For many of us, the day doesn’t truly begin until that first sip of coffee. So when you hear that members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints don’t drink it, you might wonder why can’t mormons have coffee. It’s a common question, especially from coffee lovers who can’t imagine their routine without it. The answer is rooted in a health code followed by church members, not a dislike for the aroma or taste.
This principle is part of a broader lifestyle. It’s about faith and spiritual commitment. For Latter-day Saints, it’s a meaningful practice that connects them to their community and beliefs. Let’s look at the reasons behind this choice.
Why Can’t Mormons Have Coffee
The direct answer is found in a health revelation called the Word of Wisdom. This is a set of dietary and health guidelines given to Joseph Smith in 1833. It’s found in a book of scripture called the Doctrine and Covenants. For church members, it’s considered divine counsel for physical and spiritual well-being.
The Word of Wisdom specifically advises against “hot drinks.” Early church leaders clarified that this means tea and coffee. So it’s not about the temperature, but the specific substances. This guidance is followed as a demonstration of faith and obedience.
Understanding the Word of Wisdom
The Word of Wisdom is more than just a list of restrictions. It’s presented as a principle with a promise. Those who follow it are promised physical health and spiritual wisdom. It’s a core part of Latter-day Saint identity and daily living.
Here are the key components of the Word of Wisdom:
* It prohibits alcoholic beverages.
* It advises against tobacco use.
* It recommends against “hot drinks” (tea and coffee).
* It encourages the use of wholesome herbs, fruits, grains, and meat in moderation.
* It promises health, strength, and spiritual blessings for obedience.
For members, abstaining from coffee is a way to show they are willing to put spiritual commitments before personal desire. It’s a form of sacrifice that strengthens their faith.
It’s Not About Caffeine (Exactly)
A lot of people assume the coffee rule is all about caffeine. This is a common misconception. If it were strictly about caffeine, many sodas or energy drinks would also be prohibited, and they are not explicitly addressed in the same way.
The Church’s official stance is that the prohibition is on coffee and tea specifically, not caffeine in general. However, many members choose to avoid caffeinated soft drinks as a personal interpretation. The focus remains on the specific substances named by early leaders: coffee and tea from the tea plant.
What About Iced Coffee or Decaf?
Since “hot drinks” was clarified to mean the substance, not the temperature, iced coffee is also avoided. It’s still coffee. Similarly, decaffeinated coffee is made from the coffee bean, so it falls under the same guideline. The principle isn’t about avoiding heat or caffeine alone; it’s about avoiding the coffee bean itself in beverage form.
The Spiritual and Practical Reasons
From the outside, it might seem like a simple rule. But for faithful Latter-day Saints, it has deep meaning. Here’s how they might view it:
1. A Test of Faith and Obedience: Following this rule is a daily, tangible way to show commitment to God. It’s a small sacrifice that represents a larger dedication.
2. Physical Health: The promise of health is taken seriously. Many members feel they benefit from avoiding substances that can be addictive or harmful in excess.
3. Clear Mind and Spiritual Sensitivity: The Word of Wisdom promises “wisdom and great treasures of knowledge.” Members believe that keeping a clear body helps keep a clear mind, more open to spiritual promptings.
4. Community and Identity: Sharing this practice creates a strong sense of unity and common purpose. It’s a visible marker of a shared belief system.
What Do Mormons Drink Instead?
As a coffee lover, you might think, “What do they drink in the morning?” Latter-day Saint culture has plenty of alternatives. Herbal teas are very popular, as they contain no tea leaves from the camellia sinensis plant. Drinks like Postum or Pero (grain-based hot beverages) have been traditional substitutes.
Of course, hot chocolate is a huge favorite, especially with families. And many members simply start their day with juice, milk, or water. The social aspect of a warm drink is still enjoyed, just with different ingredients.
Common Misunderstandings and Nuances
This topic can get confusing. Let’s clear up a few points.
* It’s a Commandment for Members: For baptized members who wish to enter temples, following the Word of Wisdom is a requirement. It’s part of being in good standing.
