Why Can’t Mormons Drink Coffee?
Understanding the Faith Behind the Rule
☕ A Curious Conversation Over an Empty Cup
I once sat across from a good friend at a quiet café, steaming mugs in hand — or, rather, just one. I had ordered my usual dark roast; she had politely declined and opted for water. When I teased her about missing out, she smiled warmly and simply said, “I’m Mormon. We don’t drink coffee.”
That answer stuck with me. Not because it was judgmental or dramatic — it wasn’t. It was peaceful. Firm. And it made me want to understand: Why can’t Mormons drink coffee? What’s the reasoning behind it? Is it just about caffeine, or is there something deeper?
This article explores the “why” — not with opinion, but with curiosity, respect, and an eye for detail. Because understanding the culture and conviction behind someone’s coffee choices is just as important as the beans they brew.
☁️ The Origin: What Is the Word of Wisdom?
At the heart of the Mormon belief about coffee lies a foundational piece of guidance called the Word of Wisdom. This is a health code outlined in a book of scripture called the Doctrine and Covenants, specifically in Section 89, which was revealed to Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter-day Saint movement, in 1833.
The Word of Wisdom outlines foods and substances that are good for the body — and those that should be avoided. It encourages the use of wholesome herbs, grains, and fruits while discouraging tobacco, alcohol, and “hot drinks.”
And here’s where coffee comes in.
🔍 What Does “Hot Drinks” Mean?
The phrase “hot drinks” appears in the original revelation — but it’s vague. There’s no direct mention of “coffee” or “tea.”
However, in the early days of the Church, leaders like Joseph Smith and Brigham Young clarified that “hot drinks” referred specifically to coffee and tea. Over time, this interpretation became standard doctrine.
Not Just About Temperature
Interestingly, the restriction isn’t based on temperature. Mormons can drink hot chocolate, herbal teas, and soup. The focus is on traditional black and green tea and coffee, both of which are discouraged.
💬 Is It About Caffeine?
This is one of the most common misconceptions.
While caffeine is a stimulant found in both coffee and tea, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has never officially banned caffeine. In fact, there’s no rule against Coke, Pepsi, or energy drinks, although many Mormons choose to avoid those as a personal preference.
In 2012, the Church publicly clarified:
“The Church does not prohibit the use of caffeine.”
(Source: MormonNewsroom.org)
So, no — it’s not just about caffeine. The rule is specific to coffee and tea, and its origin is spiritual, not chemical.
🧠 Obedience Over Explanation
In Mormon theology, the act of obedience is often more important than fully understanding the reasoning. Church members are encouraged to follow God’s counsel, even if some aspects aren’t fully explained.
This principle is especially true when it comes to the Word of Wisdom. Many Mormons will say they avoid coffee simply because God has asked them to. The trust in that command — and the discipline it fosters — is seen as spiritually strengthening.
In this way, avoiding coffee becomes more than a health choice — it’s a symbol of faith, commitment, and identity.
🧬 Health Interpretations
Even though the Word of Wisdom wasn’t originally framed as a health manual, many members appreciate that modern science has since validated aspects of its counsel.
Avoiding substances like:
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Alcohol
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Tobacco
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Excessive meat consumption
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Coffee and tea
…has been linked with positive health outcomes.
In fact, a 2008 study by UCLA found that members of the LDS Church, who follow the Word of Wisdom strictly, have:
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Lower rates of cancer
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Better cardiovascular health
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Longer lifespans (up to 8–11 years longer on average)
(Source: UCLA Health Studies)
While not everyone agrees with avoiding coffee from a health standpoint, the bigger picture shows how lifestyle guidelines, including abstaining from coffee, play a role in long-term wellness for many believers.
🙋 So What Happens If a Mormon Drinks Coffee?
Contrary to some assumptions, drinking coffee doesn’t get you excommunicated.
But for active members, it can affect participation in some areas:
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Temple attendance: To enter Mormon temples, members must answer a series of questions affirming adherence to Church standards — including the Word of Wisdom.
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Callings or leadership roles: Keeping health codes is often required for those in leadership.
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Social perception: While it’s a personal matter, coffee drinking might be seen as a signal that someone is “less active” or not fully committed.
However, these decisions are deeply personal, and Church members vary in their approach. Some may leave the Church entirely and return to coffee. Others may struggle privately with giving it up. The journey is not always black and white.
🌍 Coffee Culture Meets Mormon Culture
In a world where coffee is everywhere — in workplaces, social gatherings, and morning routines — abstaining from it can be socially complicated.
For Mormon teenagers or converts, giving up coffee is often one of the hardest parts of lifestyle change. But for many, it’s also one of the most powerful reminders of commitment.
This tension between coffee culture and religious practice can lead to creative solutions:
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Herbal coffee substitutes
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Hot water with lemon
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Chicory-based beverages
And, interestingly, some former Mormons even write about their “first cup of coffee” as a rite of passage.
☕ Where Does That Leave Us?
To many people, a coffee ban might seem strange or unnecessary — especially when science tells us coffee has antioxidants, improves focus, and may even reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
But to Mormons, the issue isn’t science. It’s faith. The principle is simple: God asked, so I don’t.
And that answer, over a quiet table with just one steaming mug, is maybe the most powerful one of all.
At Coffea Alchemy, we celebrate every aspect of coffee — including the deep beliefs and cultures that choose to abstain from it. Because whether you drink it or not, coffee has a way of bringing meaningful conversations to the table.
Conclusion: Faith Over Flavor?
The Mormon avoidance of coffee isn’t just about health or caffeine. It’s about discipline, identity, and honoring a spiritual commitment that dates back nearly two centuries.
Whether you’re a daily espresso drinker or just someone exploring different perspectives, there’s something inspiring about that kind of devotion.
So, knowing what you know now — what would giving up your favorite drink mean to you?
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