The ‘truth’: Jehovah’s Witnesses and blood!

Editor: I heard the woman saying to two Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs) who were preaching in her area, “You all go your way because if I want blood to live; you all won’t give me!” The Jehovah’s Witnesses were willing to explain their stand on blood and why, but the woman was not willing to converse.

Personally, I believe that if an accusation is made against someone, that person should be given the opportunity to defend himself/herself. Acts 28:22 reveals that it is wise to find out from the source itself, why someone does or does not do something, as I have done. The main reason why JWs do not accept or give blood for surgery is that they believe the Bible condemns such at Acts 15:20, 28, 29 and Acts 21:25, along with some other Scriptures. Since these Scriptures say to abstain or keep themselves from blood, JWs do not take blood into their bodies at all, neither by eating, drinking, or transfusion. Leviticus 17:14 says that “the blood of NO manner of flesh” should be eaten. (See also Leviticus 17:10 “any manner of blood” forbidden) Humans are flesh too, so JWs stand on blood includes avoiding the use of human blood. In support of this, note what a renowned author, Tertullian (160 – 220 AD) said in defence of the early Christians’ beliefs. “The interdict upon ‘blood’ we shall understand to be (an interdict) much more upon human blood.” (The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. IV, p. 86.) Now this is JWs’ belief which we should all respect even if we may disagree. We should not criticize them for their stand.

None of us wants anyone to disrespect his/her own beliefs. Therefore, it is completely false when people say that JWs hate their family members, friends, or themselves because they do not donate or accept blood for surgical purposes. If JWs hated their sick family members, would they have taken them to the hospitals in the first place, seeking medical help for them? I certainly don’t think so! JWs are willing to accept medical treatment that do not contain blood. At their website, jw.org, anyone can view the video entitled, “No Blood-Medicine Meets the Challenge!” This video reveals medical treatment and surgical procedures that JWs accept that do not contain or involve the use of blood, with successful results. For example, Dr Denton Cooley, at the Texas Heart Institute, said: “We became so impressed with the results [from using nonblood plasma expanders] on the Jehovah’s Witnesses that we started using the procedure on all our heart patients.” (The San Diego Union, p. A-10) JWs respect other people’s right to use blood in surgery if they so desire. They do not force their views on others. So too, they are glad when others are fair-minded and are willing to respect their right to choose not to use blood according to the aforementioned Scriptures.

Let us respect each other’s rights and refrain from being critical. Matthew 7:12. May good sense prevail in us all.

Simeon James