QUESTIONS FROM READERS
All the "Questions From Readers" published in The Watchtower from 1950 to 2026: 1549 questions, grouped by year. Tapping a question opens that very paragraph on WOL; an article with more than one question appears more than once, one line for each question. In parentheses, the verses the question is about.
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1950 - 23 questions
w50 271 - After his resurrection, why did Jesus tell Mary Magdalene not to touch him but commanded Thomas to touch him?—A New York reader. w50 271 - Why did the Mosaic Law permit the Israelites to give to the stranger anything that died of itself, though they might not eat it themselves?—Reader in California. w50 271 - What is meant by the foot-washing mentioned at John 13:4-16? Does it mean that this should be performed as a ceremony by Christians?—Reader in Virginia. (John 13:4-16) w50 271 - How can it be said Jesus was born 2 B.C. if the Christian era began to count from his birth?—A New Jersey reader. w50 303 - How many days was Jesus in the tomb? Some say three full days. Is that correct?—Vermont subscriber. w50 303 - What is meant by the words at 1 John 3:18: “Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth”?—Reader in Florida. (1 John 3:18) w50 303 - Must consecrated women who participate in congregational meetings have their heads covered?—Reader in California. w50 335 - What does Revelation 20:5 mean by the words, “The rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished”?—J. S., Kentucky. (Rev. 20:5) w50 335 - How could Jesus justly condemn and cause to wither the fig tree that had no fruit on it, in view of the fact that it was not the season for figs?—P. S., Oklahoma. w50 335 - Can it be said that Armageddon started in 1914 with the casting of Satan out of heaven and down to earth?—Connecticut reader. w50 367 - Does not the expression “in Christ shall all be made alive” include Adam?—P. E., Maryland. w50 367 - How can we harmonize Matthew’s account that both thieves railed at Jesus with Luke’s that tells of one scoffing and the other defending Jesus?—M. Q., California. w50 367 - If the faithful men before Jesus’ time are not resurrected as perfect men, in what way is their resurrection “better”?—Texas reader. w50 399 - Revelation 21:4 says that in the new world there will be no more death. Does this mean that even animals will not die then?—M. I., New York. (Rev. 21:4) w50 431 - Does the Bible support the idea that what a mother sees or experiences during pregnancy may mark her offspring in some way? Some argue that it does, citing as proof Genesis 30:37-43.—T. C., Pennsylvania. (Gen. 30:37-43) w50 463 - How does one account for the apparently barbarous treatment that David, a man after God’s own heart, meted out to the Ammonites, as recorded at 2 Samuel 12:31 and; 1 Chronicles 20:3?—J. C., Lisbon, Portugal. (2 Sam. 12:31; 1 Chron. 20:3) w50 463 - Will children who have not reached the age of accountability and who die at Armageddon have a resurrection?—Ohio reader. w50 495 - Was the gift of tongues in the early church always manifested in languages used by men, or was it sometimes evidenced in tongues foreign to all men?—L. S., New York. w50 495 - Were not the gifts of tongues, healing, etc., to continue after the time of the apostles, according to Jesus’ words at Mark 16:17, 18?—A. J., Pennsylvania. w50 495 - If there is to be no resurrection of the wicked, why did The Watchtower quote Acts 24:15 from An American Translation, which reads: “There is to be a resurrection of the upright and the wicked”?—An Ohio reader. (Acts 24:15) w50 495 - In view of what Deuteronomy 4:15-23 has to say about the making of any graven image, would it be considered Scripturally correct to make photographs of individuals for display purposes of any sort, or for other uses?—P. S., Indiana. (Deut. 4:15-23) w50 522 - Regarding the term “brethren” at Matthew 13:55, does it mean spiritual brethren, fleshly brothers, or cousins of Jesus?—J. P. T., Spain. (Matt. 13:55) w50 522 - Does Jeremiah 10:3-5 refer to the erection and trimming of Christmas trees?—C. M., Washington. (Jer. 10:3-5) 1951 - 75 questions
w51 31 - Since our songbook, our prayers, our new Bible, etc., are doing away with archaic expressions, what about the word brethren?—H. K., Nebraska. w51 31 - The Watchtower of October 1, 1949, spoke of the “day of Jehovah” as though it were future, yet to come. The April 1, 1950, Watchtower spoke as though we were in the “day of Jehovah”. How can these statements be harmonized?—J. B., Virginia. w51 31 - I always thought Abraham, as well as Isaac and Jacob, was a Jew. Yet the August 15 Watchtower, page 246, says “Abraham was not a Jew”. Is that correct?—C.A., New York. w51 31 - If Jehovah is all-powerful and knows the end from the beginning, then he must have known that the covering cherub in Eden would rebel and lead Adam and Eve into rebellion, and thus bring woe upon all mankind. Knowing this beforehand, why did God create these creatures that would fail?—I. C., Pennsylvania. w51 63 - What was the “knowledge of good and evil” mentioned at Genesis 2:17, and is it the same as that referred to at Genesis 3:5 and Ge 3:22?—G. G., South Africa. (Gen. 2:17; 3:5, 22) w51 63 - What did Jesus mean by his words, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”—F. M., Georgia. w51 95 - Concerning the eating of animal flesh after Armageddon, would not that be determined by the everlasting covenant Jehovah made with Noah after the Flood, rather than by the edict given to Adam in Eden?—C. N., Texas. w51 95 - Why does the Emphatic Diaglott Bible version, in its footnote on 1 John 5:7, say that the words “For there are three who bear witness in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the holy Spirit, and these three are one” are not found in any Greek manuscript earlier than the fifth century, when the evidence is that these words did not appear in any Greek manuscript earlier than the fifteenth century?—J. L., Scotland. (1 John 5:7) w51 95 - In the new legal booklet Defending and Legally Establishing the Good News it is stated that there is no Scriptural objection to taking an oath to testify to the truth. What about Jesus’ words at Matthew 5:33-37 and the disciple James’ words at James 5:12 telling Christians to “swear not at all”?—E. H., England. (Matt. 5:33-37; Jas. 5:12) w51 127 - What do the words at 1 Timothy 2:15 mean?—“She shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.”—A. B., Washington. (1 Tim. 2:15) w51 127 - What is the understanding today of the command to women not to cut their hair?—F. A., Tennessee. w51 159 - In view of the perilous last days in which we live, would it be proper for married couples to use contraceptives? Also, if conception occurs, would abortion be permissible?—Based on similar questions that have come to us from different readers. w51 191 - In the past we regarded “religion” as anything that was against God’s will. Now many brothers are using the expressions “true religion” and “false religion” to make a distinction. Is this advisable?—D. D., California. w51 191 - Will there be a period of time between the ending of Armageddon and the beginning of the 1000-year reign of Christ?—R. S., Pennsylvania. w51 191 - In our company of Jehovah’s witnesses there are some who go to motion picture shows, football games, etc., for entertainment, and there are others who do not go and who criticize those who do. Is it wrong to indulge in such recreation?—R. H., Florida. w51 191 - When I was in an orthodox church the minister forbade picture shows, and I vowed never to go to one. Since I have now come into the truth, am I still bound by that vow, and would it be wrong to go to a show occasionally?—H. M., Canada. w51 223 - Have not Watchtower publications been in error in saying the food of John the Baptist was insect locusts? Does not reference to his locust diet refer to the beans or seed pods which appear on the sugar locust tree?—W. B., Canada. w51 223 - What is meant by the statement at Ecclesiastes 12:7, “The spirit shall return unto God who gave it”?—J. D., Canada. (Eccl. 12:7) w51 223 - Your Society’s book “Equipped for Every Good Work” gives, on page 82, some Talmudic legends about Jesus, which legends our pastor says are untrue. Can you give me the source of your information?—F. J., Pennsylvania. w51 223 - Genesis 1:26 reads, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” Could not this mean that the form of God’s spiritual body is the same as the form of man’s physical body?—H. D., California. (Gen. 1:26) w51 255 - Why does the New World Translation say Christ’s followers were called Christians “by divine providence”? I understand it is a name of reproach given by unbelievers. At Genesis 4:26 it tells of men hypocritically calling themselves by the name of Jehovah, and would not the antitype be those who call themselves by the name of Christ?—F. B., England. (Gen. 4:26) w51 255 - Why does Isaiah 45:7 state that Jehovah God creates evil, when we know him to be good and righteous in all his ways?—C. S., Ontario, Canada. (Isa. 45:7) w51 255 - A Rosicrucian publication claims that there was no such city as Nazareth until the third century A.D., that Jesus never lived at Nazareth, and that wherever he is referred to as “Jesus of Nazareth” it should read “Jesus the Nazarene”, because he was born to and reared by the Nazarenes Nazaretes and Essenes (known as the “Great White Brotherhood”). How would you answer these claims?—A. S., Ontario, Canada. w51 286 - How does this affect the statement in the Armageddon booklet, on page 55, that not all those executed at Armageddon will remain dead forever?—B. E., Maryland. w51 286 - Adam’s offspring did not come under eternal destruction because of his fall. Why should young children suffer eternal destruction at Armageddon because of having wicked parents?—E. N., Minnesota. w51 286 - Can we Scripturally say that those slain by Jehovah at the climax of such judgment periods as at the Flood and at Sodom and Gomorrah and at Armageddon go into eternal destruction?—I. F., Washington. w51 287 - Some maintain that at Armageddon there will be three classes: sheep that survive, goats that are eternally destroyed, and uninformed or unresponsible ones who will die but will be resurrected, and that in this latter class will be young children. Is this correct?-L. P., Montana. w51 319 - In the October 15, 1950, Watchtower the article “Be Fruitful, Multiply, Fill the Earth” said the resurrected multitudes would not share in the divine mandate to marry and bring forth children, and cited Matthew 22:30 as proof. The book “The Truth Shall Make You Free”, pages 362-364, states that it is reasonable that “other sheep” dying before Armageddon will have an early resurrection and share in the divine mandate, adding that such will not be contrary to Matthew 22:30. Which is correct?—R. K., New York. (Matt. 22:30) w51 319 - When Jesus spoke of a camel going through a needle’s eye, did he mean a literal needle’s eye, or did the expression refer to a little gate in one of the large gates of Jerusalem?—N. R., British Guiana. w51 320 - Would one of Jehovah’s witnesses be wise to say he accepts as from the Lord and true each issue of The Watchtower even before he opens it? or should he say it is provided by the “faithful and discreet slave” but he will prove everything in it before accepting it?—L. P., Montana. w51 351 - Why or in what sense does the New World Translation use the word “tormented” at Revelation 20:10?—F. F., West Virginia. (Rev. 20:10) w51 351 - In the April 1, 1951, Watchtower, page 218, it states concerning Christendom: “After she falls at Armageddon, we must do like Ezekiel, preach the Kingdom and the divine vengeance upon all systems outside of Christendom, till the ‘war of the great day of God the Almighty’ destroys them and his universal sovereignty stands vindicated forever.” Does this mean that after Armageddon starts and organized religion falls the witness work will continue and further ingathering of ‘other sheep’, especially from heathendom, will take place?—F. B., New York. w51 382 - In the article “The Lord’s Evening Meal”, January 15 Watchtower, page 48, paragraph 15, it states: “For the first four celebrations of the Memorial (A.D. 33-36) those who participated were Jews, proselytes and circumcised Samaritans.” Who were the proselytes? Were they Gentiles, partaking before Peter took the message to Cornelius?—M. M., New York. w51 382 - In several instances in the Greek Scriptures men are called “good”. Yet when a young man called Jesus “good” he was rebuked and was told that none was good but God. Why?—T. C., Pennsylvania. w51 383 - In establishing the length of the seven times of the Gentiles, a time or year of 360 days is used, to give 2,520 days, which become 2,520 years when Ezekiel 4:6 is applied. Yet when we figure from 607 B.C. down to A.D. 1914, the 2,520 years are solar years of 365 1/4 days each, and not lunar years of 360 days each. Is this proper?—N. N., New Zealand. (Ezek. 4:6) w51 383 - How many resurrections are there? Some say three, a first, a better, and a general. Others say only two, of the just and the unjust. Or, a resurrection of life and a resurrection of judgment. What is correct?—B. C., Michigan. w51 414 - What are the Scriptural grounds for objecting to blood transfusions? w51 414 - Do not these prohibitions about blood apply only to animal blood, and not to human blood? w51 414 - Since the blood donor does not die and no life is lost, why do the Scriptural prohibitions apply to transfusions? w51 414 - Since Christians are not under the Law of Moses that emphasizes these restrictions on blood, why be bound by such ordinances? w51 414 - Leviticus 3:17 states: “Eat neither fat nor blood.” So why shun blood while eating fat? (Lev. 3:17) w51 415 - Why do not Jehovah’s witnesses refuse to eat meat, inasmuch as some blood remains therein even though the animal has been properly bled? w51 415 - Many say receiving a transfusion is not like eating blood. Is this view sound? w51 415 - If the transfusion does good, perhaps even saves a life, is it not a Christlike service rendered? Did not Jesus say, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends”? w51 416 - Then are we to conclude that Jehovah’s witnesses oppose the people’s use of transfusions? w51 446 - In John 5:28, 29 and Acts 24:15 it speaks of resurrections for those that have done good, or the just, and for those that have done evil, or the unjust. Who are the ones in each of these two groupings?—R. K., Pennsylvania. (John 5:28-29; Acts 24:15) w51 446 - Why did Jesus tell healed ones to tell no one of the miracles performed on them, and why did he tell his disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ?—M. C., Ohio. w51 447 - In the April 1 Watchtower the Chart of Outstanding Historical Dates gives Adam’s creation as in the fall of 4025 B.C. What grounds is there for this?—D. D., Iowa. w51 478 - Exodus 33:20 states: “There shall no man see me, and live.” Yet Exodus 24:10 says concerning Moses and some of the elders of Israel: “They saw the God of Israel.” How can these apparently conflicting statements be harmonized?—C. B., Pennsylvania. (Ex. 33:20; 24:10) w51 479 - Was Jesus’ side pierced with the spear before or after his death on the torture stake? The accounts of Matthew and John seem to conflict on this point.—D. L., Washington. w51 510 - Why does not the Watchtower Society condemn wine and liquor as the evils they are?—H. J., Pennsylvania. w51 510 - Some religionists claim that the wine in the Memorial cup was unfermented grape juice. How can we prove that Christ used real wine on this occasion?—A. L., Arkansas. w51 511 - Why has the Watchtower Society suddenly approved the use of the word “religion” relative to the worship of Jehovah’s witnesses?—P. L., New York. w51 511 - Why did the October 15, 1950, Watchtower accent the last syllable of the Greek word for “soul” (psy·cheʹ), whereas the New World Translation Appendix accents the first syllable (psyʹche)? Also, this appendix states that this Greek word occurs 102 times in the Christian Greek Scriptures, but the book “Let God Be True” says that it occurs 105 times. Which is right?—Reader in Guatemala. w51 542 - Light (Book Two) states that the binding and abyssing of Satan referred to at Revelation 20:2, 3 means his death. “This Means Everlasting Life”, page 271, speaks of Satan and his demons being “hurled into the abyss of total deathlike inactivity”. Why does this later book speak of it in this way?—R. S., California. (Rev. 20:2-3) w51 542 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he said of Christ, “For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily”?—J. D., Canada. w51 542 - Is it necessary for a woman to cover her head when conducting a home Bible study? When such a covering is or is not required is causing much discussion in our company.—P. W., Ohio. w51 574 - What should be the Christian’s position regarding work in defense plants, serving on juries, selling Christmas cards or trees, etc?—Composite question based on many inquiries. w51 574 - Since the writers of the Bible used first names, such as the apostles calling each other Peter and John and Paul, some persons argue we should use first names in our meetings today, claiming that the use of “brother” or “sister” before the last name sounds too much like some of the false religions. How would you answer them?—L. R., California. w51 607 - Is it proper to have or attend celebrations of birthday anniversaries?—F. K., Nevada. w51 607 - Is it Scriptural to speak of Jehovah as being omnipresent?—A reader in New Zealand. w51 607 - When Deuteronomy 22:5 says that a woman should not wear a man’s clothes, does it mean that women should not wear slacks?—J. P., Pennsylvania. (Deut. 22:5) w51 638 - On page 280 of the book “This Means Everlasting Life” it states: “God’s curse on the earth outside Eden lasted till the flood, but all of men’s efforts since then at cultivating the soil have failed to convert the now widely populated earth into a paradise.” Does this mean that the earth is not now under the curse pronounced at the time Adam was ousted from Eden?—U. L., Canada. w51 639 - Why did Jehovah select Israel’s first human king from the tribe of Benjamin and hold out to that one the hope of the kingship remaining in his house forever, when previous prophecy had named Judah as the tribe from which kings would come?—R. G., Cuba. w51 670 - Mark 15:25 fixes the time of Jesus’ impalement at the third hour, and John 19:14 says it was the sixth hour. How is this discrepancy explained?—S. S., New Hampshire. (Mark 15:25; John 19:14) w51 671 - Must we be baptized before we are recognized by God as an ordained minister? The booklet Defending and Legally Establishing the Good News states that when in court we should say we are unordained ministers if we have not been baptized.—E. B., Indiana. w51 702 - The new book What Has Religion Done for Mankind? shows there is only one class of disobedient angels, not two classes. Did they first rebel in Eden or in Noah’s day? Also, who were the spirits in prison to whom the resurrected Jesus preached, can they repent and be saved, and if not why preach to them?—G. G., New York. w51 703 - Verses 4 and 5 of Proverbs 26 seem to express contradicting thoughts. What is the explanation?—T. L., North Carolina. (Prov. 26:4-5) w51 734 - How can we harmonize Matthew 12:30 with Mark 9:39, 40? The latter has been used to argue in favor of all the various religions that preach in Jesus’ name.—R. K., Ohio. (Matt. 12:30; Mark 9:39-40) w51 734 - At Matthew 9:14-17 Jesus was asked why his disciples did not fast as did those of the Pharisees and John the Baptist, and after some explanation he brought in the point that a new patch is not sewn on an old garment and new wine is not put into an old wineskin. This seems to have no bearing on the discussion. Why did he bring it up on this occasion?—B. Z., Washington. (Matt. 9:14-17) w51 735 - At Numbers 30:6-8 it states that a woman’s vows may be set aside by her husband. Does this apply today?—T. P., Indiana. (Num. 30:6-8) w51 735 - What does Isaiah 4:1 mean, which states: “And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach”?—C. S., Washington. (Isa. 4:1) w51 763 - How can we say that Paul became the twelfth apostle, when Matthias was chosen by casting lots?—M. W., Florida. w51 764 - Might not the star that guided the wise men to Jesus have been from God, since these men were apparently sincere and brought gifts and worshiped the child? Also, is it not reasonable to conclude that, since at this time Jesus was no longer a babe in a stable’s manger but a child in a house, he and his parents had by this time moved from Bethlehem to Nazareth?—F. D., California. w51 764 - How does Hebrews 1:10-12 harmonize with Ecclesiastes 1:4? Is not the text in Hebrews referring to the literal earth and heavens created by Jehovah God?—R. A., Alabama. (Heb. 1:10-12; Eccl. 1:4) 1952 - 56 questions
w52 31 - The April 15, 1951, Watchtower, page 233, said: “Fornicators are unmarried persons who commit immorality. Adulterers are married persons who willingly have sex relations with someone of the opposite sex not their legal marriage mate.” Yet Matthew 19:9 refers to the immorality of a married woman as fornication. Why?—E. W., Texas. (Matt. 19:9) w52 31 - Did Jesus, during his childhood, know that he was to be Messiah and realize that he had existed formerly as a spirit creature, the Logos?—C.R., Pennsylvania. w52 62 - According to the article “Hated for His Name” in the September 1, 1951, Watchtower, hundreds of thousands of Christians died in the “ten persecutions” starting in Nero’s time, 144,000 dying in Egypt alone during one of the persecutions. How can this be harmonized with the Scriptural limitation of 144,000 placed on the number being in Christ’s body, and which position was the only one open to Christians during those centuries?—J.A., Dominican Republic. w52 62 - Since John the Baptist had seen the spirit coming down as a dove out of heaven and remaining upon Christ Jesus, in accord with the sign Jehovah had told him to look for in identifying the Messiah (John 1:32-34), why did he later send his disciples to inquire of Jesus whether He was the Coming One?—E. P., Bolivia. (John 1:32-34) w52 63 - How can one determine whether he is of the anointed class, and hence should partake of the Memorial emblems?—E. B., California. w52 94 - If the Watchtower Society is free from racial prejudice, why does it tolerate segregation at its assemblies in certain sections of country? Is this not a course of compromise?—F. C., Wisconsin. w52 95 - A folder advertising the supposed health aids of The Jonadab Wise School of Health was distributed to Jehovah’s witnesses attending the recent assembly in Washington, D.C., and among other things said: “This unusual authentic service is prepared and offered to you by Jehovah’s Witnesses.” Does the Watchtower Society endorse this?—W. H., California. w52 126 - Why does Acts 15:20, 29 command Christians to keep away from meats sacrificed to idols, and 1 Corinthians 8:1-10 allow the eating of such meats?—J. H., Texas. (Acts 15:20, 29; 1 Cor. 8:1-10) w52 126 - What is the unforgivable sin against the holy spirit that Jesus spoke about?—B. E., New York. w52 127 - What Has Religion Done for Mankind? on page 37, quotes Proverbs 8:22-31 according to the Moffatt translation, wherein it refers to Jehovah’s only-begotten Son as “his foster child”. Why is the Logos spoken of as a foster child?—H. J., New Jersey. (Prov. 8:22-31) w52 158 - Do the courts of the land have the right to inflict capital punishment on those guilty of murder?—M. W., Washington. w52 159 - Why was Aaron not punished for making a golden calf for the Israelites to worship?—A. F., California. w52 159 - If one has already been baptized, does he need to repeat the baptism after he gets a knowledge of the truth?—R. G., Canada. w52 159 - The book What Has Religion Done for Mankind? states on page 211: “Neither let anyone think that the doctrine of purgatory was discovered first by Pope Gregory the Great (595-604 A.D.).” Then on page 274 it states: “Gregory I (A.D. 595-604) was the first to discover ‘purgatory’.” How are these seemingly contradictory statements harmonized?—D. F., New York. w52 190 - Is it unscriptural for one of Jehovah’s witnesses to marry someone that is not in the truth?—L. H., Ohio. w52 191 - Isaiah 7:14 foretells that Messiah was to be called “Immanuel”, yet Jesus was not so called. Why not?—J.W., California. (Isa. 7:14) w52 191 - What do Jesus’ words at Matthew 12:43-45 mean?—R. D., California. (Matt. 12:43-45) w52 223 - At the Watchtower School of Gilead I was told that it was the Jewish custom to kill condemned sinners before hanging them on the stake. What is the proof for this?—R. H., Peru. w52 223 - Since the idea of slavery is so distasteful today, why do we speak of Christians as being slaves of Christ? He said he no longer called us slaves, but friends.—M. S., Connecticut. w52 223 - Luke 2:39 states: “So when they had carried out all the things according to the law of Jehovah, they went back into Galilee to their own city Nazareth.” (NW) Since the slaughter of the babes by Herod came a year or more after Jesus’ birth, does this text not prove the child was at Nazareth when Herod’s infanticidal campaign came, and that the flight into Egypt was from Nazareth and not Bethlehem, as a recent Watchtower said?—R. B., New York. (Luke 2:39) w52 254 - Is it proper for men to tip their hats to women?—G. S., Missouri. w52 255 - What did Jesus mean when he said Christians had to hate their father and mother?—C. D., California. w52 255 - Do the “other sheep” have as much of the Lord’s spirit as the anointed remnant, and as clear an understanding of Jehovah’s purposes as the anointed have?—A. M., Colorado. w52 286 - Do the texts at Matthew 19:30; 20:16; Mark 10:31 and Luke 13:30 about the first being last and the last first apply to the order of resurrection?—H. E., Michigan. (Matt. 19:30; 20:16; Mark 10:31; Luke 13:30) w52 287 - Why was Aaron not punished with leprosy as his sister Miriam was when they spoke against Moses?—G. M., Pennsylvania. w52 318 - Paragraph 3, page 269 of the May 1, 1951, Watchtower says: “They are to pray over him, so that he can hear what they pray and can show he agrees, with his ‘Amen!’” Does this mean that after one has prayed at a meeting or meal table all those listening should say “Amen” to show their agreement?—A. B., Gold Coast. w52 319 - Is it proper to propose or to drink toasts to God or Christ or the Kingdom?—J. S., Pennsylvania. w52 319 - Does the Society approve of well-meant showers held preceding weddings or childbirths? Should the gifts be displayed along with an identification of the givers?