Why do jw not take blood

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Jehovah's Witnesses refuse blood transfusions based on their interpretation of biblical passages, viewing blood as sacred and not to be consumed. This belief was formally established in 1945 and has been consistently upheld since then, with approximately 8.7 million members worldwide adhering to this practice. They accept alternative medical treatments like volume expanders, hemodilution, and cell salvage techniques that don't involve whole blood or primary blood components.

Key Facts

Jehovah's Witnesses number approximately 8.7 million members worldwide as of 2023
The blood transfusion prohibition was formally established in 1945
The Watch Tower Society first addressed blood transfusions in 1927
Jehovah's Witnesses accept medical alternatives like hemodilution and cell salvage
The belief is based on biblical passages including Acts 15:28-29 and Leviticus 17:10-14

Overview

Jehovah's Witnesses' refusal of blood transfusions stems from their religious interpretation of biblical texts, particularly passages in Acts and Leviticus that prohibit consuming blood. This belief was formally established in 1945 through publications from the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, though the organization first addressed the issue in 1927. The religious group, founded in the late 19th century by Charles Taze Russell, has maintained this position consistently despite medical advancements and legal challenges. With approximately 8.7 million members worldwide as of 2023, this practice affects healthcare decisions globally. The prohibition applies to whole blood and its primary components (red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma), though some fractions derived from blood may be acceptable based on individual conscience. This stance has led to numerous legal cases and ethical debates in medical settings.

How It Works

Jehovah's Witnesses base their blood transfusion refusal on specific biblical interpretations. They cite Acts 15:28-29, where early Christians were instructed to "abstain from... blood," and Leviticus 17:10-14, which states that "the life of every creature is its blood." Members view blood as sacred, representing life that belongs to God. The religious organization provides detailed guidance through publications like The Watchtower and Awake! magazines, explaining which blood components are prohibited. Medical alternatives are actively promoted, including volume expanders (like crystalloids and colloids), hemodilution techniques, blood salvage systems that recycle a patient's own blood during surgery, and medications that stimulate red blood cell production. Members carry advance medical directives and wallet cards stating their refusal of blood products, and hospital liaison committees work with medical professionals to ensure these beliefs are respected while exploring all acceptable treatment options.

Why It Matters

This religious practice has significant real-world implications in healthcare, ethics, and law. Medical professionals must balance respect for religious autonomy with their duty to provide life-saving treatment, leading to complex ethical dilemmas. Numerous legal cases have addressed whether adults can refuse blood for themselves or their children, with courts generally upholding competent adults' rights but sometimes intervening for minors. The practice has driven medical innovation, as surgeons have developed bloodless surgery techniques that benefit all patients by reducing transfusion risks. These alternatives have proven particularly valuable in situations with blood supply shortages or for patients with rare blood types. The stance also affects emergency medicine, where time-sensitive decisions must accommodate religious beliefs while attempting to preserve life through acceptable means.