Top 10 Weird Mormon Beliefs (Aspects)

Are you curious about the unique and unconventional practices of Mormonism? Dive into the world of Mormon beliefs and discover some of the most bizarre aspects of this faith. From mandatory tithing to abstaining from common beverages, the Mormon religion has its own set of peculiar beliefs that may surprise you. Let’s explore these unusual practices that are deeply rooted in LDS theology and scriptures.

Key Takeaways:

• Mormons believe in paying 10% of their income as a tithe to be eligible for the highest kingdom of heaven.
• Abstinence from coffee, tea, drugs, and tobacco is an integral part of Mormon lifestyle, as these substances are believed to hinder spiritual well-being.
• Mormons believe in the existence of spirit paradise and spirit prison, where spirits await the second coming of Jesus Christ.
• The Mormon faith embraces modern revelation through a living prophet who receives commandments and teachings directly from God.
• Mormons believe that Jesus Christ visited the Americas after his resurrection, as described in the Book of Mormon.

Continue reading to learn more about these intriguing Mormon beliefs that set them apart from other Christian denominations.

Tithing

Mormons believe in the principle of tithing, which involves giving 10% of their income to the LDS Church. This practice is considered mandatory for faithful members and plays a significant role in their religious devotion and commitment to their faith. According to LDS theology, tithing is a way to show gratitude to God for the blessings received and support the church in its mission to spread the teachings of Jesus Christ (“First source:”).

The concept of tithing is deeply rooted in the scriptures, specifically in Doctrine and Covenants 119:3-6. The scripture states that tithing is a standing law for members of the LDS Church and failure to pay tithing may result in being deemed unworthy to abide among the faithful. This belief underscores the importance of financial sacrifice and generosity within the Mormon community, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility (“First source:”).

One of the primary purposes of tithing is to support the work of the church, including building and maintaining temples, providing resources for education and humanitarian aid, and funding other various programs and initiatives. Mormons view tithing as a way to contribute to the growth and well-being of their religious community, as well as to fulfill their spiritual obligations and commitments to God (“First source:”).

“Tithing is not just about giving money, but also about giving of oneself and making a personal commitment to the teachings and principles of the LDS Church.”

Table: Tithing in the LDS Church

Pleasure in Life

Mormons have a unique approach to finding pleasure in life that sets them apart from other religious groups. One of the most well-known aspects of this is their abstaining from coffee, drugs, and tobacco. These substances are considered harmful to the body and can hinder spiritual well-being, according to the Word of Wisdom found in Doctrine and Covenants 89:5-13. As a result, Mormons choose to avoid them as part of their commitment to their faith.

This belief in abstaining from certain substances is deeply rooted in the LDS theology and scriptures. The Word of Wisdom, which was revealed to Joseph Smith in 1833, not only prohibits the consumption of coffee, alcohol, tobacco, and hot drinks but also encourages a diet that is wholesome, emphasizing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Mormons believe that by following these guidelines, they can maintain physical and spiritual health.

Additionally, Mormons believe that finding pleasure in life comes from living a virtuous and disciplined life. Their faith guides them to focus on activities that bring joy and fulfillment within the boundaries set by their religious teachings. This includes prioritizing family time, serving others, and pursuing education and personal development.

Overall, by abstaining from substances considered harmful and embracing a well-rounded, virtuous lifestyle, Mormons believe they can experience a deeper sense of joy and fulfillment in their lives.

Key Points:

• Mormons abstain from coffee, drugs, and tobacco as they believe these substances are harmful and hinder spiritual well-being.
• This belief is based on the Word of Wisdom found in Doctrine and Covenants 89:5-13.
• Mormons prioritize activities that bring joy within the boundaries set by their religious teachings.
• They find pleasure in living a virtuous and disciplined life, focusing on family, service, and personal development.

Spirits

In Mormon belief, the concept of spirits plays a crucial role in understanding the afterlife. According to their theology, every person on earth was a spirit in the pre-existence and will return to the spirit world after death. The sequel follows, with spirits being separated from their bodies and entering either “spirit paradise” or “spirit prison” based on their actions during their mortal lives.

