What is Jehovah’s Witness Bible called?
The Bible is a sacred text for Christians around the world, but for Jehovah’s Witnesses, it has a unique name: the “King James Version of the Holy Scriptures.” This version of the Bible is often referred to simply as the “Jehovah’s Witness Bible” or the “Watchtower Bible.” The reason for this distinctive name lies in the organization’s belief system and its translation philosophy.
Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that the name “Jehovah” is the correct English rendering of the divine name YHWH, which is found in the Old Testament. This belief is rooted in their conviction that the name “Jehovah” is the most accurate and respectful way to refer to God. As a result, they have chosen to use this name in their translations of the Bible.
The King James Version of the Holy Scriptures was first published in 1611 and is one of the most widely used English translations of the Bible. However, Jehovah’s Witnesses have made significant changes to the text to align it with their beliefs. These changes include:
1. Replacing the name “Lord” with “Jehovah” in the Old Testament.
2. Removing references to the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus Christ.
3. Altering certain passages to reflect their understanding of prophecy and end-time events.
The Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, the governing body of Jehovah’s Witnesses, is responsible for the translation and publication of the Jehovah’s Witness Bible. The organization believes that this translation is the most accurate and faithful to the original texts.
Why is the Jehovah’s Witness Bible so important?
The Jehovah’s Witness Bible is not only a religious text but also a cornerstone of the faith. It serves several key purposes for Jehovah’s Witnesses:
1. Divine Guidance: Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that the Bible is the word of God and provides divine guidance for their lives. They study the Bible regularly and use it to make decisions and understand their faith.
2. Proof of Prophecy: The Jehovah’s Witness Bible is crucial for understanding the organization’s interpretation of Bible prophecy, particularly regarding the end times and the establishment of God’s kingdom on earth.
3. Unity: The use of the same Bible translation helps to maintain unity among Jehovah’s Witnesses, as they all follow the same scriptural teachings and interpretations.
4. Public Witnessing: Jehovah’s Witnesses use the Bible as a tool for witnessing to others. They share their beliefs and interpretations of the Bible with non-Witnesses, hoping to convert them to their faith.
In conclusion, the Jehovah’s Witness Bible, also known as the King James Version of the Holy Scriptures, is a unique and significant text for Jehovah’s Witnesses. Its name reflects the organization’s belief in the divine name “Jehovah” and its translation philosophy. The Bible serves as a guide, proof of prophecy, source of unity, and tool for public witnessing within the faith.
