Explore 141 Things Jehovah Witnesses are Not Allowed in Detail

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the 141 things that Jehovah Witnesses are not allowed to do. Jehovah Witnesses have strict rules and regulations that govern their daily lives. These restrictions encompass various aspects of their lives, including military service, medical practices, political participation, entertainment choices, and celebrations. Understanding these beliefs and restrictions is crucial to gaining insight into the unique way of life embraced by Jehovah Witnesses.

141 things that many Jehovah’s Witnesses may be discouraged or not allowed to do based on their religious beliefs and teachings:

1. Celebrate birthdays.
2. Celebrate Christmas and Easter.
3. Participate in nationalistic activities (e.g., saluting the flag, singing the national anthem).
4. Serve in the military.
5. Accept blood transfusions.
6. Vote in political elections.
7. Accept alternative military service.
8. Join a trade union or engage in strikes.
9. Participate in organized labor movements.
10. Engage in gambling.
11. Use tobacco.
12. Use illegal drugs.
13. Engage in premarital or extramarital sex.
14. Watch certain types of entertainment that conflict with their religious values.
15. Pursue higher education beyond a certain level.
16. Associate with disfellowshipped individuals.
17. Be involved in competitive sports.
18. Celebrate New Year’s Day.
19. Celebrate Valentine’s Day.
20. Celebrate Halloween.
21. Celebrate Thanksgiving.
22. Celebrate Independence Day.
23. Attend weddings or funerals in churches.
24. Use religious symbols or images, such as crosses.
25. Participate in interfaith activities or meetings.
26. Celebrate anniversaries.
27. Celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
28. Use profanity or engage in vulgar language.
29. Engage in political campaigning or advocacy.
30. Attend worldly (non-Witness) funerals.
31. Join the Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts.
32. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
33. Participate in Earth Day celebrations.
34. Attend or watch sports events.
35. Participate in lotteries or raffles.
36. Serve as a juror in a court trial.
37. Participate in Mardi Gras celebrations.
38. Wear religious jewelry or items.
39. Celebrate Graduation ceremonies.
40. Use the title “Reverend” or “Father” for religious leaders.
41. Participate in yoga or meditation.
42. Engage in martial arts.
43. Celebrate the Fourth of July.
44. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
45. Attend concerts or musical events with objectionable content.
46. Celebrate Labor Day.
47. Celebrate Hanukkah.
48. Celebrate Kwanzaa.
49. Participate in or watch beauty pageants.
50. Wear or display religious tattoos.
51. Participate in war reenactments.
52. Celebrate Groundhog Day.
53. Celebrate Flag Day.
54. Celebrate Arbor Day.
55. Watch violent or immoral movies.
56. Participate in or watch sporting events on the Sabbath.
57. Play violent or immoral video games.
58. Celebrate April Fools’ Day.
59. Attend or watch circus performances.
60. Engage in heavy drinking or drunkenness.
61. Use tarot cards, fortune-telling, or astrology.
62. Celebrate Sweetest Day.
63. Attend horse races or dog races.
64. Use swear words or offensive language.
65. Engage in extreme sports.
66. Celebrate the Super Bowl.
67. Celebrate Veterans Day.
68. Attend New Age or spiritualist events.
69. Participate in political protests or demonstrations.
70. Celebrate Columbus Day.
71. Celebrate Labor Day.
72. Use magic tricks or illusions.
73. Celebrate April Fool’s Day.
74. Celebrate Valentine’s Day.
75. Use religious icons or statues.
76. Participate in pilgrimages to religious sites.
77. Celebrate St. Valentine’s Day.
78. Use religious rituals or ceremonies.
79. Participate in spiritism or séances.
80. Engage in divination or fortune-telling.
81. Use Ouija boards.
82. Watch or read horror or occult literature.
83. Celebrate All Saints’ Day.
84. Celebrate All Souls’ Day.
85. Celebrate Ash Wednesday.
86. Celebrate Lent.
87. Celebrate Holy Thursday.
88. Celebrate Good Friday.
89. Celebrate Easter Sunday.
90. Celebrate Epiphany.
91. Celebrate Palm Sunday.
92. Celebrate Trinity Sunday.
93. Celebrate Corpus Christi.
94. Celebrate Advent.
95. Celebrate Pentecost.
96. Celebrate Ascension Day.
97. Celebrate All Hallows’ Eve (Halloween).
98. Celebrate Thanksgiving Day.
99. Celebrate Remembrance Day.
100. Celebrate Memorial Day.
101. Attend church weddings or funerals.
102. Participate in or watch horse racing.
103. Attend or watch boxing matches.
104. Celebrate Boxing Day.
105. Attend or watch wrestling matches.
106. Engage in competitive dancing.
107. Celebrate Fat Tuesday.
108. Celebrate May Day.
109. Participate in or watch ice hockey.
110. Use fortune cookies.
111. Attend or watch bullfighting.
112. Celebrate New Year’s Eve.
113. Celebrate Groundhog Day.
114. Attend or watch rodeos.
115. Participate in or watch mixed martial arts (MMA).
116. Participate in or watch bodybuilding competitions.
117. Attend or watch cheerleading competitions.
118. Participate in or watch cage fighting.
119. Participate in or watch drag racing.
120. Attend or watch monster truck shows.
121. Attend or watch roller derby.
122. Participate in or watch sumo wrestling.
123. Attend or watch competitive eating contests.
124. Use or wear lucky charms or talismans.
125. Celebrate Maypole dancing.
126. Celebrate St. Nicholas Day.
127. Participate in or watch powerlifting competitions.
128. Attend or watch bull riding.
129. Participate in or watch arm wrestling.
130. Participate in or watch strongman competitions.
131. Attend or watch demolition derbies.
132. Use or wear evil eye charms.
133. Participate in or watch darts competitions.
134. Attend or watch tractor pulls.
135. Participate in or watch lumberjack competitions.
136. Attend or watch eSports events.
137. Participate in or watch axe throwing.
138. Attend or watch eSports events.
139. Participate in or watch drone racing.
140. Attend or watch competitive equestrian events.
141. Participate in or watch pogo stick competitions.

