The term "TBM Mormon" is shorthand within the Latter-day Saint (LDS) community and online forums. It stands for "True Believing Mormon." It's used to describe a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who adheres strictly to the church's doctrines, teachings, and practices. This adherence often extends beyond the minimum requirements of church membership and into a deeply personal and committed lifestyle.
It's important to understand that "TBM" isn't inherently a positive or negative label. While some might use it dismissively or critically, others employ it neutrally to simply identify someone with a strong, traditional faith. The connotations depend heavily on context and the speaker's perspective.
What Defines a TBM Mormon?
Several characteristics often define a TBM Mormon:
- Strict Adherence to Doctrine: TBMs generally accept and follow all aspects of LDS doctrine without question or significant interpretation. This includes beliefs about God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Ghost, the nature of salvation, and temple ordinances.
- Active Church Participation: Beyond simply attending services, TBMs are highly involved in various church activities, such as callings (volunteer roles), temple work, missionary work (either past or present), and community service.
- Traditional Family Values: TBMs often uphold traditional family values, emphasizing marriage between a man and a woman, raising children in the faith, and prioritizing family unity.
- Conservative Lifestyle: This often involves abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, and premarital sex, consistent with the Word of Wisdom. They might also hold conservative views on social and political issues.
- Strong Testimony: TBMs often possess a powerful and unwavering testimony of the gospel's truth, frequently sharing their faith with others.
How Does the Term "TBM" Function in the LDS Community?
The use of "TBM" highlights the diversity of belief and practice within the LDS Church. Not all members fit neatly into this category. Some members hold more progressive views, question certain doctrines, or choose to live less traditionally. Others may identify as "active" members without fitting the TBM mold.
The term can be used in several ways:
- Self-identification: Some TBMs may proudly identify themselves as such.
- Descriptive label: Others use it as a simple, descriptive term, similar to using "conservative" or "liberal" in other contexts.
- Critical or dismissive label: Unfortunately, some individuals use "TBM" in a derogatory way, implying rigidity, intolerance, or a lack of critical thinking.
Are there different degrees of being a TBM?
While the term suggests a binary (TBM or not), the reality is more nuanced. There's a spectrum of belief and practice within the LDS Church, and someone might be considered more or less of a "TBM" depending on their level of adherence to the various aspects mentioned above.
What are some common misconceptions about TBMs?
It's crucial to avoid stereotyping. While some general characteristics are often associated with TBMs, it's inaccurate to assume all individuals fitting this description are alike. They are diverse in personality, background, and life experiences.
In conclusion, understanding the term "TBM Mormon" requires recognizing its context and nuances. It's a label reflecting a particular level of faith and commitment within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but it's not a monolithic category.
