I was wondering why the D&C discourage the use of hot drinks. Would hot soups or broths fall in that category? I’m hoping you can give some insight on this.

Thanks Shane

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The following is posted on the Church web site:

Doctrine and Covenants 89:9 says we shouldn’t drink “hot drinks.” The only official interpretation of this term is the statement made by early Church leaders that it means tea and coffee. Caffeine is not specifically mentioned as the reason not to drink these drinks.

However, we should keep in mind this counsel given by President Boyd K. Packer: “The Word of Wisdom was ‘given for a principle with promise’ (D&C 89:3). … A principle is an enduring truth, a law, a rule you can adopt to guide you in making decisions. Generally principles are not spelled out in detail. Members write in asking if this thing or that is against the Word of Wisdom. … We teach the principle together with the promised blessings. There are many habit-forming, addictive things that one can drink or chew or inhale or inject which injure both body and spirit which are not mentioned in the revelation. … Obedience to counsel will keep you on the safe side of life” (“The Word of Wisdom: The Principle and the Promises,” Ensign, May 1996, 17–18).

If you have evidence to suggest that something is good for you and not addicting then the Word of Wisdom is teaching that it is acceptable to eat or drink. That, afterall, is the purpose for the Word of Wisdom, to inform us of what is healthy and not healthy. Some prudence and common sense is required when interpreting scripture.

Gramps