We Believe: Doctrines of Mormonism: Word of Wisdom

List of Doctrines on "The Word of Wisdom"

876. The Word of Wisdom is a commandment of the Lord.

877. Our bodies should be kept clean and pure; hence, we are to be concerned with the nature of the food and drink taken into our bodies.

878. Observance of the Word of Wisdom increases the health of both the body and the spirit.

879. We are not to drink alcoholic beverages.

880. We are not to use tobacco.

881. We are not to drink tea or coffee.

882. The use of a habit-forming drug of any kind violates the spirit of the Word of Wisdom and defiles both body and spirit.

883. The meat of animals is intended for our food, but we are to use it sparingly.

884. Wholesome herbs and fruits are intended for our food; we are to use them prudently.

885. A man who faithfully magnifies his priesthood calling may be sanctified by the Spirit to the renewal of his body, and the enjoyment of increased physical health.

886. By obedience to the Word of Wisdom we may gain great wisdom, understanding, and hidden treasures of knowledge.

876. The Word of Wisdom is a commandment of the Lord.

Joseph Smith
Elder Spencer W. Kimball
Elder Ezra Taft Benson
President Joseph F. Smith
Marvin O. Ashton
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
Boyd K. Packer
Related Witnesses
President Brigham Young
President Brigham Young

Joseph Smith

A Word of Wisdom, for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church, and also the saints in Zion— 2. To be sent greeting; not by commandment or constraint, but by revelation and the word of wisdom, showing forth the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days— 3. Given for a principle with promise, adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all saints, who are or can be called saints.
4. Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation— 5. That inasmuch as any man drinketh wine or strong drink among you, behold it is not good, neither meet in the sight of your Father, only in assembling yourselves together to offer up your sacraments before him. 6. And, behold, this should be wine, yea, pure wine of the grape of the vine, of your own make. 7. And, again, strong drinks are not for the belly, but for the washing of your bodies. 8. And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill.
9. And again, hot drinks are not for the body or belly. (Revelation, Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:1-9

Elder Spencer W. Kimball

In 1851 President Brigham Young gave to this Church the Word of Wisdom as a final and definite commandment. From the time it was given to the Prophet Joseph until 1851 it was considered as a matter of preference or suggestion to the people, a word of advice and counsel. From 1851 until this day it is a commandment to all the members of the Church of Jesus Christ. (Brigham Young University, stake conference) (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball. p. 201) TLDP:739

Elder Ezra Taft Benson

In 1851, President Brigham Young proposed to the general conference of the Church that all Saints formally covenant to keep the Word of Wisdom. This proposal was unanimously upheld by the membership of the Church. Since that day, the revelation has been a binding commandment on all Church members.
. . . . The Word of Wisdom is a law—a principle with a promise. If we obey the provisions of the law, we receive the promises. If we do not, there will both temporal and spiritual consequences. CR1983Apr:70

President Joseph F. Smith,
quoted by Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

It [D&C 89] was not given, at that time, by way of commandment or restraint but by revelation, "a word of wisdom showing forth the order and will of God in the temporal salvation of all saints in the last days." Subsequently, years afterwards, from this stand, it was proclaimed from the mouth of the Prophet and President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young, that the time had come when this Word of Wisdom—then given not by commandment or constraint—was now a commandment of the Lord to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the Lord required them to observe this Word of Wisdom and counsel, which is the will of God unto the people for their temporal salvation. CHMR1:384

Marvin O. Ashton

[The Word of Wisdom] is given as a commandment; the Word of Wisdom did proceed from the mouth of God to us as a people, and as the will of the Lord, and therefore we are under a command to observe it. CR1938Oct:57

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

We sometimes hear it said that the Lord did not give the Word of Wisdom by commandment, and therefore some take advantage of a word and justify themselves in not observing this revelation. But let us remember that the Lord has also said that what he has here said is "adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all saints, who are or can be called saints." There were good reasons why it was not strictly commanded at the time the revelation was given, as already expressed. When men become sufficiently taught they were expected to observe what is here written. In fact the High Council of the Church over which the Prophet Joseph Smith presided declared in 1834 by unanimous vote after a full and free discussion on the subject, that, "No official member of this Church is worthy to hold an office after having the Word of Wisdom properly taught him; and he, the official member, neglecting to comply with or obey it." (Essentials In Church History, p. 169) CHMR1:383-84; TPJS:117