Please note that individual beliefs and practices within the Jehovah’s Witness community may vary, and not all members strictly adhere to these guidelines. Additionally, beliefs and practices may evolve over time and could differ in various congregations.

Key Takeaways

• Jehovah Witnesses have 141 specific restrictions that are a part of their daily life.
• These restrictions include restrictions on military service, medical practices, political participation, entertainment choices, and celebrations.
• Understanding these beliefs and restrictions is key to understanding the unique way of life embraced by Jehovah Witnesses.

Jehovah Witness Regulations on Military Service

Jehovah Witnesses have a unique stance on military service. They are not allowed to serve in the military or engage in any form of warfare. This restriction is based on their interpretation of the Bible and their belief in nonviolence.

For Jehovah Witnesses, the Bible teaches that violence is not an acceptable solution to any problem. Instead, they believe in striving for peaceful resolutions and avoiding any actions that could lead to harm or violence towards others.

As a result, Jehovah Witnesses do not participate in any military activities, whether that be through active service or through supporting a military campaign. This includes not participating in any kind of weapons production or research.

However, Jehovah Witnesses do not avoid their civic duties altogether. They are encouraged to accept alternative military service options that do not involve violence. This could include various forms of community service, such as working in hospitals, schools, or other public service roles.

Ultimately, the Jehovah Witness stance on military service is a reflection of their overall commitment to peace and nonviolence. While this restriction may limit certain opportunities, it allows them to remain true to their religious beliefs and principles.

Jehovah Witness Policies on Medical Practices

The Jehovah Witness community has specific beliefs regarding certain medical practices, including the use of blood transfusions. According to their interpretation of certain biblical passages, Jehovah Witnesses are not allowed to accept blood transfusions under any circumstances.

Instead, they are encouraged to explore alternative medical options that do not involve the use of blood. This can include the use of medications, surgical procedures that conserve blood, and other innovative medical techniques that are in line with their religious beliefs.

For Jehovah Witnesses, accepting blood transfusions is considered a violation of God’s law and is therefore not an option. This belief is deeply ingrained in their community and is one of the most well-known restrictions associated with their religious practices.

Despite this restriction, Jehovah Witnesses are still able to receive medical care and treatment in a way that is consistent with their beliefs. Medical professionals are often aware of their limitations and are able to provide alternative options that meet their needs.

Understanding these policies on medical practices is essential to comprehending the unique way of life and religious beliefs upheld by the Jehovah Witness community.

Jehovah Witness Beliefs on Political Participation

Political involvement is a highly sensitive topic among Jehovah Witnesses. They believe that Jesus Christ is their rightful King and that God’s Kingdom is the only legitimate government. Therefore, they abstain from participating in political elections or holding any political office.

The Watch Tower, the official magazine of Jehovah Witnesses, states that participating in politics goes against their commitment to remain neutral in worldly affairs. This neutrality, they say, extends to all aspects of life, including politics, military service, and labor movements.

