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The Word of Wisdom

© Rebecca Talley

After pondering on the subject of tobacco use, the Prophet Joseph Smith inquired of the Lord and received a revelation on this and other health matters on February 27, 1833.

Doctrine and Covenants 89, known as the Word of Wisdom, declares that the use of tobacco and strong drink is not for man. "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 . . . ." (Doctrine and Covenants 89:5) "And again, strong drinks are not for the belly . . . ." (D&C 89:7) Apparently the Lord understood the effects of alcohol and sought to warn us against its use over 170 years ago. It is not a coincidence that the medical profession has since found that continued use of alcohol leads to so many medical maladies. We must also remember that the devastating effects of alcohol are not just physical, but are also spiritual. One who is under the influence of alcohol or any mind-altering drug, does not have use of his free agency and is not in a position to make correct decisions. It has always been the Lord's intention that we keep our free agency in tact. Continued use of drugs or alcohol slowly, but certainly, take over our lives and make it impossible to keep our free agency..

"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 judgement and skill." (D&C 89:8). It is contrary to the will of God to use tobacco, whether that is smoking tobacco or chewing tobacco. It s interesting to note that this revelation about tobacco was also given 170 years ago, before any medical tests, experiments, or research had been conducted. Yet, the Lord knew the harmful effects of tobacco and now medical science can prove the devastation of continued use of this product. Many have suffered loss of life or physical disfigurement to the use of tobacco. Tobacco use is habit forming and once again prevents those who constantly use it to exercise their free agency.

Many people concentrate on the "don't"s contained in section 89, missing the vitally important "do"s also contained therein. In this revelation we are encouraged to partake of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and grains. We are also instructed to eat the flesh of beasts sparingly. Again, it is interesting to note that this revelation given so many years ago is identical in design to what we now call the food pyramid. The medical profession constantly encourages us to eat the same way as prescribed in the Word of Wisdom. A diet containing generous helpings of fruits, vegetables, and grains not only increases our physical well being, but also brings us closer to God. When our bodies are clean and free from destructive forces we can more easily hear the whisperings of the Spirit.

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