The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), commonly known as the Mormon Church, has a clear playbook on what members should avoid. These rules aren’t just random restrictions—they’re meant to guide everyday decisions, promoting discipline, faith, and a lifestyle that reflects church values. Whether it’s skipping your morning latte or opting for a PG-rated movie night, here’s what’s officially off-limits for LDS members.
No Alcohol—Not Even a Sip
Drinking? That’s a hard pass. It’s not just about dodging hangovers—the belief is that alcohol messes with both your body and spirit. Staying sharp and in control is the goal, so anything that could blur judgment is off-limits. Spot a Mormon at a party? They’re probably the ones with a soda or sparkling cider in hand. Even cooking with alcohol, like a fancy wine reduction, is discouraged to keep things extra clear-cut.
Tobacco? Not a Chance
Smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco—whether it’s trendy or “just social”—is all a no. The church teaches that your body is a temple, so filling it with addictive substances isn’t part of the plan. No nicotine, no bad habits, no exceptions. Even secondhand smoke is a hard pass. The message is clear: a tobacco-free life means a healthier, cleaner life, both physically and spiritually.
Coffee and Tea? Hard Pass
If it’s got coffee beans or traditional tea leaves, it’s out. The Word of Wisdom specifically calls out “hot drinks,” which LDS leaders have clarified as coffee and tea. And no, an iced caramel macchiato doesn’t get a free pass—it’s still a no-go. Herbal tea is fine, so if it’s chamomile or mint, you’re in the clear. Energy drinks are a gray area, but many Mormons steer clear to avoid anything resembling the coffee habit.
No Casual Hookups
The law of chastity isn’t a “maybe” but a firm rule. No premarital sex, no one-night stands, and definitely no “oops, it just happened” moments. Mormons see intimacy as something sacred that should be reserved for marriage—not just casual fun. Even flirty conversations or media that might stir temptation are seen as slippery slopes best avoided. Keeping things clean isn’t just a guideline; it’s a way of life.
Adult Content? Not in the Playlist
The LDS Church takes a firm stance against adult content. Whether it’s in movies, magazines, or online, anything explicit is seen as harmful because it can distort views on relationships, desensitize emotions, and create unhealthy habits. The church encourages members to fill their minds with uplifting content instead—even “borderline” material like racy music videos or steamy romance novels is advised against.
Gambling’s Not a Chance
Rolling the dice isn’t part of the plan—literally or figuratively. No poker nights, no lottery tickets, and definitely no trips to Vegas for a weekend at the slots. The church views gambling as a risky habit that can spiral into financial trouble and moral compromise. Hard work and honesty are the name of the game, not quick cash grabs. Even small-time bets, like guessing the score of a football game, are frowned upon.
Same-Sex Attraction vs. Behavior
The church draws a line between feelings and actions. While same-sex attraction isn’t condemned, acting on it is where the church holds firm. To stay in good standing, members are expected to remain celibate unless they enter a traditional marriage. At the same time, the church stresses kindness and inclusion, encouraging all members to seek spiritual growth and a strong sense of belonging within their faith community.
Abortion: Almost Always Prohibited
Abortion is generally forbidden, with only a few exceptions: cases involving rape, incest, severe fetal abnormalities, or when the mother’s life is at risk. Even then, members are urged to pray and seek church guidance before making a decision. The focus is on protecting life whenever possible, and those facing such decisions are advised to consult with religious leaders for spiritual and emotional support.
Modesty Is More Than a Dress Code
For Mormons, modesty isn’t just what’s in your closet—it’s about self-respect and carrying yourself with dignity. The church has specific guidelines: no super short shorts, crop tops, or skin-tight clothing. Members are encouraged to dress in a way that honors their bodies; even swimwear and workout gear are expected to reflect these values. Modesty isn’t just a Sunday rule—it’s a daily mindset.
Tattoos and Piercings: Keep It Minimal
The church isn’t into body modifications. Tattoos are discouraged and, for men, piercings are generally limited to one pair of earrings for women, while men are expected to avoid them. The reasoning is that your body is sacred, and permanent changes should be considered carefully. While a tattoo won’t get you banned, members are urged to think twice before getting inked. Even temporary self-expression can be seen as a distraction rather than a personal statement.
Dancing? Depends on the Moves
Dancing is fine—if it’s clean. Anything too sexual, too wild, or too full of body contact is a hard pass. Church dances tend to be structured and wholesome, with an emphasis on fun rather than club-style grinding. The general rule? If you wouldn’t do it in front of your grandma, don’t do it on the dance floor. Line dancing is great, but a sweaty, bump-and-grind club scene is not.
Maintaining Personal Purity
The LDS Church teaches that self-gratification is something to avoid. The belief is that it can lead to unhealthy habits and detract from spiritual focus. Instead of fixating on physical urges, members are encouraged to redirect their thoughts and maintain self-discipline. Personal purity, for the church, extends beyond just physical actions to include thoughts and desires as well.
No R-Rated Movies or Explicit Media
If a movie is heavy on profanity, sex, or violence, it’s probably off-limits. R-rated films are generally discouraged, and members are encouraged to be mindful of what they watch. The goal is to keep entertainment uplifting and to avoid anything that could desensitize moral values. Even some PG-13 content can be seen as questionable depending on how far it pushes the boundaries.
Watch Your Language
Swearing, crude jokes, and taking the Lord’s name in vain are all discouraged. Words hold power, and the church encourages members to use them for good. While opting for some colorful vocabulary might feel satisfying in the moment, the LDS-approved response is something more family-friendly. Even slang terms with negative connotations are best avoided.
Honesty: No Cutting Corners
Lying, cheating, or bending the truth is a no-go—no matter how small. Whether it’s in school, at work, or in personal relationships, integrity is essential. The church teaches that trust is built on honesty and that a clear conscience is worth more than any short-term gain. That means no exaggerating stories to impress, no shady business deals, and definitely no sneaky test-taking tricks. Doing the right thing always outweighs getting ahead.
