What are the Mormon rules?

The Mormon faith, like all Christian religions, has rules by which to live. They are called commandments. Commandments are guiding principles from God intended to bring happiness. They are also sometimes called laws. Members of the faith are well known for a lifestyle that includes paying tithing, conservative dress and grooming, a law of health known as the Word of Wisdom, morality, honesty, integrity, Sunday Sabbath observance, and dedication to families and community.

Mormons, more properly referred to as Latter-day Saints or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, believe that choosing to obey God's laws, or rules, demonstrates their love for God (see John 14:15) and brings blessings, increased happiness and hope of salvation. Blessings are the positive results of obeying a law from God. These blessings, given by God, can be spiritual, temporal, or both.

One place Latter-day Saints learn about commandments from God is in the Holy Bible. For example, the Old Testament includes the Ten Commandments, which Latter-day Saints strive to live and obey.

In the New Testament of the Bible, Jesus Christ was asked, "Which is the great commandment in the law?" Or in other words, of all the commandments – which is the most important to obey? Jesus answered, first, love God and second, love your neighbor. For Latter-day Saints and other Christians, all of God's rules or laws fit into these two great commandments: love God and love your neighbor.

Latter-day Saints also believe God communicates His will – commandments, guidance and teachings – through prophets, both ancient and modern. Prophets in turn share God's will to His children for their benefit. Latter-day Saints also believe in other books of scripture that contain commandments from God. They are The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, The Doctrine and Covenants, and The Pearl of Great Price.

What are the Mormon rules?

Explore more topics