Polygamy in 1831 to be kept secret
In Essentials of Church History, pgs. 281-282, you can read how Joseph Smith was commanded by the Lord to keep the “commandment of plural marriage” secret for twelve years.
“This revelation, dated July 12, 1843, also contains the doctrine of plural wives. This doctrine was made known to the Prophet as early as the summer of 1831, and by him was taught to a few others…Secrecy was imposed by the Lord until such time as he saw fit for its introduction. When the Prophet was commanded to practice this principle, he hesitated and deferred taking action for some time…moreover, his own prejudices were in opposition to the doctrine. However, the Lord had commanded and he must act.”