This belief in spirits aligns with the idea that individuals will be judged for their earthly deeds and prepared for final judgment before the second coming of Jesus Christ. The spirit world serves as a temporary abode for spirits, allowing them to await their ultimate destiny.

It is important to note that the concept of spirits in Mormonism is not limited to the afterlife. Mormons believe that spirits can also interact with the living, providing guidance, comfort, and protection. This belief in the ongoing connection between the living and the spirits of their departed loved ones is a source of great consolation and comfort within the Mormon faith.

Table: Comparison of Spirit Paradise and Spirit Prison

Understanding the belief in spirits provides insight into the Mormon perspective on the afterlife and the significance of righteous living. For Mormons, this belief serves as a reminder of the importance of moral conduct and adherence to their religious teachings in order to secure a positive outcome in the spirit world.

Modern Revelation

Mormons firmly believe in the concept of modern revelation. They believe that God continues to communicate with mankind through a living prophet who holds the keys to receive divine commandments and revelations. According to LDS theology, the prophet acts as the intermediary between God and the members of the Church. Whatever the prophet says in an official capacity is considered official canon and holds great significance in shaping the beliefs and practices of the LDS community.

This belief in modern revelation stems from the teachings found in Doctrine and Covenants 43:2-9, which highlight the prophet’s authority to receive divine guidance for the Church. The role of the prophet is seen as crucial in providing direction and guidance to the members of the Church as they navigate the challenges of the modern world. This ongoing communication with God sets Mormonism apart from many other Christian denominations, emphasizing the importance of a living prophet and the continual guidance of the divine.

“We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.”

This emphasis on modern revelation allows the LDS Church to adapt and evolve in response to the changing times and needs of its members. It ensures that the Church remains relevant and responsive to the challenges and opportunities of the present day. The belief in modern revelation also fosters a deep sense of trust and faith in the guidance provided by the prophet, as members know that they are receiving divine counsel directly from God.

The Role of the Prophet

The prophet in the LDS Church is not only the spiritual leader but also serves as a source of inspiration and guidance in all aspects of life. Their teachings and revelations are considered essential for spiritual growth and personal development. The prophet’s words are seen as a direct connection to God, offering comfort, guidance, and direction to the members of the Church.

In summary, the belief in modern revelation is a fundamental aspect of Mormonism. Through a living prophet, Mormons believe that God continues to communicate with His children, providing guidance, commandments, and revelations. This belief sets the LDS Church apart and highlights the importance of ongoing divine communication in shaping the faith and practices of its members.

Jesus Visited the Americas

Mormons hold the belief that after his resurrection, Jesus Christ made a special appearance to the peoples of the Americas. This visitation is documented in the Book of Mormon, a sacred text that Mormons consider to be another testament of Jesus Christ alongside the Bible. According to the scripture found in 3 Nephi 11:7-12, Jesus appeared to the people in America and declared himself to be the light and the life of the world.

“And it came to pass that he stretched forth his hand and spake unto the people, saying: Behold, I am Jesus Christ, whom the prophets testified shall come into the world. And behold, I am the light and the life of the world; and I have drunk out of that bitter cup which the Father hath given me, and have glorified the Father in taking upon me the sins of the world, in the which I have suffered the will of the Father in all things from the beginning.”

This belief in Jesus’ visit to the Americas is a crucial part of the Mormon faith and serves as a testament to the global reach and influence of Jesus’ ministry. It also emphasizes the importance of the Americas in the overall narrative of Christianity as a whole.

The Book of Mormon: A Unique Testament

Central to the belief in Jesus’ visit to the Americas is the Book of Mormon itself. This sacred text is believed to have been revealed to Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism, through divine means. Mormons consider the Book of Mormon to be a companion to the Bible, containing additional teachings and records of prophets from ancient America.

The Book of Mormon provides a detailed account of Jesus’ teachings and miracles during his visit to the Americas. It describes how he established his church among the people and taught them his gospel. This belief in Jesus’ visit to the Americas sets Mormonism apart from other Christian faiths and highlights the unique perspective of the religion.

