The Reason behind Jehovah’s Witnesses not Celebrating Birthdays
For most people, birthdays are special occasions that are marked with lots of celebrations, merry making, and gift-giving. However, Jehovah’s Witnesses (JW), a religious group with a worldwide congregation, refrain from celebrating birthdays, and this practice has raised eyebrows from many individuals. Why don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses celebrate their birthdays? This article will seek to answer this question by providing an in-depth look into their religious beliefs, history, and culture.
Historical Background
The JW community only started in the late 19th century, and its roots stem from Protestant movements in America. The theological organization believes that all modern religions have departed from the original teachings of Jesus Christ. However, their belief about birthday celebrations is influenced by the biblical accounts of birthday celebrations in the Bible. Historical accounts of birthday celebrations in ancient times usually come attached with negative consequences, which might have contributed to this view.
Religious Interpretation
For JW, the religious interpretation of birthday celebrations is rooted in their interpretation of the Bible. They mainly rely on Jesus’ teachings and his apostles’ examples to categorize a particular practice as morally acceptable or not. Regarding birthdays, there are only two direct mentions of them in the Bible found in Genesis 40:20-22 and Mark 6:21-27.
The account in Genesis involves Pharaoh’s birthday, where he executed his chief baker and restored his chief butler to his position. This story portrays the pagan practices and believes common in ancient societies, which Jehovah’s Witnesses do not support. Similarly, the account in Mark involves the celebration of King Herod’s birthday when he granted the request of his stepdaughter, Salome, to have John the Baptist’s head on a platter. Although not explicitly forbidding birthday celebrations, these stories illustrate the evil consequences that accompany such celebrations, resulting in JW refraining from birthdays.
Deeper Meaning
Jehovah Witnesses believe that their refusal to celebrate birthdays is a fundamental demonstration of their faith in upholding the biblical teachings. According to religious scholars, the decision not to recognize birthdays stems from the sincerity of religious and moral objections to customs viewed as pagan.
For JW, the decision not to celebrate birthdays aligns with their broader understanding of God’s standards and purpose for mankind. They believe that life is not about seeking constant celebrations, but rather about living in a way that pleases God, that is, by obeying his commands and promoting moral standards that prioritize mercy and justice amongst people.
Personal Testimonies
Personal testimonies from Jehovah Witnesses provide insight into the reasoning behind their position. Some believers argue that birthdays focus too much on the individual, thereby elevating them to a self-idolizing position and taking attention away from Jehovah, the ultimate being and source of all life. Others argue that the tradition is closely tied with paganism, idol worship, superstition, and the love of material things, which are viewed as a direct contradiction to their faith. Additionally, the celebration of birthdays fosters a culture of materialism and consumerism, which is contrary to their faith’s fundamental principles.
Cultural Comparisons
Cultural differences between varying religions and beliefs play a significant role in how they view or partake in certain practices, and birthday celebration is not any different. JW’s view on birthdays differs from that of other religious groups that view them as significant occasions. For instance, Hindus’ birthday is usually celebrated by surrounding the celebrated individual with different symbolic items, including rice, red powder, flowers, and fruits. Muslims celebrate Maulid, the birthday of Prophet Muhammed, every year. However, the celebration is centered on good deeds, praises, and prayers, rather than on material gifts or indulgence.
Modern Relevance
The modern world views birthday celebrations as a significant event in an individual’s life and as a way of acknowledging their existence. For JW, this perspective runs counter to God’s position as the source of life and being. The constant commercialization and materialism of modern celebrations are seen by JW as contrary to their faith and to the fundamental principles they hold to. Instead, they focus on commemorating life events, such as baptism and marriage, through spiritual means.
Conclusion
In conclusion, for Jehovah’s Witnesses, the decision not to celebrate birthdays is driven by their faith and beliefs surrounding a religious, moral, and cultural perspective. Their position is rooted in biblical teachings, which highlight the negative consequences of birthday celebrations in what they believe is a consequence of pagan societies. Their position stands out when contrasted with other groups or societies that view such occasions as significant and worthy of recognition. Understanding these differences is crucial in fostering respect for varying beliefs.