—M. F., New York. w52 350 - One child lives because it has consecrated parents. Another dies with its wicked parents. Some persons hear the Kingdom message and live. Others may never hear it and die at Armageddon. Their opportunities are not equal. Would not justice require equal opportunity?—L. S., Ohio. w52 351 - When David displeased God by numbering Israel, 2 Samuel 24:1 says God moved him to do it, whereas 1 Chronicles 21:1 says Satan caused him to do it. Also, in 2 Samuel 24:9 the sum given is 800,000 Israelites and 500,000 Judeans, whereas 1 Chronicles 21:5 numbers Israel’s fighting men at 1,100,000 and Judah’s at 470,000. How can these differences be harmonized?—H. B., Massachusetts. (2 Sam. 24:1, 9; 1 Chron. 21:1, 5) w52 352 - Did other persons live before Adam? Where did Cain get his wife?—G. B., Alberta, Canada. w52 382 - Why does not the Watchtower Society publish simplified material for parents to use in teaching their children Bible truths?—A question based upon frequent inquiries by readers. w52 383 - Why does Paul refer to himself as a spiritual father to the Corinthians, in view of Jesus’ instructions at Matthew 23:9? See 1 Corinthians 4:15.—D. A., Illinois. (Matt. 23:9; 1 Cor. 4:15) w52 383 - Why did the March 1, 1952, Watchtower say Korah was destroyed by fire? Was he not swallowed up by the earth?—L. K., Florida. w52 414 - Is it permissible for one of Jehovah’s ministers to perform marriages where one is in the truth and the other is not? Where one or both are not Scripturally free to remarry? Where one is in the truth but the other has become of the “evil slave” class?—M. L., Ohio. w52 414 - The Watchtower Society says to take the children to meetings. But what if they are too small to understand? Or what if those old enough do not want to go?—D. C., New York. w52 446 - How could Paul preach Christians “not under the law, but under grace”, and yet terminate vows by the performance of Mosaic ceremonies at the temple?—M. C., Tennessee. w52 447 - Why did Paul oppose circumcision in his letter to the Galatians, and yet have Timothy circumcised?—T. H., Minnesota. w52 478 - The June 15 Watchtower on “The Marriage Ceremony”, arranges for the man getting married to repeat after the minister that he will love and cherish his wife “for as long as we both shall live or until the divine termination of the marital arrangement”. What is meant by the words “until the divine termination of the marital arrangement”?—L. K., New York. w52 478 - What proof have we that the demons will be abyssed with Satan at Armageddon, and that they will return with him at the end of the thousand-year reign of Christ?—R. R., Canal Zone. w52 510 - 1 Corinthians 7:14 (AV) says that the unbelieving mate is sanctified by the believing mate, and also the children of that union. The Watchtower has shown that such children may be preserved through Armageddon because of the family merit coming from the believing parent. Does such family merit also mean the unbelieving mate will be spared at Armageddon, or just how is such mate benefited?—L. R., Idaho. (1 Cor. 7:14) w52 511 - To what extent must a wife be subject to her husband? For example, one sister has her house cluttered with plants, and the husband says if she were properly subject to him she would get rid of them. Another wife invites someone to dinner without consulting the husband, and he objects because he knows nothing of it. Again, a wife corrects her husband at a study, and he objects to her procedure. The Jewish women must have felt very inferior under the dictates of the Talmud. Must we sisters in the truth now feel the same way?—M. M., British Columbia, Canada. w52 542 - Your publications point out that the battle of Armageddon will come in this generation, and that this generation began A.D. 1914. Scripturally, how long is a generation?—G. P., Liberia. w52 543 - Deuteronomy 21:10-13 shows that Israelite men could marry foreign captive women, yet other texts forbid intermarriage with foreigners. Is this not contradictory?—M. H., Pennsylvania. (Deut. 21:10-13) w52 574 - At 1 Samuel 16:21 it shows that David came to Saul’s attention and Saul made him his harpist and armorbearer. Then 1 Samuel 17:15 indicates David went back to sheepherding for his father, and later returned to Saul at the time he fought Goliath, and at which later time Saul seemed to know nothing about David, as shown at 1 Samuel 17:55-58. After being accepted into Saul’s court and after Saul requested that his father Jesse allow David to remain with him, why did David later return to sheepherding? And when David did come before Saul again, why did not Saul recognize him?—D. B., Ontario, Canada. (1 Sam. 16:21; 17:15, 55-58) w52 574 - When David took the shewbread or sacred bread out of the holy place to satisfy hunger, was it not a serious offense?—G. W., Israel. w52 576 - Why does not The Watchtower publish the widely circulated oath taken by the Knights of Columbus, which enumerates terrible things that they agree to do to advance Catholicism?—F. A., Ontario, Canada. w52 606 - John 2:19 (NW) states: “In answer Jesus said to them: ‘Break down this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’” Does this indicate that Jesus had power to raise himself from the dead, as trinitarians argue, and proving, as they say, that Jesus and God are the same person?—M. S., Oregon. (John 2:19) w52 639 - Jesus said, “Let the dead bury their dead.” Does this mean that we as Christians should not be taking up time attending funerals?—L. S., Germany. w52 639 - On what basis could there be a distinction between clean and unclean animals before the Noachian flood, before man ate meat, before the Mosaic law was given?—E. M., Nigeria. w52 640 - The Watchtower, February 1, 1952, quoted the text about Abel’s offering in sacrifice to Jehovah “the female firstlings of his flock”. Why did Abel offer in sacrifice a female sheep, when ordinarily the requirement was for a male animal?—W. F., Massachusetts. w52 670 - Revelation 20:7 speaks of the loosing of Satan from the abyss after the 1,000-year reign. Does this final testing come in the closing years of the 1,000-year period, or after it? Does it come within the seventh creative or rest day of 7,000 years, or after its close? Also, does Christ turn the Kingdom back to Jehovah before or after the test by Satan?—W. G., New York. (Rev. 20:7) w52 703 - In the case of where a father or mother or son or daughter is disfellowshiped, how should such person be treated by members of the family in their family relationship?—P. C., Ontario, Canada. w52 735 - Is it desirable to make provisions in Kingdom Halls for a soundproof room to which disturbing children can be taken and in which the parent can hear and perhaps see the sessions and yet the child cannot disturb congregational meetings?—G. E., Pennsylvania. w52 735 - Is it proper for a Christian witness of Jehovah to have business relationships with one who has been disfellowshiped?—F. G., California. w52 764 - Is vaccination a violation of God’s law forbidding the taking of blood into the system?—G. C., North Carolina. 1953 - 34 questions
w53 31 - Revelation 22:13 (NW) speaks of the “Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end”. At Revelation 1:17 (NW) Christ Jesus is spoken of as “the First and the Last”. So is not Revelation 22:13 also referring to Christ? The context sounds like it, yet the Watchtower publications say Jehovah is the “Alpha and the Omega”. Why?—J. J., New Jersey. (Rev. 22:13; 1:17) w53 62 - What is meant by Ecclesiastes 7:16, 17, where we are told to “be not righteous over much” and “be not over much wicked”?—C. R., Pennsylvania. (Eccl. 7:16-17) w53 63 - What does Solomon mean when he says he found a true man in a thousand, but never a true woman?—J. K., New Hampshire. w53 95 - Is it right for engaged couples to have sexual relations?—M. A., Norway. w53 126 - How can we explain Luke 22:44 concerning Jesus’ sweat’s becoming like blood?—L. G., France. (Luke 22:44) w53 126 - Some scholars claim that the letter to the Ephesians was not to those at Ephesus but was the letter to the Laodiceans, mentioned at Colossians 4:16, and some ground for this, they say, is that the words “which are at Ephesus” found in the King James Version of Ephesians 1:1 are an addition to the text. Are they correct in their position?—H. J., Chile. (Col. 4:16; Eph. 1:1) w53 159 - Galatians 3:17 shows the Law covenant was made 430 years after the Abrahamic covenant. Exodus 12:40 states that Israel dwelt in Egypt 430 years, at the end of which time the Law covenant was made. Yet the Abrahamic covenant was made with Abraham centuries before his grandson Jacob, or Israel, entered Egypt with his offspring to sojourn there. So how could the time between the making of the two covenants be the same as the time of sojourning in Egypt?—R. D., Maryland. (Gal. 3:17; Ex. 12:40) w53 190 - When Christ was on earth and casting out demons, why did they want to be in a fleshly body? For instance, on one occasion demons possessing men pleaded that they be allowed to enter a herd of swine. Why?—T. C., Pennsylvania. w53 222 - In the answer on page 95 of the February 1 Watchtower it seems to some to imply that sex relations without having children is wrong. Is that the impression this answer means to give?—H. M., New Jersey. w53 223 - In this section of the November 15, 1952, Watchtower it was stated: “The faithful marriage partner would not discuss religion with the apostate or disfellowshiped and would not accompany that one to his (or her) place of religious association and participate in the meetings with that one.” Does this mean that if the man of the house is disfellowshiped, but attends the meetings at the Kingdom Hall, the faithful members of the family may not ride with him in the family car when he drives there?—O. G., Kansas. w53 254 - Why was it that, according to Leviticus 27:28, 29, no devoted thing, whether man or beast, could be redeemed, but had to be put to death?—G. B., Spain. (Lev. 27:28-29) w53 254 - John 9:1-3 (NW) reads: “Now as he was passing along he saw a man blind from birth. And his disciples asked him: ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, so that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered: ‘Neither this man sinned nor his parents, but it was in order that the works of God might be made manifest in his case.’” Can these verses be rightly used to indicate either prehuman existence or predestination?—L. A., Alberta, Canada. (John 9:1-3) w53 285 - What was the reason for religious fasts by Israelites? Some argue that Christians should fast, citing Matthew 9:15; 17:21 and Acts 13:2, 3 as proof. Is this correct?—S. A., Argentina. (Matt. 9:15; 17:21; Acts 13:2-3) w53 319 - Are the charges in a tract against Jehovah’s witnesses true that the Society’s first president was immoral, profiteered from selling some mysteriously named wheat at $65 a bushel, and committed perjury when asked in court if he could read Greek?—C. W., North Carolina. w53 351 - What is the correct understanding of Exodus 4:24-26? Also, Exodus 4:20 reads as though Moses had returned to Egypt, but the next verse speaks of that return as still future. Why?—J. K., Japan. (Ex. 4:20, 24-26) w53 382 - Exodus 4:11 (AS) states: “And Jehovah said unto him, Who hath made man’s mouth? or who maketh a man dumb, or deaf, or seeing, or blind? is it not I, Jehovah?” On the basis of this text, can Jehovah be blamed for all the dumb or deaf or blind?—J. C., Ontario, Canada. (Ex. 4:11) w53 414 - Should not the phrase “for this reason” that opens John 7:22 be at the end of John 7:21 instead? As the New World Translation has it, it does not seem to make sense. What is the “reason” referred to?—A. A., Arkansas. (John 7:21, 22) w53 414 - Deuteronomy 10:1-4 shows Jehovah wrote the second set of the Ten Commandments on the tables of stone, but Exodus 34:27, 28 says Moses wrote this second set. Is there an explanation of this seeming contradiction?—I. Z., Michigan. (Deut. 10:1-4; Ex. 34:27-28) w53 447 - How can it be said that Christ’s second presence is as an invisible spirit and not as a visible body, in view of Revelation 1:7?—J. E., Illinois. (Rev. 1:7) w53 478 - Why did Noah curse Canaan when Ham was the offender?—E. M., England. w53 479 - Where do we find the command to “hate thine enemy”, as expressed at Matthew 5:43?—A. H., England. (Matt. 5:43) w53 511 - Zechariah 12:10 states: “They shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.” Jehovah is the speaker, and it sounds as though he was the one pierced instead of Jesus. Some argue this proves that Jehovah and Jesus are one in a trinity. So how is Zechariah 12:10 to be explained?—R. B., New York. (Zech. 12:10) w53 542 - Matthew 5:22 states: “Whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.” What are the three dangers of which offenders are here warned?—T. C., Pennsylvania. (Matt. 5:22) w53 543 - Is it Scriptural to assume that the 144,000 body-members of Christ are used to fill up the places vacated by the angels that rebelled and became demons and were ousted from heaven by Christ, thereby keeping intact the numerical strength of the heavenly realm?—J. D., India. w53 574 - At Exodus 6:3 God told Moses that he was not known to Abraham by the name Jehovah, yet at Genesis 15:7, 8 God identifies himself to Abraham as Jehovah and Abraham calls him by that name. What is the explanation?—J. M., England. (Ex. 6:3; Gen. 15:7-8) w53 607 - Acts 14:14 (NW) speaks of “the apostles Barnabas and Paul.” Why was Barnabas, not one of the twelve apostles, here called an apostle?—H. B., Canal Zone. (Acts 14:14) w53 639 - Ezekiel 3:18 shows that if the watchman did not give the warning the wicked would die, but the blood would be required of the unfaithful watchman. Does this not conflict with Jesus’ words that if human preachers remained silent the stones would cry out?—R. J., Indonesia. (Ezek. 3:18) w53 670 - How can we harmonize Ezekiel 18:20, which says the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, with Exodus 20:5, which says God will visit the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations?—M. L., Germany. (Ezek. 18:20; Ex. 20:5) w53 671 - What does Hebrews 4:12 mean, particularly the distinction between soul and spirit?—E. S., Ohio. (Heb. 4:12) w53 703 - What is meant by ‘binding the sweet influences of the Pleiades’ or ‘loosing the bands of Orion’ or ‘bringing forth Mazzaroth in his seasons’ or ‘guiding Arcturus with his sons,’ as mentioned at Job 38:31, 32?—W. S., New York. (Job 38:31-32) w53 734 - Some try to justify their divorce and remarriage by saying their former marriage partner committed adultery with another in his heart, even if he did not do so literally. They cite Matthew 5:27, 28. What about such reasoning?—F. R., United States. (Matt. 5:27-28) w53 734 - Why did Rachel steal the household gods of her father? Was this not akin to idolatry on her part?—E. T., United States. w53 763 - Both Jeremiah 25:33 and Ezekiel 39:12 refer to those slain at Armageddon, yet one says the dead will not be buried and the other says they will. How are the two texts harmonized?—W. B., Canada. (Jer. 25:33; Ezek. 39:12) w53 763 - The book “New Heavens and a New Earth” says Satan offered to make Jesus the ruler of the seventh world power. Should it not have said sixth world power instead of seventh?—A. W., United States. 1954 - 34 questions
w54 30 - Should we worship Jesus?—G. B., Ethiopia. w54 62 - Is it permissible to cross plants or animals to get hybrids, in view of the Genesis decree that each kind should bring forth after its kind?—F. B., United States. w54 63 - What did Jesus mean when he said his followers would do greater works than he had done?—V. W., United States. w54 93 - Is gambling a violation of Bible principles? Is it wrong for a Christian to have secular employment in a gambling project, such as a legalized lottery or gambling house?—V. W., Haiti, West Indies. w54 127 - Genesis 7:2 instructed Noah, “Of every clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female.” This would mean seven of each clean kind, but some modern translations render it “seven pairs,” which would mean fourteen clean animals of each kind. Which is correct?—C. M., United States. (Gen. 7:2) w54 158 - On page 360 of the book “New Heavens and a New Earth” it states concerning those gaining new-world life on earth: “God will not need to transport them to other planets for any reason or to people heaven with them. . . . He will forever retain them on earth as expert gardeners to maintain it as a glorious paradise to His praise.” Is it not presumptuous to limit Jehovah’s human creatures to earth? Is it not a speculative limitation, in view of the fact that 1 Corinthians 2:9 states that man cannot conceive the things Jehovah has in store for the righteous? Could not Jesus’ words at John 14:2 about going to prepare a place for his followers include the preparation of other planets for habitation? Of course, Jehovah does not need human creatures to populate the other planets, as he does not need us for anything; but he could use us for such a purpose. Finally, does not Isaiah 9:7 about there being no end to the increase of his government show an unending expansion of its realm?—E. M., United States. (1 Cor. 2:9; John 14:2; Isa. 9:7) w54 190 - What does Genesis 6:6 mean, which reads: “It repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth”?—Y. J., Nigeria. (Gen. 6:6) w54 190 - On page 84 of the book “This Means Everlasting Life” it says that Xerxes I was succeeded on the Persian throne by Artaxerxes III. Was it not Artaxerxes I instead?—J. C., Canada. w54 223 - How can we harmonize Deuteronomy 14:21 (NW), “You must not eat any dead body,” and Leviticus 11:40 (NW), “And he who eats any of its dead body will wash his garments and he must be unclean until the evening”?—D. H., Eire. (Deut. 14:21; Lev. 11:40) w54 255 - Will a baby that is stillborn or that dies shortly after birth have a resurrection if its parents are faithful servants of Jehovah?—H. C., United States. w54 285 - Will persons who committed suicide to preserve the honor of the family name, or for some other reason according to the custom of Japan, come up in the resurrection? Also, will murderers be resurrected?—K. H., Japan. w54 286 - Some think it is wrong to hunt and fish, while others see no wrong in such pursuits. Some who think hunting permissible do contend, however, that the game should be thoroughly bled immediately after it is shot to avoid violating the prohibition of eating blood. This bleeding is not generally done. What is the Scriptural view concerning these matters?—A. A., United States. w54 317 - In the January 1 issue of The Watchtower the question from Ethiopia, “Should we worship Jesus?” is answered. In paragraph five Hebrews 1:6 is quoted with regard to the angels of God worshiping Jesus, but in the final paragraph it says: “The answer to the above question must be that no distinct worship is to be rendered to Jesus Christ now glorified in heaven. Our worship is to go to Jehovah.” Does this not contradict the statement of Hebrews 1:6?—T. P., United States. (Heb. 1:6) w54 350 - Can you please give me information pertaining to the translation of “young woman” in Isaiah 7:14 (Leeser translation)? Can you tell me if in the old translation it means “virgin”?—A. G., United States. (Isa. 7:14) w54 382 - On the time of Elizabeth’s conception of John the Baptist, the book “Make Sure of All Things” (page 167, column 1, bottom paragraph) says: “1 Chron. 24:10, 18 [Regarding the courses of the priests]: ‘The seventh to Hakkoz, the eighth to Abijah.’ [Of the 24 courses the second week of the eighth would fall in the latter part of the fourth Jewish month, or early part of July, our calendar.]” How is this calculated?—R. L., Mexico. (1 Chron. 24:10, 18) w54 415 - Was it not compromise on the apostle Paul’s part when he said before the Sanhedrin: “I am a Pharisee”?—G. B., Ethiopia. w54 415 - At Genesis 3:16 Jehovah told the woman that he would increase or multiply her pain in childbirth. Does this not indicate that there would have been some pain at childbirth even if the woman had not sinned?—G. V., Belgium. (Gen. 3:16) w54 446 - Ezekiel 24:16, 17 states: “Neither shalt thou mourn nor weep, neither shall thy tears run down. Forbear to cry, make no mourning for the dead.” Yet on other occasions the Israelites mourned for the dead, with divine approval. So why does Jehovah forbid it in the text quoted above?—T. M., French Equatorial Africa. (Ezek. 24:16-17) w54 479 - A footnote on page 138 of “New Heavens and a New Earth” refers to certain numbers as perfect numbers. One of them is the number “3.” In what sense is it a perfect number?—R. I., United States. w54 510 - Does the Watch Tower Society accept challenges to debate publicly the Scripturalness of various religious teachings?—J. P., United States. w54 511 - The traditional picture of Jesus shows him with long hair and beard, but the Watch Tower publications illustrate him as beardless and with short hair. Which is correct?—M. H., United States. w54 543 - When does probation apply? Before disfellowshiping, during it, or after reinstatement?—L. D., United States. w54 543 - Why does the New World Translation render 2 Peter 3:10: “Earth and the works in it will be discovered”? What is the meaning to be conveyed? The King James Version says: “The earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.”—K. S., Australia. (2 Pet. 3:10) w54 575 - What is the correct understanding of Jesus’ words at Luke 20:34-36 (NW): “The children of this system of things marry and are given in marriage, but those who have been counted worthy of gaining that system of things and the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. In fact, neither can they die any more, for they are like the angels, and they are God’s children by being children of the resurrection”?—H. K., Canada. (Luke 20:34-36) w54 606 - How long did John’s baptism properly continue? When did Jesus’ baptism begin for his followers?—J. G., United States. w54 607 - How could Jesus truly say that everyone that takes up the sword would perish by it, when actually this has not been so?—L. R., Spain. w54 638 - How does Jehovah’s spirit help the “faithful and discreet slave” arrive at the truth of a matter? The Society does not claim infallibility or inspiration. How much is dependent upon the written Word? How can we be sure that this is the organization Jehovah is using when some things are published and later changed?—C. P., United States. w54 670 - Concerning young widows the Bible says that “when their sexual impulses have come between them and the Christ, they want to marry, having a judgment because they have disregarded their first expression of faith.” Does this mean young widows who marry are unfaithful?—B. S., United States. w54 670 - Does Isaiah 53:2, 3 refer to the physical appearance of Christ Jesus?—J. E., Sweden. (Isa. 53:2-3) w54 671 - Proverbs 16:4 (AS) states: “Jehovah hath made everything for its own end; yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.” Does this mean that Jehovah makes men wicked, perhaps to fit some supposed predestination of his?—D. U., United States. (Prov. 16:4) w54 703 - How could the Ethiopian eunuch be brought into the Christian congregation before Cornelius, especially in view of Deuteronomy 23:1?—I. H., United States. (Deut. 23:1) w54 703 - Why is Jacob called a Syrian at Deuteronomy 26:5?—V. H., United States. (Deut. 26:5) w54 734 - The main article of the September 15, 1954, Watchtower told about one witness of Jehovah not speaking to another witness in the same congregation, this going on for years because of a personal grievance, and the point was made that this showed a lack of true neighbor love. However, could this not be a case of a proper application of the counsel given at Matthew 18:15-17?—A. M., Canada. (Matt. 18:15-17) w54 763 - What is meant by the “high places of Isaac” mentioned at Amos 7:9, and is it not contradictory for the Bible to say that certain kings removed the high places, yet later on say they failed to abolish them?—A. M., Turkey. (Amos 7:9) 1955 - 29 questions