Boyd K. Packer

The Word of Wisdom put restrictions on members of the Church. To this day those regulations apply to every member and to everyone who seeks to join the Church. They are so compelling that no one is to be baptized into the Church without first agreeing to live by them. No one will be called to teach or to lead unless they accept them. When you want to go to the temple, you will be asked if you keep the Word of Wisdom. If you do not, you cannot go to the house of the Lord until you are fully worthy. (CR 1996Apr)

Related Witnesses:

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

Now, Elders of Israel, if you have a right to chew tobacco, you have a privilege I have not; if you have a right to drink whiskey, you have a right that I have not; if you have a right to transgress the Word of Wisdom, you have a right that I have not. (Discourse on Word of Wisdom, April 7, 1867, JD12:30) DBY:183

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

I said to the saints at our last annual Conference, the Spirit whispers to me to call upon the Latter-day Saints to observe the Word of Wisdom, to let tea, coffee, and tobacco alone, and to abstain from drinking spirituous drinks. This is what the Spirit signifies through me. If the Spirit of God whispers this to his people through their leader, and they will not listen nor obey, what will be the consequences of their disobedience? Darkness and blindness of mind with regard to the things of God will be their lot; they will cease to have the spirit of prayer, and the spirit of the world will increase in them in proportion to their disobedience until they apostatize entirely from God and his ways. (In Tooele, Utah, Aug. 17, 1867, JD12:117) DBY:183

877. Our bodies should be kept clean and pure; hence, we are to be concerned with the nature of the food and drink taken into our bodies.

James E. Talmage
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
President Joseph F. Smith
John A. Widtsoe
Related Witnesses
Paul
Joseph Smith
President Brigham Young
Paul
Recorded in Daniel

James E. Talmage

Sanctity of the Body—The Church teaches that everyone should regard his body as "the temple of God; and that he maintain its purity and sanctity as such. He is taught that the Spirit of the Lord dwells not in unclean tabernacles; and that therefore he is required to live according to the laws of health, which constitute part of the law of God. For the special guidance of His saints, the Lord has revealed the following: [Quoting the Word of Wisdom, D&C 89] AF:405

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

From the organization of the Church until the Word of Wisdom was given the Lord had, by revelation, tried to impress upon the members of the Church the fact that their bodies should be kept clean and pure, for they were to be the eternal tabernacles of the spirits which dwell in them. One of the main purposes of this mortal life is to obtain these bodies and if they are not kept clean then they are not fit for exaltation. The doctrine of the Church in this respect transcend the teachings of any other people, and the purpose of this great revelation on the care and proper treatment of the body is that the body may be sanctified in truth and cleanliness, as well as the spirit. If we are to be immortal beings and to dwell in the presence of the Father and the Son, then our bodies must be sanctified from all evil and become like theirs. John says, "Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he (Christ) is pure." (1 John 3:3) CHMR1:383

President Joseph F. Smith

Everything has become degenerated from what it was in its primitive state. God made man pure, but he [man] has found out many inventions; his vices have become innumerable and his diseases multiplied. His taste has become vitiated and his judgment impaired. He has fallen—fallen—fallen from that dignified state that he once occupied on the earth, and it needs a restorative that man has not in his possession, wisdom which is beyond the reach of human intellect, the power which human philosophy, talent, and ingenuity cannot control. God only is acquainted with the fountain of action and the mainsprings of human events. He knows where disease is seated and what is the cause of it. He is also acquainted with the springs of health, the balm of Gilead—of life. He knows what course to pursue to restore mankind to the pristine excellency and primitive vigor and health. He has appointed the Word of Wisdom as one of the engines to bring about this thing, to remove the beastly appetites, the murderous disposition and the vitiated taste of man; to restore his body to health and vigor, and promote peace between him and the brute creation. ("Meaning of the Word of Wisdom," Improvement Era, Oct. 1901, pp. 945-46) TLDP:739

