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Archives Quote by Fawn M. Brodie

“... over two hundred women, apparently at their own request, were sealed as wives to Joseph Smith after his death in special temple ceremonies. Moreover, a great many distinguished women in history, including several Catholic saints, were also sealed to Joseph Smith in Utah. I saw these…” quote by Fawn M. Brodie
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“... over two hundred women, apparently at their own request, were sealed as wives to Joseph Smith after his death in special temple ceremonies. Moreover, a great many distinguished women in history, including several Catholic saints, were also sealed to Joseph Smith in Utah. I saw these astonishing lists in the Latter-day Saint Genealogical Archives in Salt Lake City in 1944.”

Fawn M. Brodie

About This Quote

Source Book: Biography of Joseph Smith, 1945

Historical practice of posthumous sealing in early Mormonism, linking prominent women to Joseph Smith after death.

In simple terms: Mormon sealing linked women to Joseph Smith after death.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how religious rituals can reshape personal narratives.

Themes

religion history gender rituals

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

historical scholarly

When to use this quote

  • genealogy research
  • religious studies
  • cultural analysis

Key Concepts

posthumous sealing authority memory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How did participants view their sealing?
  • What impact did this have on women's identities?
A Different Perspective

These practices raise questions about consent and agency.

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