w55 62 - Jesus said that the night comes wherein no man can work. Was he referring to the battle of Armageddon?—S. S., United States. w55 62 - In view of Revelation 20:8, will there be national divisions in the new world, and who are Gog and Magog in this text?—G. T., Canada. (Rev. 20:8) w55 93 - What are the reasons for changing the date of Adam’s creation first from 4028 B.C. to 4026 B.C. and now recently in the book “New Heavens and a New Earth” to 4025 B.C.? w55 126 - Paul said that one Christian brother should not go to court against another Christian brother, but should take the case to mature ones of the congregation for decision. But what if one is defrauding another so as to bring extreme hardship upon the victim, yet the offender will not abide by the decision of the congregational representatives?—G. S., United States. w55 158 - What is the meaning of Matthew 24:28 (NW): “Wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will flock together”?—E. F., Canada. (Matt. 24:28) w55 190 - What is the meaning of Mark 9:49, 50 (NW): “For everyone must be salted with fire. Salt is fine; but if ever the salt loses its strength, with what will you mix it? Have salt in yourselves, and keep peace between one another”?—A. C., United States. (Mark 9:49-50) w55 222 - Isaiah 54:1 says: “More are the children of the desolate than the children of the married wife.” Who is the married wife here mentioned?—M. F., United States. (Isa. 54:1) w55 255 - Does not Job 14:22 show the torment of the soul after death of the body?—J. M., United States. (Job 14:22) w55 286 - Jehovah told Balaam to go to Balak, but when he started to go Jehovah was angry with Balaam because he was going. Why?—G. S., England. w55 318 - The law of Moses forbade the Israelites to charge interest on loans among themselves, and Jesus said to lend without interest and to hope for nothing back. Does this mean that Christian brothers today must not pay or receive interest from one another? Did Jesus mean not only to pay no interest but also not to repay even the principal?—J. G., United States. w55 351 - Is it proper theocratic procedure, when a person has a complaint against another, for him to write or petition the Society to take action and have his letter signed by several others in the congregation, which means he would have to recruit these signers?—F. R., United States. w55 351 - Why did Adam and Eve become ashamed of their nudeness after eating of the forbidden fruit?—P. R., United States. w55 382 - In accord with the Mosaic law about jealousy, if a husband suspected his wife of unfaithfulness she was to drink bitter water and if she was guilty of adultery her thigh was to fall away and her belly was to swell. Was this result miraculous or can it be explained in a natural way? Also, could this be called a trial by ordeal?—G. B., Lebanon. w55 383 - What is the “fiery flying serpent” mentioned at Isaiah 14:29?—V. Y., United States. (Isa. 14:29) w55 414 - Psalm 110:1 speaks of Christ sitting at Jehovah’s right hand, but Ps 110 verse 5 refers to Jehovah as being at Christ’s right hand, “Lord” there meaning Jehovah, according to the book What Has Religion Done for Mankind? page 100. If Christ is at Jehovah’s right hand, would that not mean that Jehovah is at Christ’s left?—R. C., Australia. (Ps. 110:1, 5) w55 414 - At Romans 7:9 Paul talks as though he once lived before the law covenant existed, and that he was living when it started. Since that was centuries before his lifetime, how are Paul’s words to be understood?—D. S., United States. (Rom. 7:9) w55 446 - I understand that the Kingdom is invisible and made up of Christ and the 144,000 body members, yet sometimes the term is used referring to the earthly, visible part of the new world. Why is this?—O. S., United States. w55 446 - Why is Jesus called the “Son of man” in the Greek Scriptures, when actually he is the “Son of God”?—W. H., United States. w55 478 - Jesus said: “Whoever slaps you on the right cheek, turn the other also to him.” How does this harmonize with the right of self-defense that Jehovah’s witnesses believe in?—K. K., United States. w55 511 - The book What Has Religion Done for Mankind? says, on page 251, that when Jesus told the truth in Nazareth “the religious people there in that synagogue rioted and rushed him out of town and tried to stone him to death,” and cites Luke 4:16-30 as proof. But Luke 4:29 (NW) says: “They rose up and hurried him outside the city, and they led him to the brow of the mountain upon which their city had been built, in order to throw him down headlong.” Since the scripture says they tried to throw him over the hill, why does the book say that they tried to stone him to death?—N. S., United States. (Luke 4:16-30) w55 511 - A report persists in circulating that there is a destructive electrical ring descending toward the earth, and that, when it hits, life not miraculously preserved by Jehovah will be wiped out. Did not the Awake! magazine comment on this some years ago?—W. S., United States. w55 543 - Trinitarians point to John 20:28 as proof that Jesus is God. There Thomas said (NW): “My Master and my God!” How can this argument be answered?—F. W., Philippine Republic. (John 20:28) w55 575 - Why does Matthew 27:9 attribute the words about the thirty silver pieces for Jesus’ betrayal to the prophet Jeremiah, when, actually, Zechariah recorded the words, at Zec chapter 11 verse 12 of his prophecy?—N. F., United States. (Matt. 27:9; Zech. 11:12) w55 607 - What if a publisher refuses to stop associating with a disfellowshiped person? I do not mean a member of the same family and who must dwell in the same house, but one who insists that he can continue associating with the ousted one, perhaps saying the disfellowshiping action was wrong.—A. P., Cuba. w55 638 - What are the unclean inspired expressions mentioned at Revelation 16:13, and who are the dragon and wild beast and false prophet out of whose mouths these expressions come?—M. Q., United States. (Rev. 16:13) w55 671 - When Jewish religionists asked John the Baptist if he was Elijah he said, “I am not.” But Jesus told his disciples that John was Elijah. Why the disagreement?—J. C., England. w55 702 - How can the claim that the law of Moses was copied from the code of Hammurabi be answered?—F. M., United States. w55 702 - Can man sin after the final test at the end of the thousand-year reign, and if he did could Jehovah put him to death, since Revelation 20:14 and Re 21:4 (NW) say “death and Hades were hurled into the lake of fire” and “death will be no more”?—J. M., Mexico. (Rev. 20:14; 21:4) w55 763 - What about a witness whose mate dies faithful before Armageddon and is then brought back in a resurrection soon after that battle’s end? Can that couple be reunited and share in the procreation mandate?—A. M., South Africa. 1956 - 26 questions
w56 31 - What is meant by a token fulfillment of the procreation mandate? Is not its fulfillment to be more than just a token?—A. L., United States. w56 95 - To what extent is a householder obligated to see to it that the meat he purchases is drained of blood? Should a guest, knowing it is the custom of the country not to drain the blood from certain meats, such as fowl and rabbit, keep silent and eat, or should he mention that the practice is unscriptural and refrain from eating?—D. W., England. w56 126 - A number of readers have written in proposing a question like this: How can we harmonize Genesis 1:11-13 where it mentions the earth’s bringing forth vegetation on the third creative day with Genesis 2:5, 6, which the New World Translation renders as follows: “Now there was as yet no shrub of the field found in the earth and no vegetation of the field was as yet sprouting, because Jehovah God had not made it rain upon the earth and there was no man to cultivate the ground. But a vapor went up continually from the earth and it watered the entire surface of the ground”? (Gen. 1:11-13; 2:5-6) w56 159 - Did Adam die as a result of being ousted from the garden of Eden and having to eat the imperfect food that grew outside?—L. D., United States. w56 191 - 1 Kings 15:33 states that in the third year of Asa the king of Judah Baasha became king over Israel and reigned twenty-four years. However, 2 Chronicles 16:1 says that Baasha came against Judah in the thirty-sixth year of the reign of Asa. How could this be, when Baasha’s reign had ended ten years before?—W. M., England. (1 Ki. 15:33; 2 Chron. 16:1) w56 219 - An answer in the November 15, 1955, Watchtower said Jehovah could, if he wished, destroy even an immortal creature. The booklet What Do the Scriptures Say About “Survival After Death”? says that if the demons had originally been created immortal they could not be destroyed from the universe. Which is correct?—J. L., United States. w56 253 - At Revelation 14:1, 3 (NW) we read: “And I saw, and look! the Lamb standing upon the mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty-four thousand having his name and the name of his Father written on their foreheads. And they are singing as if a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the persons of advanced age; and no one was able to master that song but the hundred and forty-four thousand, who have been purchased from the earth.” Who are the persons of advanced age here mentioned?—C. F., United States. (Rev. 14:1, 3) w56 286 - In the new book, You May Survive Armageddon into God’s New World, page 223, paragraph 7, is the statement: “The majority of the bride class have never seen the Bridegroom.” This statement seems to contradict the first part of paragraph 14, which states: “The majority of the members of the bride class have finished their earthly journey . . . and been united to him at the temple.” How are we to understand these statements?—R. R., United States. w56 286 - Did the apostle Paul fight wild beasts in the arena, as seems likely from 1 Corinthians 15:32 (NW): “If, like men, I have fought with wild beasts at Ephesus, of what good is it to me?”—M. H., United States. (1 Cor. 15:32) w56 319 - In the Revised Standard Version of the Holy Bible, published in America in 1952, the divine name Jehovah does not appear at all, not even in the translation of the Hebrew Scriptures. According to the Preface of this 1952 Version the word “Lord” has been used instead of God’s name. Would it therefore be right for us to read the name “Jehovah” wherever the word “Lord” occurs in connection with God that thus God’s name might be put in its proper place? w56 350 - In the book You May Survive Armageddon into God’s New World, on pages 281, 282, paragraph 14, it speaks of Hobab as the brother-in-law of Moses the prophet, whereas page 283, paragraph 16, quotes Judges 4:11, NW, which states that Hobab was the father-in-law of Moses. How does the book harmonize with itself in treating Hobab in this double relationship to Moses?—B. G., United States. (Judg. 4:11) w56 383 - Is the “heat by the shade of a cloud” (Isa. 25:5, AS) a reference to the destructive heat and cloud accompanying explosion of an atomic bomb?—M. E., Illinois. (Isa. 25:5) w56 383 - Speaking of those who partake of the Lord’s evening meal unworthily, the January 15, 1956, Watchtower said on page 60, paragraph 18: “So let him benefit by the corrective, disciplinary judgment that Jehovah gives him. Let him discern what he himself is, and reform. If he has been at fault, yet he should obey the command and eat the Lord’s evening meal, but do so discerning the Lord’s sacrificed body and asking forgiveness for his sin. Then let this celebration strengthen him to follow Christ’s steps more closely during the coming year.” Does this mean a disfellowshiped person should partake of the loaf and wine at the Lord’s evening meal?—M. P., Germany. w56 415 - Is not the New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures verbose, for instance, in using “catches sight of” for “sees” at 1 John 5:16 and “undeserved kindness” for “grace”?—J. S., United States. (1 John 5:16) w56 446 - A person I was preaching to insisted that such things as airplanes were here long ago, and as proof she quoted Ecclesiastes 1:9 about there being no new thing under the sun. What is the correct understanding of this text?—D. M., United States. (Eccl. 1:9) w56 479 - Revelation 13:18 (NW) states: “Here is where wisdom comes in: Let the one that has intelligence calculate the number of the wild beast, for it is a man’s number; and its number is six hundred and sixty-six.” What is meant by this number?—E. J., United States. (Rev. 13:18) w56 511 - If an unmarried pregnant woman who has made arrangements for the baby to be adopted comes to a knowledge of the truth before the baby is born, should she then feel obligated to keep the child in order to teach it the truth of God’s Word? w56 543 - 1 Samuel 28:6 (NW) says: “Although Saul would inquire of Jehovah, Jehovah never answered him, either by dreams or by the Urim or by the prophets.” But 1 Chronicles 10:14 (NW) says about Saul: “And he did not inquire of Jehovah.” How can these two texts be harmonized?—N. M., Hawaii. (1 Sam. 28:6; 1 Chron. 10:14) w56 575 - Matthew 20:29 and Mark 10:46 speak of Jesus healing the blind beggar Bartimaeus as Jesus was leaving Jericho, but Luke 18:35 reports the event as Jesus was entering Jericho. How can this contradiction be explained?—B. F., Canada. (Matt. 20:29; Mark 10:46; Luke 18:35) w56 607 - Would Adam and Eve in Eden ever have been permitted to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and bad?—D. A., United States. w56 607 - Concerning Christ Jesus it is written at Isaiah 11:10 (AS): “And his resting-place shall be glorious.” Does this resting place refer to the sabbath rest during the thousand-year reign of Christ?—J. H., United States. (Isa. 11:10) w56 639 - Will the resurrected ones of the anointed class now with Christ in heaven share in the destruction work of Armageddon?—K. R., United States. w56 671 - Page 170 of You May Survive Armageddon into God’s New World speaks of tribulation as a windstorm and says we are now in the calm center or “eye of the hurricane.” Page 181 speaks of the time of tribulation, its being cut short, and its resumption, and this tribulation seems to be used to involve Armageddon. Does this mean Armageddon has started, that we are in a lull in the battle at this time? And on page 199 Armageddon is used to mean God’s visible organization rather than a battle. How is this so?—D. B., United States. w56 703 - On one occasion Jesus cast a demon out of a boy that his disciples had failed to cure, and when the disciples later asked Jesus why they could not expel the demon Jesus said: “Because of your little faith. For truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard grain, you will say to this mountain, ‘Transfer from here to there,’ and it will transfer, and nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matt. 17:20, NW) Can the use of a small amount of faith move a literal mountain? Just what did Jesus mean?—R. C., United States. (Matt. 17:20) w56 735 - Isaiah 41:6 reads: “They help every one his neighbor; and every one saith to his brother, Be of good courage.” (AS) Who are fulfilling this prophecy today? May it be used as an example for encouraging one another in giving the witness to Jehovah’s kingdom by Christ today?—F. F., United States. (Isa. 41:6) w56 762 - Because of information presented in the July 1, 1956, Watchtower on baptism, a number of persons have asked about the advisability of being baptized again. They say that their understanding of the matter is better now than when they were immersed. Also, some were told years ago that their immersion in water by one of Christendom’s religious systems was sufficient to symbolize their dedication if they understood at the time that they were dedicating themselves to do Jehovah’s will, but now this article (page 406, paragraph 14) says that baptisms in Christendom’s religious systems today are not valid and that these individuals should be baptized again by Jehovah’s theocratic organization. They ask if they should now be baptized again, and if so, what date for their time of dedication should be shown on their Publisher’s Record card? Should it be this latest baptism date, even though the person has been in the truth and actively witnessing for ten or twenty years or more? 1957 - 34 questions
w57 31 - Is it to be taken as literally true that the clothing of the Israelites did not wear out during the forty years in the wilderness, or is it merely a way of saying that the clothing supply did not give out?—R. H., United States. w57 31 - Was Judas present when Christ instituted the memorial celebration or not?—W. E., United States. w57 62 - Hebrews 2:14, speaking about the Devil, says that he has the “power of death.” If this is an absolute power, why does he not destroy all those serving Jehovah? To what extent does Satan have the “power of death”?—E. D., United States. (Heb. 2:14) w57 62 - Why do Jehovah’s witnesses sometimes count prophetic time on the basis of a “year for a day,” whereas at other times days are interpreted literally?—W. A., United States. w57 95 - Is it proper to refer to the New World society as the modern-day city of refuge?—A. P., United States. w57 95 - On page 64 You May Survive Armageddon into God’s New World says: “Jehovah will hide and save them, not only through the first part of the universal conflict, Christendom’s destruction, but clear through it into his new world.” What marks the start of Armageddon?—W. T., United States. w57 126 - John 8:58, according to the King James Version, says: “Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.” But the New World Translation states: “Jesus said to them: ‘Most truly I say to you, Before Abraham came into existence, I have been.’” Why does the New World Translation use “I have been” instead of “I am”?—R. B., United States. (John 8:58) w57 159 - Did not Lucifer become Satan the Devil, according to Isaiah 14:12?—A. R., United States. (Isa. 14:12) w57 191 - Why do Matthew’s and Luke’s versions of Jesus’ genealogy differ? Matthew 1:1-16 lists Jacob as “the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, who was the mother of Jesus,” while Luke 3:23-38 says Joseph was “the son of Heli.”—J. C., United States. (Matt. 1:1-16; Luke 3:23-38) w57 223 - Deuteronomy 30:13 is referred to on page 117, paragraph 14, of the book You May Survive Armageddon into God’s New World. What is the full application of that scripture to the paragraph?—P. S., United States. (Deut. 30:13) w57 254 - Why do Jehovah’s witnesses believe human creatures will live forever on the earth, since the Bible declares that the earth is to be burned up? w57 255 - How can anyone effectively argue against the trinity doctrine in view of John 10:30, where Jesus himself says: “I and my Father are one”? (John 10:30) w57 286 - The belief in the inherent immortality of the human soul is basic in world religions, whether they be Christian or Jewish or pagan. Why do Jehovah’s witnesses believe the soul is not immortal? w57 286 - Mark 9:47, 48 reads: “And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.” Does this not prove eternal torment for the wicked? (Mark 9:47-48) w57 319 - I am enclosing a clipping from our Milwaukee Journal of January 10, 1957. It is a picture of Jordanian shepherds taking their flocks to pasture in the mountains near Jerusalem. This is a United Press photo and it would seem to discredit the argument about Christ’s birth not being in the wintertime.—B. B., United States. w57 319 - The chronological chart on page 364 of “New Heavens and a New Earth” shows that Noah preached some forty years. How can this be proved Scripturally? Does not Genesis 6:3 speak of a 120-year period?—E. J., United States. (Gen. 6:3) w57 351 - Was it proper for Jesus to allow certain demons to enter into a herd of swine and destroy them, as recorded at Matthew 8:28-32, since the swine were not his own property?—A. P., United States. (Matt. 8:28-32) w57 383 - How would one explain the fact that while the temporary resident had to be obedient to many of Jehovah’s laws and requirements the same as the Israelites, yet the temporary resident could eat “any dead body” while the Israelites could not, and it also could be sold to a foreigner, as mentioned at Deuteronomy 14: 21? If it was unclean for the Israelites, why was it not also for the temporary resident and the foreigner?—L. R., United States. (Deut. 14:21) w57 383 - What is the meaning of Paul’s words at Hebrews 12:13 (NW): “Keep making straight paths for your feet, that what is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather that it may be healed”?—K. K., United States. (Heb. 12:13) w57 414 - My husband possesses a book, The Chaos of Cults, by Jan Karel Van Baalen, and, on pages 218, 219, that book states regarding Pastor Russell: ‘His boldness was so extraordinary that he calmly announced in the opening pages of his Studies in the Scriptures that it would be better to leave the Bible unread but read his comments than to omit the latter but read the Bible.’ My question is, did Pastor Russell really state or have written such a statement in the book or books Studies in the Scriptures?—E. N., United States. w57 446 - The book You May Survive Armageddon into God’s New World, on page 359, discusses the earthly rebels at the end of the thousand-year reign of Christ that Revelation 20:8 says “the number of whom is as the sand of the sea,” and makes this statement: “They are as indefinite in number as the ‘sand of the sea,’ though they might not be over 144,000.” Why is the number 144,000 brought in here?—E. C., Australia. (Rev. 20:8) w57 479 - Enclosed is an article, “Zealous Vandal,” from Nature magazine, issue of December, 1956. Is this a proper way to witness to the truth?—C. T., United States. w57 511 - We understand that John’s baptism was for remission of sins committed against the Mosaic law, but that water baptism in Jesus’ name is not for remission of sins. It symbolizes the person’s dedication to do Jehovah’s will. However, those who believe water baptism now washes away sins quote Acts 2:38 as proof. Does this text support their claim?—A. H., United States. (Acts 2:38) w57 543 - Page 68 of “Let God Be True” says that at Genesis 1:20, 30 the marginal readings show “soul” for “creature” and “life” in these verses. However, in the King James Version that I have the margin shows “soul” for “life” in these verses but not for “creature.” Is “Let God Be True” in error?—M. C., United States. (Gen. 1:20, 30) w57 543 - At our Kingdom Hall, and at other halls in our vicinity, we have been told that nothing should be discussed in the hall before or after meetings that does not pertain to Kingdom truths or service. For example, if we want to invite some of the brothers to our home after the meeting the invitation must be extended outside the hall, not inside. I have accordingly asked others to step outside with me for a moment to voice such an invitation, and then we go back into the hall. Is this the proper procedure?—E. C., United States. w57 575 - The Watchtower, September 15, 1955, page 572, paragraphs 38, 39, states that Satan did not promise immortality to Eve in Eden. Who, then, began this teaching, and when? Was it during Nimrod’s time that this teaching first began?—E. D., United States. w57 607 - What is the “new name” mentioned at Revelation 2:17? Is it the name “Jehovah’s witnesses”? And what about similar references at Isaiah 62:2 and Isa 65:15?—M. N., United States. (Rev. 2:17; Isa. 62:2; 65:15) w57 639 - The April 15, 1957, Watchtower states, in paragraph 29 of page 236: “On the very day that the flood broke from the distant skies Noah and the seven members of his household went into the ark into which they had already brought specimens of all the birds and animals.” How can this be true, when Genesis 7:10 says that after Noah and his family entered the ark “seven days later it turned out that the waters of the deluge came upon the earth”?—R. F., United States. (Gen. 7:10) w57 671 - The King James or Authorized Version Bible says at Revelation 13:1: “And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea.” But the New World Translation does not show John standing on the seashore. It says: “And it stood still upon the sand of the sea. And I saw a wild beast ascending out of the sea.” Why so?—F. H., United States. (Rev. 13:1) w57 671 - The Chart of Outstanding Historical Dates in the back of the book “New Heavens and a New Earth” shows Abraham born in 2018 B.C., and cites Genesis 11:26: “And Terah lived on for seventy years, after which he became father to Abram [Abraham], Nahor and Haran.” But does not this show that Terah was seventy when Abraham was born? And since Terah was seventy in 2078 B.C., would that year not be Abraham’s time of birth?—M. B., United States. (Gen. 11:26) w57 703 - Leviticus 3:17 states: “It is a statute to time indefinite for your generations, in all your dwelling places: You must not eat any fat or any blood at all.” Nehemiah 8:10 says: “Go, eat the fatty things and drink the sweet things.” How can these two commands be reconciled?—E. Z., United States. (Lev. 3:17; Neh. 8:10) w57 703 - Sometimes in your publications you capitalize personal pronouns referring to Jehovah God and Christ Jesus, but generally you do not. Why not?—W. S., United States. w57 735 - Ecclesiastes 1:4 says that the earth abides forever, but how do we know “forever” means throughout eternity, and not just to some future, indefinite, concealed time? The same was said of the law covenant, but it came to an end.—R. S., United States. (Eccl. 1:4) w57 763 - The Watchtower has said that Zipporah was the Cushite woman that Miriam objected to in Numbers 12:1, but how could Zipporah be the Cushite when What Has Religion Done for Mankind? says, on page 115, that she was a descendant of Abraham?—N. R., United States. (Num. 12:1) 1958 - 31 questions
