Understanding the Word of Wisdom
Many people wonder about the dietary practices of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as Mormons. A common question that arises is why they can enjoy beverages like Coca-Cola or other sodas, while coffee and tea are abstained from. The answer lies in a foundational principle of their faith known as the Word of Wisdom.
What is the Word of Wisdom?
The Word of Wisdom is a health code revealed to Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in 1833. It is recorded in Section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants, a book of scripture considered to be divinely inspired revelation.
The primary purpose of the Word of Wisdom is to provide guidance on physical and spiritual well-being. It outlines principles for healthy living, encouraging the consumption of wholesome foods and the avoidance of substances that are considered harmful to the body and spirit.
Key Provisions of the Word of Wisdom
The Word of Wisdom is not a rigid set of rules, but rather a collection of principles and counsel. Some of the key provisions include:
- Encouragement to eat wholesome foods, such as grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Counsel against the use of tobacco.
- Counsel against the immoderate use of alcoholic drinks.
- Counsel against the use of "hot drinks."
The "Hot Drinks" Interpretation
It is the interpretation of the phrase "hot drinks" that directly addresses the question of coffee and tea. Historically and in the practice of the Church, "hot drinks" has been understood to refer to coffee and tea. This interpretation is based on the understanding that at the time of the revelation, coffee and tea were commonly consumed as hot beverages and were known to contain stimulants.
Latter-day Saints believe that abstaining from coffee and tea is a commandment from God, as part of living the Word of Wisdom. This abstinence is seen as an act of obedience and a way to show reverence for the body, which is considered a temple.
Why Coca-Cola and Other Sodas Are Permitted
This is where the distinction becomes clear. While coffee and tea are specifically understood to be included in the prohibition of "hot drinks," most sodas, including Coca-Cola, do not fall into this category.
Several factors contribute to this understanding:
- Caffeine Content: While many sodas contain caffeine, the Word of Wisdom does not explicitly prohibit caffeine. The historical interpretation focused on coffee and tea as the specific "hot drinks" to be avoided.
- "Hot" Consumption: Sodas are typically consumed cold or at room temperature, not as "hot drinks."
- Lack of Explicit Prohibition: The revelation does not directly name or prohibit the consumption of beverages like cola.
Therefore, because sodas are not considered "hot drinks" and are not explicitly prohibited by the Word of Wisdom, members of the Church are generally free to consume them.
The Spirit of the Word of Wisdom
Beyond the specific prohibitions, Latter-day Saints are encouraged to live by the *spirit* of the Word of Wisdom. This means seeking to live a healthy lifestyle, making wise choices, and avoiding things that are known to be harmful to the body and mind. This broader principle encourages members to be discerning in their choices and to seek personal revelation in matters not explicitly covered by scripture.
Elder Boyd K. Packer, a former President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explained the principle by stating, "The Word of Wisdom is a law of health, but it is more than that. It is a law of obedience. It is a law which promises blessings, both temporal and spiritual."
Blessings Associated with the Word of Wisdom
The Word of Wisdom concludes with a promise of blessings for those who adhere to its counsel:
"And all saints who remember to keep and to do these sayings, walking in obedience unto the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint. And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the
