Word of Wisdom
Overview
God has revealed the Word of Wisdom as a commandment for the physical and spiritual benefit of His children.
The Prophet Joseph Smith received this revelation on February 27, 1833, and it is now recorded in section 89 of the Doctrine and Covenants. In the revelation, the Lord teaches healthy practices. He also prohibits some substances that are not good for the human body.
In the Word of Wisdom, the Lord declared that the following foods are good:
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Fruits and wholesome herbs, including vegetables, which should be used “with prudence and thanksgiving” (see Doctrine and Covenants 89:10–11).
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The flesh “of beasts and of the fowls of the air,” which is “to be used sparingly” (see Doctrine and Covenants 89:12–13).
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Grains such as wheat, rice, and oats, which are “the staff of life” (see Doctrine and Covenants 89:14–17).
The Lord revealed in the Word of Wisdom that the following substances are harmful:
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Alcoholic drinks (see Doctrine and Covenants 89:5–7).
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Tobacco (see Doctrine and Covenants 89:8).
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Tea and coffee (see Doctrine and Covenants 89:9; latter-day prophets have taught that the term “hot drinks,” as written in this verse, refers to tea and coffee).
The Lord promises increased health, wisdom, knowledge, and protection to those who obey the Word of Wisdom (see Doctrine and Covenants 89:18–21).
Since its introduction, prophets have taught about the importance of following the Word of Wisdom. In addition, they have taught Church members to avoid substances that impair judgment or are harmful or highly addictive, whether legal or illegal. For example, vaping, the misuse of prescription drugs, and the recreational use of marijuana violate Church teachings (see General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints [2020], 38.7.8; “Statement on the Word of Wisdom,” Aug. 15, 2019, newsroom.ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Prophets have taught that we should also follow healthy practices such as nutritious eating, regular exercise, proper hygiene, and getting sufficient rest.
Related Topics
Scriptures
Scripture References
Scripture Study Resources
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Topical Guide, “Word of Wisdom”
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Index to the Triple Combination, “Word of Wisdom”
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Guide to the Scriptures, “Word of Wisdom”
Messages from Church Leaders
Leader Messages
Media
Videos
“Word of Wisdom”
“The Word of Wisdom (February 1833)”
“A Brand New Year: Physical Health”
Audio
“The Word of Wisdom,” Why I Believe, episode 14
“The Word of Wisdom (February 1833),” Doctrine and Covenants Stories, episode 32
“The Word of Wisdom,” Scripture Stories—Doctrine and Covenants Stories, episode 23
“Word of Wisdom—Doctrine and Covenants,” The Joseph Smith Papers, episode 30
Music
Learning Resources
General Resources
Addiction Recovery Program, Family Services
“Self Reliance: Health: The Spiritual Journey to Good Health,” Inspiration Channel
Church Magazines
Peter L. Howell, “Emotion and Addiction,” Ensign, October 2016
“The Lord Has Given Us a Law of Health,” Ensign or Liahona, February 2012
Truman E. Benson, “He Told Me, ‘No Way,’” Liahona, July 2010
Lia McClanahan, “Addiction Recovery: Healing One Step at a Time,” Ensign or Liahona, June 2009
“Run and Not Be Weary,” Ensign or Liahona, June 2009
Melanie Marks, “The Hot Chocolate Mishap,” Liahona, December 2007
Lehi L. Cruz, “The Night of the Test,” Liahona, September 2007
Julie Wardell, “Good Choices,” Liahona, October 2005
Vicki F. Matsumori, “Sharing Time: ‘Ye Are the Temple of God,’” Liahona, May 2002
Study Manuals
In the News
“Health Practices,” Newsroom
Teachings of Presidents of the Church
Stories
Teaching Resources
Teaching Outlines
Stories and Activities for Teaching Children
“Word of Wisdom,” Lesson Helps for Teaching Children