w58 31 - Why does Leviticus 11:20-23 speak of insects as ‘going on all fours,’ when they have six feet?—L. E., United States. (Lev. 11:20-23) w58 62 - In Matthew 19:23, 24 Jesus said to his disciples: “Truly I say to you that it will be a difficult thing for a rich man to get into the kingdom of the heavens. Again I say to you, It is easier for a camel to get through a needle’s eye than for a rich man to get into the kingdom of God.” Is this proved to be a poor translation in the light of the short article that appeared in The American Mercury magazine, entitled “The Way of the Translator,” which article reads as follows: (Matt. 19:23-24) w58 63 - Why, after receiving from God the express command to multiply and fill the earth, did Adam and Eve refrain from carrying out this procreation mandate while they were perfect in the garden of Eden? w58 95 - In the 1956 Watchtower series of articles on marriage, paragraph 36 on page 596 says: “If a person forgivingly takes an erring mate back again it should be without collecting such [woman] damages.” When the Philistine king Abimelech returned Sarah to Abraham, may not the money that Abimelech then gave to Abraham be considered “woman damages”?—Gen. 20:14-16. (Gen. 20:14-16) w58 127 - On page 84 of the book You May Survive Armageddon into God’s New World we read: “The worship of Jehovah was not made impossible by the destroying of earthly Jerusalem’s temple. His pure worship with spirit and truth continued on in his spiritual temple that was being built by the antitypical Solomon, Jesus Christ. That spiritual temple survived the horrible destruction of Jerusalem in the year 70. That temple is now near its completion, the last of its ‘living stones’ being yet under preparation on earth for being built into the temple in heaven. . . . The real temple of Jehovah’s worship is destined to stand eternally as the habitation of his spirit.” w58 159 - Why does the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures use the larger expression “memorial tombs” instead of the one word “tomb,” as the American Standard Version does at Matthew 8:28; 23:29; 27:52, 53, 60; 28:8; John 5:28 and at other verses? (Matt. 8:28; 23:29; 27:52-53, 60; 28:8; John 5:28) w58 190 - Is it mere wordiness or overdoing matters or downgrading to Jehovah for us to speak of him as Jehovah God? w58 223 - What can individuals do to stem the rising tide of immorality and godlessness? w58 254 - If Jehovah is supreme, why has he permitted wickedness to continue through the centuries? w58 254 - Why is there such an increase of wickedness today? w58 255 - With increasingly destructive weapons of war and decreasing morality and love of principles, what hope is there for man and the earth? Will wickedness ever be brought to an end? w58 286 - On page 86 of the book “New Heavens and a New Earth”, paragraph 5 tells why Jehovah God did not destroy Satan the Devil, the great Serpent, immediately at the garden of Eden after he had misled Eve and Adam into sin. Then it concludes the paragraph, saying: “Up to that time [that is, up to the rebellion of Satan at the garden of Eden] there had been no death of any angels, nor any killing of them; and God’s Word plainly states that such a thing is not to take place until the ‘war of the great day of God the Almighty’, in our day.” Does this mean that the abyssing of the fallen angels at the coming battle of Armageddon may be referred to as killing? w58 319 - In Numbers 8:25, 26, concerning the Levites who served at the house of worship of Jehovah, we read: “But after the age of fifty years he will retire from the service company and serve no longer. And he must minister to his brothers in the tent of meeting in taking care of the obligation, but he must render no service. In accord with this you will do to the Levites in their obligations.” Since the appointed ministers among Jehovah’s witnesses on earth today do not retire from their service at any age, how applicable at the present time is the principle of this considerate law of Jehovah here quoted? (Num. 8:25-26) w58 351 - “Juvenile delinquency on the increase!” Is that not a cry of an adult generation that has conveniently forgotten its own youthful escapades? Are not some politicians correct in attributing delinquency’s statistical increase to improved police efficiency in methods of exposing crime and capturing criminals? Further, is not population centralization responsible for a great deal of the accent on delinquency? And, too, with a growing world population, is it not natural to expect more marriages, more children, more divorces and more delinquency?—S. G., United States. w58 383 - Instead of greater political and religious immorality, could it not be that we of this generation are more willing to discuss crime and corruption, that we give these conditions greater publicity than did past generations?—D. G., United States. w58 415 - Since Jesus knew he was to be bruised by the great Serpent, Satan the Devil, in fulfillment of Genesis 3:15, why did he, when dying on the torture stake, ask: “My God, my God, to what end have you forsaken me?”—Matt. 27:46. (Gen. 3:15; Matt. 27:46) w58 447 - Is there really a moral breakdown in marital relations? Or is what we hear the cry of headline hunters quick to feed ears itching for sensationalism?—D. P., United States. w58 478 - One of Jehovah’s witnesses who claims to be of the anointed remnant recently went to the hospital and took a blood transfusion, voluntarily. Should she be allowed to partake of the emblems of bread and wine at Memorial time?—R. J., United States. w58 510 - Where other Bible translations use “cross” the New World Translation usually uses “stake,” but in some places it uses “tree,” as at Acts 5:30 in the margin. Why is this?—W. M., United States. (Acts 5:30) w58 510 - I have been told that the New World Translation breaks rules of grammar when it translates Philippians 2:5, 6: “Keep this mental attitude in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although he was existing in God’s form, gave no consideration to a seizure, namely, that he should be equal to God.” A clergyman in Alaska told me this is mistranslated to hide the teaching of trinity. Does the New World Translation break rules of grammar in order to render these verses in this way, which indicates that, as a spirit creature in heaven, before coming to earth and living as a man, Christ Jesus was not equal to Jehovah God?—J. F., United States. (Phil. 2:5-6) w58 543 - Is it not true that only pessimists and alarmist say there is a moral breakdown in the world today?—J. G., United States. w58 543 - May an anointed brother once disfellowshiped but now reinstated and on probation be used to pray at Memorial time?—C. O., United States. w58 575 - Are we to consider the injection of serums such as diphtheria toxin antitoxin and blood fractions such as gamma globulin into the blood stream, for the purpose of building up resistance to disease by means of antibodies, the same as the drinking of blood or the taking of blood or blood plasma by means of transfusion?—N. P., United States. w58 575 - In some countries it is the custom to show mourning for the dead by wearing black for several months or even years, depending on the person doing the mourning. Is that proper for one in the truth?—O. R., Cuba. w58 607 - Is it all right for sisters to ask questions in congregational meetings in view of statements in Qualified to Be Ministers, on page 253, paragraph 5?—A. M., United States. w58 639 - What does 2 Kings 23:11 mean when it speaks of King Josiah’s causing the horses to cease entering the house of Jehovah?—T. M., United States. (2 Ki. 23:11) w58 639 - If a person has dedicated himself to Jehovah but arrives at the assembly late and does not hear the baptism talk and does not answer publicly the two questions there propounded, what should be done if this latecomer is immersed anyway?—M. K., United States. w58 672 - By what means were the waters of the Red Sea held back when the Israelites marched through? Does Exodus 15:8, which says “the surging waters were congealed in the heart of the sea,” indicate that they were frozen?—J.H., U.S.A. (Ex. 15:8) w58 703 - In Matthew 1:1 we read: “The book of the history of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham.” In Romans 3:24 we read: “It is as a free gift that they [the believing sinners] are being declared righteous by his undeserved kindness through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Jesus.” What is the difference between Jesus Christ and Christ Jesus? (Matt. 1:1; Rom. 3:24) w58 736 - At Matthew 12:40 Jesus said he would be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights, which some understand to mean a full seventy-two hours. However, the Watch Tower publications speak of it as “parts of three days.” Why?—B. W., Canada. (Matt. 12:40) w58 764 - I have been told that it is improper to speak of a human being. Yet being is defined in this way in the dictionary. What is the proper viewpoint on this matter?—J. P., United States. 1959 - 38 questions
w59 31 - In connection with water baptism, why is it appropriate to say that one dies to one’s “past course of life” instead of to one’s “own will”? How could that apply to Jesus’ water baptism? w59 61 - At John 3:16, 17, what “world” did God love so much, and what “world” did God send Jesus, not to judge, but to save? (John 3:16-17) w59 96 - Does Stephen’s prayer to Jesus, as found in Acts 7:59, show that he understood Jesus to be Jehovah?—W. R., U.S.A. (Acts 7:59) w59 128 - How many overseers are there in a congregation of God’s people on earth?—G. G., United States. w59 159 - What did Jesus mean when he said, as recorded at John 3:13, that “no man has ascended into heaven but he that descended from heaven, the Son of man”? Since he was at that time still on earth, is he referring to occasions in his prehuman existence when as the Word of God he may have appeared as God’s angelic spokesman and then ascended to heaven?—F. B., United States. (John 3:13) w59 191 - What does the scripture at James 3:1 mean when it says: “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment”?—M. W., United States. (Jas. 3:1) w59 224 - At Zechariah 11:12, 13 (AS) Jehovah speaks of “thirty pieces of silver” as “the goodly price that I [Jehovah] was prized at by them.” At Matthew 27:9, 10 the prophecy is applied to the price Judas received for betraying Jesus. Does this indicate that Jehovah and Jesus are the same person, as taught by trinitarians?—W. R., U.S.A. (Zech. 11:12-13; Matt. 27:9-10) w59 256 - What is the “scroll of life” referred to at Revelation 20:12? How is one’s name written in that scroll, and when?—B. F., United States. (Rev. 20:12) w59 256 - Why does Proverbs 8:24, 25 speak of wisdom as being “brought forth as with labor pains”?—B.G., United States. (Prov. 8:24-25) w59 287 - Did those who submitted to John’s baptism have to be rebaptized later with Jesus’ baptism?—A. R., U.S.A. w59 318 - In the Chronological Chart of World Powers on page 365 of the book “Your Will Be Done on Earth” (August 2, 1958) it lists the kings of the Medo-Persian Empire (539-331 B.C.) as Darius the Mede; Cyrus the Great (Persian); Cambyses; [Usurper Magian Gaumata, pretending to be Smerdis, 522/1 B.C.]; Darius I (Persian) (Hystaspes), 521-485 B.C.; Xerxes I (Ahasuerus); Artaxerxes I (Longimanus); Xerxes II; Darius II (Ochus; Nothus) ; Artaxerxes II (Mnemon); Artaxerxes III (Ochus); etc., etc. w59 351 - What is the “place that is called in Hebrew Har–Magedon” (Rev. 16:16), and how can it be said that Jehovah’s witnesses are assembled at that place now, and since when?—See The Watchtower as of November 1, 1956, page 671. (Rev. 16:16) w59 382 - In Isaiah 66:8 it is written: “Who has heard of a thing like this? Who has seen things like these? Will a land be brought forth with labor pains in one day? Or will a nation be born at one stroke? For Zion has come into labor pains as well as given birth to her sons.” What is the difference between the “land” and the “nation,” and how is this related to the foundation of the “new earth” in 1919? (Isa. 66:8) w59 415 - When the book From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained says, on page 229, that faithful servants of Jehovah who die now “will be brought back in the ‘resurrection of life’ to get the same blessings that the people who live through Armageddon will receive,” does it mean that they will marry and share in fulfilling the procreation mandate?—F. B., U.S.A. w59 415 - Is it all right for Christians to resort to sterilization to avoid childbirth? w59 416 - Who was the father of Shealtiel? The Bible account at Matthew 1:12 says his father was Jechoniah, while Luke 3:27 says Neri. How can these two genealogies be harmonized?—H. H., U.S.A. (Matt. 1:12; Luke 3:27) w59 447 - At Genesis 3:1 the American Standard Version and other translations say that the serpent was “more subtle” than any beast of the field. Why does the New World Translation say the serpent proved to be “the most cautious”?—S. R., U.S.A. (Gen. 3:1) w59 447 - Is it proper for a brother to conduct the funeral service of an individual who was never associated with Jehovah’s witnesses and who committed suicide?—K. L., U.S.A. w59 448 - If an individual is disfellowshiped, but continues in quiet attendance at the Kingdom Hall, is it proper for that one’s marriage mate to sit with such a one during the meetings?—J. F., Switzerland. w59 479 - When Jesus said, as recorded at Matthew 5:5, “Happy are the mild-tempered ones, since they will inherit the earth,” of whom was he speaking?—H. S., U.S.A. (Matt. 5:5) w59 479 - Is it right for Christians to invite others to their home or to accept an invitation to the home of another person for a meal on a worldly holiday?—G. B., U.S.A. w59 479 - Why is it that the New World Translation, at Luke 11:2, omits from the model prayer that Jesus taught his disciples the part that says: “Let your will come to pass, as in heaven, also upon earth”?—R. M., U.S.A. (Luke 11:2) w59 480 - In connection with the ark constructed by Noah, Genesis 6:16 makes reference to an “opening for illumination” and Genesis 8:6 refers to “the window.” Are they the same? Also, what was the “covering of the ark” spoken of in Genesis 8:13?—E. F., U.S.A. (Gen. 6:16; 8:6, 13) w59 511 - How can we harmonize the accounts in Acts 7:2-4 and Genesis 11:31–12:4? The account in Acts indicates that it was while Abraham was in Mesopotamia that God commanded him: “Go out from your land and from your relatives and come on into the land I shall show you.” The Genesis account seems to indicate that this command was given to him in Haran following the death of his father Terah.—G. O., U.S.A. (Acts 7:2-4; Gen. 11:31-12:4) w59 512 - What accounts for the difference in capacity of the molten sea in Solomon’s temple as mentioned at 1 Kings 7:23-26 and ; 2 Chronicles 4:2-6?—F. B., U.S.A. (1 Ki. 7:23-26; 2 Chron. 4:2-6) w59 541 - From time to time letters are received from persons who want to know what the Christian viewpoint is toward masturbation. Parents ask about the counsel they are given by doctors to tell their children there is nothing wrong with the practice. Young men ask if the psychologists are right in justifying it on the basis of its being practiced universally. Wives ask what their attitude should be toward unbelieving husbands who practice self-abuse as well as about the advice they receive to resort to this practice when their sexual relations with their husbands do not prove to be fully satisfying. w59 575 - The book “Your Will Be Done on Earth,” on page 120, states that the Persians met with military disaster at Thermopylae. Other sources indicate that the Greeks were defeated in this battle. What is the basis for the statement in the book?—N. K., U.S.A. w59 576 - At Romans 10:18 the apostle Paul quotes Psalm 19:4 and apparently applies it to people, but the context of Psalm 19:4 is speaking of the heavenly creation. How are we to understand Paul’s application of the text?—M. M., U.S.A. (Rom. 10:18; Ps. 19:4) w59 576 - Why does Revelation 4:5 speak of “seven lamps of fire burning before the throne” when there were ten in Solomon’s temple, as shown in 1 Kings 7:49?—S. V., U.S.A. (Rev. 4:5; 1 Ki. 7:49) w59 607 - Who are the writers of the publications of the Watch Tower Society, and what are their educational qualifications?—M.D., U.S.A. w59 639 - At Psalm 127:3, why does the New World Translation use the word “belly” instead of “womb” as other translations do?—W. P., U.S.A. (Ps. 127:3) w59 639 - When 1 Corinthians 6:19 says, “Do you not know that the body of you people is the temple of the holy spirit within you which you have from God?” does it mean that the mortal human body of a Christian is the temple?—F.S., U.S.A. (1 Cor. 6:19) w59 640 - Although it is unscriptural for a Christian to accept another person’s blood in transfusion, would it be allowable for a dedicated Christian to have some of his own blood removed and then put back into his body during an operation?—W. D., U.S.A. w59 672 - Is it true that the teachings of Jehovah’s witnesses are based on the New World Translation of the Bible? w59 704 - Why is it that at Genesis 2:17 it says that eating from “the tree of the knowledge of good and bad” would bring the death penalty, whereas Genesis 3:3 says that even touching the tree would lead to death?—R. B., U.S.A. (Gen. 2:17; 3:3) w59 704 - In the book “Your Will Be Done on Earth,” on page 97, why does the illustration show two bands around the tree stump instead of one?—J. T., U.S.A. w59 736 - My husband and I are newly dedicated Witnesses. Our relatives are bitter over our having taken this stand. With the coming of Christmas and the customary giving of gifts, they will be antagonized still more because of our refusal to participate therein. Could you give us any pointers on this matter?—R. M., U. S. A. w59 763 - How is Hebrews 11:1 to be understood? Does it mean that faith is the evident demonstration of unseen realities, or that faith is based on such evident demonstration of unseen realities, or is the verse to be understood in some other way?—J. L., Denmark. (Heb. 11:1) 1960 - 41 questions
w60 31 - What is the meaning of the illustration appearing on page 220 of the book “Your Will Be Done on Earth”?—B. T., U.S.A. w60 31 - In the New World Translation of the Hebrew Scriptures “Jehovah” is listed as YHWH. Should it not be YHVH?—B. Y., U.S.A. w60 63 - In the twenty-third chapter of Acts, verses one to five, Paul calls the high priest Ananias a “whitewashed wall.” Then he in effect apologizes, saying, “It is written, ‘You must not speak injuriously of a ruler of your people.’” How can we justify the seething denunciations The Watchtower makes concerning the rulers of Christendom, since, although we, as Paul, realize they are false priests, they still are rulers of the people?—F. W., U.S.A. (Acts 23:1-35) w60 64 - In The Watchtower, February 1, 1959, on the subject of “Paradise,” in the last paragraph of the first article appears the statement: “Enoch will be resurrected into Paradise restored here on earth.” How are we to understand this when we have been taught that Enoch, together with other faithful men of old, will have an early resurrection?—G. G., U.S.A. w60 127 - Is it proper or improper for a dedicated Christian to stand when the national anthem is played? Why?—R. S., U.S.A. w60 128 - What does the apostle refer to at Romans 8:39 by the phrase “height nor depth”?—F. G., U.S.A. (Rom. 8:39) w60 159 - What should a congregation committee do in the case of one who has committed acts deserving being put on probation or disfellowshiped and who now claims that in the light of what The Watchtower, August 1, 1958, had to say about valid and invalid baptisms, his baptism was not a valid one? w60 191 - Is it necessary for a sister to cover her head when praying in the presence of a dedicated brother not her husband? Is it necessary for her to do so when conducting a Bible study under such a circumstance, as in the presence of a servant of the congregation who is training her or when the circuit servant accompanies her?—M. S., U.S.A. w60 223 - Each year the Society receives a number of inquiries regarding various aspects of the Lord’s evening meal. In reply to these the following is given: w60 255 - Has anyone on earth ever heard Jehovah’s voice?—N. P., U.S.A. w60 255 - At Daniel 11:37 (AS) we read concerning the “king of the north”: “Neither shall he regard . . . the desire of women.” Who are the “women” referred to here?—J. H., U.S.A. (Dan. 11:37) w60 287 - In Genesis 3:16 the New World Translation reads: “To the woman he said: ‘I shall greatly increase the pain of your pregnancy; in birth pangs you will bring forth children.’” Scriptures dealing with childbirth all seem to support the idea that childbirth is painful. However, had the Bible writers lived in our day when much is being done to remove the fear formerly connected with childbirth, would not their thoughts on the matter have been different?—B. F., U.S.A. (Gen. 3:16) w60 287 - Our boy, aged seventeen, has been hard to manage for a number of years, and at times he threatens to take our lives if we do not go along with what he thinks and does. He has a violent temper. He makes little attempt to find work but says it is our responsibility to support him materially in whatever he wants. What should we do?—E. D., U.S.A. w60 288 - In discussions with Seventh-Day Adventists they frequently refer to Isaiah 66:23 to prove that the sabbath will be observed in the new world. How is this scripture to be understood?—J. F., Switzerland. (Isa. 66:23) w60 288 - When reading aloud from the Psalms, should the word Selah also be read aloud?—L. E. M., U.S.A. w60 318 - Dr. Bruce M. Metzger, a member of the faculty of Princeton, New Jersey, Theological Seminary, writes: “In the New World Translation it is stated (page 9 of New Testament volume), ‘To each major word we have assigned one meaning and have held to that meaning as far as the context permitted.’ My question arises from the failure to abide by this self-imposed rule at Philippians 2:11, where the word kyrios, elsewhere rendered ‘Jehovah’ 237 times, is not rendered ‘Jehovah’ despite the clear allusion to Isaiah 45:23 and following where the word Jehovah appears. Could it be that the Arian theology of the translators overrode their expressed rule of translating?” Do you deem this inquirer’s question deserving of a sound and thorough reply?—U.S.A. (Phil. 2:11; Isa. 45:23) w60 351 - From time to time letters are received asking whether a certain circumstance would justify making an exception to the Christian’s obligation to tell the truth. In reply to these the following is given: w60 352 - At Daniel 10:13 Michael is referred to as “one of the chief princes.” Are we to understand that there are other chief princes in heaven besides Michael?—M. P., U.S.A. (Dan. 10:13) w60 383 - In the statement at Revelation 5:10, “they will rule as kings over the earth,” why does the New World Translation use the word “over,” while other translations, such as the King James Version, American Standard Version, Douay and Diaglott, use “on”?—J. D. J., U.S.A. (Rev. 5:10) w60 384 - Why do Jehovah’s witnesses take the number 144,000 at Revelation 7 literally and not symbolically as they do other numbers in the book of Revelation?—G. S., U.S.A. (Rev. 7:1-17) w60 415 - The Fourth Commandment, recorded at Exodus 20:11, states: “For in six days Jehovah made the heavens and the earth, the sea and everything that is in them and he proceeded to rest on the seventh day.” Does not the “six days” include Genesis 1:1, since the “six days” includes the time “Jehovah made the heavens and the earth”?—W. B., U.S.A. (Ex. 20:11; Gen. 1:1) w60 415 - How can the apparent contradiction between 1 Samuel 31:4 and; 2 Samuel 1:10 be harmonized?—L. G., France. (1 Sam. 31:4; 2 Sam. 1:10) w60 415 - What are the “elementary things” that the apostle Paul warned against at Colossians 2:8?—B. F., U.S.A. (Col. 2:8) w60 447 - Is it wrong for a white person and a colored one to marry if they truly love each other? Does the Bible give any counsel in this regard?—W. M., U.S.A. w60 448 - Why did Jesus insert the parenthetical statement “let the reader use discernment,” as recorded at Matthew 24:15? Should we not use discernment whenever considering the application of prophecy?—R. B., U.S.A. (Matt. 24:15) w60 448 - At 1 Corinthians 11:29 we read: “For he that eats and drinks eats and drinks judgment against himself if he does not discern the body.” Is this body spoken of here still Christ’s human body, mentioned in the context, or is it the body of 144,000 spirit sons? (1 Cor. 11:29) w60 479 - Why do not the tribes of Ephraim and Dan appear among those of spiritual Israel as given at Revelation 7:4-8?—P. R., U.S.A. (Rev. 7:4-8) w60 479 - How can Deuteronomy 24:16, which says, “Children should not be put to death on account of fathers,” be harmonized with the fact that the offspring of the adulterous relation between David and Bath-sheba died due to their sin, as shown in 2 Samuel 12:14?—J. B., U.S.A. (Deut. 24:16; 2 Sam. 12:14) w60 480 - Which is the correct form of the tetragrammaton: יהוה, as found in “Let God Be True” and “Equipped for Every Good Work,” or יְהוָֹה, as found in Strong’s and Young’s concordances?—R. R. W., U.S.A. w60 512 - Can you tell me why Jesus did not baptize? Are there any scriptures to show why he did not?—F. P., Canada. w60 544 - At Daniel 11:20 reference is made to “one who is causing an exacter to pass through” the land. In “Your Will Be Done on Earth,” page 249, paragraph 57, this is applied to the issuing of a decree of registration mentioned at Luke 2:1-7. But is there not a difference between the two words? How can the issuing of a registration decree be termed an exaction?—W. B., U.S.A. (Dan. 11:20; Luke 2:1-7) w60 575 - Can you tell me why, at Luke 24:37 to 43, Jesus said he was not a spirit creature who had materialized and that he was human and hungry enough to eat there with his disciples? Do you not teach that Jesus here was a spirit creature who materialized?—C.S., U.S.A. (Luke 24:37-43) w60 576 - Is it proper for a Christian to carry life insurance? Is it not a form of gambling?—S.P., U.S.A. w60 640 - What is meant by ‘looking at the liver,’ as mentioned at Ezekiel 21:21 (RS)? (Ezek. 21:21) w60 671 - Please answer my question in The Watchtower.—Unsigned. w60 672 - Will there be earthquakes in the new world?—D.S., U.S.A. w60 703 - What stand should children of dedicated Christian parents take in regard to their school’s holiday art activities? What about the Christmas program with its singing of Christmas songs? What about schoolroom birthday celebrations?—M. C., United States. w60 735 - What Scriptural principles guide in the training of children in homes where one parent is a dedicated Christian witness of Jehovah and the other is not?—Based on many questions received. w60 736 - Do Jehovah’s ministers perform marriage ceremonies between two persons who have not made a dedication?—L.S., U.S.A. w60 763 - Matthew 24:30 states: “All the tribes of the earth will go to wailing and they will see the Son of man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” Why is it claimed that the Greek word here rendered “see,” which is horáo, means “discern” when practically all the scriptures using the word horáo carry the thought of literally seeing and not merely discerning a thing or person?—J. S., U.S.A. (Matt. 24:30) w60 764 - On page 129 of the book From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained, it says that John was alone when Jesus came to him to be baptized. Why is this statement made?—J.B., U.S.A. 1961 - 53 questions