John A. Widtsoe

The Word of Wisdom is concerned largely with the nature of the food and drink taken into the body. That is in full accord with modern views. The positive teachings of the Word of Wisdom in the light of present-day science may be summarized as follows:
1. The Moderate Use of Meat. The flesh of animals should be used sparingly, chiefly in cold weather.
2. The Liberal Use of Fruits. Fruits of all kinds, especially fresh fruits, should be a regular part of the human dietary.
3. The Regular Use of Vegetables. All the recognized edible vegetables, leafy, root and tuber, should be eaten daily. The leafy vegetables and some of the others should be eaten in their fresh state.
4. The Basic Use of Grains. The daily dietary should include as its basis, properly prepared grains. The whole wheat kernel should preferably be ground for bread or porridge. All grains are good foods, but wheat is best for the use of man. Other seeds and nuts also form valuable foods.
5. Health-giving Beverages. Pure, fresh water should be drunk freely, at arising and between meals throughout the day. Milk, fruit juices and grain extracts should supplement the intake of pure water in supplying the body with the necessary liquid.
6. Proper Period of Sleep. The body should be invigorated by regular, preferably early sleep, ending in early morning.
7. Habits of Regular Work and Play. Health requires regular and steady physical labor and intellectual effort.
8. A Correct Mental Attitude. Faith, hope, charity, and a constant seeking after the truth of life and the universe with a determination to accept it when found, form the foundation blocks for good health. A sound religious philosophy is a pre-requisite for good health. (Program of the Church, pp. 38-39) TLDP:741-42

Related Witnesses:

Paul

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17. If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. (Paul writes to the Church at Corinth, Greece, about A.D. 55) 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

Joseph Smith

The elements are the tabernacle of God; yea, man is the tabernacle of God, even temples; and whatsoever temple is defiled, God shall destroy that temple. (Revelation received at Kirtland, Ohio, May 6, 1833) D&C 93:35

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

Mankind would not become attached to these unnecessary articles were it not for the poison they contain. The poisonous or narcotic properties in spirits, tobacco and tea are the cause of their being so much liked by those who use them. (In new Tabernacle, Oct. 30, 1870, JD13:276) DBY:184

Paul

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
20. For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (Letter to the Church at Corinth, Greece, about A.D. 55) 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Recorded in Daniel

But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. (Daniel and certain Hebrews are trained in the court of Nebuchadnezzar; they choose to eat plain food and drink no wine) Daniel 1:8

878. Observance of the Word of Wisdom increases the health of both the body and the spirit.

Stephen L. Richards
John A. Widtsoe
John A. Widtsoe
Elder George Albert Smith
Joseph Smith
Elder Ezra Taft Benson
Elder Spencer W. Kimball
Dallin H. Oaks
Related Witnesses
Elder David O. McKay

Stephen L. Richards

Every commandment of God is spiritual in nature. There are no carnal commandments. . . . The Word of Wisdom is spiritual. It is true that it enjoins the use of deleterious substances and makes provision for the health of the body. But the largest measure of good derived from its observance is in increased faith and the development of more spiritual power and wisdom. Likewise, the most regrettable and damaging effects of its infractions are spiritual, also, injury to the body may be comparatively trivial to the damage to the soul in the destruction of faith and the retardation of spiritual growth. So I say, every commandment involves a spiritual growth. So I say, every commandment involves a spiritual principle. CR1949Apr:141

John A. Widtsoe

Those who, because of their acceptance and use of the Word of Wisdom, possess a clean body, a clear mind and a spirit in tune with the infinite, are best able to assist in establishing the Kingdom of God on earth, and thereby to render greatest service to their fellow men.
They also find the greatest happiness in life, for their capacity for joy is unhindered by a weak body, a dull mind, and dim spiritual vision. They find a new wealth of joy in every commonplace of life. They have eyes and they see; ears and they hear. Their understanding is reinforced with the spiritual light of truth.
There are many laws of the Gospel that lead towards spirituality. Among them the Word of Wisdom stands unchallenged. (The Word of Wisdom; A Modern Interpretation, pp. 283-84) TLDP:743

John A. Widtsoe

A statement of the blessings that will follow the observance of the rules laid down in the Word of Wisdom: [D&C 89:18-21 is quoted] That is, the reward for keeping the Word of wisdom is four-fold. 1. Self-control is developed. That is implied in verse 3 of the revelation which states that the Word of Wisdom is "adapted to the capacity of the weak and the weakest of all Saints." 2. Strength of body, including resistance to contagion, is a result of wise living. 3. Clearness of mind is the gift of those whose bodies are in a healthy condition. 4. Spiritual power comes to all who conquer their appetites, live normally and look upward to God. (Program of the Church, pp. 37-38) TLDP:743

Elder George Albert Smith

I am fully convinced that the Lord in His mercy, when He gave us the Word of Wisdom, gave it to us, not alone that we might have health while we live in the world, but that our faith might be strengthened, that our testimony of the divinity of the mission of our Lord and Master might be increased, that thereby we might be better prepared to return to His presence when our labor here is complete. CR1907Apr:19

Joseph Smith

A Word of Wisdom, for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church, and also the saints in Zion—. . . .
18. And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones;
19. And shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures;
20. And shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint.
21. And I, the Lord, give unto them a promise, that the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them. Amen. (Revelation received Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:1,18-21

