Episode 244: What About the Word of Wisdom? | A Conversation with Linda Hamilton
Though Section 89 of the Doctrine & Covenants describes itself as a “principle with promise,” “to be sent by greeting, not by commandment or constraint,” contemporary Church leadership has elevated some of its prohibitions to the level of requirement for temple worship. Other suggestions this section contains seem to be completely ignored. To complicate things, current medical research hasn’t always supported the specific tenets that have been designated “commandments.” No wonder lots of Latter-day Saints have lots of feelings about the Word of Wisdom and its application in our daily lives and choices! In Episode 244, Cynthia and Susan are joined by historian Linda Hamilton for a conversation unpacking it all. What do you think about the Word of Wisdom? What aspects of it feel relevant to your faith life? What are the narratives of women we find in its history and practice? And what parts of Word of Wisdom lore actually hold up to historical scrutiny?
Notes & Quotes:
You can connect with Linda here
ALSSI Ep. 219, Embracing Your Journey | A Conversation with Linda Hamilton
The Word of Wisdom in Early Nineteenth-Century Perspective, by Lester E. Bush Jr., Dialogue Journal, Vol. 14 No. 3
Mormon Pioneer Historic Resource Study
The Word of Wisdom: From Principle to Requirement, by Thomas G. Alexander, Dialogue Journal, Vol. 14 No. 3
Mormon Enigma: Emma Hale Smith, by Linda King Newell & Valeen Tippets Avery