community infrastructure. |