Are Mormons Allowed to Take Birth Control?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon Church, has a long-standing reputation for its strict moral teachings. One of the most frequently asked questions about Mormonism is whether Mormons are allowed to take birth control. This article aims to explore this topic and provide a comprehensive understanding of the Mormon stance on birth control.
Historical Perspective
In the early days of the Mormon Church, birth control was not explicitly addressed in the church’s teachings. However, as the 20th century progressed, the church began to provide more guidance on the matter. In 1913, President Joseph F. Smith issued a revelation that stated, “Thou shalt not engage in any lascivious or indecent act, nor shall thy thoughts be lascivious or indecent.” This revelation was interpreted by some as a prohibition against birth control.
Current Church Teachings
Today, the Mormon Church does not explicitly prohibit the use of birth control. The church acknowledges that family planning is a personal decision between a husband and wife. However, the church encourages its members to follow the teachings of Proverbs 30:5, which states, “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.” This implies that Mormons should seek divine guidance when making decisions about family planning.
Reasons for Birth Control
Mormons may choose to use birth control for various reasons, including:
1. Health concerns: Some couples may have medical conditions that make it difficult to have children or carry a pregnancy to term.
2. Financial reasons: Raising a family can be expensive, and some couples may choose to delay having children until they are financially stable.
3. Personal reasons: Couples may have personal reasons for wanting to limit the number of children they have, such as career aspirations or a desire for more personal time.
Church Support
The Mormon Church supports its members in their family planning decisions. The church provides resources and counseling to help couples make informed choices about birth control. Additionally, the church encourages members to seek divine guidance through prayer and fasting when making significant decisions, including those related to family planning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mormons are allowed to take birth control, but the decision is ultimately a personal one between a husband and wife. The church encourages its members to seek divine guidance and follow the teachings of the scriptures when making family planning decisions. While the church does not explicitly prohibit the use of birth control, it emphasizes the importance of moral and ethical considerations in the process.
