Original sentence: In the early Church era, some followers who practiced plural marriage often said they were uncomfortable with it when first introduced to them, but believed it was commissioned by God, who had at times allowed the practice in Old Testament times.Plural marriage may have been the source tension in Smith's first marriage, however, Emma Hale Smith did witness several of Joseph Smith's marriages.Though some argue that polygamy was a way of dealing with widows who lost their husbands while crossing the plains, yet others feel that Smith's behavior makes it clear that this was not a major motivating factor for Smith.While Smith publicly denied plural marriage during the early days of the church, he practiced it secretly, and introduced it to a small number of followers
Edited sentence: By all accounts, Emma was greatly troubled by plural marriage, though she remained faithful to Smith, and generally supported him.Evidence suggests that Smith may have "married" the wives of missionaries who were away preaching, having previously been sent away by Smith.In the early Church era, followers who practiced plural marriage often said they were uncomfortable with it when first introduced to them, but believed it was commissioned by God, who had allowed the practice in Old Testament times.Many feel Plural Marriage was used by Smith to legitimatize what constituted affairs, and that this was done out of recognizing the social needs of that day and age: Smith even went to the fathers of some of the younger girls to obtain access to their daughters.Plural marriage was the source of much tension in Smith's first marriage, and in early Mormon history, as it was illegal, and was felt by some to be immoral or misguided.Though some argue that polygamy was a way of dealing with widows who lost their husbands while crossing the plains, yet others feel that Smith's behavior makes it clear that this was not a major motivating factor.When the husband returned—to the utter shock of the now-consumated wife of Smith—much displeasure ensued.While Smith publicly denied plural marriage during the early days of the church, he practiced it secretly, and introduced a small number of followers into the practice.While away, it is contended, Smith "prophesied" the death of the husband and suggested the marriage