Elder Ezra Taft Benson,

also quoting Joseph Smith
Scientific studies have confirmed that Latter-day Saints have less incidence of heart problems, all forms of cancer, and other diseases because of their adherence to the Word of Wisdom.
These studies have demonstrated that not only will one live a longer life, but also that the quality of one's life will be better. . . .
The Word of Wisdom allows us to know that the Lord is vitally concerned about the health of His Saints. He has graciously given us counsel for improving our health, endurance, and resistance to many diseases.
The temporal promise for obedience is: They "shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; . . . [they] shall run and not be weary and shall walk and not faint" (D&C 89:18,20).
I have always felt, however, that the greater blessing of obedience to the Word of Wisdom and all other commandments is spiritual.
Listen to the spiritual promise: "All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, . . . shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures" (D&C 89:18,19).
Some have thought this promise was contingent on just keeping the provisions of the Word of Wisdom. But you will notice we must walk in obedience to all the commandments. Then we shall receive specific spiritual promises. CR1983Apr:70-71

Elder Spencer W. Kimball

In the march to perfection through the conquering of sin, it is important to have the right perspective. For example, some people get means and ends reversed. Many feel that the Word of Wisdom is for the principal purpose of increasing our health, increasing our mortal life, but a more careful study of the revelation (D&C 89) reveals that there is a deeper purpose. Of course, total observance will strengthen one's body, make it survive longer so that there will be a longer time in which to perfect the body and, especially, the spirit—looking toward eternal status and eternal joys. The Lord made solemn promises to ". . . all Saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments . . ." (D&C 89:18) Here the commitments of the Lord were two-fold. First, he promised to such who obey that they shall ". . . receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones . . . ," that as a consequence of good health physically they "shall run and not be weary, and shall walk and not faint." This is a glorious promise.
But the spiritual promises greatly exceed the physical. For those who observe these particular instructions and are obedient to all the Lord's commandments, the blessings really are increased and magnified. Such saints, he promises, shall be passed over by the angel of death and shall not be slain. This promise returns us to Exodus where we read that the Lord tested the faith of the children of Israel to see if they would follow the great Moses .
Now the promise in the revelation above quoted is similar and dissimilar to ancient Israel's test, as comparisons generally are. In both circumstances there would be the element of passover, the element of obedience of faith without knowing all the reasons why. The "obedience of faith" is basic. Without it the miracle cannot happen. Had Israel not obeyed, their firstborn sons would not have been protected.
For observing the Word of Wisdom the reward is life, not only prolonged mortal life but life eternal. No promise is made through the Word of Wisdom that the faithful observer will not die: "For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive" (1 Corinthians 15:22). With ancient Israel it was physical life or physical death. In our modern promise, it is spiritual life or spiritual death. If one ignores "these sayings" and fails in "obedience to the commandments" his death is certain, but if he obeys implicitly, his eternal life through perfection is assured. The angel of death cuts one short of mortal life for disobedience; the angel of light makes the way clear for the spiritual life eternal. (The Miracle of Forgiveness, pp. 210-11) TLDP:743

Dallin H. Oaks

Among many blessings I have received from gospel teachings are those promised for keeping the Word of Wisdom. For me these have included health and knowledge and the capacity to “run and not be weary, and … walk and not faint,” and the fulfillment of the promise that “the destroying angel shall pass by them, as the children of Israel, and not slay them” (D&C 89:18-21). (CR 2002Apr; The Gospel in Our Lives, Ensign, May 2002, p.33)

Related Witnesses:

Elder David O. McKay

Obedience to the Word of Wisdom develops greater spiritual power, that spiritual power which comes from resistance. (Gospel Ideals, p. 398) TLDP:743

879. We are not to drink alcoholic beverages.

Joseph Smith
President Joseph F. Smith
President Heber J. Grant, J. Reuben Clark, Jr., David O. McKay
Recorded in Judges
Recorded in Proverbs
Paul
Related Witnesses
Paul

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

That inasmuch as any man drinketh wine or strong drink among you, behold it is not good, neither meet in the sight of your Father, only in assembling yourselves together to offer up your sacraments before him.
6. And, behold, this should be wine, yea, pure wine of the grape of the vine, of your own make.
7. And, again, strong drinks are not for the belly, but for the washing of your bodies. (Revelation, Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:5-7