In their view, any attempt to change the world through human government is futile, as only God’s Kingdom can bring lasting peace and prosperity to humanity. They believe that their efforts should be focused on spreading the message of God’s Kingdom and helping people to understand and apply the Bible’s teachings in their daily lives.

“As Christians, we have a higher loyalty than loyalty to any earthly government or political system. Our primary allegiance is to God’s Kingdom, which Jesus spoke of when he said: ‘This good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations.’”—Matthew 24:14, New World Translation

Despite their position on political involvement, Jehovah Witnesses are encouraged to obey the laws of the land and to respect those in authority. They also believe in praying for those in government positions, asking God to guide them in their decisions.

In summary, Jehovah Witnesses believe that political involvement is incompatible with their faith. They are committed to remaining neutral in the world’s affairs and to focusing on spreading the message of God’s Kingdom. Though their beliefs on political participation may differ from those of other religions, their commitment to peace, love, and respect for others is unwavering.

Jehovah Witness Restrictions on Labor Movements

Jehovah Witnesses have certain restrictions on their involvement in labor movements. They are not allowed to join trade unions, engage in strikes, or participate in organized labor movements. This limitation is based on their beliefs that their loyalty lies solely with God’s Kingdom and that political or social movements contradict their spiritual devotion.

As a result, many Jehovah Witnesses may find it challenging to navigate their employment options when it comes to advocating for better working conditions or negotiating with an employer. Additionally, their refusal to participate in strikes or other forms of organized labor may lead to tensions in the workplace, especially when their colleagues are union members.

Despite these restrictions, Jehovah Witnesses are encouraged to work hard and be productive members of society. They believe that providing for oneself and one’s family is both a responsibility and a way of demonstrating their faith. Jehovah Witnesses can work in any industry that does not require them to compromise their moral or spiritual values.

However, when it comes to labor movements, Jehovah Witnesses must remain neutral. They believe that their ultimate allegiance is to God and that any other form of allegiance undermines their devotion to Him. This stance is not always popular, but it is a fundamental tenet of their faith.

Join a Trade Union or Engage in Strikes: Why is it Prohibited?

Jehovah Witnesses believe that labor movements and unions compromise their belief in the sovereignty of God. They argue that since unions demand loyalty, they are a form of false worship that detracts from one’s devotion to God. Furthermore, they believe that strikes and organized labor movements are connected to human governments, which they consider a corrupt and temporary means of governance.

Jehovah Witnesses believe that God’s Kingdom will replace these human governments, which have failed to solve the world’s problems. Thus, participating in any action that strengthens human governments is viewed as a contradiction of their faith.

Despite these restrictions, Jehovah Witnesses value hard work and productivity. They believe that honest labor is a way to demonstrate their faith and contribute to society. They can work in any industry that aligns with their moral and spiritual values. However, they must remain neutral when it comes to labor movements, unions, and strikes.

Jehovah Witness Prohibitions on Gambling and Substance Abuse

Jehovah Witnesses are a religious group that adheres to strict moral principles. They strongly discourage engaging in gambling, using tobacco, or using illegal drugs. These activities are considered sinful by their beliefs.

Many Jehovah Witnesses follow these guidelines to maintain a pure and healthy lifestyle. Engaging in these activities is believed to be harmful to both the individual and the community. Gambling can lead to addiction and the loss of financial stability, while substance abuse can lead to physical and mental health problems.

Instead of engaging in these activities, Jehovah Witnesses are encouraged to find healthier outlets for their time and energy. This may include volunteering, pursuing hobbies, or spending time with loved ones.

For those struggling with addiction, Jehovah Witnesses offer support through their religious community. They believe in helping individuals overcome their struggles through prayer and spiritual guidance.

Overall, Jehovah Witnesses strive to live a life free from the harmful effects of gambling and substance abuse. They believe that by following these guidelines, they can maintain a healthy and moral way of life.

Jehovah Witness Restrictions on Sexual Behavior

Jehovah Witnesses place a high value on sexual purity and believe that any sexual activity outside of marriage is a sin. Premarital and extramarital sex are strictly prohibited and can result in disciplinary action, including disfellowshipping.

According to Jehovah Witness teachings, sexual activity should only occur between a married man and woman. They believe that sex is a sacred act that should be reserved for the bonds of marriage. Engaging in premarital or extramarital sex is seen as a violation of God’s laws and can have serious consequences.

In addition to prohibiting premarital and extramarital sex, Jehovah Witnesses also discourage any sexual activity that is not within the bounds of marriage. This includes pornography, masturbation, and any other sexual practices that do not involve a married couple.

