What in the World are Mormon Magic Underpants?

Latter-day Saints (often colloquially called LDS or Mormons) are known for a few of their practices that are distinct from mainstream Christian traditions. One of the most commonly misunderstood Latter-day Saint beliefs circles around their religious clothing, or what some people jokingly refer to as “Mormon magic underpants.”

The actual name for what critics sometimes call “Mormon magic underwear” is the temple garment. And while mocking nicknames might seem like they’re all in good fun, they misrepresent something deeply sacred and personal to millions of people. So, what are temple garments really? Why do Latter-day Saints wear them? And do people really believe they’re “Mormon magic pajamas?”

What Are Temple Garments?

The temple garment is a type of religious clothing worn under regular clothes by adult members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who have participated in a temple ceremony called the endowment. Following this ceremony, members begin wearing the temple garment as a constant reminder of their commitments—specifically, the covenants (sacred promises) they’ve made with God about living a Christ-centered life.

The garments resemble modest underclothing, typically a white, two-piece set similar in appearance to an undershirt and shorts. Unlike clergy robes or yarmulkes, Mormon garments are not meant to be seen in public. Their symbolism is personal and private, and that may be part of why some people misunderstand them.

A Sacred Tradition with Ancient Roots

Wearing sacred clothing as part of one’s faith is a practice hardly unique to Latter-day Saints. Across cultures and religions, sacred vestments are common:

• Jewish men may wear a tallit (prayer shawl).
  
• Roman Catholic clergy wear items like the scapular or cassock.
  
• Muslims may wear the taqiyah (skullcap), while Sikhs wear turbans.
  
• Buddhist monks don saffron-colored robes.
  

In the same way, Mormon the garment is part of a broader religious tapestry—one in which clothing is a symbol of devotion and a reminder of spiritual commitments.

Religious garments are described extensively in the Bible (which Mormons do believe in alongside the Book of Mormon). In the Old Testament, the Israelites were instructed to add tassels to the corners of their clothing as reminders of God’s commandments (see Numbers 15:37–41). Priests in ancient Israel were also commanded to wear specific clothing when ministering in the temple (Exodus 28). Latter-day Saints see the temple garment as a modern continuation of these ancient practices—a symbolic way to keep God close in daily life.

Are Garments Magical?

While some people outside the Church might call them “magic underwear Mormon” or “magic undergarments,” temple garments are not magical at all. This misconception comes from a centuries-old rumor that temple garments provide physical protection, such as stopping bullets or preventing harm. Some members of the Church occasionally pass along personal stories of instances where they believe their garments protected them from physical harm. However, these beliefs are not part of official Church doctrine.

The Church’s official doctrine on this matter is that garments may offer spiritual protection by inspiring wearers to resist temptation, stay morally grounded, and remember the promises they’ve made to God. As one Church statement puts it: “When worn properly, the garment provides protection against temptation and evil.” 

What Do the Garments Symbolize?

The garment is meant to symbolize the “coats of skins” given by God to Adam and Eve after the Fall (see Genesis 3:21), representing both physical covering and spiritual commitment. Like religious clothing in many other faiths, it serves as a reminder of a covenant, or a sacred agreement between an individual and God.

There are also simple Mormon garment symbols stitched into the fabric that help the wearer reflect on Jesus Christ, their responsibilities, and their spiritual journey. The Mormon garment symbols meaning isn’t magical or mystical either; they’re quiet reminders of faith.

When Are They Worn?

Temple garments are typically worn day and night by faithful, adult members of the Church who have chosen to participate in the endowment ceremony. However, this doesn’t mean they’re never taken off.

Garments are not worn while swimming, bathing, exercising (in cases where regular underclothing would be more appropriate), or during marital intimacy. The decision to wear the garment is personal and practical. Members are encouraged to treat it with respect and reverence, not legalism.

It’s also worth noting that not all Latter-day Saints wear the Mormon sacred garment. Only adult members who have been endowed and honor those commitments are expected to wear it.

Do Church Members Have to Wear Them?

No one is forced to wear temple garments. Participation in temple ordinances and wearing Mormon garments are voluntary acts of devotion. The Church does encourage members who have made temple covenants to wear the garment consistently as a spiritual aid and symbol of their relationship with God.

That said, not wearing them doesn’t result in social shunning or Church expulsion. Faith is personal, and so is the way it’s practiced.

How Latter-day Saints Ask for Respect

The term “magic underwear” might sound funny, but to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it’s deeply disrespectful. Calling the temple garment “Mormon magic underwear” misrepresents its purpose and undermines the sincerity of believers who wear it as part of their daily walk with God.

Just as any person of goodwill would never mock a Jewish prayer shawl or a Sikh turban, Latter-day Saints ask for a similar level of cultural and religious respect for their own practices. Sacred clothing is sacred for a reason. It touches the heart of a person’s identity and commitment to their faith.

The Takeaway

When one cuts through the rumors, the temple garment is simply a symbol of devotion, meant to strengthen, protect, and remind.

Far from being “Mormon magic underpants,” the temple garment is a testament to the commitment Latter-day Saints feel toward God and their desire to live meaningful, Christ-centered lives. They’re not about show—they’re about the soul.

About Mormonism Explained

Mormonism Explained is a resource that was designed to provide objective and factual information about Mormonism, its history, doctrines, and policies. Our team of researchers consults experts and primary sources to present factual information on a variety of topics relevant to the Mormon Church.

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