Mormons do not drink coffee because of a religious health code called the "Word of Wisdom," revealed to their prophet Joseph Smith. This code, found in the Doctrine and Covenants (section 89), advises against consuming "hot drinks," which church authorities interpret as coffee and tea. The avoidance is rooted in obedience to divine command rather than solely health reasons. Drinking coffee is seen as a transgression that can affect one's standing in the church, including temple attendance privileges. Mormons believe abstaining from coffee and similar substances helps maintain physical and spiritual health, as their faith emphasizes treating the body as a temple and living a spiritually focused life. Hot chocolate and herbal teas are generally permitted, but coffee remains prohibited as it is believed to be habit-forming and spiritually detrimental.
