Polygamy
Polygamy is a difficult subject that has been controversial for the church and its members since it was introducted in the 1800s. However, it is also the topic that is most widely misrepresented by our critics. The best source for this topic is the Gospel Topic Essays. The Church has 4 articles and the links are directly below. Scroll further down to see other links that help us better understand polygamy and associated topics such as Polyandry and Joseph being sealed to younger girls.
Plural marriage was among the most challenging aspects of the Restoration. For many who practiced it, plural marriage was a trial of faith. It violated both cultural and legal norms, leading to persecution and revilement. Despite these hardships, plural marriage benefited the Church in innumerable ways. Through the lineage of these 19th-century Saints have come many Latter-day Saints who have been faithful to their gospel covenants as righteous mothers and fathers; loyal disciples of Jesus Christ; devoted Church members, leaders, and missionaries; and good citizens and prominent public officials. Modern Latter-day Saints honor and respect these faithful pioneers who gave so much for their faith, families, and community.
- Gospel Topics Essay
Brian and Laura Hales - Joseph Smith's Polygamy
Brian and Laura Hales have spent the better part of a lifetime researching the topic of polygamy, and have created an extremely comprehensive website dealing with all facets of early Polygamy, and all the associated challenges critics point to, including polyandry, the marrying of young girls, and the secrecy involved in the early church. I strongly recommend that once on this website, you follow the chronology laid out in the website to get the best picture of the circumstances of the early church based on historical documentation. It will take a little time, but is worth the investment. One noteworthy comment: The critics of the church have made countless jabs and assertions about different aspects of polygamy, but all within a vacuum that serves their purpose. None of them have laid out the historical facts chronologically complete with references as has been done by the Hales on this website, because it wouldn't support their accusations. There are difficult things to understand about polygamy for sure, but nothing near the horrible accusations made by our critics. Link to the Hales' website: