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Cover of Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural Marriage: A Discussion

Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural Marriage: A Discussion

Written by Joseph Fielding Smith,R. C. (Richard C.) Evans

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MarriageAtonementLatter Day Saint churchesPolygamyLatter Day Saints

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About this book

"Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural Marriage: A Discussion" by Smith and Evans is a historical discourse likely written in the early 20th century. This work documents a correspondence between Elder Joseph F. Smith Jr. of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Richard C. Evans, a leader from the "Reorganized" Church. The discussion centers on the misrepresentation of Latter-day Saint beliefs, especially concerning controversial topics like plural marriage and blood atonement. The opening of the text sets the tone for a vigorous debate between the two church leaders triggered by public accusations made by Evans against the practices of the Latter-day Saints. Smith, in his defense, highlights passages from previous church documents and provides counterarguments to Evans' claims, including the origins of plural marriage and the doctrine of blood atonement as taught by Brigham Young. The intense back-and-forth illustrates the complexities and divisions within the Mormon faith at the time, revealing deeper historical tensions over these doctrines and their interpretations among different factions of the faith.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Blood Atonement and the Origin of Plural Marriage: A Discussion, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • Historical
  • Polemical
  • Debate

This work documents a pivotal historical discourse between Elder Joseph F. Smith Jr. of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Richard C. Evans, a leader from the Reorganized Church. The correspondence vigorously debates the historical practices and doctrines of the Latter-day Saints, particularly plural marriage and the concept of blood atonement. Triggered by Evans' public accusations, Smith's responses meticulously defend the LDS Church's positions, referencing previous church documents and offering counterarguments. The exchange illuminates the deep theological and historical divisions within the broader Mormon faith during the early 20th century, revealing the complexities of doctrinal interpretation and historical memory. Ultimately, it serves as a critical historical document showcasing intra-faith tensions and the defense of core beliefs amidst public scrutiny.

“It is a grave misrepresentation to assert that the Church ever sanctioned violence under the guise of 'blood atonement' as commonly understood, and I shall provide ample evidence to clarify this doctrine.”

Key themes

Religious Interpretation and Authority
This theme explores how different leaders and factions within the broader Mormon movement interpret foundational doctrines and historical events. The debate highlights the struggle for doctrinal authority and the challenge of establishing a definitive understanding of religious truth when faced with divergent perspectives.
Historical Memory and Revisionism
The discussion deeply engages with how history is remembered, recounted, and potentially revised or defended by religious institutions. It explores the tension between historical fact, institutional narrative, and apologetic defense, particularly concerning controversial past practices.
Intra-Faith Conflict and Schism
The entire discourse is a testament to the deep-seated divisions and theological conflicts that emerged within the Mormon faith following the death of Joseph Smith. It illustrates how different factions developed distinct identities and doctrines, leading to ongoing contention over what constitutes 'true' Mormonism.

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