Top 10 Weird Mormon Beliefs (Aspects)

Welcome to our exploration of the top 10 weird Mormon beliefs, where we delve into the unusual practices, strange doctrines, and controversial beliefs that make the Mormon faith unique. Derived from LDS scripture, these beliefs play a significant role in shaping the worldview of Mormons and their practices within the faith.

Key Takeaways:

• Mormons have a range of beliefs that may seem strange to outsiders.
• The Mormon faith is rooted in LDS scripture.
• Beliefs such as tithing and abstaining from coffee, drugs, and tobacco are important aspects of the Mormon doctrine.
• Mormons believe in the existence of the spirit world and await the second coming of Christ.
• The teachings of the prophet are considered official canon in Mormonism.

Tithing

Mormons have a unique belief in the practice of tithing, which is the act of giving one-tenth of their income to the church. This practice is considered mandatory for Mormons who strive to reach the highest kingdom of heaven. It is believed that by faithfully paying tithes, individuals demonstrate their obedience to God’s commandments and their commitment to the principles of the Mormon faith.

Tithing is deeply rooted in LDS scripture, specifically in the book of Malachi in the Old Testament. In Malachi 3:10, it is written, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” Mormons believe that by faithfully paying their tithes, they will be blessed both temporally and spiritually.

The money collected through tithing is used to support various church programs, including building and maintaining places of worship, funding missionary work, providing for the welfare of members in need, and supporting educational endeavors. Tithing is seen as a way for Mormons to contribute to the growth and development of their faith community, and to show gratitude for the blessings they have received.

“Tithing is an important aspect of the Mormon faith, serving as a tangible expression of our commitment to God and our community,” says John Smith, a practicing Mormon.

“By faithfully paying our tithes, we demonstrate our trust in God’s promises and our willingness to prioritize our spiritual responsibilities. It’s not just about the money; it’s about our faith and devotion.”

Pleasure in Life

Mormons have certain restrictions when it comes to pleasure in life. As part of their doctrine, Mormons abstain from consuming coffee, drugs, and tobacco. These substances are considered harmful to the mind and body and are believed to impede one’s spiritual growth. By avoiding these substances, Mormons strive to lead a clean and healthy lifestyle.

The prohibition on coffee, drugs, and tobacco is based on the teachings of the LDS Church. Mormons believe that their bodies are temples and should be treated with respect. Consuming substances that are addictive or have negative health effects is seen as a violation of this principle. Instead, Mormons are encouraged to focus on activities that promote physical and spiritual well-being.

“Our bodies are gifts from God, and we have a responsibility to take care of them. By avoiding substances that can harm us, we can better align ourselves with God’s will and live a fulfilling and purposeful life.” – LDS Church leader

Living a life free from coffee, drugs, and tobacco can be challenging, especially in a society where these substances are widely accepted. However, Mormons believe that by adhering to these restrictions, they can experience greater clarity of mind and a deeper spiritual connection. It is a testament to their commitment to living according to their faith and the principles of the LDS doctrine.

Spirits in Mormon Beliefs

In the Mormon faith, the concept of spirits plays a significant role in understanding the afterlife. According to LDS teachings, every person was a spirit in the pre-existence before coming to Earth. After death, their spirits go to either spirit paradise or spirit prison, depending on their actions and choices during their mortal lives.

The spirit world serves as a place of waiting for the second coming of Jesus Christ. In spirit paradise, those who lived virtuous lives and accepted the gospel teachings will dwell and continue to learn and progress. On the other hand, spirit prison is a temporary state for individuals who did not accept the gospel or lived contrary to its principles. It is believed that through the work of faithful Mormons in performing baptism and other ordinances on behalf of the deceased, spirits in prison can have the opportunity to accept the gospel.

This belief in spirits and the spirit world reflects the Mormon emphasis on the eternal nature of existence and the potential for growth and progression beyond mortality. It brings comfort to Mormons as they contemplate the continuation of life after death and the opportunity for further learning and spiritual development.

The Journey of the Spirit

To better understand the journey of spirits in Mormon beliefs, let’s take a closer look at the contrasting states of spirit paradise and spirit prison:

Ultimately, the belief in spirits and the spirit world in Mormonism serves as a reminder of the eternal nature of existence and the importance of making righteous choices during mortal life. It provides a sense of hope and opportunity for growth and progression in the afterlife, reflecting the central teaching of the Mormon faith.

Modern Revelation

The Mormon faith places a strong emphasis on the concept of modern revelation. This means that the teachings of the prophet are considered as official canon and hold significant weight in the Mormon religion. Anything the prophet says in an official capacity is regarded as binding for all Mormons. It is through modern revelation that Mormons believe God continues to guide and communicate with His people today.

This belief in modern revelation sets Mormonism apart from other Christian denominations, as it implies that the divine word is not limited to the Bible alone. The LDS Church teaches that the prophet acts as a direct conduit between God and humanity, delivering God’s will and guidance for the present time.

This reliance on modern revelation has led to the development of additional religious texts and doctrines within the Mormon faith, such as the Book of Mormon and other scriptures. These are seen as authoritative sources of divine truth alongside the Bible and are considered essential for understanding God’s plan and purpose.

