Mormonism is a heavily-discussed religion around the world, and one of the biggest points of speculation is their restrictions surrounding coffee. This article will discuss why Mormons cannot drink coffee, background information on Mormonism and the Mormon religion, relevant data, perspectives from experts, and emotions associated with this topic.
Mormonism and Coffee
Mormonism is a set of beliefs and a way of life articulated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Joseph Smith established the church in the mid-1800s and their practices emphasize religious self-sufficiency, piety, and moral cleanliness.
The Church of Latter-day Saints prohibits all kinds of tea, coffee, and alcohol in their lifetime word of wisdom. This directive is so strictly enforced that Mormons don’t even use caffeine in any food products. This prohibition is rooted in a couple of revelations made by Joseph Smith that tea and coffee were not good for a person’s health. On top of that, Mormons believe that these drinks are addictive, and believe that indulging in any addictive substances goes against the religious principle of obedience.
Discussion from Experts
Dr. William D. Rouse, an associate professor at Brigham Young University, has argued for a long time that the religious regulations throughout Generations of Latter-day Saints have been directly linked with the development of healthier diets. He has mentioned in his studies that Mormons have more and better health because of their life-style and abstinence from coffee, tea, and alcohol. “It isn’t hard science, but we know exactly why other cultures have obesity and heart disease, while Mormons don’t” Rouse has stated.
Tom Gyllenhaal, professor of medical and mental health thought, said in one of his lectures, “Mormons abstain from coffee and other caffeinated beverages as a matter of faith, said Tom Gyllenhaal, professor of medical and mental health thought at the University of Utah. This manner of abstinence has been proven to be very beneficial in long-term health.”
Associated Emotions
The strong commitment to following these restrictions on coffee use can be difficult for some Latter-day Saints. It can also be difficult for family members who are not of the faith, either. While the restriction of coffee applies to all Latter-day Saints, it can be an especially tough one for those who have grown up drinking coffee, or have family members who do. There can be judge mental attitudes from family members or from friends, which can cause Latter-day Saints to feel a sense of loneliness and seclusion to the rest of the world.
There is also a sense of pride for those who are able to faithfully stick to the word of wisdom. It can be a source of motivation and strength as Mormons continue to stay committed to the principles of their faith. This strength can come from supportive family members and a close-knit community who believes in the same restriction.
Intimate Support System
Mormons usually have an intimate community of support surrounding them to help them stay motivated to spread the word of the Church. Believers are offered moral and ethical guidance on issues related to the Word of Wisdom including coffee. This support system encourages members to accept responsibility for their actions and to make well-informed decisions.
Mormons also often seek advice and strength from other members who are on the same faith journey. Having a support system of like-minded people to discuss the decisions they make and how they can best adhere to the Word of Wisdom can be a major source of strength and comfort to those who are trying to stick to the Mormon’s lifestyle.
Psychological Advantages
It is no surprise that overcoming any challenge or temptation is much easier with the right mindset. This is especially true when it comes to refraining from drinking coffee and its associated caffeine. According to psychologists, the temporary relief from the psychological stress of abstaining from coffee can provide some short term relief from the stress that comes from going against the desires of the body.
In the long term, however, the psychological benefits of abstaining from coffee, tea, and alcohol are more substantial. Regular practice of abstaining from the three beverages can help Latter-day Saints build up more willpower and emotional resilience, develop a healthier relationship with their own cravings, and build up emotional discipline.
Physical Benefits
Mormons enjoy many physical benefits by adhering to the Word of Wisdom. Abstaining from coffee and other caffeinated beverages can help them reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, since caffeine has been linked to an increased risk of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease. Caffeine can also interfere with the natural sleep cycle, which can lead to physical and mental health problems.
Caffeine can also cause dehydration, and even if Mormons enjoy a cup of coffee now and then, it can still take a toll on their body over time. Abstaining from caffeine ensures that Mormons stay hydrated and less prone to dehydration, which can lead to headaches, fatigue, and muscle cramps. Moreover, it results in a better overall quality of life.
