Original sentence: (2) A more contemporary view is that the "penalties" are symbolic of a "spiritual death" or separation from God.For most Mormons, the "penalties" have one of two meanings:  (1) An early view was that God would punish those who revealed the tokens, names, and signs to outsiders by striking them dead.However, there was no explicit indication that these penalties were ever to be enforced by Mormons or by the Church.In 1990, after decades of controversy, all "penalties" were deleted from the temple ceremony; however, there is still a vow of secrecy with respect to the tokens, signs, and names.Prior to changes made in 1990, certain "penalties" were also associated with each token given in the ceremony, together with its accompanying name and sign.Some critics, however, contend the "penalties" were frequently understood literally by Mormons and actually carried out.These penalties have generated some controversy.This "penalty" was associated with a vow never to reveal the token, name, and sign to outsiders.While making the secrecy vow, participants simulated their own throats and abdomens being cut open as penalty of revealing the tokens, signs, and names given as part of the ceremonies
Edited sentence: Participants were apparently expected to simulate their own throats and abdomens cut open as penalty of violating elements of vows sworn in the temples, particularly discosure of secret ceremonies.Prior to changes made in 1990, certain penalties were also associated with LDS temple ceremonies.The secrecy of temple ceremonies was strongly emphasized.These penalties have generated some controversy: Mormons often claim the threats of death and mutilation represent a kind of "spiritual death" or separation from God, while critics contend the threats were frequently carried out