Is Sanka decaf coffee against the “hot drinks” word of wisdom since it is 99.9% caffeine free? Has there ever been an official stand/letter from a prophet? Many drink coke, pepsi and mtn dew!
Steve
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Steve,
The Word of Wisdom does mention some specific things, but by and large it is held as a general guideline for a pattern of behavior, rather than a pharasaical list of do’s and don’ts. There are countless things we could take into our bodies that are quite harmful, however they aren’t listed anywhere in the Word of Wisdom. Likewise, there are countless things we could take into our bodies that are quite healthy, yet they aren’t listed either.
Perhaps we need to look at the Word of Wisdom in the context of when it was given. For instance, it was generally known that tobacco and alcohol weren’t good for the body during Joseph Smith’s day, however there was no scriptural precedent for taking care of our physical health. The Word of Wisdom is unique in that it was the first revelation to address that issue specifically.
Now, however, there is a great deal of science that not only backs up the Word of Wisdom, but goes much farther, in many specific areas.
So, getting to your question specifically, coffee has long been understood to be included in the ‘hot drinks’ for several reasons, only one of which is the caffeine content. The Word of Wisdom also never states that coffee is okay as long as it is 99% caffeine free. It says coffee. My rule of thumb has always been, if I can eat/drink the item and still feel as though I’m obeying the spirit (or intent) of the Word of Wisdom, as well as the specifics it mentions, then I’m good to go.
-Gramps