As Mormons continue to study and find spiritual guidance from the Book of Mormon, the belief in Jesus’ visit to the Americas remains a significant aspect of their faith. It serves as a testament to Jesus’ universal mission and reinforces the importance of the Americas in the narrative of Christianity.

The Nature of God

Mormons have a unique belief about the nature of God. They believe that God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are separate beings, each having a distinct body of flesh and bone. This belief sets them apart from other Christian denominations, which generally adhere to the doctrine of the Trinity, stating that God is one being in three persons.

Their belief is grounded in the scriptures found in Doctrine and Covenants 129:1-5 and 130:22-23, which affirm that God and Jesus have tangible bodies like humans. This concept of God having a physical form aligns with the Mormon belief that humans are created in the image of God and have the potential to become like Him.

This belief in the tangible nature of God and Jesus has important implications for Mormons’ understanding of their own potential divinity. They believe that by following the teachings of Jesus Christ and living according to the principles of their faith, they can progress spiritually and eventually become gods or goddesses themselves, inheriting all that God has.

Mormon Beliefs

“Mormons believe that God has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit.” – Doctrine and Covenants 130:22

Contrasting Beliefs

This unique belief about the nature of God is central to the Mormon faith and shapes their understanding of their divine heritage and purpose in life. It underscores the emphasis Mormons place on personal spiritual growth and striving to become more like God in their thoughts, words, and actions.

Priesthood

In LDS theology, the concept of priesthood holds significant importance and serves as a cornerstone of the faith. It is a sacred authority granted to worthy male members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (“First source:”). The priesthood is divided into two categories: the Melchizedek Priesthood and the Aaronic Priesthood. These priesthoods bestow specific responsibilities and duties upon those who hold them, allowing them to act as authorized representatives of God (“First source:”).

The Melchizedek Priesthood is considered the higher priesthood and encompasses the authority to perform ordinances such as baptisms, confirmations, and blessings, as well as lead congregations and administer the sacrament (“First source:”). This priesthood is named after the biblical figure Melchizedek, who was a high priest and a contemporary of Abraham (“First source:”).

The Aaronic Priesthood, on the other hand, is considered the lesser priesthood and is primarily focused on the preparatory ordinances and responsibilities within the church (“First source:”). Those who hold the Aaronic Priesthood have the authority to baptize and participate in the administration of the sacrament (“First source:”).

Table: Comparison of Melchizedek Priesthood and Aaronic Priesthood

It is important to note that until 1978, there was a historical practice within the Mormon Church that restricted individuals of African descent from holding the priesthood (“First source:”). However, this restriction was officially lifted with a declaration, allowing all worthy male members, regardless of race or ethnicity, to hold the priesthood (“First source:”).

The priesthood plays a central role in the religious practices and governance of the LDS Church. It is considered a divine authority granted by God to guide and lead His people. Understanding the intricacies of priesthood within the Mormon faith provides valuable insights into the beliefs and structure of the Church.

Conclusion

Mormonism, with its unique and at times unconventional beliefs, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of LDS theology. From the practice of mandatory tithing to the abstention from certain substances, Mormons adhere to a set of teachings that distinguish them from other Christian denominations. By delving into these beliefs, one can gain a deeper understanding of Mormonism and its followers.

Mormonism is characterized by its top 10 weird beliefs, which are deeply rooted in the LDS scriptures and theology. These unusual beliefs, such as the prohibition of coffee and tobacco, highlight the importance Mormons place on spiritual well-being and physical health. While these practices may seem peculiar to outsiders, they serve as pillars of the Mormon faith.

By acknowledging and respecting these unique beliefs, we can foster a sense of understanding and appreciation for the Mormon community. Mormonism, as a religion, offers a rich tapestry of beliefs and practices that contribute to the diverse religious landscape in the United States. By recognizing and engaging in meaningful dialogue about these unusual beliefs, we can bridge gaps and promote greater religious understanding and acceptance.