Many people are unaware of the dietary restrictions and health guidelines followed by the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (also known as the Mormon Church). One of the prominent food rules of this religion is that Mormons don’t drink coffee. But why don’t Mormons drink coffee? Let’s take a closer look at this religious practice.
Coffee and tea are viewed as some of the most popular drinks in the world. Coffee is a strong brew made from roasted and ground beans that many consume as a morning kick starter. Tea is a more mild and refreshing beverage made from the steeped leaves of the tea plant. For centuries, both drinks have been staples for people all over the globe, representing global economic production and customs. But, for Mormons, the consumption of coffee and tea is considered to be contrary to the health code specified in the Doctrine and Covenants, Section 89 of their faith.
The church’s stance on coffee and tea is part of the Word of Wisdom, a set of dietary guidelines given by the Lord to early Latter Day Saints in 1833 and reiterated in Module 89, section 89, which was later canonized in modern Mormonism. It states that coffee and tea are not to be consumed by church members because they contain deleterious substances, neurotoxins and are not good for the health and said to cause addiction. By avoiding these beverages, Mormons remain spiritually, mentally and physically healthier and more prepared to serve the Kingdom of God.
The other dietary and health guidelines mentioned in the Word of Wisdom includes no alcoholic drinks and no smoking, limiting meat to fish and fowl, eating grains, vegetables, and fruits in season, and occasionally drinking wine for families to use for the sacrament and for medicinal purposes. Other than these restrictions, LDS members are free to eat and drink anything else that is healthy.
Due to the use of these dietary guidelines, LDS members have diminished the risk of gastrointestinal issues, stroke, long-term hypertension and many other health issues. Despite the negative reactions of non-Mormons, the decision not to drink coffee and tea has become a norm for Latter-Day Saints (LDS). Many people, who consume coffee and tea, question why Mormons don’t drink coffee and tea, but it is a lifestyle choice that has definitely benefited LDS members for generations.
In addition to this, the Mormon church is even more particular about the ingredients that are used to make the drinks. For example, coffee and tea must not contain caffeine and may not be fermented. They can also not be served with any other ingredients like milk, cream, sugar, or flavouring. All of these rules are to be strictly followed by Mormons, as it is part of their religious code.
Benefits of Adhering to Dietary Laws
One of the benefits of adhering to the dietary laws is that Mormons can enjoy healthier lives when they stay away from the foods and drinks that are not accepted in the church. For example, they are less likely to suffer from hypertension, diabetes, and other illnesses associated with coffee and tea consumption. They also promote a healthier lifestyle because they do not consume substances that may have negative side effects. All in all, these dietary laws have contributed to the overall well-being of the LDS members ever since its inception.
Furthermore, these restrictions also contribute to a more positive and mindful atmosphere. Mormonism has become a unifying factor that allows LDS members to bond over shared beliefs and experiences. Community is another key feature of the church, and people can easily come together and feel part of the same culture if they all adhere to the same health standards. By abstaining from coffee and tea, Mormons can stand together and psychologically support each other. Overall, this is an important aspect of the LDS faith, as community and well-being are also emphasised by this religion.
Are Nonbelievers Excluded?
It is easy to assume that this could be seen as exclusionary of people who do not follow the church commandment. However, this is not the case. Coffee-drinkers are welcomed in Latter-Day Saint classes, temple services or into their homes. LDS members will volunteer to make drinks or provide food that abides to their regulations by ensuring a caffeine free environment. Everyone is welcome to learn, understand and grow spiritually as long as it is done within the laws of the Church.
Below the surface, the underlying goal of abstaining from coffee is to focus on the spiritual goal of being in harmony with the Lord. To some, abstaining from coffee represents a high level of dedication to the Lord, but to others, it may simply be a matter of following the law of health that the Lord has set forth. Thus, whether or not someone drinks coffee should not be seen as a measure of righteousness.
Overall Benefits of Abstaining from Coffee and Tea
In conclusion, abstaining from the consumption of coffee and tea can yield numerous positive results for Mormons. These include cleaner and healthier living, spiritual growth, physical energy, a stronger sense of community, and more. By avoiding these drinks, Mormons prove their commitment to living clean lifestyles and gaining closer connections to the Lord. At the same time, however, non-Mormons should not be discouraged from drinking them as it is ultimately a personal lifestyle choice.
An In-Depth Look at the Impact of Abstaining from Coffee
Though it may be difficult to measure it in absolute terms, refraining from drinking coffee gives great benefits to practising Mormons. The individuals will lead a much healthier lifestyle in comparison to the non-Mormons who enjoy their daily morning cups. The absence of coffee drinking among Mormons is directly linked to the religion’s overall approach regarding nutrition and good health. Every aspect is monitored and controlled in accordance with the Church’s beliefs.
The physical and mental benefits of avoiding coffee cannot be overstated. It has been proven that eliminating caffeine intake can reduce the chances of developing hypertension and stroke. Caffeine has also been linked, albeit indirectly, to sleeping problems, metabolic issues, and emotional dysfunction, all of which the Mormons have the chance to avoid. Consequently, the health and well-being of Mormons are directly affected by the absence of coffee.
Reasons For Avoiding Coffee
Mormons abstain from drinking coffee and tea primarily due to the health laws laid down in the Doctrine and Covenants, Section 89. This section of the Mormon faith states that coffee and tea contain deleterious substances, neuro-toxins, and can be potentially addictive. As a result, drinking coffee and tea is seen as an unhealthy habit that should be avoided.
Mormons are expected to follow the guidelines set down in the Word of Wisdom, a set of dietary principles that were given by the Lord to the Latter Day Saints in 1833 and reiterated in Module 89, section 89. This section outlines the rules regarding food and health, including the suggestion not to consume coffee and tea. This rule has become a norm for Latter-Day Saints, encouraging the avoidance of coffee and tea in the community.
Social Norms
Aside from the physical health benefits, abstaining from coffee also reinforces among LDS members a sentiment that they are all striving to become better disciples. For them, avoidance of coffee and tea is an opportunity to develop spiritual and mental health and fosters a feeling of collective dedication to the religion. This is further seen in the way they all generally refrain from smoking cigarettes and drinking too much alcohol, in accordance with the Word of Wisdom.
By following the dietary guidelines established by the LDS Church, Mormons are able to come together, emotionally and spiritually. Since LDS members need to avoid coffee and tea, it creates an opportunity for fellowship and being part of a unified community. Furthermore, it reinforces the sense of dedication to the church by recognizing and adhering to the rules. In this way, abstaining from coffee allows Mormons to become more unified and connected with each other.
The Positive Impact Abstaining from Coffee has on Society
Ultimately, Mormons who abstain from drinking coffee can have a positive impact on their local communities. Not only are they healthier due to eliminating the caffeine from their diet, but also they are engaged in creating a better and more unified society. By abiding to the church’s dietary laws, they display a sense of commitment to the faith that goes beyond the personal level and objects in creating a better environment for society as a whole.
Moreover, Mormons’ commitment to their faith is further reinforced by abstaining from coffee. As such, their dedication to the religion is usually taken more seriously, which in turn makes their actions and words more meaningful to their community. As such, it can be argued that Mormons who abstain from coffee and tea demonstrate their commitment to the church as well as to their fellow man.
