Profanity
Overview
Profanity is disrespect or contempt for sacred things. It includes casual or irreverent use of the name of any member of the Godhead. It also includes any type of unclean or vulgar speech or behavior.
We should always use the names of Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost with reverence and respect. Misusing their names is a sin. Profane, vulgar, or crude language or gestures, as well as immoral jokes, are offensive to the Lord and to others.
Foul language is both degrading and harmful to the spirit. We should not let others influence us to use foul language. Instead, we should use clean language that uplifts and edifies others, and we should choose friends who use good language. Setting an example will encourage those around us to use clean language. If friends and acquaintances use profanity, we can good-naturedly encourage them to choose other words. If they persist, we can politely walk away or change the subject.
Those who have developed the habit of swearing can break it. They must begin by making a decision to change and then pray for help.
Related Topics
Scriptures
Scripture References
Scripture Study Resources
Messages from Church Leaders
Videos
“No Cussing Club”
“Sanctify Yourselves”
Learning Resources
General Resources
“Question and Answers: Language,” youth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org
Church Magazines
Bryce Fielding, “The Breaking Point,” New Era, January 2017
“Questions & Answers: Bad Stuff in School,” New Era, November 2016
David A. Edwards, “Get Ready for Battle,” New Era, September 2014
Riley M. Lorimer-Reznik, “Protecting Yourself from Profanity,” New Era, March 2013
“Dear Class,” Friend, September 2012
“Help Stamp Out Bad Language,” Friend, September 2012
Kersten Campbell, “Language Lesson,” Friend, September 2007
Paula K. Boothe, “Standing Up to Profanity,” Ensign, April 2001
“Q&A: Questions and Answers,” New Era, March 2001
Robert L. Millet, “Honoring His Holy Name,” Liahona, April 1998
John S. Tanner, “Sin—on the Tips of Our Tongues,” Ensign, February 1991