Word of Wisdom/Joseph Smith

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Joseph Smith and the Word of Wisdom

Joseph Smith and the Word of Wisdom

Joseph Smith and the Word of Wisdom

• History and implementation of the Word of Wisdom
• Joseph Smith and the early implementation of the Word of Wisdom
• Joseph Smith drank wine in Carthage jail?
• Joseph Smith used tea?
• Joseph Smith procured tobacco prior to the martyrdom
• Did Joseph disregard the Word of Wisdom when he prophesied that Orson Hyde would drink wine with him in Palestine?

History and implementation of the Word of Wisdom

Summary: Observance of the Word of Wisdom has changed over time, due to on-going revelation from modern-day prophets, who put greater emphasis on certain elements of the revelation originally given to Joseph Smith. Early Latter-day Saints were not under the same requirements as today's Saints are.

Joseph Smith and the early implementation of the Word of Wisdom

Summary: Joseph Smith implemented a moderate implementation of the Word of Wisdom, and not the more strict standard known to members today.

Joseph Smith drank wine in Carthage jail?

Summary: Joseph Smith and those who were with him drank wine in Carthage Jail prior to his martyrdom. Did Joseph violate the Word of Wisdom?

Joseph Smith used tea?

Summary: Joseph Smith drank tea, and it is claimed that he encouraged others to do so. Did Joseph violate the Word of Wisdom?

Joseph Smith procured tobacco prior to the martyrdom

Summary: It is claimed Joseph arranged for some tobacco to be brought to Willard Richards in Carthage Jail just prior to his murder. Did Joseph violate the Word of Wisdom?

Did Joseph disregard the Word of Wisdom when he prophesied that Orson Hyde would drink wine with him in Palestine?

Summary: This criticism relies on readers not knowing the history of the Word of Wisdom's implementation.

Almon Babbitt followed Joseph in violating the Word of Wisdom

Summary: It is claimed that Joseph Smith violated the Word of Wisdom, and that another member (Almon W. Babbitt) followed his example.

Joseph Smith sold liquor in Nauvoo

Summary: It is claimed that Joseph Smith sold liquor in Nauvoo. Is this evidence that he either didn't believe the Word of Wisdom was from God, or was hypocritical about it?