President Joseph F. Smith

Young men or middle-aged men who have had experience in the Church should not be ordained to the Priesthood nor recommended to the privileges of the House of the Lord, unless they will abstain from the use of tobacco and intoxicating drinks. This is the rule of the Church, and should be observed by all its members. (IE1916Feb:360) TLDP:740

President Heber J. Grant, J. Reuben Clark, Jr., David O. McKay

(First Presidency)
Over the earth, and it seems particularly in America, the demon drink is in control. Drunken with strong drink, men have lost their reason; their counsel has been destroyed; their judgment and vision are fled; they reel forward to destruction.
Drink brings cruelty into the home; it walks arm in arm with poverty; its companions are disease and plague; it puts chastity to flight; it knows neither honesty nor fair dealing; it is a total stranger to truth; it drowns conscience; it is the bodyguard of evil; it curses all who touch it.
Drink has brought more woe and misery, broken more hearts, wrecked more homes, committed more crimes, filled more coffins, than all the wars the world has suffered. CR1942Oct:8

Recorded in Judges

And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.
4. Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing: (An angel instructs the mother of Samson) Judges 13:3-4

Recorded in Proverbs

Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise. Proverbs 20:1

Paul

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
3. Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; (Letter to his assistant Timothy, about A.D. 64) 1 Timothy 3:2-3

Related Witnesses:

Paul

Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10. Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. (Paul writes to the Church at Corinth, Greece, about A.D. 55) 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

880. We are not to use tobacco.

Joseph Smith
Elder George Albert Smith
President Joseph F. Smith
President Brigham Young
Related Witnesses:
President Heber J. Grant

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

And again, tobacco is not for the body, neither for the belly, and is not good for man, but is an herb for bruises and all sick cattle, to be used with judgment and skill. (Revelation, Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:8

Elder George Albert Smith

I want to say to you, in my judgment, that the use of tobacco, a little thing as it seems to some men, has been the means of destroying their spiritual life, has been the means of driving from them the companionship of the Spirit of our Father, has alienated them from the society of good men and women, and has brought upon them the disregard and reproach of the children that have been born to them, and yet the devil will say to a man, Oh, it's only a little thing CR1918Apr:40

President Joseph F. Smith

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

I say to all the Elders of Israel, if it makes you sick and so sleepy that you cannot keep out of bed unless you have tobacco, go to bed and there lie. How long? Until you can get up and go to your business like rational men, like men who have heads on their shoulders and who are not controlled by their foolish appetites. . . . Will it take a month? No matter if it does; if it takes three months, six months, or a year, it is better to lie there in bed until the influence of tea, coffee and liquor is out of the system, so that you may go about your business like rational persons, than to give way to these foolish habits. They are destructive to the human system; they filch money from our pockets, and they deprive the poor of the necessaries of life. (In new Tabernacle, Oct. 30, 1870, JD13:278) DBY:184

Related Witnesses:

President Heber J. Grant

I would like it known that if we as a people never used a particle of tea or coffee or of tobacco or of liquor, we would become one of the most wealthy people in the world. Why? Because we would have increased vigor of body, increased vigor of mind; we would grow spiritually; we would have a more direct line of communication with God, our Heavenly Father; we would be able to accomplish more—to say nothing about the fact that we do not produce these things that the Lord has told us to leave alone, and the money that is expended in breaking the Word of Wisdom goes away from our communities. ("Safeguard," IE1941Feb:73) TLDP:743

881. We are not to drink tea or coffee.

Joseph Smith
Joseph Smith
President Brigham Young
President Brigham Young
Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

And again, hot drinks are not for the body or belly. (Revelation, Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:9

Joseph Smith,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

I understand that some of the people are excusing themselves in using tea and coffee, because the Lord only said "hot drinks" in the revelation of the Word of Wisdom. Tea and coffee are what the Lord meant when he said "hot drinks." (The Word of Wisdom; A Modern Interpretation, p. 75) TLDP:740

President Brigham Young,
quoted by John A. Widtsoe

This Word of Wisdom prohibits the use of hot drinks and tobacco. I have heard it argued that tea and coffee are not mentioned therein; that is very true; but what were the people in the habit of taking as hot drinks when that revelation was given? Tea and coffee. We were not in the habit of drinking water very hot, but tea and coffee — the beverages in common use. And the Lord said hot drinks are not good for the body nor the belly, liquor is not good for the body nor the belly, but for the washing of the body, etc. Tobacco is not good, save for sick cattle, and for bruises and sores, its cleansing properties being then very useful. (In new Tabernacle, Oct. 30, 1870, JD13:277) DBY:182