w61 32 - John 21:22 reads: “Jesus said to him: ‘If it is my will for him to remain until I come, of what concern is that to you? You continue following me.”’ What does this scripture mean?—A. A., United States. (John 21:22) w61 32 - Matthew 11:11 speaks of “a person that is a lesser one in the kingdom of the heavens” as being greater than John the Baptist. How is this to be understood? Will not all the members of the body of Christ sit in equal positions, or will some occupy higher places and others be lesser in comparison to them?—V.C., U.S.A. (Matt. 11:11) w61 63 - In view of the seriousness of taking blood into the human system by a transfusion, would violation of the Holy Scriptures in this regard subject the dedicated, baptized receiver of blood transfusion to being disfellowshiped from the Christian congregation? w61 93 - A man divorces his wife on unscriptural grounds. After the divorce is granted it becomes known to the wife and the congregation that just before the divorce the man was guilty of adultery. Would such an act of adultery free either the man or the woman Scripturally to remarry? w61 96 - What is the meaning of Job 19:26? In the King James Version it reads the opposite of the way it does in the American Standard Version; the one saying, “Yet in my flesh shall I see God,” and the other, “Then without my flesh shall I see God.”—J.G., U.S.A. (Job 19:26) w61 127 - How are we to understand the meaning of the word “compel” as used at Luke 14:23, which reads: “Go out into the roads and the fenced-in places, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled”?—P.F., U.S.A. (Luke 14:23) w61 127 - Why did Jehovah allow the Israelites to suffer defeat twice before the tribe of Benjamin before he allowed them to mete out due punishment to this tribe for its crime at Gibeah? (Judges 20)—P. G., Scotland. (Judg. 20:1-48) w61 128 - How should a dedicated Christian Scripturally view labor unions and participation in their activities?—S. B., U.S.A. w61 159 - If my brother in the flesh, who is disfellowshiped, and his family come to visit me from out of town, may I invite them in and even permit them to stay overnight if need be?—E. T., United States. w61 160 - In what form or manner did Satan come to tempt Jesus? Did he appear in the form of a man, or was it only a voice that Jesus heard? Also, how is it that Jesus would allow Satan to take him along out of the wilderness and, in fact, right through the city to and on top of the temple? Was Jesus taken bodily to the top of the temple?—D. A., Sierra Leone. w61 192 - How can we explain the scripture at Isaiah 29:4?—P. M., U.S.A. (Isa. 29:4) w61 224 - Just who is referred to by “those under the ground” at Philippians 2:10?—R. T., U.S.A. (Phil. 2:10) w61 224 - What is the meaning of the expression “the plowman shall overtake the reaper” as found at Amos 9:13, RS?—J. G., British Honduras. (Amos 9:13) w61 256 - Why are the pronouns “he” and “him” used in the New World Translation in reference to the holy spirit in such places as John 16:7, 8, whereas in other places the pronoun “it” is used?—B. H., U.S.A. (John 16:7-8) w61 287 - Is not the use of the term “cubit” at Matthew 6:27, New World Translation, wrong since a life span cannot be measured by a cubit?—J. B., United States. (Matt. 6:27) w61 287 - In 2 Thessalonians 3:6 the Moffatt translation reads in part: “instead of following the rule you received from us.” Other versions read “direction,” “commandments,” “teaching,” and “instruction.” Why does the New World Translation give preference to the word “tradition” in this text as also at 2 Thessalonians 2:15?—J. D. Canada. (2 Thess. 3:6; 2:15) w61 287 - Please tell me how to explain 1 Corinthians 14:2.—J.M., United States. (1 Cor. 14:2) w61 319 - What did Jesus mean by the words, “You are mistaken, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God; for in the resurrection neither do they marry nor are they given in marriage”? (Matt. 22:29, 30) What is contained in the Hebrew Scriptures that the Sadducees should have known about the resurrection and not marrying in it?—A. E., United States. (Matt. 22:29-30) w61 320 - We are an engaged couple that expect to get married soon and we would like to know if it would be proper for Witnesses to have one of the popular wedding marches played and to throw rice after the bridal party.—J. B., United States. w61 320 - What is the authority for the use of the expression “magic-practicing priests” in the New World Translation of the books of Genesis, Exodus and Daniel? I cannot find another translation that uses this expression.—L. B., United States. w61 351 - The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, stated that the Christian congregation, when it began at Pentecost, “had six of the eight Jewish believers who were used to write the remaining twenty-seven books of the Holy Bible.” One of those not present, of course, was the apostle Paul. Who was the other one?—M. W., Indonesia. w61 352 - In instituting the memorial of his death and the covenant for the Kingdom with his followers, did Jesus partake of the bread and wine?—F. S., United States. w61 352 - Are sisters required to wear a head covering when giving the third and fourth student talks in the theocratic ministry school?—D. H., United States. w61 383 - Why does the New World Translation at Judges 16:28, different from other translations, read: “Lord Jehovah, remember me, please, and strengthen me, please, just this once, O God, and let me avenge myself upon the Philistines with vengeance for one of my two eyes.”—E. B., United States. (Judg. 16:28) w61 384 - Genesis 19:8 tells that Lot’s daughters had not had intercourse with any man, yet Genesis 19:14 speaks of Lot’s sons-in-law, hence the husbands of his daughters. I am sure there must be a reasonable explanation. Could you harmonize these verses in your Questions from Readers?—C. M., United States. (Gen. 19:8, 14) w61 416 - Is there any objection to celebrating wedding anniversaries?—I.S., United States. w61 416 - Habakkuk 3:3 reads: “God himself proceeded to come from Teman, even a Holy One from Mount Paran.” This has been used as an argument to show where God came from. Is this the right understanding of this text?—J. F., United States. (Hab. 3:3) w61 447 - Which occupy a higher position in Jehovah’s organization, the seraphs or the cherubs?—R. J., United States. w61 447 - Please cite authority for the statement appearing in paragraph 17, page 350, of “Your Will Be Done on Earth”: “Great bodies of water . . . that mark our globe as different from the other planets of the solar system.”—K. S., United States. w61 448 - What does the S.P.Q.R. stand for that appears in the illustration at the beginning of chapter 6 in the book “Your Will Be Done on Earth”?—S. F., U.S.A. w61 448 - Clergymen claim that Luke was a Gentile. The Watchtower, October 1, 1960, page 587, paragraph 14, states that all the Bible writers were Hebrews. What is the authority for this statement?—B. M., United States. w61 480 - Is there anything in the Bible against giving one’s eyes (after death) to be transplanted to some living person?—L. C., United States. w61 511 - Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” states that, because of an error that a monk made, the year 1961 should be 1967. What effect does this have upon 1914 as the end of the appointed times of the nations?—G. B., United States. w61 543 - What is the wisdom referred to at Ecclesiastes 1:18?—M. L., United States. (Eccl. 1:18) w61 544 - Is it proper for one of Jehovah’s witnesses to conduct a funeral for one who dies while disfellowshiped?—E. B., United States. w61 575 - What answer can be given to those who point out that certain dates given by Egyptologists conflict with the chronology published in The Watchtower?—C. V., United States. w61 576 - Could you help me find the statement, supposedly in the Bible, that “it is better for a man to put his seed in the belly of a whore than to cast it upon the ground”?—M. P., United States. w61 640 - How are the comments on feminine adornment at 1 Timothy 2:9, 10 and; 1 Peter 3:3, 4 to be understood?—J. H., United States. (1 Tim. 2:9-10; 1 Pet. 3:3-4) w61 669 - How can one tell if meat purchased from a butcher or in some other market has been properly bled? Also, how can one tell if cold-meat loaves, pastry or preparations sold by druggists contain any blood or blood fractions?—A. R., U.S.A. w61 669 - How can we harmonize the Scriptural counsel, “Everything that is sold in a meat market keep eating, making no inquiry on account of your conscience” (1 Cor. 10:25), with the advice recently contained in The Watchtower, to make reasonable inquiry at places where one buys meat to be sure that it has been properly bled? (The Watchtower, September 15, 1961, page 557)—N. Q., U.S.A. (1 Cor. 10:25) w61 670 - In view of the Bible command on abstinence from blood, how are fish and insects to be prepared in order to be acceptable for food?—B. F., U.S.A. w61 670 - Since the Bible forbids the eating of blood, how are Christians to view the use of serums and vaccines? Has the Society changed its viewpoint on this?—J. D., U.S.A. w61 670 - The Watchtower of April 15, 1961, on page 237, quotes Mark 13:19, 20, concerning the cutting short of the days of tribulation, and apparently applies it to a cutting short of Armageddon itself. Does Jesus’ statement here apply to the cutting short of the war in heaven in 1918, or to the cutting short of Armageddon, or to both? (Mark 13:19-20) w61 672 - What is the meaning of John 14:30, which reads: “I shall not speak much with you any more, for the ruler of the world is coming. And yet he has no hold on me.”—B. R., United States. (John 14:30) w61 672 - Would it violate any Christian principles to contribute to a United Givers Fund campaign conducted annually at one’s place of employment?—M. P., United States. w61 703 - What is the significance of the characters on the lower right-hand corner of the cover of the book “Let Your Name Be Sanctified”?—B. P., U.S.A. w61 703 - Is there no hope at all that one of the “great crowd” who dies now before Armageddon will be reunited with his marriage partner as that one’s mate in the new world and share in the fulfillment of the procreation mandate? w61 734 - Is sterilization of a man or a woman permitted under any circumstances, for example, to protect the life of a woman or in cases of extreme economic hardship? w61 735 - In chapter six, page 58, paragraph 15, of From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained, the statement is made that “none of the first-born sons of Israel died because of this tenth plague” on Egypt. Does this mean that only males were reckoned as the first-born?—F. D., United States. w61 735 - Why does the New World Translation state that Joseph considered divorcing Mary, when as yet they had not been married?—H. M., United States. w61 736 - Will you please explain Jeremiah 31:22 (AV): “A woman shall compass a man”?—J. B., Nyasaland. (Jer. 31:22) w61 766 - When, in Genesis 1:30, God says: “To every wild beast of the earth and to every flying creature of the heavens and to everything moving upon the earth in which there is life as a soul I have given all green vegetation for food,” are we to understand that this absolutely excludes the idea that any animals ate meat at that time or before that? And on this basis are we to conclude that all animals will be vegetarian in the new world? How, then, can we account for the meat-eating birds, insects, reptiles and other animals with their poisonous fangs, hunting prowess, and so forth, apparently given them at creation and admirably equipping them as meat eaters? (Gen. 1:30) w61 767 - How can girls guard against temptation in this sex-crazy world? 1962 - 34 questions
w62 64 - How can we account for animals in isolated lands when the Flood is said to have covered all the earth and the only land animals that survived were those in the ark?—P. G., England. w62 95 - Will the great crowd of “other sheep” who survive Armageddon know whether their companions of the remnant proved faithful and gained the prize of immortality or not?—F. C., United States. w62 95 - What is the meaning of the following statement, recorded at Matthew 10:23: “You will by no means complete the circuit of the cities of Israel until the Son of man arrives”? (Matt. 10:23) w62 158 - On what basis can it be shown that the genealogy recorded in Matthew, chapter 1, applies to Jesus’ ancestry through Joseph, his foster father, while that recorded by Luke, in Lu chapter 3, applies to the genealogy through Mary, his mother? (Matt. 1:1-25; Luke 3:1-38) w62 159 - On page 53 of the book “Let Your Name Be Sanctified” appears the statement: “While Enoch was in a trance he had a vision of the coming new world in which ‘death will be no more,’ and during this vision God cut short Enoch’s life and took his dead body where religious enemies could not find it.” What is the Scriptural basis for this statement?—M. Y., U.S.A. w62 191 - How can Matthew 8:11, which speaks of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of the heavens, be harmonized with Matthew 11:11, which indicates that not even John the Baptist will be in it? (Matt. 8:11; 11:11) w62 192 - What should be the attitude of a Christian toward civil defense and fallout shelters?—J.W., United States. w62 224 - How are we to understand Luke 21:25, 26 and the similar passage at Matthew 24:29? Are they to be taken literally or symbolically?—C. S., United States. (Luke 21:25-26; Matt. 24:29) w62 287 - What is the meaning of Amos 8:9? Is this prophecy to be taken literally?—S. P., United States. (Amos 8:9) w62 287 - In the Watchtower article of September 15, 1956, “Marriage Ceremony and Requirements,” paragraph 20 states that a consensual wife who accepts the truth and wants to have the marriage legalized and registered, but cannot get the man she lives with to agree, may sign a written statement that she will be faithful to her consensual marriage partner as to a husband and will get the marriage legalized as soon as she can get the man to legalize it, and then she may be baptized. Does this apply in all countries of the world, to all or any forms of consensual marriage? w62 319 - In view of the fact that it has been stated in the Watch Tower publications that the works of healing performed by Jesus and his apostles did not depend upon the faith of those cured, how are we to understand Matthew 13:58, which reads: “He did not do many powerful works there on account of their lack of faith”?—N. B., United States. (Matt. 13:58) w62 320 - Is there any objection to a dedicated Christian minister’s belonging to a nudist group or living at a nudist camp or resort?—M. D., United States. w62 351 - Why does the New World Translation at John 1:18 read “only-begotten god” whereas many other translations read “only-begotten Son”?—D. S., United States. (John 1:18) w62 351 - Why do the witnesses of Jehovah address each other as “Brother” and “Sister”? I have never found any Scriptural authority for it. Jesus always addressed his disciples as “Peter,” “John,” and so forth, but never as “Brother Peter” and “Brother John.”—E. J., United States. w62 352 - How are we to understand Ephesians 3:14, 15, which speaks of “the Father, to whom every family in heaven and on earth owes its name”? Are there many families in heaven, and how can it be said that every family on earth owes its name to God?—G. G., United States. (Eph. 3:14-15) w62 383 - Why does the King James Version at 1 Timothy 3:1, 2, speak of “bishops” and at 1 Timothy 3:8, 10, 12, 13, of “deacons,” whereas the New World Translation terms the former “overseers” and the latter “ministerial servants”?—R. H., United States. (1 Tim. 3:1-2, 8, 10, 12-13) w62 415 - The opinion has been expressed by some that the coming of Armageddon can be hastened by Jehovah’s people engaging more zealously in the witness work, since all the “other sheep” are to be gathered before it begins. Is this the correct understanding?—W. S., United States. w62 415 - Can Satan and his demons read our minds?—M. C., United States. w62 447 - Why does the New World Translation at Matthew 6:9 read: “Let your name be sanctified,” whereas ever so many other English translations read “Hallowed”?—C. M., United States. (Matt. 6:9) w62 479 - In view of Proverbs 22:6, why is it that children who have been reared by dedicated Christian parents at times depart from the way of Jehovah in which they were taught?—L. G., United States. (Prov. 22:6) w62 479 - Please explain Amos 3:14, which reads, in part: “I will also hold an accounting against the altars of Bethel; and the horns of the altar will certainly be cut off and must fall to the earth.”—V. D., United States. (Amos 3:14) w62 479 - Why does the New World Translation at Colossians 2:9 state that in Jesus “all the fullness of the divine quality dwells bodily,” where as other translations state that in Jesus dwells the fullness of Deity or the Godhead?—T.B., United States. (Col. 2:9) w62 511 - According to 2 Samuel 6:23, Michal, Saul’s daughter, died childless. Yet 2 Samuel 21:8 speaks of five sons she bore to Adriel the Meholathite. But according to 1 Samuel 18:19, Adriel had married Merab, Michal’s sister. How can these apparent discrepancies be harmonized?—L. B., United States. (2 Sam. 6:23; 21:8; 1 Sam. 18:19) w62 543 - What was kept in the ark of the covenant? According to 2 Chronicles 5:10, “there was nothing in the Ark but the two tablets that Moses had given at Horeb, when Jehovah covenanted with the sons of Israel while they were coming out from Egypt,” and 1 Kings 8:9 reads almost the same. Yet Hebrews 9:4 says: “This had a golden censer and the ark of the covenant overlaid all around with gold, in which were the golden jar having the manna and the rod of Aaron that budded and the tablets of the covenant.”—T.R., U.S.A. (2 Chron. 5:10; 1 Ki. 8:9; Heb. 9:4) w62 575 - How are we to understand Genesis 7:11 and Ge 8:2? Do these verses contain parallel construction, or were there both rain from the heavens and an upsurging of water from below the earth at the time of the Flood?—N. K., United States. (Gen. 7:11; 8:2) w62 575 - According to worldly historians Amman is a thriving city today and is built on the ruins of the ancient city of Rabbath Ammon. How, then, can we understand such a scripture as Zephaniah 2:9, which reads: “Moab herself will become just like Sodom, and the sons of Ammon like Gomorrah, a place possessed by nettles, and a salt pit, and a desolate waste, even to time indefinite”?—F. R., United States. (Zeph. 2:9) w62 575 - What should a dedicated servant of Jehovah God do if he is present when a prayer is being offered aloud by one who does not recognize Jehovah nor is dedicated to him, as at funerals, weddings and graduation services conducted by clergymen?—H. L., United States. w62 607 - Why was Joshua commanded to hamstring horses? Does this have any meaning for Christians today?—R. B., United States. w62 671 - The Watch Tower publications state that Isaac was five years old when he was weaned. What is the basis for this statement?—H. S., United States. w62 672 - The Watchtower, April 15, 1962, on page 238, made reference to a certain petition to excommunicate Hitler that a group of Catholic organizations cabled to the pope. In view of the fact that this statement has been challenged by some, the entire text, as it appeared in the Catholic Telegraph-Register, Cincinnati, Ohio, of September 1, 1939, follows herewith: w62 703 - Is there any manner in which the sexual act might be carried on between a husband and wife that would be considered unclean in Jehovah’s eyes? w62 735 - What did Elijah mean when, in reply to Elisha’s request that he be permitted to say farewell to his parents, he said to Elisha: “Go, return; for what have I done to you?”—1 Ki. 19:20.—A. J., United States. (1 Ki. 19:20) w62 736 - Why does the New World Translation at Philippians 3:11 have the word “earlier”? I do not find it in any other translation.—M. C., United States. (Phil. 3:11) w62 768 - Was the dove that descended upon Jesus at the time of his baptism a materialized representation or was it merely a mirage or a calm that pervaded the area? And why was a dove chosen, in view of its use in pagan religions?—F. C., United States. 1963 - 44 questions
w63 32 - How are we to understand that part of Micah 4:3 that reads: “He will certainly render judgment among many peoples, and set matters straight respecting mighty nations far away”?—L. S., United States. (Mic. 4:3) w63 63 - Is it wrong to have a pet operated on so as to prevent its having offspring?—R. M., United States. w63 63 - Does the statement at Ephesians 3:10 mean that God teaches the heavenly governments and authorities, the angels, through the members of the Christian congregation while they still are on earth?—B. F. (Eph. 3:10) w63 95 - I understand that a group of Bible scholars made a comparison of various Bible translations. Was the New World Translation included in this study?—D. M., United States. w63 95 - How many miracles did the prophet Elisha perform, and what are they?—K. B., England. w63 127 - How many times does the word “sheol” occur in the New World Translation of the Hebrew Scriptures?—S. J. D., United States. w63 128 - According to the Bible record, Ishmael was well along in his teens when Abraham sent his mother Hagar and Ishmael away because of Ishmael’s poking fun at Isaac. In view of this fact, how are we to understand the words found at Genesis 21:14, 15?—G. M., United States. (Gen. 21:14-15) w63 159 - What accounts for the change in rendering of Ephesians 5:13 in the New World Translation, from the 1950 edition, which said: “Everything that makes manifest is light,” to the 1961 edition, which reads: “Everything that is being made manifest is light”?—R. J. S., United States. (Eph. 5:13) w63 160 - In the case of an accident involving dedicated Christians, would it be proper for one to enter a legal suit against a fellow Christian in order to claim the benefits of insurance that he has?—E. G., United States. w63 160 - Why did the disciples of John the Baptist call him Rabbi, when Jesus plainly said: “You, do not you be called Rabbi”?—C. W., United States. w63 191 - What is the evidence for holding that Luke wrote his Gospel before Mark did his, as noted in the Appendix of the New World Translation, Revised Edition?—N. W., United States. w63 223 - Since Genesis 7:4 shows that Noah was advised seven days in advance of the exact day that the Flood would come, does this mean that God’s people will be advised in advance as to exactly when Armageddon will break out?—E. G., United States. (Gen. 7:4) w63 223 - What is the meaning of Genesis 2:19?—W. B., United States. (Gen. 2:19) w63 223 - Who are the kings mentioned at Isaiah 60:3?—L. H., United States. (Isa. 60:3) w63 224 - When Elisha prayed for God to strike the Syrian army with blindness, what actually happened to them?—K. K., United States. w63 255 - At Genesis 2:10-14 four rivers are mentioned. However, on Bible maps only two of these, the Hiddekel and the Euphrates, are shown. What about the other two, Pishon and Gihon?—H. N., United States. (Gen. 2:10-14) w63 255 - What is the explanation for Lot’s being called Abraham’s brother at Genesis 14:14 when he was in fact his nephew?—A. M., United States. (Gen. 14:14) w63 255 - Why does the New World Translation render Psalm 90:2 so differently from other translations?—B. B., United States. (Ps. 90:2) w63 288 - What determined God’s acceptance of Abel’s sacrifice and his rejection of Cain’s?—C. C., United States. w63 319 - Why did The Watchtower of February 15, 1963, on page 115, say: “The privilege of prayer is only for those who have, upon the basis of accurate knowledge, made a dedication of themselves to do Jehovah’s will”?—A. G., Iran. w63 319 - Would it be necessary for a psychiatrist to change his profession before he would be eligible for baptism and recognition as one of Jehovah’s witnesses?—R. W., United States. w63 320 - Why did Jesus answer Pilate the way he did at John 18:37?—M. P., United States. (John 18:37) w63 351 - At Acts 11:8 we read where Peter said: “Not at all, Lord, because a defiled or unclean thing has never entered into my mouth.” Are we to understand from this that Peter at this time was still adhering to the Mosaic law in this matter?—R. M., United States. (Acts 11:8) w63 351 - What is the meaning of Luke 23:34, and why does it appear in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures? Is not part of the text spurious?—J. W., United States. (Luke 23:34) w63 352 - Why do Matthew and Mark speak of the transfiguration as taking place six days after Jesus had made a certain promise to his disciples, whereas the Gospel of Luke says that it occurred eight days later?—J. S., United States. w63 383 - What are the obligations of Christian parents toward a mentally retarded child?—M.L., U.S.A. w63 415 - Would it be correct to say that the “royal priesthood” refers only to the anointed Christians but that the term “general priesthood” includes both the remnant of anointed Christians and the “great crowd” of praisers to Jehovah?—V. K., United States. w63 447 - Why does the New World Translation speak of the men who came from the East to view the child Jesus as astrologers? (Matt. 2:1) According to Strong’s dictionary of Greek words, the word here is magos and means ‘a Magian, i.e., Oriental scientist, by implication a magician, a sorcerer.’—R. A., United States. (Matt. 2:1) w63 479 - Why does the New World Translation at Proverbs 27:6 read: “The wounds inflicted by a lover are faithful, but the kisses of a hater are things to be entreated”? Various translations in various languages read that such kisses are profuse, lavish, false, deceitful, frequent, plentiful, and so forth.—M. F., United States. (Prov. 27:6) w63 510 - If a Christian driving an automobile has an accident that results in death to others, what would be the Christian congregation’s responsibility, in view of possible bloodguiltiness? What if the driver has violated “Caesar’s” speed or highway laws or has been careless?—K. F., West Germany. w63 543 - Why does the New World Translation at Matthew 5:5 read, “Happy are the mild-tempered ones,” while at Psalm 37:11 it reads, “the meek ones”?—D. B., United States. (Matt. 5:5; Ps. 37:11) w63 543 - Does the scripture at Psalm 34:7, “The angel of Jehovah is camping all around those fearing him, and he rescues them,” have application to rescue from natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes?—R. E., United States. (Ps. 34:7) w63 575 - What are the authorities mentioned at Colossians 1:16? Would these authorities include the “superior authorities” of Romans 13:1?—C. W., United States. (Col. 1:16; Rom. 13:1) w63 607 - Why do the Watch Tower publications state that Matthew wrote his Gospel first in Hebrew, since it is supposed that Hebrew was a dead language in his day?—E. W., United States. w63 607 - How can the accounts of the death of King Ahaziah of Judah as they appear at 2 Kings 9:27 and; 2 Chronicles 22:8, 9 be harmonized?—C. S., United States. (2 Ki. 9:27; 2 Chron. 22:8-9) w63 639 - Does Matthew 24:19 apply to those inside the Christian congregation or to those outside the congregation?—E. N., United States. (Matt. 24:19) w63 671 - Might the earthquakes mentioned by Jesus Christ at Matthew 24:7 be symbolic in nature? Could they refer to political affairs such as revolutions? (Matt. 24:7) w63 671 - Why does the New World Translation at Exodus 20:13 read, “You must not murder,” when other translations use the word “kill,” as in the Authorized Version, which reads “Thou shalt not kill”?—D.T., United States. (Ex. 20:13) w63 703 - How old was Timothy when Paul counseled him, “Let no man ever look down on your youth”? (1 Tim. 4:12)—C. S., United States. (1 Tim. 4:12) w63 703 - Does Zephaniah 2:3 mean that, even if one is in the truth, doing God’s will, he is not sure of receiving eternal life?—H. B., Puerto Rico. (Zeph. 2:3) w63 735 - Would you please explain Psalm 78:24, 25? Does this indicate that angels need some type of nourishment to continue living?—D. H., United States. (Ps. 78:24-25) w63 735 - Since the Logos, the prehuman Jesus, was not among the angels used by Jehovah to transmit the law of God to Moses, how is Exodus 23:20-23, which speaks of an angel with the name of Jehovah within him, to be understood?—A. M., United States. (Ex. 23:20-23) w63 767 - According to Exodus 12:37, there were 600,000 able-bodied Israelite men who left Egypt, besides little ones. Since 600,000 adult males imply a total population of about two million persons, how could it be that there were only 22,273 firstborn males, as stated in Numbers 3:43? Would not this make families unreasonably large?—A. R., Panama. (Ex. 12:37; Num. 3:43) w63 767 - Are we to understand from Genesis 8:22 that seasons as we know them today, with their extreme conditions, will exist in the new world?—E. E., United States. (Gen. 8:22) 1964 - 37 questions
