A Look into the Word of Wisdom
As a doctrine and covenants 89, the Word of Wisdom strongly prohibits the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from consuming hot drinks. This prescription, a revelation from God directed to Prophet Joseph Smith, is often cited as the reason why Mormons don’t drink coffee. It’s pivotal in understanding the beliefs and practices of the Mormon faith.
The Word of Wisdom, perceived as a health code by many, specifically outlines regulations not only for hot drinks including coffee but also for diet, tobacco, and alcohol consumption. It further denotes the importance of regular exercise, rest, and the use of wholesome herbs and grains.
Why Coffee and Tea are Forbidden
Joseph Smith received a manifest revelation from God that hot drinks, primarily coffee and tea, should be avoided by the members of the Mormon church. It’s because these beverages were often habit forming due to their caffeine content. Also, the Mormon faith interprets hot drinks as potentially unhealthy.
The word of wisdom prohibits the intake of coffee and tea, naming them explicitly as harmful. These caffeinated beveragesare potentially habit forming and pose potential health risks. For Mormons, maintaining purity of body and mind is crucial, and the said coffee consumption can be seen as a violation of this principle.
Understanding the Mormon Faith
Adhering strictly to the word of wisdom showcases a faithful member’s dedication to the Mormon faith. The church, considering the doctrines as a guide to healthy living, encourages its members to lead a simple and pure life. As Prophet Joseph Smith proclaimed, the word is a principle showing the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days.
Guided by leaders who are regarded as prophets of God, the Mormon church highly values teachings and revelations that come from these leaders. For this reason, the teachings of the prophet Joseph Smith, including the word of wisdom, are strictly followed.
Health Risks and Habit-Forming Properties
The potential health risks of coffee and tea consumption have been well-documented. They contain considerable amounts of caffeine, a habit-forming substance. Consuming such caffeinated beverages can lead to an increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and in extreme cases, caffeine toxicity.
Apart from the potential health risks, the habit-forming property of these drinks is another reason for the prohibition. Every day, countless individuals around the world find their day incomplete without a cup of coffee or tea. The Mormon church proclaims that its members should not be enslaved by any habit or addiction.
Alcohol Prohibition in the Doctrine
Just like coffee and tea, the word of wisdom prohibits the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to drink alcohol as well. Such a prohibition furthers Mormons’ belief in maintaining a pure, healthy body. Apart from health reasons, the disapproval also addresses the potential societal issues brought by alcohol abuse.
In fact, the word of wisdom was revealed to Prophet Joseph Smith at a time when temperance movements were popular across the United States. The movements aimed at reducing the consumption of alcohol to address various health and social issues associated with it.
Beliefs and Practices Regarding Coffee
Mormons don’t drink coffee due to the strong beliefs that it contains harmful substances. “Hot drinks are not for the body or belly,” as said in the word of wisdom. Here’s an interesting fact, though – it’s not about the temperature. When Mormons refer to ‘hot drinks’, they primarily refer to coffee and tea.
This prohibition extends beyond simple coffee consumption. The Mormon church also discourages its members from any use of coffee, including it in any form or product. Therefore, you won’t find a faithful Mormon eating coffee-flavored ice cream or candy either!
Safeguarding Members of the Church
The word of wisdom’s prohibition is seen as a protective measure by the Mormon church, safeguarding the members of the church from harmful substances. It’s perceived not as a restrictive rule, but as a loving injunction from a caring Heavenly Father who wants His children to be healthy, happy, and free from addiction.
By adhering to these regulations, Mormons show their obedience to God and willingness to adhere to the principles of their faith. The word of wisdom is not only about what one cannot do, but also about the positive habits that one should develop.
A Revelation to Joseph Smith Received
It’s believed that Joseph Smith received this revelation concerning health in 1833. The Doctrine and Covenants 89, known by members as the Word of Wisdom, isn’t just a list of things to avoid. It’s also full of counsel to eat wholesome food, to work and to rest, to give thanks to God – in short, to respect the body, which is considered a ‘temple of God’.
A Health Code That Includes Coffee
Mormons view the Word of Wisdom as not only a health code that prohibits harmful substances, but also a holistic guide towards a healthy lifestyle. For faithful Mormons, this isn’t just about abstaining from certain foods and drinks, including coffee. It’s about living a lifestyle that puts God first and respects the body as God’s creation.
The health code is more than mere dietary restrictions; it is a way of life. It involves a complete commitment to physical, mental and spiritual health – combining nutritional counsel with spiritual guidance.
FAQ
What is the Word of Wisdom?
The Word of Wisdom is a law of health revealed by the Lord to the Prophet Joseph Smith. It prohibits the consumption of alcohol, coffee, tea, and tobacco, among other things.
What beverages are prohibited according to the Mormon health code?
Primarily, coffee and tea are identified as “hot drinks” by the Doctrine and Covenants 89 and are thereby prohibited.
Can Mormons not use coffee in any form?
Yes, the prohibition on coffee extends to any use of coffee, including in desserts or other products.
Why do Mormons not drink coffee?
Mormons believe that coffee, like tea or any caffeinated drinks, carries potential health risks and can be habit-forming.
What’s the pattern of beliefs and practices among Mormons concerning coffee?
Mormons believe that coffee carries harmful substances. Their practice is not to consume coffee in any form or product.
Why can’t Members of the church drink alcohol?
As per the Word of Wisdom, Mormons are prohibited from drinking alcohol due to its addictive nature and potential health risks.
Are there any exceptions to the prohibition in the Word of Wisdom?
No exceptions are typically granted in matters related to food, drinks or other substances prohibited by the Word of Wisdom.
What do Mormons consume instead of coffee?
Mormons can consume drinks like herbal teas, hot chocolate, or caffeine-free soft drinks.
How do Mormons look at the Doctrine and Covenants 89?
Mormons see the Doctrine and Covenants 89 as not only a prohibition of certain substances, but as a comprehensive guide towards a healthy lifestyle.
Did the revelation from God directly point to the harm in coffee?
The Word of Wisdom, a revelation to Joseph Smith, refers to “hot drinks” being “not for the body or belly”, which Latter-Day Saints interpret to mean coffee and tea.