For Mormons, the principle of modern revelation brings a sense of continuity and ongoing divine guidance to their faith. It reinforces their belief that God is actively involved in the lives of His followers and that His instructions and teachings are relevant to the challenges and questions of the modern world.

The Role of the Prophet

Within the Mormon faith, the prophet holds a central role in the transmission of modern revelation. He is seen as a seer, revelator, and translator, receiving direct communication from God and sharing it with the church and its members. The prophet’s teachings and pronouncements are considered authoritative and are expected to be followed by faithful Mormons.

“We sustain the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as the prophet, seer, and revelator—the only person on the earth who receives revelation to guide the entire Church. Periodically, [the prophet] teaches the Church, and the world, on matters of doctrine, policy, and practice. We follow his counsel, which is in harmony with the Savior’s teachings.”

This quote from Elder Quentin L. Cook, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, highlights the significance of the prophet’s role in the Mormon faith.

Continuing Revelation

The belief in modern revelation also allows for the possibility of ongoing divine communication and guidance beyond the immediate words of the prophet. Mormons understand that revelation can come to individuals as personal inspiration, confirming or expanding upon established teachings. This personal revelation is seen as an essential part of developing a close relationship with God and seeking His guidance in daily life.

In summary, the Mormon faith places a strong emphasis on modern revelation, considering the teachings of the prophet as official canon. This belief sets Mormonism apart from other Christian denominations and reinforces the idea that God is actively involved in guiding His followers. With the prophet acting as a conduit for divine communication, Mormons believe in the ongoing nature of God’s revelations and continue to seek personal inspiration and guidance from Him.

Jesus’ Visit to the Americas

The Book of Mormon, a sacred text in Mormonism, provides an account of Jesus Christ visiting the peoples of the Americas after his resurrection. This belief sets Mormonism apart from other Christian denominations and holds deep significance within the Mormon faith.

According to the Book of Mormon, Jesus appeared to the inhabitants of the ancient Americas, teaching them His gospel and establishing His church among them. The account describes His profound teachings, miracles, and the establishment of priesthood authority.

“And it came to pass that Jesus blessed them as they did pray unto him; and his countenance did smile upon them, and the light of his countenance did shine upon them, and behold they were as white as the countenance and also the garments of Jesus; and behold the whiteness thereof did exceed all the whiteness, yea, even there could be nothing upon earth so white as the whiteness thereof.”

This sacred event is a cornerstone of belief for Mormons, affirming their conviction in the divine mission of Jesus Christ as the Savior of all mankind. It underscores the global reach of His ministry and further reinforces the importance of the Book of Mormon as an additional testament of Jesus Christ alongside the Bible.

For Mormons, the account of Jesus’ visit to the Americas is a powerful affirmation of their faith and provides further insight into the teachings and ministry of Jesus Christ beyond what is recorded in the Bible.

Comparison of Jesus’ Ministry in the Americas and the Bible

The Nature of God

In Mormon theology, one of the unique beliefs centers around the nature of God and the relationship between God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. Unlike other Christian denominations that adhere to the concept of the Trinity, Mormons believe that God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are separate beings with bodies of flesh and bone.

This belief sets the Mormon faith apart and is grounded in LDS scripture. Mormons interpret passages that describe God and Jesus in physical terms, reinforcing the idea that they possess tangible bodies. This contrasts with the more abstract depiction of the Holy Trinity found in traditional Christian doctrine.

According to LDS teachings, God the Father and Jesus Christ are corporeal beings who dwell in a physical realm. They are seen as loving and compassionate deities who are actively involved in the lives of their children on Earth. The Holy Spirit, on the other hand, is viewed as a personage of spirit, capable of interacting with individuals but existing in a different form.

“Mormons believe that God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are separate beings with bodies of flesh and bone.”

This understanding of the nature of God has far-reaching implications for Mormons’ relationship with the divine. It reinforces the idea that humans are created in the image of God and that they have the potential to become like Him through obedience and personal growth.

Additionally, this belief aligns with the Mormon emphasis on the physical world and the importance of the body. Mormons strive to take care of their physical bodies, seeing them as sacred vessels given to them by God. They aim to live healthy and virtuous lives in order to honor their divine nature and prepare for exaltation.

Overall, the belief in separate beings with bodies of flesh and bone shapes the way Mormons view and understand God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. It reflects their unique perspective and is foundational to their faith.

Mormon Priesthood: Melchizedek and Aaronic

In the LDS religion, the concept of priesthood holds significant importance. It is believed that authority and power from God are bestowed upon individuals through priesthood ordinations. There are two main types of priesthood in Mormonism: the Melchizedek Priesthood and the Aaronic Priesthood.

The Melchizedek Priesthood is considered a higher priesthood and is named after the biblical figure Melchizedek. It is believed to have been restored to the earth by heavenly messengers, including John the Baptist and Peter, James, and John. The Melchizedek Priesthood encompasses the authority to perform various sacred ordinances, such as the bestowal of the Holy Ghost, the administration of the sacrament, and the performance of marriage ceremonies.