w64 31 - What is the meaning of Proverbs 14:17? The rendering in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures differs from that of other translations.—L. A., United States. (Prov. 14:17) w64 63 - According to the Bible at Deuteronomy 22:23-27, an Israelite engaged girl threatened with rape was required to scream. What is the position of a Christian woman today if faced with a similar situation? Is she to scream even if an attacker threatens her life with a weapon?—M. U., United States. (Deut. 22:23-27) w64 94 - To what extent does Jehovah actually protect his servants on earth today? When one narrowly escapes death in an accident, or is delivered from persecutors, is it right to say that Jehovah preserved one, though other faithful Christians may not have been so delivered?—M. B., United States. w64 127 - Would it be a violation of the Scriptures for a Christian to permit a veterinarian to give blood transfusions to a pet? And what of animal food? May it be used if there is reason to believe there is blood in it? Also, is it permissible to use fertilizer that has blood in it? w64 159 - How can we harmonize Luke’s account of the Lord’s Evening Meal, in which he tells of two cups being passed, with the accounts of Matthew, Mark and Paul, who tell of only one cup of wine as being passed?—R. D., U.S.A. w64 159 - Is there any Scriptural objection to the use of birth-control pills? w64 159 - Is there any symbolic significance to the number forty? If so, what is it?—A. L., U.S.A. w64 160 - Why was Simeon omitted from Moses’ valedictory blessing (Deut. 33:6-24) of the tribes of Israel?—G. S., U.S.A. (Deut. 33:6-24) w64 191 - How did Adam after his rebellion learn that God said, “Here the man has become like one of us in knowing good and bad, and now in order that he may not put his hand out and actually take fruit also of the tree of life and eat and live to time indefinite,—”? (Gen. 3:22)—E. D., U.S.A. (Gen. 3:22) w64 223 - At Revelation 12:3, 4 it tells that the tail of the dragon drew down a third part of the stars. Who are the stars, and is the third part to be taken literally?—C. S., U.S.A. (Rev. 12:3-4) w64 223 - Is there any explanation of the seeming discrepancy between Jeremiah 52:12 and 2 Kings 25:8? Jeremiah 52:12 says the tenth day of the month, while 2 Kings 25:8 reads the seventh day of the month.—G. G., U.S.A. (Jer. 52:12; 2 Ki. 25:8) w64 255 - In The Watchtower of September 1, 1963, page 540, “the Christ” or anointed one of Hebrews 11:26 is applied to Moses. How can this be when Moses was not anointed with an anointing oil as were the high priests and the kings of ancient Israel?—G. G., U.S.A. (Heb. 11:26) w64 255 - Who are those that “sit on thrones” as referred to at Luke 22:30, and who are represented by the “twelve tribes of Israel”?—J. G., West Germany. (Luke 22:30) w64 320 - What does Daniel 12:4 mean when it says, “Many will rove about”? Does this mean Jehovah’s witnesses will rove about the earth, preaching and teaching the knowledge of God’s truth, or does it mean roving about in the Scriptures?—C. F., England. (Dan. 12:4) w64 352 - Did the serpent lose legs or feet as means of movement as a result of the divine curse recorded at Genesis 3:14? (Gen. 3:14) w64 383 - Why does the New World Translation at Isaiah 14:23 use the term “porcupines” instead of “bittern” or some other term describing a bird?—M. S., U.S.A. (Isa. 14:23) w64 415 - Could it be said that the angel of Revelation 14:6 who had “everlasting good news to declare” symbolizes the “faithful and discreet slave” class? Also, what do the second and the third angels symbolize at Revelation 14:8, 9?—R. W., U.S.A. (Rev. 14:6, 8-9) w64 415 - How are the remnant of the anointed members of Christ’s body “caught away in clouds to meet the Lord in the air,” thus ‘always being with the Lord’?—1 Thess. 4:17. (1 Thess. 4:17) w64 447 - Genesis 2:1, 2 says: “The heavens and the earth and all their army came to their completion. And by the seventh day God came to the completion of his work that he had made, and he proceeded to rest on the seventh day from all his work that he had made.” Does this mean that Jehovah stopped his creative work also in the heavens, since the end of the sixth creative day? And if so, then how can this be harmonized with Jesus’ words: “My Father has kept working until now, and I keep working”? (John 5:17)—G. G., U.S.A. (Gen. 2:1-2; John 5:17) w64 448 - Would the tossing of a flower bouquet to the bridesmaids be proper at a Christian wedding, or is it a practice handed down from pagan customs?—F. G., U.S.A. w64 479 - Does the scripture at Isaiah 61:1, 2 constitute the ordination of the “other sheep”?—L. H., U.S.A. (Isa. 61:1-2) w64 480 - What apparently was the reason for the angel with whom Jacob wrestled to touch “the socket of Jacob’s thigh joint by the sinew of the thigh nerve” so that he limped upon his thigh?—J. K., U.S.A. w64 511 - Why does Saul inquire who David was at 1 Samuel 17:55 if David had already been a harpist in Saul’s court, as indicated at 1 Samuel 16:23? (1 Sam. 17:55; 16:23) w64 511 - What might have been the kingdom that God would have firmly established through Saul, since Jacob’s prophecy indicated that the rulership would be given to the tribe of Judah? Why was not the foretold rulership (Gen. 49:10) given initially to Judah?—G. S., U.S.A. (Gen. 49:10) w64 543 - Why does 1 Chronicles 2:13-15 speak of the seven sons of Jesse, whereas First Samuel refers to David as the eighth? (1 Chron. 2:13-15) w64 543 - What did Thomas mean when he said, as recorded at John 11:16, “Let us also go, that we may die with him”? (John 11:16) w64 575 - Did not Jacob misrepresent himself as Esau, as recorded at Genesis 27:18-30? Why was this allowed?—R.M., U.S.A. (Gen. 27:18-30) w64 575 - In keeping with Matthew 2:23, what Hebrew Scripture prophecy foretold that Jesus would “be called a Nazarene”? (Matt. 2:23) w64 575 - At Matthew 24:3, when Jesus’ disciples asked him about the “sign” of his presence, what did they have in mind, since later events show that they did not at that time understand that it would be an invisible presence? (Matt. 24:3) w64 607 - Is it right to say that Jehovah’s witnesses do a converting work or a proselyting work? w64 608 - What does Acts 6:15 mean when it says that Stephen’s face “was as an angel’s face”? Was he transfigured, as Jesus was? (Acts 6:15) w64 639 - Why did the law given to Moses require that the hand of the witnesses should be first to come upon a person sentenced to death, and does this have any application or lesson for us today? w64 639 - Is it proper for a Christian to have a hobby of magical tricks simply for his amusement? w64 671 - In the King James Version of the Bible, Matthew 28:9 tells of the women that met Jesus after his resurrection. It says: “And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.” Is this not a clear contradiction of the teaching of Jehovah’s witnesses that Jesus is not to be worshiped? (Matt. 28:9) w64 703 - Is it proper for a dedicated Christian witness of Jehovah to work in the employ of one of the religious organizations of Christendom or any other part of Babylon the Great? w64 703 - The Watchtower of January 15, 1964, on page 42, states: “Never in the Christian Greek Scriptures do we read of the end, conclusion or consummation of the kósmos.” How are we to understand this statement in view of the fact that 2 Peter 3:6 says that a kósmos suffered destruction in Noah’s day? (2 Pet. 3:6) w64 768 - In view of what is said in the book “Babylon the Great Has Fallen!” God’s Kingdom Rules! are we to understand that the “great tribulation” spoken of at Matthew 24:21, 22 refers only to what happens at Armageddon? (Matt. 24:21-22) 1965 - 36 questions
w65 31 - Does what is said about dancing, on page 154 of The Watchtower of March 1, 1964, imply that dancing is not to be done within the Christian congregation or that it is completely wrong as far as unmarried single persons are concerned? w65 63 - Please explain the application of Isaiah 14:12:14. Does it have any application to Satan the Devil? (Isa. 14:12) w65 96 - Why did David, a faithful servant of Jehovah, tolerate his wife Michal’s having a teraphim image among her possessions, as indicated in 1 Samuel 19:12, 13? (1 Sam. 19:12-13) w65 128 - What kind of priest was Jethro, who is referred to at Exodus 3:1? (Ex. 3:1) w65 128 - What is the significance of the command found in Exodus 23:19, “You must not boil a kid in its mother’s milk”? (Ex. 23:19) w65 159 - What does the scripture at 1 Samuel 18:10 mean when it says that “God’s bad spirit became operative upon Saul, so that he behaved like a prophet within the house”? (1 Sam. 18:10) w65 191 - Have there been witnesses of Jehovah on earth in every period of human history? What about the Dark Ages? w65 224 - What is the ephod frequently spoken of in connection with the priests of Israel, and in what way was it used in making inquiry of Jehovah, as related at 1 Samuel 23:9-12? (1 Sam. 23:9-12) w65 255 - When one goes to Jehovah in prayer, what is one to imagine Jehovah to be like, or what should one think of? w65 255 - What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 10:11? It reads: “If the serpent bites when no charming results, then there is no advantage to the one indulging in the tongue.” (Eccl. 10:11) w65 255 - After Jehovah struck the firstborn of Egypt, Pharaoh finally told the Israelites they could leave Egypt, saying: “Go. Also, you must bless me besides.” (Ex. 12:32) What did Pharaoh mean by this? (Ex. 12:32) w65 255 - Did not the making of twelve copper bulls as a base for the molten sea in the courtyard of the temple at Jerusalem, as recorded at 2 Chronicles 4:4, violate the Second Commandment, which forbade the making of images? (2 Chron. 4:4) w65 288 - Matthew 27:19 mentions a dream Pilate’s wife had concerning Jesus in which she “suffered a lot.” Was this dream from God? (Matt. 27:19) w65 320 - After the flood, God told Noah and his sons: “A fear of you and a terror of you will continue upon every living creature of the earth.” (Gen. 9:2) Does this indicate that animals had this fear of man in them before the Flood? (Gen. 9:2) w65 351 - In speaking of Jehovah God, Psalm 104:3 says: “The One building his upper chambers with beams in the very waters, making the clouds his chariot.” How can God be said to be building in “the very waters”? (Ps. 104:3) w65 351 - How can it be said that God’s visible organization was made strictly theocratic or was fully theocratic in structure by 1938, when there are revisions and changes from time to time in organization instructions? w65 383 - What is the “last enemy” to be destroyed? Is it death, as mentioned at 1 Corinthians 15:26, or Satan, who is to be cast into the “lake of fire” after the thousand-year reign of Christ?—G.S. (1 Cor. 15:26) w65 384 - Are the demons going to be cast into the abyss with Satan the Devil following the war of Armageddon? Will they also return with him after the thousand-year reign of Christ and thereafter be hurled into the “lake of fire and sulphur” with him?—W.D. w65 416 - Is cremation proper for Christians? w65 447 - If resurrected ones are to be judged on the basis of their actions after being raised from the dead, why did Jesus use the past tense in discussing this matter at John 5:28, 29?—H.M., Papua, New Guinea. (John 5:28-29) w65 479 - Since Jude 7 shows that Sodom and Gomorrah became a “warning example by undergoing the judicial punishment of everlasting fire,” does that not bar the inhabitants of those cities from a resurrection?—A.C., U.S.A. (Jude 1:7) w65 479 - On what animal did Jesus Christ make his triumphal ride into Jerusalem? Matthew 21:7 mentions both an ass and a colt.—M.E., U.S.A. (Matt. 21:7) w65 511 - Considering what is said at 1 Chronicles 28:9, how can it be said that Solomon will be resurrected?—B.M., U.S.A. (1 Chron. 28:9) w65 511 - How are we to understand Jeremiah 51:39, 57, where the Babylonians are said to “sleep an indefinitely lasting sleep, from which they will never wake up”? Does this not mean that they will never be resurrected?—R.A., U.S.A. (Jer. 51:39, 57) w65 543 - In view of what is stated at Hebrews 10:26, 27, will dedicated and baptized Christians with hopes of earthly life have a resurrection if they fall away from true worship and die before Armageddon?—P.G., U.S.A. (Heb. 10:26-27) w65 575 - At 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 15, was the apostle Paul discussing disfellowshiping?—P.W., U.S.A. (2 Thess. 3:14-15) w65 575 - Since millions of persons in China and other places have never heard the Kingdom message, will these people be preserved through the destruction of Babylon the Great and the war of Armageddon, or perhaps be resurrected later?—H.S., U.S.A. w65 607 - Since those destroyed in the Flood and those who perished at Sodom and Gomorrah are mentioned together at 2 Peter 2:4-6 and Luke 17:26-30, might this indicate that those who perished in the Flood will be resurrected?—J.B., England. (2 Pet. 2:4-6; Luke 17:26-30) w65 608 - How could the apostle Paul truthfully say that he was a Pharisee, as he did at Acts 23:6?—R.M., U.S.A. (Acts 23:6) w65 640 - What is “the River” spoken of in Psalm 72:8?—V.B., U.S.A. (Ps. 72:8) w65 672 - Who were the certified men of Acts 6:3, and do they have modern counterparts?—C.P. (Acts 6:3) w65 703 - In view of what is stated in the new book “Things in Which It Is Impossible for God to Lie,” is it to be understood that there definitely are living creatures on other planets?—R.B., U.S.A. w65 704 - According to Leviticus 25:11, 12, the Israelites were not to “sow seed nor reap the land’s growth from spilled kernels” during the Jubilee year, yet they could “eat what the land produces.” How is this seeming inconsistency resolved?—A.K., U.S.A. (Lev. 25:11-12) w65 735 - Was the darkness, reported at Mark 15:33, that occurred while Jesus was on the torture stake the result of a solar eclipse?—B.A., U.S.A. (Mark 15:33) w65 767 - What did the apostle Peter mean when he said that “no prophecy of Scripture springs from any private interpretation”?—E. M., U.S.A. w65 768 - I work for a large company that annually gives a Christmas bonus to all its employees as a gift. Should we as witnesses of Jehovah accept such gifts?—R.K., U.S.A. 1966 - 32 questions
w66 32 - The pillars belonging to the porch of Solomon’s temple were named Jachin and Boaz. Do these names have any significance?—J.G., U.S.A. w66 63 - In what way were the evildoers who were impaled alongside Jesus Christ fastened to the torture stake? Were they nailed or tied?—R. P., England. w66 63 - Why is Matthew 17:21 omitted from the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures?—L. F., U.S.A. (Matt. 17:21) w66 95 - Is it proper for a Christian to avail himself of government provisions of welfare or of relief supplies sent to disaster areas?—P. A., El Salvador. w66 127 - Must a person fulfill all vows he made to God prior to becoming a dedicated Christian?—R.J., U.S.A. w66 159 - In the book “Things in Which It Is Impossible for God to Lie,” why does it state that the planet Pluto was discovered because of its effects on the planets Uranus and Saturn? Is not Neptune closer to Pluto than Saturn is?—L. P., U.S.A. w66 191 - Ecclesiastes 3:11 says that God has put “time indefinite” in the heart of mankind. What does this mean ?—M. O., U.S.A. (Eccl. 3:11) w66 191 - What is the meaning of Matthew 10:41? Is there any difference in the rewards mentioned there?—R. D., U.S.A. (Matt. 10:41) w66 223 - At 1 Corinthians 10:8 the apostle Paul said that 23,000 Israelites fell in one day for committing fornication. However, the figure given at Numbers 25:9 is 24,000. Were these two different incidents?—K. S., U.S.A. (1 Cor. 10:8; Num. 25:9) w66 223 - Who was the father of Zerubbabel? The Bible seems to indicate both Pedaiah and Shealtiel.—J.B., U.S.A. w66 255 - Simeon, a reverent man in Jerusalem, referred to Jesus as God’s “means of saving” and “a light.” He also said that Jesus was “laid for the fall and the rising again of many in Israel.” To Mary, Simeon further said, “yes, a long sword will be run through the soul of you yourself.” (Luke 2:29-35) What did Simeon mean?—C.R., Scotland. (Luke 2:29-35) w66 319 - At 1 Kings 7:23 and; 2 Chronicles 4:2 we are told that the circular molten sea in the courtyard of Solomon’s temple was ten cubits from brim to brim and that “it took a line of thirty cubits to circle all around it.” Is this not incorrect, since it is impossible to have a circle with these two values?—H.S., U.S.A. (1 Ki. 7:23; 2 Chron. 4:2) w66 319 - Jehovah God is against all forms of demonism. Yet Ezekiel 21:21, 22 and its context seem to indicate that he directed divination so that Nebuchadnezzar moved his military forces against Jerusalem. Why did God do this?—K. M., U.S.A. (Ezek. 21:21-22) w66 383 - At Revelation 3:15, 16 hot and cold are mentioned. Yet, Christ indicated that he would vomit out only the persons who were lukewarm. Why?—M. S., U.S.A. (Rev. 3:15-16) w66 383 - From what is said at Isaiah 14:22 are we to understand that each individual Babylonian was finally destroyed?—E. K., U.S.A. (Isa. 14:22) w66 383 - A careful comparison of Matthew 1:1-16 with Luke 3:23-38 shows that Matthew gave the lineage of Jesus Christ through Solomon, whereas Luke gave it through Nathan, another son of David. Why, then, do both genealogies list Shealtiel and Zerubbabel?—M. K., Alaska. (Matt. 1:1-16; Luke 3:23-38) w66 415 - After the Deluge, Noah sent out from the ark a dove that later returned with “an olive leaf freshly plucked in its bill.” (Gen. 8:10, 11) Would not the trees have been ruined by the Flood? Where did the dove get the olive leaf?—C. J., U.S.A. (Gen. 8:10-11) w66 415 - Would it be proper for a Christian married couple to adopt a child?—J. W., U.S.A. w66 416 - Who was the father of the Shelah mentioned in the Bible? Was he Cainan or Arpachshad?—J.B., U.S.A. w66 447 - When Jesus Christ was on earth he stated: “I began to behold Satan already fallen like lightning from heaven.” (Luke 10:18) Does this mean that by that time Satan the Devil had already been ousted from heaven?—O. B., Australia. (Luke 10:18) w66 447 - Looking for omens is condemned in the Bible. (Deut. 18:10) How, then, can we explain Genesis 44:5, which indicates that Joseph, who had God’s favor, possessed a cup by means of which he read omens?—A. J., Rep. of the Congo. (Deut. 18:10; Gen. 44:5) w66 479 - Proverbs 11:29 states that one bringing ostracism upon his house “will take possession of wind” and that “a foolish person will be a servant to the one wise in heart.” What is meant by these statements?—I. M., U.S.A. (Prov. 11:29) w66 511 - According to Genesis 49:10, Jacob said prophetically: “The scepter will not turn aside from Judah, neither the commander’s staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes.” Is there a difference between a scepter and a commander’s staff?—O. S., U.S.A. (Gen. 49:10) w66 543 - It is said that in Israel’s tabernacle and later in the temple Solomon built there was the Shekinah. What was it?—A. G., U.S.A. w66 543 - Would it be proper to use the expressions “other sheep” (John 10:16) and “great crowd” (Rev. 7:9) interchangeably at all times?—G.S. (John 10:16; Rev. 7:9) w66 575 - Revelation 19:7 mentions rejoicing “because the marriage of the Lamb has arrived and his wife has prepared herself.” What is this marriage and when does it take place?—T. H., U.S.A. (Rev. 19:7) w66 607 - At times there are changes in viewpoint on Biblical subjects discussed in the Watch Tower Society’s publications. We speak of what we believe as “the truth.” But does “truth” change?—W. P., U.S.A. w66 639 - Isaiah 52:14, a prophecy regarding the Messiah, seems to indicate that Jesus Christ was a disfigured person. How is this to be understood?—J. B., U.S.A. (Isa. 52:14) w66 702 - At what age is it proper for a boy or a girl to start going out on “dates” with one of the opposite sex?—M. Q., U.S.A. w66 703 - In the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, Habakkuk 1:12 reads in part: “O my God, my Holy One, you do not die.” However, other translations say “we shall not die.” (AS, AV) What accounts for this difference?—S. C., U.S.A. (Hab. 1:12) w66 735 - Is it proper for dedicated Christians, who are supposed to be exemplary in morals, to imitate the extreme styles of clothing and grooming of the morally decadent world?—W. R., U.S.A. w66 767 - Ephesians 5:3 says: “Let fornication . . . not even be mentioned among you.” Therefore, is it not sinful to discuss fornication or publish anything on this subject?—M. N., U.S.A. (Eph. 5:3) 1967 - 36 questions
w67 31 - What qualifications should a person have in order to qualify as a book study conductor in a congregation of Jehovah’s witnesses?—A. S., U.S.A. w67 95 - Why, after pardoning Adonijah, did King Solomon have him put to death when he requested Abishag as his wife?—R. F., U.S.A. w67 128 - Who was the high priest during David’s reign, Zadok or Abiathar?—S. B., U.S.A. w67 159 - How could Jesus promise, as recorded at John 11:26, that those exercising faith in him would never die, since Christians do die?—M. F., U.S.A. (John 11:26) w67 160 - Religious pictures of Jesus’ death often show a sign over his head with various letters on it. What do these letters mean?—A. D., U.S.A. w67 191 - At Jesus’ impalement, which garment or garments did the soldiers distribute by casting lots?—D. T., New Zealand. w67 191 - After the Flood, Noah planted a vineyard, began drinking of the wine and became intoxicated. (Gen. 9:20, 21) Since the Bible condemns drunkenness, even saying that drunkards will not inherit God’s kingdom, how should we view Noah’s intoxication?—B. M., U.S.A. (Gen. 9:20-21) w67 255 - Can 2 Corinthians 5:16 be used to establish that Jesus would not return in the flesh?—C. N., England. (2 Cor. 5:16) w67 319 - How can it be said that Jesus could have produced perfect children from an imperfect wife? Would not the children, according to the laws of genetics, have inherited imperfection from their mother?—F. S., England. w67 319 - Why did the Jews use the name of the pagan god Tammuz as the name for one of their months?—R. M., Honduras. w67 320 - Why was Rachel willing to relinquish an opportunity to conceive in exchange for some mandrakes, as related at Genesis 30:14, 15?—R. A., U.S.A. (Gen. 30:14-15) w67 351 - Does the prophecy at Jeremiah 22:30 mean that King Jehoiachin, or Coniah, had no children?—J. L., U.S.A. (Jer. 22:30) w67 351 - Zechariah 8:19 mentions four different fasts that were observed by the Jews. What did these commemorate?—K. A., U.S.A. (Zech. 8:19) w67 383 - Proverbs 25:11 and other texts in the Hebrew Scriptures mention “apples.” However, many authorities insist that this refers to another fruit. Were apples grown in Palestine when the Hebrew Scriptures were written? (Prov. 25:11) w67 383 - How old was Abel, the second son of Adam, at the time his brother Cain murdered him? w67 416 - The Bible account at Judges 18:27-29 says that a certain place was not named “Dan” until the Danites went up and took it. How is it, then, that the Bible book of Genesis speaks of the place as being called “Dan” in Abraham’s time? (Judg. 18:27-29) w67 447 - According to Luke 22:37, Jesus was to be “reckoned with lawless ones,” in fulfillment of Isaiah 53:12. Are Christ’s disciples to be viewed as the “lawless ones” because some were carrying swords?—A. F., U.S.A. (Luke 22:37; Isa. 53:12) w67 479 - What is the meaning of Jesus’ statement, at Matthew 17:26, that the “sons are tax-free”?—E.D., U.S.A. (Matt. 17:26) w67 479 - Under the Mosaic law, what was the difference between the sabbath year and the Jubilee year? Were not debts canceled on both years?—E. P., U.S.A. w67 511 - In connection with Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the name “Dives” is frequently given the rich man. Where does this name originate? Did not Jesus leave the rich man without a name?—A. K., U.S.A. w67 511 - Is a Christian obligated to submit to a blood transfusion simply because a court orders it?—M. C., U.S.A. w67 543 - On page 326 of the book Life Everlasting—in Freedom of the Sons of God, there is an illustration of Noah’s three sons, showing one with skin darker than that of the others. How is it determined that one was dark-complexioned? From whom did the Negroid peoples descend?—S.D., U.S.A. w67 543 - Was the prophecy of a famine by the Christian prophet Agabus to be fulfilled earth wide? Does secular history record such?—J.E., U.S.A. w67 575 - At Matthew 19:24 and Luke 18:25 Jesus Christ compares the difficulty of a rich man’s gaining his way into the kingdom of God to the difficulty a camel would have in trying to get through the eye of a needle. Some Bible dictionaries speak of the “needle’s eye” as possibly being a small gate of a walled Oriental city, and such books sometimes show pictures of small gates. Was Jesus referring to any such gate?—F. M., U.S.A. (Matt. 19:24; Luke 18:25) w67 576 - What is the Scriptural view of the use of birthstones?—M. O., U.S.A. w67 607 - Deuteronomy 10:6 reads, “And’ the sons of Israel pulled away from Beeroth Bene-jaakan for Moserah.” However, Numbers 33:31, 32 says exactly the reverse. How are we to understand this seeming discrepancy? (Deut. 10:6; Num. 33:31-32) w67 607 - 1 Kings 15:14 and; 2 Chronicles 14:5 seem to contradict each other. One says Asa removed the high places, the other says he did not. How is this to be understood? (1 Ki. 15:14; 2 Chron. 14:5) w67 638 - Do Jesus’ words at Luke 20:34-36 apply to the earthly resurrection or to the heavenly resurrection of the 144,000?—W. D., Australia. (Luke 20:34-36) w67 671 - Is it proper to use Isaiah 40:22 to prove that the Bible teaches that the earth is round, Isaiah’s words being written at a time when men thought the earth was flat? Some have expressed the thought that the word “circle” could refer to something circular but flat.—J. L., Denmark. (Isa. 40:22) w67 672 - If the Bible teaches that heaven is “up” (Acts 1:9), does it not convey an ignorance of earth’s rotation and the structure of the universe?—C. P., U.S.A. (Acts 1:9) w67 702 - Is there any Scriptural objection to donating one’s body for use in medical research or to accepting organs for transplant from such a source?—W. L., U.S.A. w67 704 - How could Asahel be listed as a divisional commander in David’s army (1 Chron. 27:7) when, according to 2 Samuel 2:23, Asahel was killed even before David became king over all Israel?—R. F., U.S.A. (1 Chron. 27:7; 2 Sam. 2:23) w67 734 - What should a Christian wife do if her unbelieving husband asks her to visit his family for a meal on a worldly holiday?—B. S., U.S.A. w67 735 - Does Jesus’ prophecy at Matthew 24:12 about the cooling off of the love of the greater number find fulfillment in Christendom or among Jehovah’s Christian witnesses?—P. A., U.S.A. (Matt. 24:12) w67 767 - How could there be a reference to “the whole field of the Amalekites” in Abraham’s day, as related in the Bible at Genesis 14:7, before Amalek was even born (Gen. 36:15-19)?—J. E., U.S.A. (Gen. 14:7; 36:15-19) w67 767 - Would having some fellow Christians over to one’s own home on New Year’s Eve be wrong?—G. M., Canada. 1968 - 34 questions
