Jehovah’s Witnesses often face criticism due to their misunderstood religious beliefs and practices. These criticisms often relate to political neutrality, strict social rules, and shunning of members who repentantly committed a serious sin. Additionally, medical policies, such as refusing blood transfusions, have caused backlash.
Despite the mass criticism Witnesses may face, their strength lies with their faith in God, Jesus, and the Bible. Recognized as God’s inspired message to humans, the Bible serves as a guide for Witnesses to base their systems of belief and practices.
However, while they accept the entire Bible, Witnesses recognize that certain parts of the Bible are not meant to be understood literally. Some parts of the Bible may have been written figuratively or symbolically.
Recently, Jehovah’s Witnesses have revised their policy on blood transfusions. Previously, Jehovah’s Witnesses did not accept blood transfusions due to religious reasons as opposed to medical reasons.
“A belief in that perspective draws on scriptures that emphasize abstaining from blood,” said Kayla Blasingame. “Blood is an essential sign in life; therefore, the choice not to be induced by transfusions is indicative of respect for life itself with the medical world”.
Blood is very sacred and represents life. Therefore, Witnesses avoid taking blood not only in obedience to God but also out of respect for him. As times change, the organization has clarified certain policies by the Governing Body with a better scriptural understanding.
“It wasn’t changes in basic Christian beliefs, but it was clarification of how medical procedures have been viewed. There are better and more nuanced therapies to give to medicine now, so it makes sense that guidance would become more detailed,” said Blasingame. “Decisions are not accidental and not arbitrary but carefully made. There’s a great deal of personal consideration here; spiritual and physical understanding needs to go into this,” she added.
The revised policy allows witnesses to have their blood removed, stored, and later reinfused if needed for necessary medical procedures. However, they may not accept blood transfusions from other people.
This revision offers Witnesses the opportunity to personally make a decision that aligns with their individual conscience.
The revision to accepting blood transfusions may be an adjustment for many. It can either challenge or strengthen one’s faith or belief. The decision comes from guidance within the scriptures to help Witnesses make the best personal choice for their health.
What may have been an act of uncertainty in one’s faith enhanced Blasingame’s faith.
“It encouraged me to think about where, and how this procedure was being done, and how that applied what I believe to my practice,” said Blasingame.
Witnesses seek the best possible medical care for themselves and their families. While changes to their medical guidance may differ from past practices, Jehovah’s Witnesses still remain rooted in the faith and truth. They live a life guided by the scriptures and led by Jesus’ example, and unwavering faith in God.
“To Jehovah’s Witnesses: the way you live is simple, you’ve got to be genuine to this kind of life,” said Blasingame.
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