Introduction

The practice of abstaining from blood has long been a distinguishing aspect of the religion of Jehovah's Witnesses. This article delves into the reasons behind this adherence, the biblical context, and how modern Jehovah's Witnesses translate these teachings into their daily lives. The canonical texts of the Old and New Testaments provide detailed insights into the ancient and contemporary understanding of blood and meat consumption.

Biblical Guidelines on Blood and Meat

The Old Testament, particularly the books of Deuteronomy and Genesis, outlines specific instructions regarding the preparation of meat. These guidelines are based on the belief that meat prepared according to divine prescription retains its sanctity and suitability for consumption.

Genesis 9:4 Deuteronomy 12:15-16

The book of Genesis states, 'Only you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood' (Genesis 9:4). This verse emphasizes the importance of removing blood from meat, which is further elaborated in Deuteronomy 12:15-16. It delineates the proper method for preparing meat, which involves the cutting of the throat and allowing the blood to drain out.

The Struggle of Proper Bleeding

The practice of bleeding an animal properly has always been challenging due to factors such as how the animal is killed. Misconceptions about doomed animals, such as those killed in a car accident, can also create confusion. The question arises: how do Jehovah's Witnesses handle situations where they are given meat that was not properly drained of blood?

My Personal Perspective

I understand the principles behind this practice, but I find it challenging when someone gives me, say, a deer that was killed with a rifle and then placed on my pickup truck. Ethical hunters ensure the animal's throat is cut and the blood is allowed to drain out. However, not everyone follows this practice, especially in modern hunting scenarios.

Biblical Prohibitions and Exclusions

Beyond the ancient times, even the New Testament emphasizes the prohibition against consuming blood. In Acts 15:29, it is explicitly mentioned that Christians should 'keep abstaining from things sacrificed to idols, from blood, from what is strangled, and from sexual immorality.'

Acts 15:29

This statement from the apostles further clarifies the practice of abstaining from blood and what is strangled. These commands are rooted in the belief that consuming blood is not consistent with the divine law.

Theological Framework

The theological framework for the practice of blood abstinence among Jehovah's Witnesses can be traced back to divine commands. The concept of blood being the life source of animals is central to this belief. The phrase 'Life is in the blood' (Leviticus 17:11) underscores the sanctity of blood and why it should not be consumed.

Leviticus 17:11-14

God instructed the Israelites to 'for the life of every beast is its blood: with it is its life' (Leviticus 17:14). The command was not to fully drain every drop of blood from animals before consumption, but rather to follow a method that ensures the removal of most of the blood, thereby respecting the life source.

Modern Application

Modern Jehovah's Witnesses continue to adhere to these ancient principles. They seek to eat only meat that has been prepared according to the prescribed methods, ensuring the majority of the blood is drained. This practice is not a hindrance to their diet but rather a way to maintain their faithfulness to God's commands.

Conclusion

The practice of eating meat as a Jehovah's Witness is a complex interplay of ancient biblical guidelines and modern ethical considerations. While the specific method of bleeding an animal is crucial, the overall principle remains clear: consume only meat that has been properly prepared and ensure that the sanctity of life is respected.

By following these practices, Jehovah's Witnesses demonstrate their commitment to honoring God's laws and maintaining a life of purity and faith.

References