w68 31 - Is it proper for Christians to “drink a toast” when they get together?—M. D., U.S.A. w68 63 - How do Jehovah’s witnesses view people who are users of “drugs,” including narcotics, LSD, and so forth?—V. K., U.S.A. w68 96 - When did Saul of Tarsus receive the name Paul, and why?—D. B., U.S.A. w68 127 - Did the Mosaic law actually call upon the Jews to hate their enemies, as Matthew 5:43 might suggest?—R. I., U.S.A. (Matt. 5:43) w68 160 - Can John 17:17 be used to prove that Jesus considered the Hebrew Scriptures to be inspired? Was he not referring to God’s word that he personally gave to the twelve apostles?—H. J., Denmark. (John 17:17) w68 191 - In what way does “nature itself teach” that it is a glory for women to have long hair but a dishonor for men to have long hair, as the apostle Paul wrote at 1 Corinthians 11:14, 15?—G. N., Canada. (1 Cor. 11:14-15) w68 191 - Did Jesus partake of the bread and wine when he instituted the Lord’s evening meal?—M. C., U.S.A. w68 223 - During the past year I got into some financial difficulty, and since reading your publications I have been wondering if it is proper for me to file for bankruptcy? Does the Bible say anything about this?—H. P., U.S.A. w68 255 - I have been reading The Watchtower for a few months now, and I would appreciate your counsel. Recently I sued for a divorce on what I understand to be grounds that are in harmony with the Bible. Is it Scripturally wrong for me to “date” or seek the attention of one of the opposite sex other than my ex-mate before the divorce is final?—U.S.A. w68 286 - When Jesus Christ was a man on earth, did he wear a beard?—K.A., U.S.A. w68 318 - I will be looking for the reply to my letter in “Questions from Readers” in The Watchtower.—Unsigned. w68 318 - Does Job 1:4 indicate that Job’s children celebrated their birthdays?—F. D., England. (Job 1:4) w68 319 - If a woman who has committed adultery is repentant and shows this by confession of her wrong to the judicial committee of the Christian congregation with which she is associated, is it necessary for her to confess the wrong to her husband?—M. A., U.S.A. w68 351 - What is the Scriptural thing to do when a Christian is expected to stand or bow before a judge or ruler or to use some exalted form of address for such a person?—H. A., Africa. w68 382 - Why do certain Bible translations differ as to the numbering of the Psalms, and where exactly do they differ?—J. C., U.S.A. w68 383 - Since the Jewish priests wore head coverings when serving in the temple, why did the apostle Paul later write that men should not wear a head covering, but, rather, that women should?—L. H., U.S.A. w68 384 - What does the Bible mean when it speaks of Christians’ ‘greeting one another with a holy kiss’?—L. L., Canada. w68 415 - How is it possible for one to “grieve” the holy spirit, since it is not a person?—H. S., U.S.A. w68 447 - Which Zechariah was Jesus referring to when he spoke of “Zechariah son of Barachiah, whom you murdered between the sanctuary and the altar”?—H. R., Canada. w68 447 - Was the apostle Paul ever married?—L. B., U.S.A. w68 479 - In view of what is recorded at Matthew 5:44, is it wrong to pray for Armageddon to come?—B. S., U.S.A. (Matt. 5:44) w68 479 - Since Joseph was not yet married to Mary when he learned that she was pregnant, why did he intend to divorce her?—W. M., U.S.A. w68 511 - Why did the apostle Paul say, as recorded at 1 Corinthians 1:17, that Christ dispatched him “not to go baptizing”? He did baptize believers, did he not?—G.Q., U.S.A. (1 Cor. 1:17) w68 543 - If, as stated at John 18:31, the Jews in Jesus’ time did not have the authority to execute lawbreakers, how could they stone Stephen to death?—H. H., U.S.A. (John 18:31) w68 575 - If Isaac was willing to serve as a sacrifice victim, why did Abraham have to tie him hand and foot?—J. D., U.S.A. w68 575 - I would like to become one of Jehovah’s witnesses, but some years ago I got divorced and remarried. What steps must I take to be acceptable for baptism?—D. C., U.S.A. w68 606 - Is it proper for a Christian who is engaged to be married to break off that engagement?—A. H., U.S.A. w68 607 - My husband and I both do secular work. Since I earn some of the money, would it not be proper for me to say how it will be used?—U.S.A. w68 639 - In what way did the Israelites in the wilderness “drink from the spiritual rock-mass that followed them,” as stated at 1 Corinthians 10:4?—I. M., U.S.A. (1 Cor. 10:4) w68 672 - If Abraham actually believed that he was going to sacrifice his son Isaac, why did he tell his attendants that he and Isaac would return to them?—E. M., U.S.A. w68 703 - What is the “one baptism” referred to at Ephesians 4:5? Is it the same as the baptism spoken of at Matthew 28:19?—E. B., U.S.A. (Eph. 4:5; Matt. 28:19) w68 703 - Had Judas Iscariot left already when Jesus instituted the celebration of the Lord’s Evening Meal?—J. D., Uruguay. w68 735 - Why was it that, under the Mosaic law, such normal functions as menstruation, sexual intercourse between husband and wife, and childbirth were viewed as making one “unclean”?—L. A., Spain. w68 767 - Why, after his resurrection, did Jesus tell Mary Magdalene not to touch him? He later told Thomas to touch him.—P. P., Haiti. 1969 - 30 questions
w69 31 - I know that the Bible says that a Christian wife should love and respect her husband. But my husband is a drunkard. How can a person love and respect a man who is like that?—C. N., U.S.A. w69 63 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he wrote, at 1 Timothy 2:15, that women would “be kept safe through childbearing”?—B. G., Chile. (1 Tim. 2:15) w69 95 - The Bible tells that Samson killed men and animals. How could he touch dead bodies in view of his being a Nazirite?—M.G., Australia. w69 96 - Was the girl who danced on Herod’s birthday, and who asked for the head of John the Baptist, named Salome?—J. A., U.S.A. w69 126 - What is the attitude of Jehovah’s witnesses toward the use of tobacco?—J. G., U.S.A. w69 127 - Will Satan be dead when he is in the abyss for one thousand years?—R. G., U.S.A. w69 159 - We have received a number of inquiries as to details of the celebration of the Lord’s evening meal. In response we present the following: w69 190 - Why was it a sin for King David to take a census, as reported at 2 Samuel chapter 24?—M. C., U.S.A. (2 Sam. 24:1-25) w69 191 - Was Jesus dead when the Roman soldier pierced Christ’s side with a spear?—W. H., Ivory Coast. w69 223 - Can a woman who has had a stillborn child reasonably expect the baby to be resurrected if she is faithful to God?—J. R., England. w69 255 - Does John 20:23 mean that some humans are authorized to forgive sins?—F. M., U.S.A. (John 20:23) w69 287 - What does 1 Corinthians 13:8 mean in saying that ‘knowledge will be done away with’?—R. M., U.S.A. (1 Cor. 13:8) w69 319 - The Bible says that Moses lived to be one hundred and twenty years old. How, then, could he write, in Psalm 90:10, that a man’s years are only seventy or eighty?—J. W., England. (Ps. 90:10) w69 351 - How does Jesus’ counsel in Matthew 6:7 against long and repetitious prayers apply to private and public prayers, in view of some of the lengthy prayers recorded in the Bible?—M. F., U.S.A. (Matt. 6:7) w69 383 - Did Jesus tell the apostle Peter to forgive seventy-seven (77) times, or seventy times seven (490)?—A. L., U.S.A. w69 416 - Why does the New World Translation read “epileptic” at Matthew 4:24, whereas some translations say “lunatic”?—P. K., U.S.A. (Matt. 4:24) w69 447 - As one who is studying the Bible with Jehovah’s witnesses, I am interested in pleasing God. Seventeen years ago my husband left me, and I have not heard from him since. He may be deceased by now. Am I free to remarry?—A. S., U.S.A. w69 479 - I have heard that Moses received the Law on the day of Pentecost. How could that be, since Exodus 19:1 says the Israelites got to Sinai in the third month after leaving Egypt?—D. S., U.S.A. (Ex. 19:1) w69 511 - What is the unforgivable sin?—E. M., U.S.A. w69 543 - Some animals have characteristics that seem especially suited to killing, such as lions and poisonous snakes. How can this be, if they were all vegetarians at one time?—L. K., Netherlands. w69 575 - What is meant, at John 7:39, when it says, “for as yet there was no spirit” ?—A. A., U.S.A. (John 7:39) w69 607 - What were the “goat-shaped demons” that are mentioned in the Bible?—T. W., U.S.A. w69 607 - Since the apostle Paul taught that Christians are not under the Mosaic law, why did he go through a ceremony at the temple in Jerusalem in connection with a vow to God?—M. G., U.S.A. w69 639 - In view of Thomas’ statement in John 20:25, was Jesus impaled with a nail through each hand?—J. B., Taiwan (Republic of China). (John 20:25) w69 671 - Jehovah allowed polygamy among the Jews, but not among Christians. Has God’s morality changed?—J. P., U.S.A. w69 703 - A newspaper that I saw carried a picture showing shepherds and flocks in a field outside Bethlehem at Christmastime. I thought that it was too cold there for shepherds to be in the fields with their sheep around December 25, the traditional date for the birth of Christ. Is this so?—J. B., U.S.A. w69 735 - Can the word “angel” properly be applied to resurrected anointed Christians?—R. C., U.S.A. w69 735 - What is “the language of Canaan” referred to at Isaiah 19:18? (Isa. 19:18) w69 735 - How was the “dove’s dung” mentioned in 2 Kings 6:25 used?—H. F., U.S.A. (2 Ki. 6:25) w69 765 - We have received quite a number of inquiries from married persons asking about sexual matters, as a result of views that have been widely publicized by worldly sources. These questions have dealt with conjugal acts, birth control, sterilization and abortion. We herein comment on such matters to the extent that we feel authorized to do so. 1970 - 23 questions
w70 31 - What did Jesus mean when he said that “it is not admissible for a prophet to be destroyed outside of Jerusalem”?—J. B., U.S.A. w70 95 - How, by doing kindness to a person who hates one, does one ‘rake coals together on such a person’s head,’ as stated at Proverbs 25:21, 22?—U.S.A. (Prov. 25:21-22) w70 127 - Was not Jesus showing disrespect for his mother by saying: “What have I to do with you, woman? My hour has not yet come”?—C. B., U.S.A. w70 190 - What is the meaning of the prayer to God: “Do not bring us into temptation”?—E. D., U.S.A. w70 191 - May dedicated Christians attend church funerals of other religious organizations?—C. S., U.S.A. w70 223 - How are we to understand Isaiah 7:14, which the apostle Matthew applied to Jesus? Jesus was not called “Immanuel,” was he?—J. G., U.S.A. (Isa. 7:14) w70 255 - In what way is it true, as stated at 1 John 5:18, that “every person that has been born from God does not practice sin, but the One born from God watches him, and the wicked one does not fasten his hold on him”?—N. B., U.S.A. (1 John 5:18) w70 287 - What does the Bible mean when it says, at Genesis 6:6, that “Jehovah felt regrets that he had made men in the earth”?—D. B., U.S.A. (Gen. 6:6) w70 318 - Did Jehovah God personally speak with Moses, or was it through an angelic representative?—S. C., U.S.A. w70 351 - How should a faithful Christian act toward a relative outside the immediate family circle who has been disfellowshiped?—N. W., Canada. w70 382 - Is God still selecting individuals to be associated with his Son in the heavenly kingdom? Or is it the hope of earthly life that all who dedicate themselves to Jehovah have in this day?—U.S.A. w70 415 - What is the “fear” that perfect love throws outside, as stated at 1 John 4:18?—C. A., U.S.A. (1 John 4:18) w70 415 - Hebrews 9:14 says that Christ “through an everlasting spirit offered himself.” What is the “everlasting spirit”?—R. W., U.S.A. (Heb. 9:14) w70 447 - During a Bible study that I was conducting, Romans 8:26, 27 came up for discussion. Could you please explain the meaning of these verses?—A. B., U.S.A. (Rom. 8:26-27) w70 479 - Young Christians attending public school face many problems because of growing delinquency, immorality, nationalism, and so forth. Hence, when one has completed the minimum schooling required by law, would it be advisable to leave school and devote more time to the ministry, or should one finish the normal basic schooling?—D. B., U.S.A. w70 511 - How is it true, as stated at 1 Corinthians 6:18, that “every other sin that a man may commit is outside his body, but he that practices fornication is sinning against his own body”?—U.S.A. (1 Cor. 6:18) w70 543 - How are we to understand Matthew 1:17, which speaks of three sets of generations (fourteen for each set) from Abraham to Jesus Christ, although the previous verses list only forty-one generations?—Belgium. (Matt. 1:17) w70 575 - In view of the fact that pagans made floral offerings to the dead, is it proper for Christians to send flowers to a funeral or to lay flowers on a grave?—G. T., U.S.A. w70 607 - Ezekiel 29:1-16 indicates that Egypt would be desolate for forty years. Did that actually take place?—U.S.A. (Ezek. 29:1-16) w70 702 - How are we to understand Hebrews 1:6, which says that all the angels are commanded to worship Jesus?—F. C; U.S.A. (Heb. 1:6) w70 735 - Is it not true that Jehovah was partial toward the nation of Israel in the way that he dealt with them? Yet at Acts 10:34 the Bible says that “God is not partial.” How is this consistent?—U.S.A. (Acts 10:34) w70 767 - What is the “third heaven” and “paradise” to which 2 Corinthians 12:2, 4 refers?—R. B., U.S.A. (2 Cor. 12:2, 4) w70 768 - On what basis is the prophecy at Ezekiel 21:25-27 applied to Judean King Zedekiah?—A. S., U.S.A. (Ezek. 21:25-27) 1971 - 26 questions
w71 32 - What is the meaning of the prophecy: “As for your old men, dreams they will dream. As for your young men, visions they will see”?—D. A., U.S.A. w71 63 - Can it be stated flatly that only baptized witnesses of Jehovah will survive Armageddon?—A. S., U.S.A. w71 95 - What is the meaning of the comment at Revelation 19:10, “the bearing witness to Jesus is what inspires prophesying”?—U.S.A. (Rev. 19:10) w71 127 - What is the Christian view of the payment of bills?—L. D., U.S.A. w71 159 - Why did Jesus instruct his followers, as recorded at Acts 1:8, to preach in Samaria, since earlier (Matt. 10:5, 6) he had told them not to preach to the Samaritans?—D. R., New Zealand (Acts 1:8; Matt. 10:5-6) w71 191 - What are the “old commandment” and the “new commandment” mentioned at 1 John 2:7, 8?—U.S.A. (1 John 2:7-8) w71 222 - What is the meaning of Proverbs 20:19, and how does this apply to a Christian’s keeping certain matters confidential?—E. M., U.S.A. (Prov. 20:19) w71 255 - At Luke 23:43, why does the New World Translation put the comma after the word “today”?—E. D., U.S.A. (Luke 23:43) w71 318 - In what sense is God “over all and through all and in all,” as Ephesians 4:6 says?—E. R., U.S.A. (Eph. 4:6) w71 319 - Was the apostle Paul one of the twelve apostles? w71 351 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he wrote the Corinthians, “All things belong to you”?—B. B., England. w71 383 - Is it proper to pray for a person who has been disfellowshiped (expelled) from the Christian congregation?—Czechoslovakia. w71 415 - What are the “elementary things of the world” mentioned at Galatians 4:3 and Colossians 2:8, 20?—U.S.A. (Gal. 4:3; Col. 2:8, 20) w71 447 - Addressing “rich men,” the disciple James said: “You have murdered the righteous one.” (Jas. 5:1, 6) Since his letter was written to Christians, what did he mean by this?—U.S.A. (Jas. 5:1, 6) w71 478 - Since the Bible speaks about the prophet Samuel as offering sacrifices, does this mean that he was a priest?—U.S.A. w71 479 - Why is it that Psalm 102:25, 26 and Hebrews 1:10, 11 speak of the heavens and the earth as ‘perishing’ and as ‘being replaced like a worn-out garment’?—Hawaii. (Ps. 102:25-26; Heb. 1:10-11) w71 511 - Second Peter 3:10 says: “Jehovah’s day will come as a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a hissing noise, but the elements being intensely hot will be dissolved, and earth and the works in it will be discovered.” What does this text mean? Are not the physical heavens and earth a permanent part of God’s creation?—U.S.A. (2 Pet. 3:10) w71 543 - At Ephesians 4:23, what is meant by being ‘made new in the force actuating the mind’?—U.S.A. (Eph. 4:23) w71 575 - What is meant by the expression ‘behaving like a prophet,’ which appears at 1 Samuel 18:10 and 1 Sa 19:20-24?—U.S.A. (1 Sam. 18:10; 19:20-24) w71 607 - Who were the “spirits in prison” to whom Jesus preached as stated at 1 Peter 3:19, when did he preach to them and did this preaching open up an opportunity for them to repent?—U.S.A. (1 Pet. 3:19) w71 640 - Does Job 28:5 refer to the apparent molten state of earth’s interior when it says: “As for the earth, out of it food goes forth; but underneath it, it has been upturned as if by fire”?—Cyprus. (Job 28:5) w71 670 - Does the Bible indicate that a person who wants to serve God should refrain from using tobacco?—U.S.A. w71 672 - Isaiah 7:8 states that within “sixty-five years” Ephraim was to be “shattered to pieces so as not to be a people.” When did this happen?—U.S.A. (Isa. 7:8) w71 703 - How could persons called to heavenly life be given undeserved kindness in “connection with Christ Jesus before times long lasting,” as 2 Timothy 1:9 indicates?—U.S.A. (2 Tim. 1:9) w71 735 - Is it proper for Christians to celebrate their wedding anniversary?—D. Y., Venezuela. w71 768 - John 21:18, 19 says concerning the apostle Peter: “‘When you were younger, you used to gird yourself and walk about where you wanted. But when you grow old you will stretch out your hands and another man will gird you and bear you where you do not wish.’ This [Jesus] said to signify by what sort of death [Peter] would glorify God.” Do these words specifically refer to a death by crucifixion or impalement?—U.S.A. (John 21:18-19) 1972 - 33 questions
w72 31 - Do homosexual acts on the part of a married person constitute a Scriptural ground for divorce, freeing the innocent mate to remarry?—U.S.A. w72 63 - Is it proper for a Christian to wear a wedding ring?—Greece. w72 63 - In view of God’s law prohibiting the eating of blood, is there any objection to using vitamins containing red bone marrow, desiccated liver and similar organic derivatives?—U.S.A. w72 95 - Since it was not the season for figs, why did Jesus curse a fig tree that had no fruit on it, as reported at Mark 11:13, 14?—U.S.A. (Mark 11:13-14) w72 126 - Must the minor children of a man who is recommended be believers? w72 126 - What does it mean for a man to have his “children in subjection with all seriousness”?—1 Tim. 3:4. (1 Tim. 3:4) w72 126 - What is meant by the statement at Titus 1:6, “children that were not under a charge of debauchery nor unruly”? (Titus 1:6) w72 126 - Does the conduct of a man’s wife affect whether he qualifies for recommendation as an elder or a ministerial servant? w72 126 - May a person who has completed a period of unannounced probation be recommended for appointment as a ministerial servant? w72 126 - What does Galatians 3:24 mean when it says that the “Law has become our tutor leading to Christ”?—U.S.A. (Gal. 3:24) w72 127 - Is there not a contradiction in the Proverbs at Pr chapter 26:4, 5? Verse four reads: “Do not answer anyone stupid according to his foolishness, that you yourself also may not become equal to him.” But verse five says: “Answer someone stupid according to his foolishness, that he may not become someone wise in his own eyes.”—F. D., Ecuador. (Prov. 26:1-28) w72 159 - Why does Acts 9:7 indicate that Saul’s traveling companions heard a voice, whereas Acts 22:9, in reporting about the same incident, states that they did not hear it?—Argentina. (Acts 9:7; 22:9) w72 190 - Why did the Mosaic law prohibit the eating of fat?—U.S.A. w72 191 - Second Timothy 3:6, 7 says: “From these arise those men who slyly work their way into households and lead as their captives weak women loaded down with sins, led by various desires, always learning and yet never able to come to an accurate knowledge of truth.” Who are the men and women referred to in this passage?—U.S.A. (2 Tim. 3:6-7) w72 222 - Often there is much discussion about what is “proper” and what is “improper” in the matter of dress. Can we really set any rules on this? If not, why show so much concern?—U.S.A. w72 256 - Why, while hanging on the stake, did Jesus Christ cry out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”—U.S.A. w72 287 - Since the Law given to the Israelites was something good, why could the apostle Paul say that the commandment provided an ‘inducement for sin’?—U.S.A. w72 319 - Did God condone Lot’s getting drunk and fathering sons by his own daughters?—U.S.A. w72 351 - Why did the beginning of World War I not coincide with the early part of October, when the “appointed times of the nations” ended?—U.S.A. w72 382 - Is it proper for a married woman to leave her husband if they cannot get along well? Why did the wife of the first president of the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, C. T. Russell, leave him?—U.S.A. w72 415 - Large numbers of Christians are said to have been put to death during the Roman persecution in the first few centuries of the Common Era. How, then, is it possible for thousands in this century to have been called to become part of the body of Christ composed of only 144,000 persons?—U.S.A. w72 448 - Did Jesus become unclean when he touched a dead girl, as reported at Matthew 9:25, in order to resurrect her?—England. (Matt. 9:25) w72 480 - How do Jehovah’s witnesses view capital punishment?—U.S.A. w72 511 - Is it Scriptural to act as a godparent or to designate godparents for one’s children?—U.S.A. w72 544 - When meat is cut in the course of preparation for cooking, or when it is sliced after it has been cooked, a reddish fluid may run out of it. Is such meat suitable for eating by a Christian?—U.S.A. w72 575 - To what extent does the Jewish law forbidding marital relations during a woman’s menstrual period apply to Christians?—U.S.A. w72 607 - What is “the bath that brought us to life” as spoken of at Titus 3:5?—U.S.A. (Titus 3:5) w72 639 - Is it possible that the present crisis in religion is due to a lack of practicality of Christianity?—U.S.A. w72 639 - Can a Christian be expected to pay taxes to a government that engages in practices that are contrary to his beliefs?—U.S.A. w72 671 - In view of what is written at Deuteronomy 22:5, is it proper for a woman to wear slacks?—U.S.A. (Deut. 22:5) w72 703 - Why do we use the term “governing body” for the elders that preside over the work of Jehovah’s witnesses?—U.S.A. w72 734 - Recently in the news was a court decision ruling that oral copulation by adults is no longer punishable by law in a certain state. Would such practice therefore be solely a matter for individual conscience if engaged in by a Christian couple within the marriage arrangement?—U.S.A. w72 766 - Why, according to Matthew’s accounts, did Jesus use two different words—“fornication” and “adultery”—in discussing the proper grounds for divorce? Is not the only ground for Scriptural divorce “adultery,” as the term is generally understood?—U.S.A. 1973 - 34 questions
w73 31 - What does 1 Corinthians 7:1 mean when it says, “It is well for a man not to touch a woman”?—U.S.A. (1 Cor. 7:1) w73 62 - Revelation 14:3 reads: “They are singing as if a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders; and no one was able to master that song but the hundred and forty-four thousand, who have been bought from the earth.” If the elders mentioned here, and in Revelation 4:4, represent the entire body of 144,000 heavenly king-priests, how is it possible for the 144,000 to sing in front of these elders?—Ecuador. (Rev. 14:3; 4:4) w73 62 - Without compromising one’s position as a Christian, can one take a ‘loyalty oath’?—U.S.A. w73 63 - The Bible says: “Make friends for yourselves by means of the unrighteous riches.” (Luke 16:9) Does this mean that, as long as money or other possessions are used in a good way or to benefit others, it is not important whether such material things have been obtained dishonestly, unrighteously?—U.S.A. (Luke 16:9) w73 127 - At places of business persons are sometimes offered a ticket that makes them eligible to be included among those from whom some will be selected to receive a gift. Is it proper for a Christian to share in such a “drawing”?—U.S.A. w73 127 - Is it compatible with maintaining a Christian conscience for one to accept employment that involves being armed, carrying either a gun or a club?—U.S.A. w73 159 - Is it proper for a Christian to have a pet sterilized or to have it “put to sleep”?—U.S.A. w73 159 - What does 2 Corinthians 6:7 mean when it refers to “weapons of righteousness on the right hand and on the left”?—U.S.A. (2 Cor. 6:7) w73 190 - What is the attitude of Jehovah’s Witnesses toward jury duty?—U.S.A. w73 191 - According to Deuteronomy 6:8, 9, the Israelites were commanded to ‘tie God’s law as a sign upon their hand’ and have it serve as a ‘frontlet band between their eyes.’ Is this to be understood literally?—U.S.A. (Deut. 6:8-9) w73 224 - Must fish be bled before they are eaten?—U.S.A. w73 254 - Does Galatians 4:15 show how Christians should view the transplanting of body organs?—U.S.A. (Gal. 4:15) w73 254 - At the time of baptism, what is the proper attire for a woman?—U.S.A. w73 255 - Why are women allowed to speak up at the meetings of Jehovah’s Christian witnesses even though 1 Corinthians 14:34 says that “it is not permitted for them to speak”?—U.S.A. (1 Cor. 14:34) w73 255 - Does not the Bible example in which Jehovah expressed his disapproval of Onan for wasting his semen show that the use of contraceptives is wrong?—U.S.A. w73 287 - Is it showing lack of trust for a dedicated Christian to make a written contract covering a business dealing with another Christian?—U.S.A. w73 318 - How is a person “marked” in the sense described at 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 15?—American Samoa. (2 Thess. 3:14-15) w73 350 - Does not John 2:19 indicate that Jesus would resurrect himself?—U.S.A. (John 2:19) w73 351 - If a Christian commits adultery, repents and confesses his sin to the Christian congregation’s judicial committee, must he also make known his adultery to his marriage mate even though it brings deep hurt to that one?—U.S.A. w73 383 - Was it not wrong for Judah to have relations with a woman he thought to be a harlot, as the Bible says that he did?—U.S.A. w73 415 - Hebrews 8:10 states: “‘This is the covenant that I shall covenant with the house of Israel after those days,’ says Jehovah. ‘I will put my laws in their mind, and in their hearts I shall write them.”’ How, as mentioned in this text, are God’s dealings with those brought into the new covenant different from those who were under the old Law covenant?—U.S.A. (Heb. 8:10) w73 447 - When did God create dinosaurs, and when did they become extinct?—U.S.A. w73 447 - Is it proper for a Christian to ask his parents or grandparents for a blessing, as is the custom in parts of Latin America?—Venezuela. w73 479 - Second Samuel 11:4, 5 says: “David sent messengers that he might take [Bath-sheba]. So she came in to him and he lay down with her, while she was sanctifying herself from her uncleanness. . . . And the woman became pregnant.” Does this “uncleanness” refer to menstruation and, if so, how could Bath-sheba become pregnant at that time?—U.S.A. (2 Sam. 11:4-5) w73 479 - During the second world war, in some concentration camps in Germany where only women were imprisoned, there were cases where a dedicated sister performed a baptism. Thus, one sister relates that after she came to a knowledge of the truth in a concentration camp and dedicated herself to Jehovah she was then baptized by a sister. Would this baptism be valid?—Germany. w73 511 - Why is it that, even when a person is trying to fix his attention on good things, bad thoughts will come into his mind at times?—U.S.A. w73 543 - Is a person free from accountability for violating God’s law about the sanctity of blood if he receives a transfusion as a result of a court order that overrides his decision not to take blood?—U.S.A. w73 574 - What does the expression “loose conduct” as found at Galatians 5:19 mean?—U.S.A. (Gal. 5:19) w73 606 - If, in earlier years, a person made a vow to God that he now realizes was unwise, does he have to continue conforming to it?—U.S.A. w73 639 - What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6: “For the living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all, neither do they anymore have wages, because the remembrance of them has been forgotten. Also, their love and their hate and their jealousy have already perished, and they have no portion anymore to time indefinite in anything that has to be done under the sun”?—U.S.A. (Eccl. 9:5-6) w73 671 - If a young person is forbidden by his father (or his mother) to study the Bible or to associate with Jehovah’s Christian witnesses, is he obligated to obey in these matters?—U.S.A. w73 703 - Do Paul’s words at 1 Corinthians 6:1-7 mean that under no circumstances should a Christian take to court a case involving a fellow believer?—U.S.A. (1 Cor. 6:1-7) w73 735 - What is the view of Jehovah’s witnesses toward interracial marriage?—France. w73 766 - The Bible speaks of Jesus’ being in the tomb for “three days and three nights.” Does that mean that he was in the tomb for a full seventy-two hours?—Brazil. 1974 - 29 questions
