Source recordPrimary JW publicationverified1950sBlood doctrine

Source record · Primary JW publication

The Watchtower, “Questions From Readers”

1 July 1951pp. 414-416Source ID src-w-1951-0701-qfr-transfusionAccessed 19 September 2026
Primary JW publication Verified

The Watchtower, “Questions From Readers”

1 July 1951 · pp.414-416 · Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society

“Hence the attendant administering the transfusion is feeding the patient blood through the veins, and the patient receiving it is eating it through his veins.”

Answering 'Many say receiving a transfusion is not like eating blood. Is this view sound?'. p. 416 adds: 'Jehovah's witnesses do not oppose the people's use of transfusions, but allow each one the right to decide for himself what he can conscientiously do.' No congregational sanction is mentioned.

Provenance and verification note for The Watchtower, Questions From Readers

Confidence note. Opened on WOL; wording, date and pages confirmed.

Notes. The 'each one … decide for himself' sentence is addressed to the public's use; do not over-read it as a formal members' conscience rule.

Accessed. 19 September 2026 · Source ID. src-w-1951-0701-qfr-transfusion