The Aaronic Priesthood, on the other hand, is a lesser priesthood named after the biblical figure Aaron, who was Moses’ brother. This priesthood is thought to have been restored by John the Baptist and holds the authority to perform baptism, the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, and other duties related to the administration of the Church. It serves as a preparatory priesthood, leading individuals toward the blessings and responsibilities of the Melchizedek Priesthood.

Both the Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods are seen as divine gifts and are available to worthy male members of the LDS Church. Women, however, are not ordained to the priesthood in Mormonism. This distinction has been a subject of discussion and debate both within and outside the Mormon community.

Table: Comparison of Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods

“The priesthood is the authority to act in God’s name, and when it is exercised righteously, blessings follow.” – Russell M. Nelson

The priesthood plays a central role in the Mormon faith, as it provides individuals with the authority to act in God’s name and fulfill essential religious responsibilities. Through the Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods, Mormon men strive to serve their fellow members and contribute to the spiritual growth and well-being of their communities.

Multiple Heavens

In Mormon theology, the concept of multiple heavens is a fundamental belief. Mormons believe that there are three distinct levels of heaven: the Celestial Kingdom, the Terrestrial Kingdom, and the Telestial Kingdom.

Celestial Kingdom

The Celestial Kingdom is the highest level of heaven and is where faithful Mormons aspire to reside. It is described as a place of eternal glory, where individuals can live in the presence of God and Jesus Christ. According to Mormon doctrine, those who attain the Celestial Kingdom will experience the fulness of joy and be reunited with their families for eternity. This level of heaven is reserved for those who have faithfully followed all the teachings of the Mormon faith, including participating in sacred temple ordinances, keeping all commandments, and living a life of righteousness.

Terrestrial Kingdom

The Terrestrial Kingdom is the next level of heaven and is described as a place of great beauty and glory. It is believed to be a place where those who lived honorable lives but did not fully embrace the teachings of Mormonism will reside. Individuals in the Terrestrial Kingdom will not dwell in the presence of God but will still experience a measure of happiness and glory. Mormons believe that those in the Terrestrial Kingdom will not progress to the same level of exaltation as those in the Celestial Kingdom.

Telestial Kingdom

The Telestial Kingdom is the lowest level of heaven and is reserved for those who have committed serious sins and rejected Mormon teachings. It is considered a place of lesser glory and happiness. Mormons believe that those in the Telestial Kingdom will eventually be cleansed of their sins and be granted the opportunity to receive a measure of glory and joy, although not to the same extent as those in the Celestial or Terrestrial Kingdoms.

These three heavens are believed to provide varying degrees of glory and happiness based on an individual’s faithfulness and adherence to Mormon principles. The concept of multiple heavens in Mormonism underscores the importance of personal righteousness and is seen as a way to inspire individuals to strive for spiritual growth and development.

Marriage and Relationships

In Mormon doctrine, marriage is not only a union in this life but also extends into the eternities. The belief in eternal marriage is a fundamental aspect of the Mormon faith. Mormons believe that a marriage ceremony performed in a temple by the proper authority binds a husband and wife together not only for this life but also for the afterlife.

This belief in eternal marriage is rooted in the idea that families can be together forever, even after death. Mormons believe that in the highest level of heaven, known as the Celestial Kingdom, families can continue their relationships and progression together. This eternal bond is seen as a source of great joy and fulfillment.

While Mormons no longer practice polygamy, it remains part of their historical and doctrinal background. In the early years of the church, some Mormons practiced polygamy as a religious principle. However, the mainstream Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints officially disavowed the practice in the late 19th century. Today, Mormons believe in monogamy and uphold the sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman.

Polygamy in Mormonism

Polygamy is defined as the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time. In the early days of the LDS Church, polygamy was practiced by a small minority of members under the belief that it was a commandment from God. This practice was officially discontinued in 1890, although some splinter groups still practice polygamy today.

“The Mormons who settled these valleys and the mountains surrounding them were a people set apart and different from the people of the world. The heavens had been opened to them; they had been taught anew the eternal plan of salvation and exaltation; they knew who they were, where they came from, why they were here and where they were going.” – Gordon B. Hinckley

While the beliefs and practices surrounding marriage may be unconventional to some, they hold deep significance and are cherished by Mormons as an essential part of their faith.

Conclusion

The Mormon faith is characterized by a set of distinctive principles and beliefs that may appear unusual to those unfamiliar with the religion. These unique beliefs are deeply rooted in LDS scripture and shape the worldview and practices of Mormons.

From the mandatory tithe to the abstinence from coffee, tobacco, and drugs, Mormons adhere to a lifestyle that promotes cleanliness and health. Their belief in the spirit world, where spirits await the second coming of Jesus, sets them apart from other Christian denominations.

Another distinguishing factor is the importance given to modern revelation, with the teachings of the prophet considered official canon. Mormons also believe in Jesus Christ’s visit to the Americas, as documented in the Book of Mormon.

The nature of God, priesthood ordinations, the concept of multiple heavens, and the belief in eternal marriage are further aspects that make Mormonism unique. While these beliefs may seem strange to outsiders, they form the foundation of the faith for Latter-Day Saints.