Mormon Underwear

by Seth

Holding things sacred is something members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often mistakenly called “Mormons”) take seriously. Many outside the LDS faith use the word “secret” in an effort to distort or confuse what is reality. Part of this comes from a lack of knowledge of what is taught within the Church. However, when you speak to faithful members of the LDS Church, you will quickly find that those things held sacred are done so because of a strong faith in Jesus Christ, a love for what He did for them, and a respect for what they feel are the true teachings of Him who is at the head of the Church.

One of the things that there is misinformation and a lack of understanding about in Mormonism is the Mormon Garment or, as some have referred to it, “Mormon underwear.” As one takes the time to earnestly learn and understand the importance and significance of these sacred items, a reverence and respect comes, which those who do have the honor of wearing Mormon underwear feel. It is important to note that the wearing of these holy garments is not something new. In the beginning of the Holy Bible, in the book of Genesis, we read that the Lord made “coats of skins” for our first parents, Adam and Eve, to cover their bodies so they would not be naked. A very basic and simple explanation of the Mormon underwear is that they are pieces of clothing worn underneath one’s regular clothing. They are very plain in their materials and look. They consist of both a top and a bottom for both men and women. The significance comes as one understands the symbolism that comes from the garments.

In order for a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to be eligible to wear the garment, they must be found worthy to enter Mormon temples. As one is found worthy through living the commandments and covenants they have made with the Lord, they can receive a special recommendation from their local ecclesiastical leaders. It is this recommendation that allows a member to purchase and wear the garment. In a world full of confusion and temptation, these sacred pieces of under clothing help to serve as a protection and reminder of those covenants made within the walls of Mormon temples. There is a peace and comfort to those who wear the garment, and many have received personal testimonies through personal experiences wearing the garments.

As it is with many aspects of the LDS religion, there is a huge and significant difference between the words “sacred” and “secret.” When it comes to one’s belief and commitment to live the gospel of Jesus Christ, it is very personal. For members of the LDS Church, it is important that they maintain the sacredness of their personal testimonies. It has nothing to do with being secret, but it is very sacred. When something is sacred, you are not always going to share that with others. You may share certain aspects of it, but you want to maintain the sacred feelings that come with your testimony.  As members attend the temple often, they are taught and instructed about God’s Plan of Happiness. As members leave the temple to return to their normal lives, the garments stand as a reminder of those covenants or commitments one has made with the Lord. The peace, joy, happiness, and comfort that comes to members as they are reminded of all that Jesus Christ did for them is wonderful.

Mormon underwear is an outward symbol of an inward commitment, just as many other religious artifacts are, such as the Jewish yarmulke or a Catholic priest’s robes. However, these commitments (covenants) that Latter-day Saints make in Mormon temples are very personal. They are not advertised to the world. This is why the Mormon garment (“Mormon underwear”) is underclothing. It serves as a personal reminder to the wearer of those covenants, not to the whole world.

Additional Resources:

More about Mormon beliefs

Jesus Christ in Mormonism

Seth Saunders is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (“Mormon”). He is currently serving as Branch President of the Pembroke Branch.