Meaning:
The quote you've provided is a controversial and racially charged statement attributed to Warren Jeffs, the former leader of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS). Jeffs is known for his extreme and often controversial beliefs, particularly regarding race and the interpretation of religious texts. This quote reflects his views on the lineage of African Americans and their place in religious history.
In order to fully understand the context of this quote, it's important to provide some background on Warren Jeffs and the FLDS. Jeffs was born into a prominent polygamous family and eventually rose to become the leader of the FLDS, a sect that splintered from the mainstream Mormon church over a century ago. Under Jeffs' leadership, the FLDS became known for its strict and often oppressive practices, including the forced marriage of underage girls and the expulsion of young boys from the community to maintain a gender imbalance.
The quote mentions "Ham's wife" and refers to her as a "Negro of the seed of Cain." This language reflects a belief held by some within the FLDS and other fundamentalist groups that people of African descent are descendants of Cain, who according to the Bible, was cursed by God for killing his brother, Abel. This belief has been used to justify discriminatory practices and racial segregation within certain religious communities.
The mention of a "priestly purpose" in preserving Ham's wife on the Ark is a reference to the Biblical story of Noah and the Great Flood. According to the Book of Genesis, Noah and his family, including his sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth, were chosen by God to survive the flood by building an ark and taking on board pairs of animals. The quote suggests that Ham's wife, as a representative of the "Negro" race, was included on the ark for a specific religious purpose, implying a sinister intent behind her preservation.
This interpretation of the story of Noah's Ark is highly controversial and not accepted by mainstream religious scholars. The idea that the Devil would have a representation through the inclusion of a person of African descent on the ark is deeply rooted in racist and discriminatory beliefs. It reflects a warped and dangerous interpretation of religious texts that has been used to justify oppression and subjugation throughout history.
It's important to note that Warren Jeffs' teachings and actions have been widely condemned by mainstream religious leaders and organizations. His extreme views and the harmful practices of the FLDS have led to legal action, including his arrest and conviction on charges of child sexual assault and other crimes.
In conclusion, the quote attributed to Warren Jeffs reflects his controversial and racially charged beliefs about the role of people of African descent in religious history. It is a disturbing example of how religious texts can be twisted to justify discrimination and oppression. It's important to reject such interpretations and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of religious teachings.