Why Don't Mormons Just Drink Cold Brewed Tea and Coffee?
Many people might wonder, given that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), commonly known as Mormons, are prohibited from drinking coffee and tea, why they don't simply opt for cold-brewed alternatives. This article aims to explore why the religious guidance goes beyond merely the temperature of the hot drinks.
The Clarification of 'Hot Drinks'
Initially, the phrase 'hot drinks' in the Word of Wisdom was used, which, over time, has been clarified to specifically refer to coffee and tea. The reasoning behind this prohibition is multifaceted and rooted in spiritual health and personal wellbeing.
Physical and Spiritual Health Considerations
The Word of Wisdom is a revelation to Joseph Smith that outlines wise choices for living a healthy life. It omits specific details but encourages a general lifestyle of abstinence from harmful substances. For Mormons, this includes avoiding coffee and tea, regardless of how they are prepared.
Stomach Lining Erosion
Some members of the Church believe that hot drinks, regardless of whether they are served hot or cold, can have a detrimental impact on the stomach lining. This is a risk associated with high temperatures, which could potentially lead to erosion and digestive issues in the long term.
Addiction and Stimulants
A common interpretation is that the use of stimulants found in coffee and tea can be habit-forming and detrimental to one's spiritual health. The idea is that many individuals might develop a dependency on these substances, which can impact their overall well-being and focus on spiritual goals.
Alcohol and Hot Drinks
From a different perspective, some interpret the term 'hot drinks' to include beverages that could potentially contain alcohol. While this interpretation is less common, it adds another layer of complexity to the prohibition.
Why Not Cold Brewed Alternatives?
Mormons generally choose to avoid even cold-brewed coffee and tea due to the inherent properties of these beverages. While cold brewing might reduce some of the bitterness and caffeine levels, it does not mitigate all of the effects that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is concerned about.
Additional Insights
It's important to note that the Word of Wisdom is a guideline for a healthful lifestyle rather than a strict legal mandate. Many members interpret and follow the guidance based on their personal beliefs and experiences.
Why do Mormons avoid these drinks? Some key reasons include:
Stomach Health: Concerns about the erosive effects on the stomach lining. Addiction and Spiritual Health: The risk of developing dependency and its potential negative impact on spiritual focus. General Health: A broader guideline to encourage a healthful lifestyle without specific prohibitions on all types of cold beverages.This approach reflects the holistic view of spiritual and physical health that Mormons strive for, emphasizing the importance of making health-conscious choices that support their faith and well-being.