* It’s Not About Judgement: Members are taught not to judge others who choose differently. The rule is for themselves, based on their personal covenants.
* Coffee in Food: What about tiramisu or coffee-flavored ice cream? This is often a personal decision. Some members strictly avoid any coffee flavoring, while others might consider small amounts in food differently than drinking a cup. There’s no official rule on trace amounts in cooking.
* Green Tea and Herbal Tea: This is important. “Tea” in the Word of Wisdom context means drinks made from the leaves of the tea plant (camellia sinensis). This includes black, green, and white tea. Herbal teas made from other plants (like peppermint or chamomile) are generally considered acceptable.
Respecting the Choice as a Coffee Lover
If you have Latter-day Saint friends or neighbors, understanding this can help build respect. Don’t offer them coffee or tea out of politeness; they will likely politely decline. Offering hot chocolate, cider, or a soft drink is a safe bet.
The best approach is to see it as you would any deeply held dietary practice, like keeping kosher or halal. It’s a sincere part of their religious life. You can absolutely enjoy your coffee while respecting their choice to abstain. The diversity of habits is what makes sharing a drink together interesting!
The Historical Context of the Rule
The Word of Wisdom came long before modern science understood the effects of coffee or tobacco. At the time, it was unique health advice. Today, many health studies note benefits of moderation, but also potential issues with overuse or addiction.
For believers, its origin as revelation is more significant than any modern scientific debate. They see its existence in the 1830s as evidence of divine inspiration, offering protective guidance ahead of its time. The core reason for following it remains spiritual, not purely medical.
Living the Word of Wisdom Daily
For active church members, this isn’t a weekly thing. It’s an everyday part of life. It influences social gatherings, business lunches, and travel. It requires planning and sometimes explanation.
It becomes a habit, a natural part of their routine. Many express gratitude for the structure and health benefits they feel it provides. It’s a personal discipline that they value deeply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can Mormons drink caffeine?
A: Yes, the Church’s prohibition is specifically on coffee and tea, not caffeine itself. Many members drink caffeinated sodas. Some choose to avoid caffeine as a personal decision, but it is not a formal church requirement.
Q: Why is coffee against the Word of Wisdom but soda isn’t?
A: The Word of Wisdom, as interpreted by church leadership, names coffee and tea. It does not mention soda or carbonated beverages. The guidelines are based on the original revelation and subsequent clarifications, which haven’t included soft drinks.
Q: Can Mormons have iced coffee or decaf coffee?
A: No. The teaching applies to all drinks made from the coffee bean, regardless of temperature or caffeine content. Iced coffee and decaf are still considered coffee.
Q: What about coffee flavored foods?
A: This is a gray area and often a matter of personal conviction. Some members avoid all coffee flavoring. Others might not worry about small amounts in desserts like tiramisu. There is no official church policy on foods containing coffee as a minor ingredient.
Q: Do Mormons drink tea?
A: Mormons avoid drinks made from the tea plant (camellia sinensis). This includes black, green, and white tea. They do often drink herbal teas, which are infusions of other herbs, fruits, and spices.
Q: Is it a sin for a Mormon to drink coffee?
A: Within the faith, disobeying the Word of Wisdom is considered a transgression. It would affect their spiritual standing and their ability to participate in certain religious ceremonies, like entering a temple. They would need to stop and recommit to follow the guidelines to regain that standing.
Q: How do Mormons stay awake without coffee?
A: Just like anyone else who doesn’t drink coffee! They rely on good sleep, a healthy diet, exercise, and sometimes other caffeinated beverages if they choose. The promise in the Word of Wisdom includes “health” and “strength,” which many members feel contributes to their overall energy.
Understanding why can’t mormons have coffee opens a window into their values. It’s a practice of faith, a commitment to community, and a personal discipline. For a coffee lover, it might seem like a big sacrifice. But for a Latter-day Saint, it’s a small price for the spiritual and physical harmony they seek.
Next time you enjoy your morning brew, you’ll know a bit more about your Latter-day Saint friends who choose a different path—and that mutual respect is the best foundation for any friendship.