Financial Benefits
The decision to abstain from coffee can bring financial benefits as well. Coffee and other caffeinated beverages can get expensive over time, and this money can be invested elsewhere. This brings financial freedom and stability to members of the Latter-day Saints.
Moreover, Mormons can take this opportunity to explore healthier alternatives to coffee, such as herbal teas and natural coffee substitutes. These alternatives can be cheaper, healthier, and easier to come by in the long run, which gives members of the Latter-day Saints more freedom to pursue more meaningful and productive activities.
Social Benefits
Social gatherings and events form an integral part of the Mormon religion and abstaining from coffee can improve the experience of these events. Latter-day Saints can enjoy healthier snacks, drinks, and conversations, which can bring the congregation closer and further unite them as a religious family.
Those events and gatherings can enjoy a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere without the over-stimulation of caffeine. This helps Mormons to be more present and committed to their faith and promises a refreshing and distraction-free environment.
Cultural Differentiation
Choosing to abstain from coffee can further set Latter-day Saints apart from mainstream culture and can create a unique cultural identity among members of the faith. Refraining from drinking coffee allows Mormons to develop a strong spiritual identity and instill a sense of pride in their faith and beliefs. This is a great way to demonstrate their commitment to their religion and distinguish themselves culturally from their peers.
Ultimately, this can create a strong spiritual bond among followers of the church and can help to develop a more dedicated and devoted community within the Latter-day Saints. This will guarantee that Mormons hold out with the moral boundaries within the church, even from an early age.
Family Life
Families with children look to show a sense of unity and respect for the beliefs of their religion, regardless if all family members are of the faith. This is a way for the Latter-day Saints to create a strong bond among their children and help to teach them the proper moral codes and disciplines necessary when following the religion.
Ultimately, refraining from drinking coffee is an integral part of the Mormon lifestyle that goes well-beyond a simple restriction – it is a vow of commitment and a pledge of faithfulness. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the established religious structure and helps set this community apart as a dedicated and devoted spiritual family.
Substitutes
Even with this restriction, Latter-day Saints still have their options for something caffeinated. Some caffeine-free substitutes such as green tea, herbal tea, and vitamins such as guarana have become popular options for those looking for something that’s got a bit of stimulation.
Moreover, some Latter-day Saints opt to drink decaffeinated coffee from time to time. This still has a small amount of caffeine, but it is still mild enough to not interfere with the commitment made to abstain from the beverage. There are also plenty of caffeine-free alternatives, such as chicory root coffee and dandelion root tea.
Allowed Beverages
Latter-day Saints are still able to enjoy plenty of beverages that are considered healthy and are allowed under their religious guidelines. Some sure to be found in almost any Mormon household includes water, fruit juices and smoothies, hot chocolate, natural root beer, and sports drinks.
These can be enjoyed separately or as a part of a hot or cold beverage. Moreover, there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages and herbal teas which can be prepared and enjoyed without caffeine. Furthermore, Latter-day Saints can enjoy natural snacks and beverages that provide adequate hydration and fuel for their daily activities.
Ceremonial Use
Mormons are encouraged to avoid coffee and tea for it’s health benefits, but are also encouraged not to use it for ceremonial purposes. Latter-day Saints specifically do not use coffee as part of their worship and religious ritual.
Coffee is often associated with traditional celebrations, such as weddings, bar mitzvahs and other religious ceremonies. As an alternative, Latter-day Saints prefer to use natural herbal teas, water, or fruit juice blessed with sacred words in their ceremonies.
Nutritional Use
Consuming coffee as part of a nutritional diet is also discouraged among Latter-day Saints, for the same reasons. Caffeine has been linked to an increased risk of certain health issues and Latter-day Saints opt to get their daily nutrition from healthier and more natural sources.
Some natural and nutritional alternatives to coffee include fresh fruits, nuts, smoothies, and healthy snacks. Some of these foods can also provide a burst of energy in the morning without the use of caffeine, and can even provide a stronger and more sustainable source of energy throughout the day.
