Understanding Ellen White

Major perspectives on Ellen White and vegetarianism

In conclusion, there are several perspectives to be noted on the question of Ellen White and vegetarianism. First, Ellen White affirmed that vegetarianism was the best and the ideal diet for humans. Her appeal for a vegetarian life-style was based primarily on two arguments: (1) health benefits; and (2) ethical concerns, particularly the cruelty toward animals. ⁵⁹ Although she at times used meat even after her 1863 vision, she had always affirmed that a vegetarian diet led to better health and a better quality of life. Her own life was also a testimony to that fact, as she often acknowledged. Interestingly, after her decision to abstain from meat eating entirely in 1894, Ellen White became even more forceful in her appeal to believers to live according to the ideal biblical health principles that included a vegetarian diet. Even so, she did not consider meat eating a sin. UEGW 208.2

A second perspective was Ellen White’s own experience and practice of vegetarianism. Evidently, her understanding on the issue developed with time. As we have noted, even after her 1863 major vision on health, she continued to consume meat occasionally, though she generally abstained from placing meat on her own table. At times, she fought personal battles over her appetite and meat craving. She, however, did not consider such events as a denial of the general health principles that she followed. After all, Ellen White viewed health as a principle, while she considered vegetarianism as an application whose practices could vary according to contextual situations. It was this distinction that led Ellen White to refuse, even in later years, to make vegetarianism a “ test of fellowship.” ⁶⁰ UEGW 208.3

Based on her own experience, Ellen White advocated patience with people who were trying to advance in health reform and diet. “We should be very cautions not to advance too fast,” she warned, “lest we be obliged to retrace our steps. In reform we would better come one step short of the mark than to go one step beyond it. . . . We must lead the people along patiently and gradually, remembering the hole of the pit whence we were digged.” ⁶¹ UEGW 208.4

A third perspective was Ellen White’s advice against “extremes” in vegetarianism. While she believed that a vegetarian diet was best, she also acknowledged that there were times when it was not possible. Therefore, she always recommended a principle-based and “common sense” approach to vegetarianism. One of her best counsels reads: UEGW 209.1

There is real common sense in dietetic reform. The subject should be studied broadly and deeply, and no one should criticize others because their practice is not, in all things, in harmony with his own. It is impossible to make an unvarying rule to regulate every one’s habits, and no one should think himself a criterion for all. Not all can eat the same things. Foods that are palatable and wholesome to one person may be distasteful, and even harmful, to another. ⁶² UEGW 209.2

Thus Ellen White’s positions on vegetarianism may helpfully serve Seventh-day Adventists, and even those who are not, as they continue to promote and encourage a vegetarian diet as the best and the most healthful lifestyle option for people today. Moreover, the relation of vegetarianism to health and ethical concerns, the understanding that health reform is a growing experience, being sensitive and patient with people who are trying to change, and avoiding “extremes” in diet are useful lessons to remember as the denomination continues to advocate vegetarianism in the twenty-first century. UEGW 209.3