Why Did Emma Smith Remain in Nauvoo after the Death of Joseph Smith?
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Maryann TaylorDecember 1, 2021
Thank you for confirming my thoughts that one of the reasons that Emma stayed in Nauvoo was probably because the Prophet's mother, Lucy, was not strong enough for the journey. I hope that none of us are ever critical of Emma for any reason. We cannot begin to really understand all that she endured. Perhaps, through her many great sacrifices and obedience, she had already secured her exaltation. Perhaps it was better for her to remain with Lucy and she was not required by the Lord to go to the Salt Lake Valley. Whatever the case, I believe she is still "An Elect Lady," as recorded in D&C 25:3, "Behold, thy sins are forgiven thee, and thou art an elect lady, whom I have called."
Carlos RoundyDecember 1, 2021
Joseph and Emma also baried 4 or 5 children in the Nauvoo area.
Herm OlsenDecember 1, 2021
Excellent article. In my youth, it was common practice in the Church to criticize Emma (which reflected the Brigham Young interpretation of life). But I was always cautious about any such criticism, because I knew how passionately devoted Joseph was to Emma. And I feared I would have to face Joseph one day to answer for any criticism I might have otherwise made. I still believe that, and am pleased that the Church has taken a rather more sympathetic view of Emma in recent decades.
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