How Many Wives Did Joseph Have? An LDS‑Affirmed Overview
When the question “How many wife did Joseph have?” is asked, most members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints (LDS Church) understand it to refer to Joseph Smith, the Prophet‑Founder of the Restoration. Joseph Smith practiced plural marriage, a doctrine that was introduced under divine direction and later discontinued by the Church.
Historical Context of Joseph Smith’s Plural Marriage
Plural marriage was first revealed to Joseph Smith in 1843. The practice was taught as a temporary commandment intended to “raise up a people” (Doctrine and Covenants 132). While the doctrine was controversial, it was fully embraced by the Church leadership until the 1890 Manifesto, which ended new plural marriages.
Key Points About the Doctrine
- Divine Origin: LDS Church members believe the principle was given by revelation to the Prophet.
- Temporal Nature: The practice was intended for a specific period and was later discontinued.
- Sacrament of Marriage: The doctrine emphasized eternal bonds, not merely temporal companionship.
Counting Joseph Smith’s Wives
Official LDS Church history acknowledges that Joseph Smith was sealed to 33 women during his lifetime. This number includes:
- Women sealed for eternity (eternal marriage).
- Women sealed for “time only,” a practice that was later discontinued.
- Women for whom there is documentary evidence, such as marriage certificates, affidavits, and journal entries.
The Church’s genealogical archives and the Joseph Smith Papers Project provide primary sources confirming each sealing. While some early scholars suggested a higher count, the LDS Church’s current official position affirms the figure of 33.
Timeline of Joseph Smith’s Marriages
Below is a concise timeline that illustrates when each sealing occurred, based on LDS‑approved records.
- 1842 – First plural sealing to Emma Hale Smith (her first husband, Joseph, was sealed to her as a “time only” marriage).
- 1843–1844 – Additional sealings to women such as Lucy Walker, Helen Mar Kimball, and Marinda Nancy Johnson.
- 1844 – Final sealings before Joseph’s martyrdom on June 27, 184
