15 Bizarre Mormonism Facts

Introduction:

Mormonism, also known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is a religion that has a rich and vibrant history filled with unique beliefs and practices. From its founding in the early 19th century by Joseph Smith to its growth into a worldwide faith, Mormonism has fascinated believers and non-believers alike. In this article, we will explore 15 bizarre facts about Mormonism that showcase the interesting and sometimes perplexing aspects of this religion.

Fact 1: The Golden Plates

One of the foundational beliefs of Mormonism is the story of Joseph Smith discovering the golden plates, which were said to contain the writings of the Book of Mormon. According to Smith, an angel directed him to the plates, which were engraved with ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. While the plates themselves have never been authenticated, they remain a central part of Mormon religious tradition.

Fact 2: The Seer Stone

In addition to the golden plates, Joseph Smith used a seer stone to translate the writings into the text of the Book of Mormon. This mystical stone was said to have special powers that aided Smith in his translation efforts. While this practice may seem bizarre to outsiders, it is considered a sacred part of Mormon history.

Fact 3: Polygamy

One of the most well-known aspects of early Mormonism is the practice of polygamy, or plural marriage. While the mainstream LDS Church officially abandoned the practice in the late 19th century, some breakaway sects still adhere to the belief that multiple wives are necessary for salvation. This controversial practice has sparked debate both within and outside of the Mormon community.

Fact 4: Kolob

Mormonism teaches that Kolob is a star or planet nearest to the throne of God. This celestial body is said to be the source of all light in the universe and serves as a symbolic representation of God’s eternal presence. The concept of Kolob is unique to Mormonism and has inspired countless interpretations and debates among believers.

Fact 5: The Three Nephites

According to Mormon folklore, three of the original apostles of Jesus Christ were granted immortality by him and still walk the earth today. These three Nephites are said to perform miracles and aid those in need, acting as hidden benefactors for the faithful. While the existence of the Three Nephites is not officially endorsed by the LDS Church, their stories remain a popular topic of discussion among Mormons.

Fact 6: The Word of Wisdom

Mormons adhere to a strict health code called the Word of Wisdom, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, and other harmful substances. This dietary restriction is seen as a way to maintain spiritual purity and physical health. While some may find these rules bizarre, Mormons view them as essential to their religious practice.

Fact 7: Baptism for the Dead

One unique aspect of Mormonism is the practice of baptizing deceased individuals by proxy. Mormons believe that these baptisms allow the deceased to accept the gospel and enter into heaven. While this practice may seem unusual to outsiders, it is considered an act of love and compassion towards those who have passed on.

Fact 8: Mark Hofmann

Mark Hofmann was a notorious forger who created several fake documents related to Mormon history in the 1980s. These forgeries, which included the infamous “Salamander Letter,” caused a major scandal within the LDS Church and raised questions about the authenticity of its historical records. Hofmann’s deceptions continue to baffle and intrigue scholars and believers alike.

Fact 9: The City of Enoch

According to Mormon teachings, the City of Enoch was a righteous city that was lifted up to heaven by God due to the righteousness of its inhabitants. This mythic city serves as a powerful symbol of the rewards of faithfulness and obedience in Mormon theology. The story of the City of Enoch continues to inspire awe and wonder among believers.

Fact 10: The Second Coming

Mormonism places a strong emphasis on the belief in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Mormons believe that Christ will return to earth in the last days to establish his kingdom and reign in righteousness. This belief in the imminent return of Christ shapes many aspects of Mormon culture and theology, fostering a sense of anticipation and preparedness among believers.

Fact 11: The Council of Fifty

The Council of Fifty was a secretive organization founded by Joseph Smith in the 1840s to prepare for the establishment of a Mormon kingdom on earth. This shadowy council was tasked with overseeing temporal affairs and ensuring the political dominance of the LDS Church. While the Council of Fifty was disbanded after Smith’s death, its legacy continues to provoke speculation and debate among historians.

Fact 12: The White Horse Prophecy

The White Horse Prophecy is a controversial belief among some Mormons that foretells of a time when the US Constitution will hang by a thread and a Mormon leader will step in to save the country. While this prophecy is not officially endorsed by the LDS Church, it has been the subject of much speculation and discussion among believers and non-believers alike.

Fact 13: The Urim and Thummim

Mormons believe that Joseph Smith used a pair of ancient seer stones called the Urim and Thummim to receive divine revelations and translate sacred texts. These mystical objects were said to have been passed down through the generations from biblical times and granted Smith special insight into the will of God. The Urim and Thummim remain a mysterious and intriguing aspect of Mormonism.

Fact 14: The Hill Cumorah

The Hill Cumorah is a sacred site in upstate New York where Joseph Smith claimed to have found the golden plates of the Book of Mormon. This hill serves as a symbolic landmark in Mormon history and is a popular destination for pilgrimages and religious gatherings. The story of the Hill Cumorah continues to captivate the imaginations of believers around the world.

Fact 15: The Book of Abraham

One of the most controversial aspects of Mormonism is the Book of Abraham, which Joseph Smith claimed to have translated from an ancient Egyptian papyrus. This text purports to reveal the story of Abraham’s life and teachings but has been widely criticized by scholars for its historical inaccuracies and lack of evidence. The Book of Abraham remains a point of contention and debate within the Mormon community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mormonism is a faith that is filled with intriguing and bizarre facts that challenge our understanding of religion and spirituality. From the golden plates to the City of Enoch, the beliefs and practices of Mormons are as perplexing as they are fascinating. By exploring these 15 bizarre facts about Mormonism, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and mysteries of this unique and vibrant religious tradition.