Many people are familiar with the "what" behind the Word of Wisdom as lived by most Mormons (i.e. not partaking of alcohol and hot drinks such as coffee and caffeinated teas in addition to avoiding illicit drugs). But the "why" behind this healthy lifestyle may surprise some.

Initially when Joseph Smith, first prophet of the Mormon church, held meetings nearly 200 years ago, his wife helped by tidying up afterwards. But she found common-to-that-era tobacco spit on the floors repugnant (as would many wives) and complained. This in turn prompted Joseph Smith to inquire of the Lord as to the matter. The information God gave him was surprising. Yet nearly 200 years later that counsel has been substantiated by science.

But this is not the whole of it. That history is the "what" behind the arrival of the Mormon health code called the Word of Wisdom. But the "why" behind the Lord's counsel is shocking, concerning, and worth studying. Here are the exact words:

"Behold, verily, thus saith the Lord unto you: In consequence of evils and designs which do and will exist in the hearts of conspiring men in the last days, I have warned you, and forewarn you, by giving unto you this word of wisdom by revelation." (D&C 89:4)

Back when Joseph Smith published this revelation given him on February 27, 1833 (here is the link to the full text of the Word of Wisdom), knowledge was not generally known of the conspiratorial nature of corporate greed. Yet we in our world today are quite familiar with those who "blow the whistle" on companies who publicly purport to do good, yet are secretly plotting otherwise.

Thus, I find it quite interesting that the Lord versed the prophet Joseph Smith as to this rationale and therefore gave wise counsel in how to live in these last days. Just as all prophets need outside counsel (i.e. Moses) to know how to handle the affairs of their days, Joseph Smith--when he petitioned counsel--was given that desired counsel in a shocking way: he was told that due to conspiratorial and harmful desires of some, the Lord would give a timeless code of health to help those who would hearken.

Over time we will continue to discuss here at BellaOnline.com the Word of Wisdom and its potency in our lives. The waiting blessings are tremendous for those who desire to avail themselves of those blessings. I promise--they are absolutely awesome. Statistics bear this out and the study of the Word of Wisdom is an exciting study to undertake (and live)!
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