Jehovah's Witnesses And Wedding Gifts: What's Acceptable?

Jehovah's Witnesses are happy to give and receive wedding gifts. However, they do not solicit gifts or publicly announce the names of the givers, as this can make attendees feel uncomfortable. When it comes to giving wedding gifts to Jehovah's Witnesses, guests are often unsure about what would be appropriate. Some suggestions include wedding cards with scriptural words from the Bible, Bible book covers and notebooks, and special gifts like meeting bags, service bags, and briefcases.

Jehovah's Witnesses do accept wedding gifts

When it comes to giving wedding gifts to Jehovah's Witnesses, you may consider specialised wedding cards with scriptural words from the Bible, Bible book covers and notebooks, or spiritual notebooks to help them take notes during Jehovah's Witness conventions and meetings. You can also give them special gifts such as meeting bags, service bags, briefcases, and Biblical posters, which can be found at online stores providing Jehovah's Witness ministry supplies.

It is important to note that while Jehovah's Witnesses accept wedding gifts, they do not accept or give gifts associated with religious or nationalistic holidays, including birthdays. They believe that the best reason to give or receive a gift is simply to show love and appreciation, without any specific occasion.

Gifts are not solicited or publicly announced

Jehovah's Witnesses are happy to give and receive wedding gifts. However, they do not solicit gifts or publicly announce the names of the givers. This is because such practices are unscriptural and can make those in attendance feel uncomfortable. The Bible counsels, especially those in positions of responsibility, to beware of accepting gifts, as it can give the impression of perverting judgment or being partial.

The Witnesses' avoidance of soliciting or publicly announcing gifts is in line with their interpretation of the Bible's guidance on gift-giving. While the Bible encourages generosity, Jehovah's Witnesses interpret certain passages as cautioning against giving or receiving gifts with ulterior motives or in a way that could create a sense of obligation.

For example, the book of Deuteronomy states, "You must not pervert judgment. You must not be partial or accept a bribe." (Deuteronomy 16:19) Similarly, Exodus 23:8 says, "You are not to accept a bribe [gift; present, margin]." These passages indicate that gifts should not be used to influence judgment or favouritism.

Additionally, Jehovah's Witnesses strive to follow the Bible's direction to dress modestly and respectfully during wedding ceremonies, which are often held in Kingdom Halls. The ceremonies are typically simple and dignified, featuring a brief talk based on the Bible, and may be followed by a social gathering or reception.

Wedding cards with Bible scripture are a good gift idea

If you are invited to a Jehovah's Witness wedding and are unsure of what to write in a wedding card, you can personalize your message by honouring your faith if you and the couple-to-be share the same religious beliefs.

• "In the same way, you husbands must give honour to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered." (1 Peter 3:7)
• "So we have come to know and to believe the that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him." (1 John 4:16)
• "Through love serve one another." (Galatians 5:13)
• "Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another." (Romans 12:10)
• "So she became his wife, and he loved her." (Genesis 24:64)
• "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart." (Proverbs 3:3)
• "A cord of three strands is not easily broken." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

These verses are a meaningful way to infuse the couple's special day with faith and love. They also serve as a beautiful testament to their commitment, providing inspiration and guidance for their journey together.

Gifts with religious themes are acceptable

Jehovah's Witnesses are happy to give and receive wedding gifts. The Bible encourages generosity (Psalm 37:21) and the acceptance of gifts (Luke 6:38). However, Witnesses avoid soliciting gifts or publicly announcing the names of the givers (Matthew 6:3, 4; 2 Corinthians 9:7; 1 Peter 3:8). Such practices are unscriptural and can make attendees feel uncomfortable.

When it comes to giving wedding gifts to Jehovah's Witnesses, you may consider gifts with religious themes. These could include specialised wedding cards with scriptural words from the Bible, written to convey well wishes to the newlywed couple. Bible book covers and spiritual notebooks are also good options. These items can be found in leather or leatherette at online stores that provide uniquely designed items for Jehovah's Witnesses.

Other gifts with religious themes could include meeting bags, service bags, briefcases, and Biblical posters, which can also be found at online stores providing Jehovah's Witness ministry supplies. These gifts are appropriate and respectful of the couple's religious beliefs, while also celebrating their special day.

It is important to note that Jehovah's Witnesses do not accept or give gifts associated with religious or nationalistic holidays, nor do they accept or give birthday gifts. This is because they do not celebrate holidays or birthdays, but they do celebrate weddings, anniversaries, and baby showers.

Gifts are not obligatory

Jehovah's Witnesses are happy to give and receive wedding gifts. However, it is important to remember that gift-giving is not obligatory and is entirely voluntary. The Bible encourages generosity (Psalm 37:21), and Jehovah's Witnesses appreciate the opportunity to celebrate and shower the newlyweds with gifts. Nevertheless, they refrain from soliciting gifts or publicly announcing the names of the givers, as this can make attendees feel uncomfortable and is considered unscriptural (Matthew 6:3, 4; 2 Corinthians 9:7; 1 Peter 3:8).

When it comes to accepting gifts, Jehovah's Witnesses exercise discernment and caution. They are mindful of the potential influence or obligation that may come with accepting gifts, especially if there is an ulterior motive involved (Deuteronomy 16:19; Exodus 23:8). This discernment aligns with the biblical counsel to "beware of gifts" and to maintain impartiality and integrity, especially for those in positions of responsibility (Deuteronomy 16:19; Exodus 23:8).

As a guest attending a Jehovah's Witness wedding, you are not obligated to bring a gift. While gift-giving is a customary way to express gratitude and celebrate the couple's future together, it is not a requirement. If you do choose to give a gift, there are a few suggestions to keep in mind. Specialized wedding cards with scriptural words from the Bible are a meaningful way to offer well wishes. Bible book covers, notebooks, meeting bags, service bags, and biblical posters are also thoughtful gifts that align with the couple's faith.

Ultimately, the decision to give or accept a gift at a Jehovah's Witness wedding is a personal one. While gifts are not obligatory, they are certainly welcomed and appreciated by the couple. It is important to approach gift-giving and receiving with respect, generosity, and an understanding of the beliefs and values of Jehovah's Witnesses.

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