Why Latter-day Saints Closely Adhere to the Word of Wisdom

ent or constraint" (D&C 89:2)? Why weren't many Church members (including some leaders) living in accordance with the principle in 1880, if it became a commandment in 1851? How is observance of the Word of Wisdom different in the Church today and why? If maintaining a chosen identity wasn't the central reason for the importance placed on the Word of Wisdom, what was? It is important for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to understand the answers to these questions and especially to have knowledge of the real reasons why the Word of Wisdom is so important, if they are to faithfully live this principle in times of weakness and temptation.
             The Word of Wisdom was revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith on February 27, 1833 after the prophet inquired of the Lord concerning tobacco use in meetings. Although this principle was initially given "not by commandment or constraint," it was a "showing forth [of] the order and will of God...in the last days" (D&C 89:2). In general conference on September 9, 1851, the membership of the church officially covenanted to keep the word of wisdom and it "has been a binding commandment ever since" (Benson). This initial introduction allowed church members time to be taught the "import of the revelation" and "to adjust to the principles contained therein" (Packer; Benson). President Brigham Young made clear that this action was the will of the Lord, and he also made clear the consequences of those who would disobey this commandment about twenty-three years before the 1890 Manifesto when he stated:
             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 ...

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Why Latter-day Saints Closely Adhere to the Word of Wisdom. (1969, December 31). In MegaEssays.com. Retrieved 08:16, March 28, 2024, from https://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/25061.html