Jehovah's Witnesses

Jehovah's Witnesses emerged from the Bible Student movement initiated by Charles Taze Russell in the late 19th century. Russell's work, disseminated through publications like Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society (founded 1881), focused on eschatological interpretations of the Bible. Following Russell's death, Joseph Franklin Rutherford assumed leadership of the Watch Tower Society.

Rutherford implemented significant organizational and doctrinal shifts, most notably the adoption of the name Jehovah's Witnesses in 1931. This rebranding aimed to differentiate the group from other Bible Student factions and underscore their emphasis on the divine name, Jehovah, as central to true worship. This period of transition solidified the group's unique identity and set the stage for its global expansion, reaching a reported peak of approximately 9 million adherents worldwide by 2024.

Central to Jehovah's Witness theology is a strict adherence to their interpretation of the Bible. They are nontrinitarian, rejecting the doctrine of the Trinity, and do not believe in the inherent immortality of the soul or hellfire, considering these unscriptural. A cornerstone of their faith is the imminent destruction of the current world order at Armageddon, followed by the establishment of God's Kingdom on Earth, which they view as the sole solution to humanity's problems.

This eschatological focus shapes their daily lives and evangelistic efforts. Their distinct practices include a refusal of military service and blood transfusions, based on their understanding of biblical commands. They also abstain from celebrating holidays like Christmas, Easter, and birthdays, which they deem to have pagan origins incompatible with Christian principles.

Their preferred Bible translation is the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.

Jehovah's Witnesses are widely recognized for their persistent evangelistic activities, which involve distributing literature such as 'The Watchtower' and 'Awake!' and engaging in door-to-door ministry. They perceive human society as morally compromised and influenced by Satan, leading many to limit social interactions with non-Witnesses. The Governing Body of Jehovah's Witnesses directs all doctrines and congregational policies.

Disciplinary measures can include formal expulsion and shunning for serious offenses, and those who formally disassociate are also shunned. This practice of shunning can lead to significant emotional distress for former members and those who leave, with some seeking reinstatement to maintain family and social ties. This communal structure and adherence to doctrine create a strong sense of identity but also present challenges in navigating broader societal norms.

The group's conscientious objection to military service and refusal to salute state symbols have historically placed them in conflict with various governments, leading to periods of persecution and bans in some nations. Despite these challenges, their persistent legal advocacy has influenced civil rights legislation in several countries. The organization has faced criticism regarding its biblical translations, doctrinal interpretations, and allegations of member coercion.

Furthermore, the Watch Tower Society has a history of making unfulfilled predictions about major biblical events, such as the Second Coming of Christ and the establishment of God's Kingdom. More recently, their policies for handling child sexual abuse cases have been the subject of formal inquiries, raising concerns about accountability and victim support within the community.