Hales argues that Smith entered both conjugal marriages and sealings that applied only to the next life, and that the evidence does not establish simultaneous sexual relationships with a woman and her civil husband. He interprets plural marriage within Smith’s understanding of a commanded restoration, including eternal marriage and access to exaltation.
- Brian C. Hales, “Joseph Smith’s Personal Polygamy,” Journal of Mormon History 38, no. 2 (2012): 163–228.
- Brian C. Hales, Joseph Smith’s Polygamy, Volume 1: History (Greg Kofford Books, 2013).
- Brian C. Hales and Laura Harris Hales, Joseph Smith’s Polygamy: Toward a Better Understanding (Greg Kofford Books, 2015).
He believed plural marriage had been restored to the earth and was a valid—even commanded—practice in the eyes of God.