President Brigham Young,

Heber C. Kimball, Willard Richards

(First Presidency)
The conference voted to observe the word of wisdom, and particularly to dispense with the use of tea, coffee, snuff, and tobacco, and in this thing as well as many others, what is good for the Saints in the mountains, is good for the Saints in other places, and if all who profess to be Saints would appropriate the funds lavished on luxuries, and articles unwise to use, to the benefit of the public works, we would soon see another "Temple of the Lord." (Sixth General Epistle of the Presidency, Jan. 15, 1852; reference to "conference" is to the semi-annual conference of the Church, Sept. 7, 1851) MOFP2:90

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

So much stress has been placed upon the "don'ts" in this revelation that whenever we hear it mentioned the vision of prohibited liquors, tobaccos, teas, coffees, etc., comes before us. We seldom hear of the things mentioned which are "ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man." The Lord has given us all good herbs, fruits, and grains. These are to be the main foods of men, beast, and fowls. But we should not overlook the fact that they are to be used with "prudence and thanksgiving." CHMR1:385

882. The use of a habit-forming drug of any kind violates the spirit of the Word of Wisdom and defiles both body and spirit.

Marion G. Romney
Russell M. Nelson
President Joseph Fielding Smith
Stephen L. Richards
President David O. McKay
Related Witnesses
L. Tom Perry

Marion G. Romney

The use of a habit-forming drug of any kind violates the spirit of the Word of Wisdom and defiles both body and spirit. CR1974Apr:117

Russell M. Nelson

In 1833 the Prophet Joseph Smith received the Word of Wisdom by revelation. . . . Prophets in our generation and in this conference have told us also to avoid harmful drugs. Now medical science increasingly confirms the physical benefits of compliance with these teachings. CR1986Oct:87

President Joseph Fielding Smith

When we join the Church and receive the priesthood, we are expected to forsake many of the ways of the world and live as becometh saints. We are no longer to dress or speak or act or even think as others too often do. Many in the world use tea, coffee, tobacco, and liquor, and are involved in the use of drugs. Many profane and are vulgar and indecent, immoral and unclean in their lives, but all these things should be foreign to us. We are the saints of the Most High. We hold the holy priesthood. CR1971Apr:47

Stephen L. Richards

President David O. McKay

A person's reaction to his appetites and impulses when they are aroused gives the measure of that person's character. In such reactions are revealed the man's power to govern or his forced servility to yield. That phase of the Word of Wisdom, therefore, which refers to intoxicants, drugs, and stimulants, goes deeper than the ill effects upon the body and strikes at the very root of character building itself. CR1964Apr:4

Related Witnesses:

L. Tom Perry

I stand before you today to accuse many of the husbands and fathers who are within the sound of my voice and throughout the world of failing in your two major God-given responsibilities. The reason for most of the problems we find in the world today must be laid at your door. Divorce, infidelity, dishonesty, the use of drugs, deterioration of family life, loss of identity, instability and unhappiness have resulted from the lack of your leadership in the home. CR1977Oct:95

883. The meat of animals is intended for our food, but we are to use it sparingly.

Joseph Smith
John A. Widtsoe
John A. Widtsoe
John A. Widtsoe
Ezra Taft Benson
Joseph F. Merrill

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

Yea, flesh also of beasts and of the fowls of the air, I, the Lord, have ordained for the use of man with thanksgiving; nevertheless they are to be used sparingly;
13. And it is pleasing unto me that they should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine. (Revelation, Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:12-13

John A. Widtsoe

The Word of Wisdom is concerned largely with the nature of the food and drink taken into the body. That is in full accord with modern views. . . . The flesh of animals should be used sparingly, chiefly in cold weather. (Program of the Church, pp. 38-39) TLDP:741

John A. Widtsoe

The Word of Wisdom does not contain a prohibition against meat eating, but urges its sparing use. Unfortunately, this advice is not generally observed, and man's health suffers in consequence. Many people eat too much meat; a few do not eat enough. (The Word of Wisdom; A Modern Interpretation, p. 260) TLDP:741

John A. Widtsoe

In the observance of the Word of Wisdom caution should be used. Personal opinions often color our practices. We have the right of free agency, but nevertheless we should not try to stretch the Word of Wisdom to conform with our own opinions.
For example: The Word of Wisdom is not a system of vegetarianism. Clearly, meat is permitted. Naturally, that includes animal products, less subject than meat to putrefactive and other disturbances, such as eggs, milk, and cheese. These products cannot be excluded simply because they are not mentioned specifically. By that token most of our foodstuffs could not be eaten.
That man can live without meat is well known, and he may live well if his knowledge is such as to enable him to choose adequate vegetable protein. And, all have the right if they so choose to live without meat. (Evidences and Reconciliations, 3:155-57) TLDP:741

