Reflections on Mormons Reading About Other Religions

For many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the Mormon Church), studying other religions is not only permitted but encouraged. This practice stems from the core mandate given to the faithful to be well-informed about the world and its various beliefs. However, the approach to studying other religions has evolved over time, reflecting changes within the Church's leadership and the broader landscape of religious pluralism.

Encouragement to Learn About Other Religions

The Doctrine and Covenants, a sacred text of the Church, instructs members to seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom. It further emphasizes that members should seek learning even by study and faith (Doctrine and Covenants 88:118). Given this mandate, it would be logical to infer that studying other religions is part of this broader quest for knowledge.

Historical Context and Current Practices

Historically, members of the Church were discouraged from learning about other religious groups, especially those within Christianity, primarily because of the belief that other churches were inherently wrong and corrupt. This mindset was largely due to the Church's leadership and was rooted in a desire to gain acceptance in a predominantly Christian society.

However, with the advent of the internet and a more open and pluralistic world, members today can have greater access to information about other religions. This has decoupled them from the strict limitations of the past and has allowed for a more inclusive and informed exploration of religious practices and beliefs.

Personal Experience and Learning

As a Latter-day Saint, I can personally attest to the value of studying other religions. During my mission in Taiwan, I found myself reading extensively about various religious practices, including Taoism (Daoism). I came to understand Taoism in a way that is often unmatched by many of the "Daoists" I met in person.

My interactions with Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox Christians often reveal a significant gap in their understanding of Mormon doctrines. This is particularly true when discussing Trinitarian theology. While many declare belief in the Trinity, many struggle to articulate a coherent understanding, which my faith's compilation of scriptures and teachings can provide.

Attitudinal Differences

One of the most notable differences between the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and other religious groups is the approach to studying other religions. While other groups might discourage or even denounce the study of other texts, the Church promotes a rich and varied educational experience. LDS bishops, for instance, do not instruct members to avoid reading the Quran or possessiveness of demons through the Bhagavad Gita.

Instead, we are encouraged to seek out the best books and learn about the history, cultures, and beliefs of peoples around the world. This emphasis on learning and understanding, rather than proselytization or condemnation, fosters a more compassionate and open-minded approach to religion and other belief systems.