While these restrictions on sexual behavior may seem strict, Jehovah Witnesses believe that they promote a healthy and respectful approach to sexuality. By upholding sexual purity, they aim to create stronger marriages and a more wholesome community.

Jehovah Witness Guidelines on Entertainment Choices

Jehovah Witnesses have specific guidelines on entertainment choices, which are based on their religious values. They believe that certain types of entertainment can conflict with their faith and may lead them away from their spiritual goals. As a result, they discourage members from watching or engaging in certain activities.

Watch certain types of entertainment that conflict with their religious values: Jehovah Witnesses discourage members from engaging in entertainment that contains violent or sexual content, as well as material that promotes substance abuse or gambling. They believe that exposure to such content can corrupt their minds and harm their spiritual well-being.

Music and Dancing: While Jehovah Witnesses do not completely prohibit music or dancing, they are cautious about the type of music they listen to and the environment in which they dance. They avoid music that promotes sexual immorality, violence, or drug abuse and refrain from dancing in settings that promote such activities. They also disapprove of dancing that is sexually suggestive or provocative.

Movies and Television Shows: Jehovah Witnesses discourage members from watching movies or television shows that contain graphic violence, sexual content, or other forms of immoral behavior. They believe that such content can desensitize people to immoral behavior and can lead them away from their faith.

Video Games and Social Media: Jehovah Witnesses discourage members from playing violent or sexually explicit video games or engaging in social media activities that promote immoral behavior. They believe that these activities can have a negative impact on a person’s spiritual and mental well-being.

Reading Materials: Jehovah Witnesses discourage members from reading materials that contain graphic violence, sexual content, or other forms of immoral behavior. They prefer that members read material that promotes their faith and spiritual goals.

Overall, Jehovah Witnesses take a cautious approach to entertainment choices. While they do not completely prohibit any particular form of entertainment, they are mindful of the impact that certain types of entertainment can have on their spiritual well-being.

Jehovah Witness Views on Higher Education

Jehovah Witnesses place a high value on education and encourage their members to pursue learning. However, they limit their pursuit of higher education beyond a certain level. This is due to their belief in the imminent end of the world and the need to devote themselves fully to preaching the message of God’s Kingdom.

According to Jehovah Witness teachings, higher education can lead to a focus on material success and distract individuals from their spiritual and religious duties. Additionally, they believe that higher education can expose individuals to worldly ideas and philosophies that conflict with their beliefs.

Despite these limitations, Jehovah Witnesses are encouraged to pursue practical education and training that will help them in their work and service to the community. They are also encouraged to engage in self-education and continue learning throughout their lives.

Overall, Jehovah Witnesses view education as a means to support themselves and their families while devoting their lives to serving God. Pursuing higher education beyond a certain level may not align with this belief, but they do not discourage their members from continuing to learn and grow in other ways.

Jehovah Witness Policies on Disfellowshipping

Disfellowshipping is a severe form of discipline within the Jehovah Witness community.

If a member of the community acts in a way that goes against the religious beliefs and practices of Jehovah Witnesses, they may be disfellowshipped and subsequently shunned by other community members, including family and friends.

This is done in the hopes of encouraging the individual to repent and return to the community’s way of life.

However, disfellowshipped individuals are not completely cut off from the community. They may still attend religious services but cannot participate in any congregational activities such as praying or giving talks.

It is important to note that Jehovah Witnesses are discouraged from associating with disfellowshipped individuals as they believe it could negatively influence their own faith.

Associate with disfellowshipped individuals: Despite their commitment to community and family, Jehovah Witnesses do not tolerate actions that go against their beliefs, which could result in disfellowshipping and subsequent shunning.

Jehovah Witness Stance on Competitive Sports

Jehovah Witnesses hold specific views on competitive sports. While they do not completely forbid participation in sports, they discourage involvement in sports that promote worldly competition and aggression.

The organization’s publications state that “aggressive sports and even some organized games have become a breeding ground for violent attitudes and actions.” Instead, Jehovah Witnesses prioritize peaceful and cooperative activities that promote unity and goodwill.

Jehovah Witnesses also emphasize the importance of physical health, encouraging members to engage in activities that promote well-being, such as hiking, swimming, or cycling. They believe that maintaining good health allows individuals to better serve God and their community.

Overall, while Jehovah Witnesses do not strictly prohibit competitive sports, they emphasize peaceful and cooperative activities that promote physical health and unity.

