D&C 132:51-57
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- D&C 132:51. In verse 51, we learn that Emma was supposed to partake of something Joseph was commanded to offer her. This commandment was done "to prove you all." I propose that what occurred was a scenario similar to that of Heber C. Kimball and his wife Vilate, where Joseph told Heber that Vilate was to become his wife. Vilate eventually received personal confirmation that it was the will of the Lord, and Heber took her to Joseph in obedience to the commandment. Joseph told them they had passed the test and sealed them eternally as husband and wife. The proposed polyandry is consistent with verse 41, which allows polyandry when the Lord commands it. The scenario is probably as follows: Joseph was commanded to offer Emma to another husband. Emma probably didn't want to do it. Joseph had to obey the commandments of God; what could he do? The Lord accepted his sacrifice and provided a way out by issuing a new commandment that Emma not do what Joseph was commanded to offer her. The consequences are that Emma must receive all of Joseph's plural wives (who are worthy) and cleave to Joseph and to none else. If she doesn't, Joseph appears to get to decide her fate. "Then shall my servant Joseph do all things for her, even as he hath said." That power appears to have been given Joseph in verse 46. This interpretation is completely consistent with how plural marriage was practiced in Joseph's day, and it is also consistent with the current church practice of sealing deceased women to all of their spouses.
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- D&C 132:51: Partake not of that which I commanded you to offer unto her. What is this phrase referring to?
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