Reasons Why Jehovah's Witnesses Do Not Serve in the Military

Since the early 20th century, Jehovah's Witnesses have maintained a consistent practice of abstaining from military service. This decision is deeply rooted in their religious beliefs and a commitment to their pacifist stance. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this stance, the historical context, and the significance of their decision in a modern context.

Historical Context and Evolution

During the leadership of Joseph Rutherford in the early 1900s, the Jehovah's Witnesses organization developed a set of doctrines including the refusal to engage in military service. Rutherford's emphasis on strict adherence to these rules was initially seen as a means of maintaining control over his followers. However, this position has been upheld by subsequent leadership and has become a central tenet of the faith.

From a theological perspective, Jehovah's Witnesses believe that their earthly life should be devoted to spiritual warfare, not physical combat. They define spiritual warfare as the active defense of their faith against spiritual adversaries, not as direct engagement in military conflicts. This belief is grounded in their interpretation of Biblical teachings and their understanding of Jesus' commandment to love their neighbors and avoid being part of the world controlled by evil forces.

Theological Foundations

The refusal to serve in military capacities aligns closely with their interpretation of several scriptures. For instance, in Matthew 8:5-13, Jesus commends a Roman centurion for his faith in demonstrating respect and authority, thereby validating the principle of non-violence even when dealing with military personnel. Additionally, James 1:27 emphasizes the non-violence aspect, stating that the pure and undefiled religion before God is to look after orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

Jehovah's Witnesses also emphasize that Jesus taught, “Live by the sword die by the sword,” indicating that taking a life in combat would be contrary to His teachings. Instead, they advocate living by the principle of peace, as expressed in Jesus' command, “If it is at all possible, be peaceable with all men.”

Contemporary Implications

Their decision not to serve in the military extends to a broader commitment to pacifism. This commitment is not limited to combat roles but also includes non-combatant positions. Members of the organization would rather risk imprisonment than compromise their beliefs. This practice is seen as a demonstration of their deep-seated religious convictions and a willingness to pay the price for their faith.

Their stance also reflects a desire to avoid bloodshed and the potential guilt associated with taking another person's life, even if in self-defense. This aligns with their belief that God's Kingdom, ruled by His Son, is the source of true peace and that their allegiance lies with this heavenly kingdom, not with earthly nations.

Consistency Across Nations

The universally consistent approach to pacifism displayed by Jehovah's Witnesses across different countries highlights their global unity in faith. To imagine JWs in each country fighting against other JWs would directly contradict the core tenets of their faith in love and brotherhood among believers. They place the will of Christ and their spiritual brothers above political allegiances.

Additionally, their decision not to participate in military service is often seen as a testament to their dedication to their faith and their willingness to endure societal pressures and legal challenges. This commitment is further emphasized by their refusal to vote, viewing the secular state as separate from their spiritual life.

Conclusion

In summary, the refusal of Jehovah's Witnesses to serve in the military is rooted in their interpretation of religious scripture and a commitment to their pacifist principles. Their approach is consistent and deeply held, reflecting a strong belief in spiritual warfare and a dedication to living in accordance with Biblical teachings. This position not only highlights the complexity of religious beliefs and their societal impact but also underscores the importance of personal faith in shaping one's moral and ethical choices.