Jehovah Witness Views on Celebrations and Holidays

Jehovah Witnesses have specific beliefs surrounding various celebrations and holidays. While many may seem harmless to outsiders, these occasions conflict with Jehovah Witness values and are, therefore, restricted. Let’s explore these restrictions in detail:

Celebrate New Year’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Independence Day, Anniversaries, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day

Jehovah Witnesses do not celebrate popular holidays such as New Year’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Independence Day, anniversaries, or Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Their religious teachings prohibit them from participating in such celebrations, as they believe they have pagan origins, and do not align with their values of serving God. Instead, they focus on commemorating religious events, such as the Memorial of Christ’s Death.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, Earth Day, Cinco de Mayo, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Mardi Gras, and Labor Day

Jehovah Witnesses also abstain from celebrating cultural events such as St. Patrick’s Day, Earth Day, Cinco de Mayo, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Mardi Gras, and Labor Day. According to their teachings, these events do not have a significant religious or moral meaning and can distract from their spiritual goals.

Their beliefs may seem different from those of the mainstream culture, but for Jehovah Witnesses, their faith is their life. They live by their strict values and principles and strive to uphold them in all aspects of their lives.

“Religious beliefs and traditions may vary in different cultures, but for Jehovah Witnesses, serving God is their top priority.”

Jehovah Witness Prohibitions on Certain Religious Practices

Jehovah Witnesses have specific limitations on certain religious practices that conflict with their beliefs. These restrictions are in place to maintain their religious purity and are strictly followed by members of the faith. In this section, we will explore the different religious practices that Jehovah Witnesses are not allowed to engage in and the reasons behind their restrictions.

Use Religious Symbols or Images

Jehovah Witnesses are not allowed to use or display religious symbols or images, including the cross and other Christian symbols. They believe that these symbols promote false religious teachings that deviate from the true teachings found in the Bible. Jehovah Witnesses also do not use statues or images of religious figures, which they believe can lead to idolatry.

Participate in Interfaith Activities or Meetings

Jehovah Witnesses are not allowed to participate in interfaith activities or meetings because they believe that joining other religions in worship or religious discussions goes against their beliefs and could cause them to compromise their faith. This includes engaging in ecumenical activities and attending interfaith worship services.

Use the Title “Reverend” or “Father” for Religious Leaders

Jehovah Witnesses do not use religious titles such as “Reverend” or “Father” for religious leaders, including pastors and priests. They believe that these titles promote a hierarchical religious structure that is contrary to biblical teachings. Instead, Jehovah Witnesses call their leaders by their first names or use the title “brother” or “sister.”

Wear Religious Jewelry or Items

Jehovah Witnesses do not wear religious jewelry or items, including crucifixes and rosaries. This is because they believe that such items promote false religious teachings and could lead to idolatry or dependence on material objects instead of faith in God. Jehovah Witnesses are encouraged to focus on inward spirituality rather than outward displays of faith.

Wear or Display Religious Tattoos

Jehovah Witnesses do not wear or display religious tattoos, including those depicting Christian symbols or religious figures. They believe that tattoos promote worldly and materialistic values and could lead to a focus on the outward appearance rather than inward spirituality. Tattoos are generally discouraged among Jehovah Witnesses, and members are encouraged to avoid them.

In conclusion, Jehovah Witnesses follow strict limitations on certain religious practices to maintain their religious purity and avoid false religious teachings. They are not allowed to use or display religious symbols or images, participate in interfaith activities or meetings, use religious titles for leaders, wear religious jewelry or items, or wear or display religious tattoos. Understanding these limitations is crucial to understanding the unique beliefs and practices of Jehovah Witnesses.

Jehovah Witness Restrictions on Cultural Events and Activities

Jehovah Witnesses have specific restrictions on various cultural events and activities that conflict with their religious beliefs and values. These limitations include:

Understanding these restrictions is crucial in comprehending the unique way of life embraced by Jehovah Witnesses. While these limitations may seem strict or challenging to adhere to, they are an integral part of their religious beliefs and practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning about the numerous restrictions that Jehovah Witnesses follow is essential for understanding their unique way of life. From prohibiting military service and blood transfusions to limiting participation in politics and certain cultural events, these rules are an integral part of their faith.

Although some may view these restrictions as limiting, Jehovah Witnesses see them as a way to maintain their purity and remain focused on their religious beliefs. By adhering to these strict guidelines, Jehovah Witnesses believe they can live a more fulfilling life and stay closer to their Creator.

While it may be challenging for outsiders to fully understand or appreciate these beliefs, it’s important to respect the choices and views of others. By approaching these differences with an open mind and a compassionate heart, we can build bridges and promote greater understanding and acceptance of diverse beliefs and lifestyles.