Keywords
Word of Wisdom, Doctrine and Covenants, binding interpretations
Abstract
In verse 13 of the Word of Wisdom, the Lord tells us, “it is pleasing unto me that they [flesh of beasts and fowls of the air] should not be used, only in times of winter, or of cold, or famine” (D&C 89:13). Judging from the variety of interpretations this single verse has inspired, it would appear to be deeply enigmatic. Interestingly, most interpretations have been put forward with little supporting evidence. This article is the first comprehensive analysis of the diverse explanations for D&C 89:13 that have been suggested since 1833. In this article, I attempt to analyze these various interpretations in light of the available evidence.
Recommended Citation
Birch, A. Jane
(2014)
"Getting into the Meat of the Word of Wisdom,"
Interpreter: A Journal of Latter-day Saint Faith and Scholarship: Vol. 11, Article 4.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/interpreter/vol11/iss1/4
