When Lehi’s family boarded the ship they’d made for crossing the ocean to a new home chosen for them by God, boredom might have been a challenge for them. Unlike Noah’s family, they didn’t have the large number of animals to care for.
9 And after we had been driven forth before the wind for the space of many days, behold, my brethren and the sons of Ishmael and also their wives began to make themselves merry, insomuch that they began to dance, and to sing, and to speak with much rudeness, yea, even that they did forget by what power they had been brought thither; yea, they were lifted up unto exceeding rudeness.
10 And I, Nephi, began to fear exceedingly lest the Lord should be angry with us, and smite us because of our iniquity, that we should be swallowed up in the depths of the sea; wherefore, I, Nephi, began to speak to them with much soberness; but behold they were angry with me, saying: We will not that our younger brother shall be a ruler over us. (1 Nephi 18)
It might seem that the singing and dancing were considered by Nephi to be immoral. Actually, however, it was what the singing and dancing did to them that was the problem. It appears the music was of a type to cause them to behave rudely and to chase away the spirit, so they no longer remembered God’s place in their lives.
The church has always celebrated music done properly. The pioneers, only allowed to bring essentials with them, brought musical instruments. In the evenings, instead of collapsing in exhaustion, they often danced. Brigham Young said, “If you wish to dance, dance; and you are just as much prepared for a prayer meeting after dancing as ever you were, if you are Saints.” (Journal of Discourses, 6:149, 148.)
By this, he pointed out that a true member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will choose music and dancing that is pleasing to God. When dancing is done properly and in the proper spirit, it won’t chase away the Spirit.
The church publishes a pamphlet for youth called For the Strength of Youth. This pamphlet advises:
“Dancing can be fun and can provide an opportunity to meet new people. However, it too can be misused. When dancing, avoid full body contact with your partner. Do not use positions or moves that are suggestive of sexual behavior. Plan and attend dances where dress, grooming, lighting, lyrics, and music contribute to a wholesome atmosphere where the Spirit of the Lord may be present.”
The church has often hosted musicals, dance festivals, and regular dances for youth. These types of events allow church members to enjoy dancing in a safe and appropriate environment. The music played at dances is carefully screened for appropriateness, and young people attending agree to a standard of behavior while in attendance.
Any church member who listens to music or participates in musical activity is advised to listen carefully to the words of the music. In addition, they’re counseled to notice how the music or dance makes them feel. If it inspires inappropriate thoughts, emotions, or behavior, it should be removed from the member’s life.
However, music can uplift and even build testimonies. Our sacred hymns have conversion power. While members are not expected to listen only to sacred music, they are expected to be certain the music doesn’t take away from the sacredness of their mortal life.
For more on music, watch free online a new video in which teenagers discuss the role of music in their lives.
The late Terrie Lynn Bittner—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—was the author of two homeschooling books and numerous articles, including several that appeared in Latter-day Saint magazines. She became a member of the Church at the age of 17 and began sharing her faith online in 1992.
