What this article covers and why it matters
This article explains who Mormon wives are, how marriage works in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter
Day Saints (LDS Church), and the role of plural marriage (polygamy) in Mormon history and practice. It distinguishes between the mainstream LDS Church, which ended plural marriage in 1890, and small fundamentalist groups that continue it. Consent, gender roles, childbearing, legal recognition, and modern daily life for wives are addressed with verified context and definitions.
What ‘Mormon wives’ means in context
‘Mormon wives’ refers to women who are married to men within traditions that identify as Mormon, primarily the LDS Church and some fundamentalist Mormon groups. In the LDS Church, most marriages are monogamous and emphasize equal partnership, temple covenants, and family unity. In fundamentalist Mormon communities, plural marriage—where a husband has multiple wives—remains a lived practice. Across both contexts, wives often serve as primary caregivers, spiritual partners, and organizers of family life, though roles vary widely by individual, culture, and doctrine.
Background: Mormon marriage in the LDS Church
Within the LDS Church, marriage is a civil contract and a sacred covenant performed in temples for those who qualify. The church teaches that marriage between a man and a woman can continue beyond death when sealed in the temple. Wives are regarded as equal partners, though church teachings historically emphasized different roles in the home. Key points include:
- Marriage is intended to be monogamous and is legally recognized by the state.
- Couples are encouraged to share responsibilities, raise children with faith, and serve together in their congregations.
- Wives are not property and are asked to consent to marriage freely; divorce is permitted under defined circumstances.
Background: Plural marriage in Mormon history
Plural marriage was practiced by some early Latter Day Saints between the 1830s and 1890s, primarily in Utah and nearby territories. The LDS Church formally ended the practice in 1890 and again clarified its prohibition in 1904, requiring excommunication for members entering new plural marriages. Important context includes:
- Plural wives often lived in separate households and were supported materially and emotionally by the husband and the community.
- Children from all wives were typically raised within the family unit, with shared caregiving across mothers.
- After the 1890 Manifesto, the LDS Church shifted toward full assimilation into U.S. society, prioritizing monogamous marriage and distancing itself from new plural unions.
Modern plural marriage in fundamentalist Mormon groups
Some fundamentalist Mormon communities continue plural marriage today, often living in isolated rural areas. These groups include the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and others. In these settings:
- Wives may number from two to many, depending on the family and resources.
- Marriage is typically arranged by the husband with spiritual guidance from community leaders; courtship and consent vary in practice.
- Wives commonly share childcare, household labor, and financial work, though day-to-day roles depend on personality, age, and local custom.
Key aspects of plural marriage today
Modern plural families navigate legal risks, social isolation, and economic constraints. Marriages are usually not legally recognized for multiple spouses, and children may face stigma or scrutiny from authorities. Community support is central, but access to education, healthcare, and employment can be limited. Some families seek legal counsel to manage custody, property, and taxation in ways that reduce exposure to prosecution.
Eligibility, agency, and consent in Mormon marriage
In the LDS Church, marriage is available to any legally eligible adult who chooses to marry in the temple and accepts the associated covenants. Both men and women are encouraged to exercise personal agency. Key elements include:
- Wives are asked to consent freely and are not compelled to marry.
- Marriage focuses on companionship, mutual support, and raising children.
- Same-sex marriage is not performed; gender roles are discussed in terms of complementary responsibilities rather than hierarchy.
Notable comparisons: LDS Church vs. fundamentalist practice
| Attribute | LDS Church (mainstream) | Fundamentalist Mormon groups |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage form | Monogamous, one spouse | Plural, one husband, multiple wives |
| Legal recognition | State and temple marriage recognized | Plural marriage rarely legally recognized; may face prosecution |
| Wives’ role | Equal partner; shared responsibilities | Varies by family; wives often share childcare and household duties |
| Community size | Millions worldwide | Thousands across a few insular communities |
| Child custody approach | Typically two-parent, monogamous households | Often shared across multiple wives; can involve larger family units |
Everyday realities for Mormon wives today
For most wives in the LDS Church, life centers on family, work, education, and community service. Many balance careers with childrearing, serve in local congregations, and participate in temple ordinances. In fundamentalist groups, wives’ daily lives often revolve around managing larger households, homeschooling, and community obligations. Economic pressures, mobility restrictions, and limited privacy are common challenges, while strong social ties and shared faith provide support.
FAQ: Common questions about Mormon wives
- Can a Mormon wife hold a career outside the home? Yes. Many LDS women work, study, and pursue professional goals while raising families. Expectations vary by personal choice and cultural setting.
- Is divorce allowed for Mormon wives? The LDS Church permits divorce under specific conditions, such as adultery, abandonment, or abuse, and encourages reconciliation efforts. Civil divorce is legal; temple privileges may be limited depending on circumstances.
- Do all Mormon wives practice plural marriage? No. The vast majority of Mormon wives are in monogamous marriages within the LDS Church. Plural marriage applies only to a small number of fundamentalist groups and is not part of mainstream LDS life.
- How are children raised in plural families? In plural households, wives often share child-rearing, discipline, and education. In LDS families, parenting is typically shared between two parents with involvement from extended family and congregation members.
Sources and further reading
Information in this article is drawn from LDS Church publications, historical records of 19th century Utah, sociological studies of fundamentalist communities, and legal analyses of plural marriage in the United States. For authoritative reference, consult the LDS Church’s official statements on marriage and historical essays on plural marriage, along with peer-reviewed research on contemporary fundamentalist groups.