An Economic Interpretation of “The Word of Wisdom”

Authors

Leonard J. Arrington

Keywords

Word of wisdom

Abstract

Examining the economic impetus behind the adoption of the Word of Wisdom may give us insights into how the Latter-day Saints became known as a people who abstain from alcohol, tobacco, tea, coffee, and drugs. From the time it was revealed, the Word of Wisdom was considered by many to be good advice and not a requirement for fellowship in the Church. The author explores the economic issues that contributed to making the Word of Wisdom official church policy.

Recommended Citation

Arrington, Leonard J. (1959) "An Economic Interpretation of “The Word of Wisdom”," BYU Studies Quarterly: Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 5.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/byusq/vol1/iss1/5