Ezra Taft Benson,

also quoting Joseph Smith
In this revelation [D&C 89] the Lord counsels us to use meat sparingly. I have often felt that the Lord is further counseling us in this revelation against indiscriminately killing animals, for He has said elsewhere in scripture, "Wo be unto man that sheddeth blood or that wasteth flesh and hath no need." (D&C 49:21) CR1983Apr:71

Joseph F. Merrill

It is to flesh as an article in human diet that I wish to direct my attention. . . . [A]uthorities say that generally food has more to do with health than any other factor affecting health. . . .
[T]he book continues ["How To Live," p. 251]: "Meat eating and a high-protein diet, instead of increasing one's endurance, have been shown like alcohol, actually to reduce it."
. . . . Latter-day Saints, why should you complain of the scarcity or high price of flesh foods? Have you not known that in any case you should eat them sparingly? The Lord told you so. I have quoted from some of the highest authorities in the world to the effect that they are not essential to your physical well-being. But Americans did not know this until God revealed it to them through his Prophet, Joseph Smith.
. . . . Americans eat too much meat, a non-essential in human diet, because all the proteins needed are available in . . . other foods. . . . CR1948Apr:72,73,75

884. Wholesome herbs and fruits are intended for our food; we are to use them prudently.

Joseph Smith
Elder Joseph Fielding Smith
John A. Widtsoe

Joseph Smith,
receiving the Word of the Lord

And again, verily I say unto you, all wholesome herbs God hath ordained for the constitution, nature, and use of man—
11. Every herb in the season thereof, and every fruit in the season thereof; all these to be used with prudence and thanksgiving. (Revelation, Feb. 27, 1833) D&C 89:10-11

Elder Joseph Fielding Smith

John A. Widtsoe

The . . . positive part of the revelation is of first importance, since obedience to it lessens the appetite for injurious substances. . . .
This part of the revelation further teaches, in addition to the sparing use of meat, that all wholesome vegetables, (herbs) fruits, and all grains, notably wheat, should be eaten for good health. . . .
In the observance of the Word of Wisdom caution should be used. Personal opinions often color our practices. We have the right of free agency, but nevertheless we should not try to stretch the Word of Wisdom to conform with our own opinions.
For example: The Word of Wisdom is not a system of vegetarianism. Clearly, meat is permitted. Naturally, that includes animal products, less subject than meat to putrefactive and other disturbances, such as eggs, milk, and cheese. These products cannot be excluded simply because they are not mentioned specifically. By that token most of our foodstuffs could not be eaten.
That man can live without meat is well known, and he may live well if his knowledge is such as to enable him to choose adequate vegetable protein. And, all have the right if they so choose to live without meat.
The phrase "in the season thereof," referring to fruits and vegetables, has raised much speculation. It indicates simply the superior value of fresh foods as demonstrated by modern science, but does not necessarily prohibit the use of fruits or vegetables out of season if preserved by proper methods. (Evidences and Reconciliations, 3:155-57) TLDP:741

885. A man who faithfully magnifies his priesthood calling may be sanctified by the Spirit to the renewal of his body, and the enjoyment of increased physical health.

Joseph Smith
Hugh B. Brown
Russell M. Nelson
President Spencer W. Kimball
Abraham O. Woodruff
Related Witnesses
Paul
Bruce R. McConkie
Joseph Smith

Joseph Smith

For whoso is faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken, and the magnifying their calling, are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies. (Revelation on priesthood with six elders, Sept. 22/23, 1832) D&C 84:33

Hugh B. Brown

The Lord said:
". . . whoso is faithful unto the obtaining these two priesthoods of which I have spoken, and the magnifying their calling, are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies." (D&C 84:33)
Brethren, I bear testimony to the fact that that promise has been realized in the lives of many of us. I know that it has been realized in the life of President David O. McKay, that he has been sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of his body, and some of the rest of us are better off today than were many years ago so far as physical health is concerned and we attribute that fact to his blessing. CR1963Apr:90; MPSG88:30

Russell M. Nelson

Elder Anderson has followed what I label as the Lord's prescription for a long and useful life. Those faithful in magnifying their calling are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies. They become . . . the elect of God. (See D&C 84:33-34.) CR1985Oct:40

