Walk into almost any home or office, and you’ll likely smell coffee. It’s a morning ritual for many people. Billions of cups get brewed every day. Yet, for some groups, coffee isn’t part of their daily routine. In fact, they choose to avoid it completely. Why do some religions ask their members to skip this popular drink?
The most widely known group avoiding coffee is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called Mormons. Their members follow a health code called the Word of Wisdom. This guidance came from a revelation in 1833. It advises against certain substances to promote physical and spiritual well-being.
Why the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Avoids Coffee
The Word of Wisdom asks members to avoid several things:
- Alcohol,
- Tobacco,
- Illicit drugs,
- Hot drinks—specifically coffee and black tea,
- Anything else harmful or addictive.
Church leaders teach that following these principles brings blessings. It helps people keep their bodies healthy. It also brings clarity to the mind and strength to the spirit. Many members feel a deep connection to their faith through this commitment. They see it as a way to show devotion and honor God’s guidance.
Seventh-day Adventists and Coffee: A Health-Based Decision
Another group that often avoids coffee is the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Their health message encourages a lifestyle based on biblical principles. This includes a vegetarian diet for many. It also involves avoiding harmful substances. They believe the body is a temple. Caring for it helps people serve God better.
For Adventists, this means they usually avoid:
- Alcohol,
- Tobacco,
- Caffeine—which includes coffee, tea, and many sodas,
- Meat, for many members.
Spiritual and Personal Reasons for Avoiding Coffee
While these two religions have clear doctrines, other individuals or small groups might also choose to skip coffee. Some people in various spiritual traditions avoid stimulants for personal reasons. They might seek inner peace or better meditation. Sometimes, it’s just about personal health goals, not religious doctrine. You might find people from any background who simply prefer to live without caffeine.
Religious and Personal Choices Behind Skipping Coffee
Here’s a quick look at common reasons for avoiding coffee:
| Religion/Group | Key Reason for Avoiding Coffee | Other Substances Avoided |
|---|---|---|
| The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints | Health code (Word of Wisdom) for physical and spiritual well-being | Alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, hot teas |
| Seventh-day Adventist Church | Health message for spiritual and physical purity, body as a temple | Alcohol, tobacco, other caffeinated drinks, often meat |
| Other spiritual practices/personal choice | Seeking mental clarity, aiding meditation, personal health goals | Varies widely by individual or specific practice |
So, when you see someone skip coffee, it might be more than just a preference. It could be part of a deeply held faith or a personal commitment to a specific way of life. It’s a choice that reflects values about health, discipline, and spiritual connection. Each cup not poured tells a unique story.
