Frequently asked questions.
Straight answers to the questions people most often ask about Jehovah’s Witnesses.
01Are Jehovah’s Witnesses Christians?
Yes. We try to follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ closely, and we call ourselves Christians. We believe Jesus is God’s Son and our Saviour, and that salvation comes through faith in him (Acts 4:12).
02Who founded your religion?
In the late 1800s, a small group of Bible students in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, began a systematic analysis of the Bible. In 1931 they adopted the name Jehovah’s Witnesses, based on Isaiah 43:10. We don’t view any human as our founder; we look to Jesus as our leader.
03Why do you go from door to door?
Jesus told his followers to “make disciples of all the nations” and taught them to go to people where they are (Matthew 28:19, 20; Luke 10:1). Today we also share the Bible’s message in public places, by letter and online. Nobody is pressured to listen.
04Do you have paid clergy?
No. Congregations are cared for by unpaid elders, who are volunteers with jobs and families of their own. Jesus said, “freely ye received, freely give” (Matthew 10:8).
05How is your work financed?
Entirely by voluntary donations. There are no tithes or collections at our meetings — donation boxes are placed in our Kingdom Halls, and donations can also be made online ↗.
06Why don’t you celebrate Christmas or birthdays?
We avoid celebrations that are rooted in non-Christian customs or that the Bible portrays negatively. We do enjoy giving gifts and spending time with family and friends throughout the year.
07Why don’t you accept blood transfusions?
We respect the Bible’s command to “abstain … from blood” (Acts 15:28, 29). We do want medical care and accept a wide range of treatments without blood. Many doctors now use these strategies for all patients. See information for clinicians.
08Are you politically neutral?
Yes. Following Jesus’ example of being “no part of the world,” we don’t take sides in politics or war (John 17:16). We respect governments, obey the law and pay taxes (Romans 13:1–7).
09Do you believe you are the only ones who will be saved?
No. Millions who lived in the past will be resurrected and given the opportunity to learn about God. Judging who will be saved is Jesus’ role, not ours (John 5:22).
10What Bible do you use?
We use various translations, and often the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, which restores God’s name where it appears in the original text. It is available free in hundreds of languages.
11Can anyone attend your meetings?
Yes. Meetings are free and open to everyone, and no collection is taken. You don’t need to be a Witness or know anyone there. Find out what happens at a meeting.
Didn’t find your question?
Ask one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in person or by video call.