The Bizarre World of Mormonism: 15 Weird Facts

Introduction:

Mormonism is a unique and often misunderstood religion that has its roots in the United States. With a history filled with peculiar beliefs and practices, Mormonism has managed to capture the attention of many individuals around the world. In this article, we will delve into the bizarre world of Mormonism and explore 15 weird facts about this fascinating religion.

Fact 1: Joseph Smith’s Vision

One of the foundational beliefs of Mormonism is Joseph Smith’s claim that he had a vision from God in 1820. According to Smith, God and Jesus Christ appeared to him in a grove of trees near his home and told him to start a new church.

Fact 2: The Book of Mormon

Mormonism is centered around the Book of Mormon, which Joseph Smith claimed to have translated from ancient golden plates. The book tells the story of a group of Israelites who migrated to the Americas and is considered by Mormons to be a companion to the Bible.

Fact 3: Polygamy

One of the most controversial aspects of Mormonism is its history of polygamy. While polygamy is no longer practiced by mainstream Mormons, it was a common practice among early followers of the religion and was considered essential for achieving exaltation in the afterlife.

Fact 4: Temple Garments

Mormons who have received their temple ordinances wear special undergarments known as temple garments. These garments are considered sacred and are believed to provide protection and spiritual blessings to those who wear them.

Fact 5: The Doctrine of Eternal Progression

Mormons believe in the doctrine of eternal progression, which teaches that humans have the potential to become like God. This belief includes the idea that through obedience to God’s commandments, individuals can eventually attain godhood themselves.

Fact 6: The Word of Wisdom

Mormons adhere to a health code known as the Word of Wisdom, which prohibits the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea. Followers of the Word of Wisdom believe that it helps them maintain physical and spiritual health.

Fact 7: Baptism for the Dead

One of the unique practices of Mormonism is baptism for the dead. Mormons believe that baptized individuals can act as proxies for deceased individuals who did not have the opportunity to receive the ordinance while alive, allowing them to accept or reject the baptism in the afterlife.

Fact 8: The Seer Stones

Joseph Smith claimed to have used seer stones to translate the Book of Mormon and receive revelations. These stones, which he claimed were gifts from God, played a significant role in the early history of Mormonism.

Fact 9: Independent Mormon Sects

Although mainstream Mormonism is well-known, there are also numerous independent Mormon sects that have broken away from the mainstream church. These sects often have their own unique beliefs and practices that vary widely from traditional Mormonism.

Fact 10: The City of Independence

Mormons believe that the city of Independence, Missouri, is the site of Zion, the New Jerusalem. Joseph Smith prophesied that the city would be the gathering place for the saints in the last days, ushering in a period of peace and righteousness.

Fact 11: The Three Degrees of Glory

Mormonism teaches that after death, individuals will be assigned to one of three degrees of glory: the celestial kingdom, the terrestrial kingdom, or the telestial kingdom. Each kingdom represents a different level of spiritual reward and is based on the individual’s faith and obedience.

Fact 12: The Adam-God Doctrine

One of the more controversial teachings of early Mormonism is the Adam-God doctrine, which suggests that Adam is the literal father of Jesus Christ and God the Father. This doctrine has been largely disavowed by mainstream Mormons but continues to be a topic of debate among scholars.

Fact 13: The Book of Abraham

Joseph Smith claimed to have translated the Book of Abraham from ancient Egyptian papyri. This text is considered scripture by Mormons and provides insights into the pre-earth life and the purpose of mortal existence.

Fact 14: The Lamanites and Nephites

The Book of Mormon tells the story of two ancient civilizations called the Lamanites and Nephites who lived in the Americas. Mormons believe that Native Americans are descended from these peoples and that the Book of Mormon provides spiritual and historical guidance for their descendants.

Fact 15: Temple Endowment Ceremony

One of the most sacred ceremonies in Mormonism is the temple endowment ceremony, which takes place in temple buildings around the world. During this ceremony, participants make sacred covenants with God and receive instruction and blessings for the afterlife.

Conclusion

Mormonism is a religion filled with unique beliefs and practices that have captured the interest of people all over the world. From Joseph Smith’s visionary experiences to the complex doctrines of eternal progression and temple ordinances, Mormonism continues to be a source of fascination and debate. By exploring these 15 weird facts about Mormonism, we gain a deeper understanding of this enigmatic religion and the beliefs that have shaped its history.