Jehovah’s Witnesses adjust rules on blood transfusion stance, give members choice on self-donation

 

Jehovah’s Witnesses have issued a fresh clarification on their long-standing position regarding blood transfusions, stating that members can now decide whether their own blood may be used during surgical procedures or medical treatments.

While the religious group continues to prohibit the use of another person’s blood, the new clarification introduces individual choice in matters involving one’s own blood, particularly in life-saving situations.

In a video statement published on their official website on Friday, Governing Body member Gerrit Lösch explained that the update is intended to allow Christians make personal decisions concerning the handling of their own blood during medical care.

He stressed that although abstaining from blood remains a core doctrinal belief, the Bible does not specifically address the medical use of an individual’s own blood.

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“Regarding the use of one’s own blood…a Christian must decide for himself how his own blood will be handled in the course of a surgical procedure, medical test, or current therapy,” he said.

Lösch referenced biblical directives given to Noah and under the Mosaic Law, noting that Christians are no longer obligated to follow the instruction to pour out blood and cover it with dust.

He added that many members already accept certain medical procedures involving their own blood, such as blood tests, heart-lung machines, cell salvage systems, and kidney dialysis.

According to him, members now have the option to decide whether their blood can be withdrawn, stored, and later returned during surgery.

“Some Christians may decide that they would allow their blood to be stored and then be given back to them. Others may object. Each Christian must make his personal decision on all matters involving the use of his own blood with regard to medical or surgical care,” Lösch added.

The issue has gained heightened attention in Nigeria following the death of cancer patient and social media figure, Mensah Omolola, popularly known as AuntieEsther, who passed away in December 2025.

She had declined a medically advised blood transfusion on religious grounds and opted for alternative treatments, receiving over ₦30 million in donations from supporters
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Despite warnings from her church about potential sanctions, including disfellowship, she maintained her stance. Her death has since fuelled nationwide discussions on the balance between faith and medical advice.

The recent clarification by Jehovah’s Witnesses is seen as giving members more autonomy in decisions concerning their own blood while still upholding core religious beliefs.

The refusal of blood transfusions has long been a defining teaching of Jehovah’s Witnesses, rooted in biblical interpretation rather than medical objections.

A 2019 statement addressed misconceptions, noting that members do not reject medical treatment. “God views blood as representing life. So we avoid taking blood not only in obedience to God but also out of respect for him as the Giver of life,” the statement said.

The teaching is based on several scriptural references in both the Old and New Testaments, including Genesis 9:4, Leviticus 17:10, Deuteronomy 12:23, and Acts 15:28–29, all of which instruct believers to abstain from blood.

Over time, Jehovah’s Witnesses have embraced modern medical advancements, adopting procedures that align with their beliefs while ensuring quality healthcare.

The statement also countered common assumptions, clarifying that members do not rely solely on faith healing and that avoiding transfusions does not necessarily lead to poorer health outcomes.

Medical techniques such as cell salvage, heart-lung machines, and dialysis continue to enable patients to receive effective care without compromising their religious convictions.

(PUNCH)