In this section, we will attempt to document some of the relevant historical information that is available regarding blood. Then we will look at the modern historical developments regarding the Watchtower Society’s blood policies. Finally, we will look at the evolution of the blood doctrine into its present form.
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Blood in Early Christianity
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The Modern Historical Perspective
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The Evolution of the Watchtower Blood Policy
- The History of Watchtower’s Blood Policy
The following articles may also be relevant for those interested in historical developments related to the Watchtower’s blood policy.
Debbie Shard’s Story
I was raised as a Jehovah's Witness in a family with a long history as members, going back to 1910. And I grew up truly believing it was the truth. However, there were many issues, as I grew older that disturbed my conscience and so I want to tell my story. My dad was...
Control and Repression – The Ray Hemming Story
If there’s one thing that people identify Jehovah's Witnesses with, it’s their refusal of blood transfusions. I know it was a doctrine that I once believed was right for me and my family. If a medical emergency had arisen, a blood transfusion would not have been an...
Watchtower Approves HemoPure
Watchtower Approves HemoPure (Bovine Hemoglobin) for Jehovah's Witnesses Jehovah's Witnesses have long been known for their rejection of blood and blood-component transfusion, even when it is necessary to save life. In a remarkable change in policy, the Witnesses’...