The phrase, “moderation in all things” is a euphemism usually (but not exclusively) associated (by Mormons at least)with the Word of Wisdom. It usually means that we should not go too far, one way or the other, in abstaining to the point of becoming an ascetic or in indulging to the point of becoming an addict. Of course, that leaves lots of room for interpretation and individual opinion, as well as plenty of opportunity for members to judge one another uncharitably.
The phrase “Moderation in all things” is attributed to Terence, a Roman comic dramatist who lived from 185-159 B.C. (or alternately to Plautus, same profession, who lived from 250-184 B.C.) However, suffice it to say, the philosophy of living moderately (avoiding excesses) was common in ancient Greece and Rome.
First, a few quotes from church leaders about this concept of “moderation in all things”:
Joseph F. Smith: “The saints should not be unwise, but rather understand what the will of the Lord is, and practice moderation in all things.”
Ezra Taft Benson: “A priesthood holder should actively seek for things that are virtuous and lovely and not that which is debasing or sordid. He does things in moderation and is not given to overindulgence.”
James Faust: ”Part of the spirit of the Word of Wisdom is moderation in all things, except those things specifically forbidden by the Lord.”
Dallin Oaks: “Moderation in all things is not a virtue, because it would seem to justify moderation in commitment.”
It would seem there are some differences of opinion about whether moderation is good or not. This seems like a question of personal philosophy rather than a matter of doctrine.
So, where do you fall on the path between abstinence and indulgence? Do you tend to push the envelope, believing that the restrictions are already strict without making them more stringent, or do you define things as narrowly as possible, believing that even the very appearance of evil can lead to a weak person’s downfall? Is it situational? Personal? Here’s a poll to see where you fall on some of these possible Word of Wisdom indulgences: coffee, tea, alcohol, and meat.
Which of the following do you consider to be within Word of Wisdom standards, provided they are used in moderation?
coffee flavored candies
coffee substitutes (e.g. Pero, Postum, Echo)
coffee, provided it has cooled (not a “hot drink”)
decaffeinated coffee
desserts containing coffee (e.g. Tiramisu or coffee ice cream)
energy drinks
energy supplements (e.g. Vivarin)
iced coffee drinks
None of these is acceptable.
Which of the following tea-related products do you consider to be within Word of Wisdom standards, provided they are used in moderation?
green tea
herbal teas (non-caffeinated)
iced tea
none of these options is acceptable
tea flavored ice cream or other desserts containing tea
Which of the following alcohol-related items are within Word of Wisdom standards, provided they are used in moderation?
beer, as it is not hard liquor
hard liquor, as it is made of grain
near beer (reduced alcohol content beer)
non-alcoholic beer
none of these are acceptable
recipes using alcohol that cooks off (e.g. fondue, coq au vin)
recipes using alcohol that doesn’t cook off (e.g. rum cake)
virgin versions of mixed drinks (e.g. Pina Colada)
Which of the following meat eating practices are within Word of Wisdom standards, provided they are used in moderation?
Eat sparingly means only about once per day
Meat is for man – eat several times a day
Meat should only be eaten in winter or times of famine; very seldom (less than weekly).
The Atkins diet (or other meat-heavy plans) are perfectly compatible with the Word of Wisdom.
This prohibition no longer applies; it was because of poor preservation techniques in the 1800s.
Veganism would be ideal in keeping with the counsel
Vegetarianism would be more in keeping with the counsel
“Meat” only limits red meat, not chicken, fish or pork
Discuss.
Wheat & Tares 