Jehovah’s Witnesses review blood transfusion rules
By Adeola Ogunlade The Jehovah’s Witnesses has revised its long-standing policy on blood use, granting members the freedom to decide whether their own blood can be used during medical procedures.
By Adeola Ogunlade
The Jehovah’s Witnesses has revised its long-standing policy on blood use, granting members the freedom to decide whether their own blood can be used during medical procedures.
The development was announced over the weekend in a video released on the organisation’s official website.
According to the group, while the prohibition on transfusions involving another person’s blood remains in place, members are now permitted to make personal decisions regarding the use of their own blood in surgeries, medical tests, or therapies.
Governing Body member, Gerrit Lösch said the clarification is aimed at allowing Christian's exercise individual conscience in such matters.
“Regarding the use of one’s own blood, a Christian must decide for himself how his blood will be handled in the course of a surgical procedure, medical test, or current therapy,” he said.
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He explained that while abstaining from blood remains a doctrinal principle, the Bible does not specifically address the use of a person’s own blood.
“After much prayer and consideration of the Scriptures, the Governing Body has decided to clarify our position on the use of a patient’s own blood in medical and surgical care,” Lösch added.
He noted that while some members may choose to allow their blood to be stored and later reinfused, others may object based on personal conviction.
“Each Christian must make his personal decision on all matters involving the use of his own blood with regard to medical or surgical care,” he said.
The organisation reiterated that its core teaching on abstaining from transfusion of another person’s blood remains unchanged, while encouraging members to make informed decisions in line with their faith.
