Interpreting the Word of Wisdom: Why LDS Do Not Drink Tea
In the context of the Word of Wisdom, a revelation given to Joseph Smith in 1833, the reasons behind the LDS attitude towards tea are multifaceted. This article delves into the historical background and current interpretations that shape this belief.
Background of the Word of Wisdom
The Word of Wisdom (DC 89) has been a topic of speculation and curiosity, especially concerning the prohibition against tea. This revelation includes a wide range of dietary guidelines and has had its interpretations evolve over time. At the time of its revelation, certain dietary practices were considered cutting-edge health advice. For instance, many dietary beliefs centered around eliminating fats, including non-fat diets which were popular in the late 1980s. However, the specific guidance regarding tea and coffee can be traced back to the prevailing dietary fads and cultural norms of Joseph Smith's era.
The Claimed Reasons Behind the Prohibition
The Doctrine and Covenants 89:9 states, “Hot drinks are not for the body or belly,” which has historically been interpreted to mean tea and, sometimes, coffee. Another significant verse, Doctrine and Covenants 89:14 mentions, “All grain is ordained for the use of man and of beasts to be the staff of life.” These verses have been the foundation for the current stance against tea, suggesting it should be avoided for health reasons.
Evolving Interpretations
The interpretation of hot drinks has faced revisions over time. Initially, it was believed that the prohibition was due to caffeine. However, in recent years, caffeine has been reinstated as acceptable, which means that even green tea, which is incredibly healthy, is no longer on the approved list. This change can be attributed to a shift in understanding, where the belief is that consuming substances deemed harmful goes against the principles laid out in the Word of Wisdom.
Current Relevance and Practice
Despite these revisions and explanations, the Word of Wisdom has not been strictly adhered to in practice by most members of the LDS community. Attending ward functions often reveals a disregard for the “eat meat sparingly” clause, as well as the general health advice given in the revelation. Many church members find that the guidelines are challenging to follow, particularly when it comes to tea, coffee, and alcohol. The interpretation of "sparing" is often stretched to match practical limitations rather than literal scriptural meanings.
Historical Context and Modern Implications
The A word of wisdom given to Joseph Smith in 1833 has been the subject of extensive discussion and interpretation. A 1981 historical article by Thomas Alexander provides valuable insights into how the interpretation of the Word of Wisdom evolved over time. The current consensus is that "hot drinks" refers to coffee and tea, reflecting a misinterpretation or summation of earlier dietary beliefs.
Understanding and Acceptance
Ultimately, the prohibition against tea is rooted in a combination of historical context, cultural changes, and evolving attitudes. While the reasons behind the prohibition have been reinterpreted, the core practice remains, reflecting the ongoing efforts to reconcile scriptural guidance with modern living.
By understanding the historical and cultural context of the Word of Wisdom, members of the LDS community can better appreciate the complexity behind the teachings and the challenges in adhering to them in today's world.