What To Expect: At A Jehovah's Witness Funeral

Jehovah's Witness Funeral

If you are attending the funeral of a Jehovah's Witness, you may be wondering what to expect and how to behave. In this article, we will explain some of Jehovah's Witnesses' fundamental beliefs and practices regarding death and resurrection and answer some common questions you may have.

Jehovah's Witnesses are Christians

Jehovah's Witnesses are Christians who believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God and the only source of truth. They believe that God's name is Jehovah and that Jesus Christ is his son and the King of his Kingdom. They also believe that God has a purpose for mankind and the earth and that he will soon end all wickedness and suffering by means of his Kingdom.

Central Beliefs

One of the central beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses is that death is a state of unconsciousness and that there is no immortal soul that survives after death. They believe that the dead are in God's memory and that he will resurrect them for future life in paradise on Earth. They also think that only a small number of faithful Christians, 144,000 in total, will go to heaven to rule with Christ.

Common Questions Regarding Jehovah's Witness Funerals

What should I wear?

There is no specific dress code for attending a Jehovah's Witness funeral, but you should dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing anything too flashy or revealing or anything that may be offensive to others.

What should I say?

You can express your condolences to the family and friends of the deceased simply and sincerely. If you knew them personally, you can also share some positive memories or qualities of the dead. Avoid saying anything that may contradict their beliefs, such as "he/she is in a better place" or "he/she is watching over you."

What should I do?

You can attend the funeral service, usually held at a Kingdom Hall (the place of worship of Jehovah's Witnesses) or a funeral home. The service consists of a talk given by an elder (a qualified male member) of the congregation, based on the Bible, that focuses on God's promises for the future. The talk may also include some personal remarks about the deceased. You can listen attentively and respectfully to the talk, avoiding distractions or interruptions.

What should I avoid?

You should avoid any actions or words that may be disrespectful or insensitive to the beliefs and feelings of Jehovah's Witnesses. For example, you should not try to convert them to your religion or challenge their beliefs. You should not criticize their practices or choices regarding funeral arrangements. You should not make jokes or light-hearted comments about death or the deceased. You should not take pictures or record videos at the funeral without permission.

Do Jehovah's Witness Bury or Cremate Their Loved Ones?

Jehovah's Witnesses believe that the dead are unconscious and are unaware of anything. They do not have any religious objections to either burial or cremation. However, they may have a personal preference based on their cultural background, family tradition, or environmental concerns.

Jehovah's Witnesses usually arrange for the burial or cremation of their deceased members through a funeral home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, attending a Jehovah's Witness funeral requires understanding and respect for their beliefs and practices, including dressing modestly and behaving respectfully throughout the service. Understanding and adhering to Jehovah's Witness customs ensures a respectful and meaningful experience.