President Spencer W. Kimball

They shall be "sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies." I present to you the thought that President David O. McKay, who was in his nineties, President Joseph Fielding Smith, who was in his nineties, and all the Presidents of the Church since almost the beginning became men of advanced age, that their bodies were renewed, and their spirits were sanctified. ACR(Stockholm)1974:99; DGSM:70

Abraham O. Woodruff

I do not know that I have ever heard President Snow speak when his voice sounded clearer or more forceful than it did this morning, and this reminded me of the change that ofttimes comes over men when they are called of God to certain positions. In many instances their bodies and their minds seem to be renovated and renewed by the power of God within them. CR1900Oct:13

Related Witnesses:

Paul

But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. (Letter to the Church in Rome, about A.D. 55) Romans 8:11

Bruce R. McConkie

We can be sanctified by the Spirit, have dross and evil burned out of us as though by fire, become clean and spotless, and be fit to dwell with gods and angels.
The Holy Ghost is the Sanctifier. Those who magnify their callings in the priesthood "are sanctified by the Spirit unto the renewing of their bodies." (D&C 84:33) They are born again; they become new creatures of the Holy Ghost; they are alive in Christ. CR1977Oct:50

Joseph Smith

Behold he is a righteous man, may God Almighty lengthen out the old man's days; and may his trembling, tortured, and broken body be renewed, and in the vigor of health turn upon him, if it be Thy will, consistently, O God; and it shall be said of him, by the sons of Zion, while there is one of them remaining, that this man was a faithful man in Israel; therefore his name shall never be forgotten. (Joseph blesses Joseph Knight, Sen., Aug. 22, 1842) HC5:124-25
Author's Note: There is every reason why, correspondingly, the sisters in the Church may also enjoy the blessing of this doctrine.

886. By obedience to the Word of Wisdom we may gain great wisdom, understanding, and hidden treasures of knowledge.

President Brigham Young
President Heber J. Grant
Elder Ezra Taft Benson

President Brigham Young

It is a piece of good counsel which the Lord desires His people to observe, that they may live on the earth until the measure of their creation is full. This is the object the Lord had in view in giving the Word of Wisdom. To those who observe it He will give great wisdom and understanding, increasing their health, giving strength and endurance to the faculties of their bodies and minds until they shall be full of years upon the earth. This will be their blessing if they will observe His word with a good and willing heart and in faithfulness before the Lord. (In old Tabernacle, Jan. 12, 1868, JD12:156) TLDP:742

President Heber J. Grant

We are promised that if we obey the Word of Wisdom it will give us physical strength, whereby the destroying angel shall pass us by as he did the children of Israel. And we are promised that we shall have hidden treasures of knowledge if we live in accordance with the Word of Wisdom. CR1930Apr:188

Elder Ezra Taft Benson,

also quoting Joseph Smith
The temporal promise for obedience is: They "shall receive health in their navel and marrow to their bones; . . . [they] shall run and not be weary and shall walk and not faint" (D&C 89:18,20).
I have always felt, however, that the greater blessing of obedience to the Word of Wisdom and all other commandments is spiritual.
Listen to the spiritual promise: "All saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walking in obedience to the commandments, . . . shall find wisdom and great treasures of knowledge, even hidden treasures." (D&C 89:18,19; italics added by ETB)
Some have thought this promise was contingent on just keeping the provisions of the Word of Wisdom. But you will notice we must walk in obedience to all the commandments. Then we shall receive specific spiritual promises. CR1983Apr:70-71

We Believe: Doctrines and Principles

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Word of Wisdom

876. The Word of Wisdom is a commandment of the Lord.

Related Witnesses:

877. Our bodies should be kept clean and pure; hence, we are to be concerned with the nature of the food and drink taken into our bodies.

878. Observance of the Word of Wisdom increases the health of both the body and the spirit.

Related Witnesses:

879. We are not to drink alcoholic beverages.

Related Witnesses:

880. We are not to use tobacco.

Related Witnesses:

881. We are not to drink tea or coffee.

882. The use of a habit-forming drug of any kind violates the spirit of the Word of Wisdom and defiles both body and spirit.

883. The meat of animals is intended for our food, but we are to use it sparingly.

884. Wholesome herbs and fruits are intended for our food; we are to use them prudently.

885. A man who faithfully magnifies his priesthood calling may be sanctified by the Spirit to the renewal of his body, and the enjoyment of increased physical health.

Related Witnesses:

886. By obedience to the Word of Wisdom we may gain great wisdom, understanding, and hidden treasures of knowledge.