Is there any truth to what I’ve heard that polygamy will be practiced again in the Celestial Kingdom? I don’t even want to think about the idea that, if I’m exalted, my husband will have to take on additional movies. I want a clear answer to this question because I’ve heard rumors. Also, why the tendency to “hide” this topic? Why don’t the official church manuals address this question?
One Response to “Do Mormons have to practice polygamy after they die?”
Mateo Ramos
2013-08-04 17:20:33
How I feel when I hear ridiculous rumors and doctrinal speculations. :)
Hi Canela. Thanks for your question. I've heard others express similar concerns, and I confess that I don't understand why this antiquated idea continues to circulate. The Book of Mormon makes it very clear that monogamy is what is "normal" (Jacob 2). The occasions when God commands/permits polygamy for reasons known only to Him (e.g., as in the case of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the Bible) are very rare. I see no reason to believe that polygamy will be "required" in the Celestial Kingdom, and that is certainly not what the church teaches. In fact, the Bible teaches that after the resurrection, no additional marriages will be performed (Matthew 22:30).
The Church doesn't talk about the idea that polygamy will be required in the Celestial Kingdom for the same reason it doesn't talk about the idea that aliens may have secretly infiltrated the United Nations or the idea that Santa Claus may be responsible for the recent economic downturn. All these ideas have nothing to do with what the church teaches, and it wouldn't be reasonable for the church to address every random idea that others may endorse. There are no secret doctrines in Mormonism. Nothing is being "hidden." The gospel really isn't that complicated.
I hope this answer helps, sister. Let me know if you have any additional questions.
The Church doesn't talk about the idea that polygamy will be required in the Celestial Kingdom for the same reason it doesn't talk about the idea that aliens may have secretly infiltrated the United Nations or the idea that Santa Claus may be responsible for the recent economic downturn. All these ideas have nothing to do with what the church teaches, and it wouldn't be reasonable for the church to address every random idea that others may endorse. There are no secret doctrines in Mormonism. Nothing is being "hidden." The gospel really isn't that complicated.
I hope this answer helps, sister. Let me know if you have any additional questions.