w74 32 - Why do Jehovah’s witnesses refrain from participation in New Year’s celebrations?—U.S.A. w74 62 - Why do some of Jehovah’s Christian witnesses stand up for the flag salute but not for the playing of the national anthem?—U.S.A. w74 63 - At 1 Corinthians 10:13 the apostle Paul wrote: “No temptation has taken you except what is common to men. But God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, but along with the temptation he will also make the way out in order for you to be able to endure it.” What is the source of such temptation and how does God make the way out for the Christian?—U.S.A. (1 Cor. 10:13) w74 95 - Revelation 20:5 reads: “The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.” Does this text show that the resurrection will take place after the thousand-year reign of Christ?—Ecuador. (Rev. 20:5) w74 126 - Since Romans 11:26 says that “all Israel will be saved,” does this mean that a conversion of all the Jews is to be expected?—England. (Rom. 11:26) w74 160 - Does the por·neiʹa (gross sexual immorality) mentioned in the Bible include masturbation, making masturbation a valid basis for Scriptural divorce?—Ecuador. w74 191 - What is the “time of distress” referred to at Daniel 12:1?—U.S.A. (Dan. 12:1) w74 223 - Since Jehovah’s witnesses regard smoking as contrary to Christian practice, do they prevent others from smoking when these come to their homes or business establishments?—U.S.A. w74 224 - How does the requirement set out at Deuteronomy 23:2 affect the prospects of illegitimate children becoming approved servants of God?—U.S.A. (Deut. 23:2) w74 254 - What does 1 Thessalonians 4:17 mean when it says, ‘We the living who are surviving will be caught away in clouds to meet the Lord in the air’?—U.S.A. (1 Thess. 4:17) w74 287 - What evidence is there that those spoken of at John 10:16 as “other sheep” are persons who will live on earth in God’s new order?—Italy. (John 10:16) w74 318 - Is it proper for a Christian woman to have her earlobes pierced to accommodate earrings?—B.C., Canada. w74 319 - In the Bible, Exodus 4:11 reads: “Who appoints the speechless or the deaf or the clear-sighted or the blind? Is it not I, Jehovah?” Does this mean that God is responsible in every case for such defects as deafness and blindness?—U.S.A. (Ex. 4:11) w74 351 - Is it proper for a Christian to accept medical treatment involving a serum prepared from blood?—Germany. w74 416 - What is the point of Jesus’ illustration, at Matthew 11:16, 17, concerning the flute playing and the wailing of young children at play?—U.S.A. (Matt. 11:16-17) w74 447 - Is it possible for Christians today to exorcise or cast out demons by praying over the one possessed by them?—U.S.A. w74 447 - Who may properly address God as “Father”?—U.S.A. w74 511 - If, after a legal divorce had been obtained, a person learned that his or her former mate had been guilty of adultery or other gross sexual immorality before the divorce, would that give Scriptural validity to the legal divorce? Also, would the forgiveness of a single act of adultery rule out obtaining a divorce on Scriptural grounds if it later came to light that numerous immoral acts were involved?—Sweden. w74 606 - Why do the Watch Tower publications refer to only seven world powers, when there were obviously other powerful empires down through the centuries?—U.S.A. w74 607 - Is there any real objection to one of Jehovah’s witnesses “dating” a non-Witness who respects the Christian’s beliefs?—U.S.A. w74 607 - Will those who are raised to life on earth still be imperfect and afflicted with Adamic sin, since Romans 6:7 says that a person “who has died has been acquitted from his sin”?—U.S.A. (Rom. 6:7) w74 639 - Psalm 5:4 says about Jehovah, “No one bad may reside for any time with you.” Why, then, did Jehovah allow Satan to remain in heaven for millenniums and even to come into His presence on occasion?—U.S.A. (Ps. 5:4) w74 671 - In cases of adultery, are there any circumstances where the guilty party could obtain a divorce and be viewed by the congregation as free to remarry?—Jamaica. w74 703 - What did the apostle Paul mean when, in discussing marriage, he spoke of being “past the bloom of youth”? w74 703 - Do lewd practices on the part of a married person toward that one’s own mate constitute a Scriptural basis for the offended mate to get a divorce? w74 735 - Might Satan be responsible for some of the severe storms and floods that have in recent years been so destructive to life and property?—U.S.A. w74 735 - At Revelation 5:10 the New World Translation reads: “You made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God, and they are to rule as kings over the earth.” Does not the Greek word epi, translated “over,” actually mean “on” or “upon”?—U.S.A. (Rev. 5:10) w74 766 - What is the view of Jehovah’s witnesses toward attending the wedding of a worldly acquaintance or relative? w74 767 - Why does the New World Translation not show, in its preface, the names and scholastic standing of its translators? 1975 - 26 questions
w75 31 - What is the application of the prophecy at Isaiah 21:11, 12, which reads: “The pronouncement against Dumah: To me there is one calling out from Seir: ‘Watchman, what about the night? Watchman, what about the night?’ The watchman said: ‘The morning has to come, and also the night. If you people would inquire, inquire. Come again!’”? (Isa. 21:11-12) w75 63 - Why could Jehovah say, as recorded at Deuteronomy 32:39, “There are no gods together with me,” when John 1:1 states that “the Word was with God, and the Word was a god”? (Deut. 32:39; John 1:1) w75 63 - Why does the Jewish count of time differ from the chronology published by Jehovah’s witnesses? w75 95 - What did the apostle Paul mean in saying, “When that which is complete arrives, that which is partial will be done away with”? w75 127 - Why do Jehovah’s witnesses so strongly condemn other religions? Do they not believe that there are good people in all faiths? w75 158 - Would a husband’s approving of sterilization (either for himself or for his wife) disqualify him from positions of congregational responsibility? w75 191 - Does a substantial health danger justify having an abortion? w75 223 - If, for taking a course in harmony with the Scriptures, a Christian were to be arrested and then sentenced by worldly authorities to pay a fine, would it be an act of compromise to pay it? If given the option of either paying the fine or serving a sentence in jail, would this alter matters? w75 255 - Do Jehovah’s witnesses feel that it is proper to consult a psychiatrist? w75 286 - My husband sometimes beats me. Should I get a legal separation or divorce because of it? w75 319 - As a widow with teen-age children, I learned the truth of God’s Word about a year ago. Should I insist that my children go to the congregation meetings, even though they may be reluctant to do so? w75 351 - What is meant by Paul’s words at 1 Corinthians 7:29, “Let those who have wives be as though they had none”? (1 Cor. 7:29) w75 382 - If a Christian unilaterally breaks his (or her) engagement to marry, what effect would this have on such a one’s being used in an exemplary way in the congregation? w75 415 - Do Jehovah’s witnesses believe in doctors? w75 415 - I find Exodus 4:24-26, about the circumcision of Moses’ son, hard to understand. Whose life was in danger, and what occurred? (Ex. 4:24-26) w75 447 - What viewpoint does God’s Word indicate that Christians should have toward suicide? w75 478 - Was Jesus Christ resurrected bodily as a man of flesh and blood? w75 479 - What is the meaning of scriptures that speak of the “kidneys” as being ‘seen,’ ‘refined,’ ‘tested’ or ‘examined’ by Jehovah God or by his Son? w75 511 - Does the description of “Wisdom” in Proverbs 8:22-31 actually apply to Jesus, the Son of God? (Prov. 8:22-31) w75 542 - How many years of secular education are advisable for children in Christian households? w75 575 - If an unbelieving mate separates from the believing mate, would there not be a basis for dissolving the marriage Scripturally, in view of 1 Corinthians 7:15, where Paul says: “ . . . a brother or a sister is not in servitude under such circumstances, but God has called you to peace”? (1 Cor. 7:15) w75 639 - How is Genesis 9:5 to be understood, where God said that he would ‘ask back the blood’ from an animal that killed a human? (Gen. 9:5) w75 639 - Does Matthew 27:52, 53 mean that at the time of Jesus’ death some persons in the grave were resurrected? (Matt. 27:52-53) w75 702 - Does the rendering of John 1:1 in the New World Translation violate rules of Greek grammar or conflict with worship of only one God? (John 1:1) w75 735 - How can Acts 7:16, which ascribes to Abraham the purchase of a burial place in Shechem, be harmonized with Genesis 23:15-19? (Acts 7:16; Gen. 23:15-19) w75 768 - Does Jesus Christ know when the “great tribulation” will begin? 1976 - 23 questions
w76 31 - Does what Jesus said in John 15:1-6, about his being the vine and his disciples being branches, correspond with the olive tree and its branches described in Romans 11:17-24? (John 15:1-6; Rom. 11:17-24) w76 64 - Was Delilah, who cut Samson’s hair, an Israelite or a Philistine? w76 158 - Can an anointed Christian who is disfellowshiped later be reinstated and still have the heavenly hope? w76 159 - Was it God’s original purpose that the woman be in subjection to her husband? Or was it only after Adam and Eve sinned and God told the woman that “your husband . . . will dominate you”?—Gen. 3:16. (Gen. 3:16) w76 192 - How much food was left over after Jesus miraculously fed thousands? w76 192 - What did Amos mean when he referred to himself as “a nipper of figs of sycamore trees”? w76 223 - How could Ezekiel as a ‘watchman to the house of Israel’ be responsible for the lives of God’s people in Jerusalem when he was an exile in Babylon?—Ezek. 33:7. (Ezek. 33:7) w76 223 - What does Acts 12:15 mean when, in regard to the apostle Peter, it says: “It is his angel”? (Acts 12:15) w76 255 - Did Adam have reddish skin, as his name has been said to suggest? w76 350 - Is it advisable that one engage in preaching the good news before being baptized? w76 383 - If some anointed Christians survive into the New Order, will they grow old and die, or how will their earthly life end? w76 416 - Does 2 Chronicles 16:14 mean that King Asa was cremated? (2 Chron. 16:14) w76 447 - How are we to understand Hosea’s apparent withholding of sex relations from his restored wife Gomer?—Hos. 3:3. (Hos. 3:3) w76 447 - If a Christian must testify in court, is it proper for him to place his hand on the Bible and swear to tell the whole truth? w76 479 - Is the embalming of Jacob to be viewed as setting a precedent for Christians to follow, or why was it done? w76 512 - Did the “last days” that Paul describes at 2 Timothy 3:1-7 have an initial fulfillment on the Jewish system of things in the first century? (2 Tim. 3:1-7) w76 512 - How much was the widow’s ‘mite’? w76 543 - The Watchtower (March 1 and 15, 1976, on Hosea) speaks of Jehovah God, the heavenly Husband, as being married to spiritual Israel. How can this be in view of what the apostle Paul says about the Christian congregation as being promised in marriage to one husband, Jesus Christ? (2 Cor. 11:2) Is this not contradictory and confusing? (2 Cor. 11:2) w76 575 - First Corinthians 7:14 states that children of a believing parent “are holy.” Is baptism involved in such a child’s ‘holiness’ in God’s sight? What if the child is retarded? (1 Cor. 7:14) w76 607 - Some modern Bibles at Luke 10:1 say that Jesus sent out seventy-two disciples, but my Bible says seventy. Why is there a difference? (Luke 10:1) w76 639 - Do Jehovah’s Witnesses believe in Jesus Christ? w76 703 - It seems that so often husbands leave to their wives the task of training and disciplining the children. What does the Bible say on this? Is it really ‘the wife’s job’? w76 768 - Jesus spoke of mustard seeds as the smallest of all seeds. Are they actually the smallest seeds on earth?—Matt. 13:31, 32. (Matt. 13:31-32) 1977 - 21 questions
w77 30 - At John 2:20 we read: “This temple was built in forty-six years, and will you raise it up in three days?” How does one calculate this forty-six years? (John 2:20) w77 31 - If an unbelieving husband tries to divorce his Christian wife on a false charge such as mental cruelty or desertion, should she contest the divorce? w77 63 - May a Christian raise or lower a flag at his place of work? w77 95 - Who is the “Lord” mentioned in Romans 10:12, the Lord Jesus Christ or the Lord Jehovah? (Rom. 10:12) w77 159 - What did Jesus mean when he told his apostles that some of them would see him coming in his kingdom before they died? w77 191 - A man I know is progressing toward Christian baptism, but his visa to be in this country has expired. What should I advise him? w77 224 - How can Matthew 10:9, 10 and Mark 6:8, 9 be harmonized? (Matt. 10:9-10; Mark 6:8-9) w77 255 - My wife, who is not a servant of God, loves another man. Would it be fitting for me to divorce her since she likely has ‘committed adultery in her heart,’ as Jesus mentioned in Matthew 5:28? (Matt. 5:28) w77 288 - How were the words of Micah 1:6, 7 fulfilled upon Samaria? (Mic. 1:6-7) w77 319 - In John 1:1 the term “god” is applied to both the Father and the Son, the Word. But in the Greek text the word for “god” (theos) is written differently in these two instances. Why? What does it mean? (John 1:1) w77 383 - When a sister is interpreting for the deaf, would Paul’s counsel at 1 Corinthians 11:3-16 make it necessary for her to cover her head? (1 Cor. 11:3-16) w77 383 - I understood that the Memorial celebration was always on the evening of a full moon. But in 1977 the Memorial was on April 3, and my calendar gave April 4 for the full moon. Why the difference? w77 478 - Abortion, I realize, is wrong from the Biblical standpoint, for it is deliberately taking life. I understood that Exodus 21:22, 23 supported this fact. But recently I read a Bible version that gives these verses a different meaning. What do the verses really say and mean? (Ex. 21:22-23) w77 511 - James 4:5 seems to contain a quotation from the Bible, but which verse was James quoting, and what was his point? (Jas. 4:5) w77 576 - What point was the apostle Paul making at 2 Corinthians 2:15, 16 when referring to himself and his associates as an “odor”? (2 Cor. 2:15-16) w77 607 - My unbelieving husband admitted to me that he has another woman. Is his admission sufficient ground for a Scriptural divorce? w77 639 - What did God mean when he told Jonah that there were in the city of Nineveh more than 120,000 persons “who do not at all know the difference between their right hand and their left”? w77 703 - Is it wrong to take the life of an old or sick pet? w77 704 - Why did Jesus say, in John 16:5: “Not one of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’” when Peter and Thomas had just done so? (John 16:5) w77 735 - In the first of the ten plagues Moses turned all the water of Egypt into blood. The Egyptian priests then appeared to imitate the feat. But where could they have gotten water? w77 768 - What is the meaning of Amos’ prophecy directed against the “cows of Bashan”? 1978 - 26 questions
w78 1/1 32 - Is it improper to make tape recordings of public prayers? w78 1/15 31 - What is meant by “the great city which is in a spiritual sense called Sodom and Egypt” mentioned at Revelation 11:8? (Rev. 11:8) w78 2/1 31 - If children in the household of elders or ministerial servants come under a “charge of debauchery,” what determines whether the family head can continue to serve the congregation in an appointed capacity? w78 2/15 30 - Does the Bible set forth any specific definitions as to what is moral or immoral as regards the sexual relationship between husband and wife? Is it the responsibility of congregational elders to endeavor to exercise control among congregation members in these intimate marital matters? w78 3/15 32 - Is it wrong for a Christian to use a painkiller, since Jesus at his impalement refused wine mixed with a painkiller? w78 4/1 31 - How can one know for sure that the “time and times and half a time” of Revelation 12:14 amount to three and a half times? (Rev. 12:14) w78 4/1 31 - What were the “various baptisms” that Paul mentions in Hebrews 9:10? Did the Hebrews perform water baptism of converts? (Heb. 9:10) w78 4/15 32 - What was Jesus’ point when he said that you do not sew a new patch on an old garment or put new wine in old wineskins? w78 5/1 32 - What is the point of the proverb that says: “The ridiculer you should strike, that the inexperienced one may become shrewd; and there should be a reproving of the understanding one, that he may discern knowledge”? w78 6/1 31 - The Bible says that Moses was vigorous right up till his death. (Deut. 34:7) Why, then, does Moses say in Deuteronomy 31:2 that being a hundred and twenty years old he could no longer “go out and come in” before the Israelites as their leader? (Deut. 34:7; 31:2) w78 6/15 29 - A doctor said that prior to surgery a patient could have some blood withdrawn and stored, in the event that a transfusion is needed during surgery. How should a Christian view such use of his own blood? w78 6/15 30 - What about a device such as a heart-lung pump or a dialysis (artificial kidney) machine? Might a Christian use such? w78 6/15 30 - Would it be wrong to submit to a blood test? w78 6/15 30 - Are serum injections compatible with Christian belief? w78 6/15 31 - How concerned should a Christian be about blood in food products? w78 7/1 31 - What is the point being made in Mark 7:19 where we read: “Thus he [Jesus] declared all foods clean”? (Mark 7:19) w78 7/15 32 - Genesis 11:1 says that before the confusion of tongues at Babel, all the earth spoke one language; yet, earlier, Genesis 10:5 seems to suggest that various tongues already existed. How can this be understood? (Gen. 11:1; 10:5) w78 8/15 31 - In view of the terrible destruction of Dresden, Stalingrad, Hiroshima and Nagasaki in World War II, how could Jesus describe what befell Jerusalem in 70 C.E. as a ‘great tribulation such as had never occurred before, nor would occur again’? w78 9/1 31 - When in the future God resurrects persons on earth, will they be of about the same age and appearance as they were formerly? w78 9/15 30 - I am teaching the Bible to a woman who recently confided in me that she used to shoplift. Must she try to restore all that she stole, or even give herself up to the police, before she will qualify to become a baptized Christian? w78 10/1 31 - Jesus said “this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.” Which generation is this, and how long is it? w78 10/15 30 - Did the apostle Paul disagree with the first-century governing body about eating meat offered to idols, as some conclude from comparing Acts 15:28, 29 with 1 Corinthians chapter 8? (Acts 15:28-29; 1 Cor. 8:1-13) w78 10/15 31 - How should a Christian view attending a religious ceremony, such as a Jewish Bar Mitzvah or the feast that follows it? w78 11/1 31 - Did Jehovah God speak to Adam directly or through an angel? w78 11/15 31 - First Timothy 6:15, 16 mentions “the one alone having immortality.” Why is this applied to Jesus rather than to Jehovah? (1 Tim. 6:15-16) w78 12/15 32 - What did Job mean in saying that he had made a covenant with his eyes and so was not attentive to a virgin? 1979 - 29 questions
w79 1/1 30 - Is it true that for religious reasons Jehovah’s Witnesses may not become members of the YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association)? w79 1/15 30 - Are Christians obliged to report and pay income tax on ‘side jobs’ or tips? w79 1/15 31 - At 1 Corinthians 2:9, was Paul quoting from an apocryphal book? (1 Cor. 2:9) w79 2/15 31 - Why did God’s servant Samson go to a prostitute’s place in the Philistine city of Gaza? w79 2/15 31 - Daniel 12:1 places Michael’s ‘standing up’ as coming before an unprecedented time of distress. Has Michael already ‘stood up,’ or will that occur just before the “great tribulation”? (Dan. 12:1) w79 3/1 31 - Genesis 3:22 suggests that others in heaven besides Jehovah possessed some special knowledge of good and bad. Is that so? (Gen. 3:22) w79 3/15 31 - Lecithin is found in blood. And many processed foods have lecithin as an ingredient. Is such lecithin obtained from blood? w79 4/1 31 - Is Jesus the “mediator” only for anointed Christians? w79 4/1 31 - At Psalm 89:19, who are the “loyal ones” to whom Jehovah spoke in a vision? (Ps. 89:19) w79 4/15 31 - How are we to understand Job 3:14 about kings and counselors who build “desolate places for themselves”? (Job 3:14) w79 4/15 31 - Why did the Mosaic law prescribe capital punishment for anyone who called down evil on his parents? w79 4/15 31 - The parentage of the skilled craftsman sent by Hiram to assist with the temple-building work during Solomon’s reign is described differently in 1 Kings from what it is in 2 Chronicles. Why is this? w79 5/1 31 - Is baptism necessary for a person who wants to be immersed but whose very poor health or old age would make that risky? w79 5/1 31 - If Peter was never in Corinth, why did some there claim to ‘belong to Cephas (Peter),’ and why is that account in the Bible? w79 5/15 30 - Is the use of the birth-control device known as the IUD (intrauterine device) compatible with Christian principles? w79 6/15 31 - Second Samuel 8:13 states that David struck down the Edomites in the Valley of Salt, but 1 Chronicles 18:12 attributes this accomplishment to Abishai, and the superscription of Psalm 60 says that Joab administered the defeat. Why is this? (2 Sam. 8:13; 1 Chron. 18:12; Ps. 60:0) w79 7/1 30 - To what does “the crown of life” mentioned at James 1:12 refer, and who can be said to gain this crown? (Jas. 1:12) w79 7/15 31 - Why could the apostle Paul say: “As for me, through law I died toward law”?—Gal. 2:19. (Gal. 2:19) w79 7/15 31 - Why did Solomon state: “Jehovah himself said he was to reside in the thick gloom”?—1 Ki. 8:12. (1 Ki. 8:12) w79 8/1 31 - Revelation 19:19-21 says that in the coming war of God the symbolic wild beast and false prophet will be cast into the lake of fire, but “the rest” will be killed with a sword. Who are “the rest,” and what will happen to them? (Rev. 19:19-21) w79 8/15 31 - In saying that Jesus was “tested,” does Hebrews 4:15 indicate that God was not sure whether his Son would be faithful? (Heb. 4:15) w79 10/1 31 - Why was the tree stump in King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream banded with two bands? w79 10/15 31 - Would it ever be in order to pray regarding someone who has been disfellowshiped from the Christian congregation? w79 11/1 31 - In my husband’s family it is customary for all the children and grandchildren to gather at his parents’ home for a large meal on December 25. He realizes that, as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, I do not celebrate Christmas. But what about going to the meal? w79 11/1 31 - On my job all employees are given a Christmas bonus. Since I do not believe in Christmas, should I refuse the bonus? w79 11/15 31 - If a man (or, a woman) ran off with another’s mate, could he be forgiven and accepted back into the Christian congregation? w79 12/1 30 - How is it that Christians “judge angels,” according to 1 Corinthians 6:3? (1 Cor. 6:3) w79 12/1 31 - Was it not wrong for Lot to offer his daughters to the Sodomites? w79 12/15 30 - Around December 25 you hear much about ‘three wise men’ being led by a star to Jesus. But did they visit him in Bethlehem or later in Nazareth? 1980 - 26 questions
w80 1/1 31 - What was the “reward” that the apostle Paul enjoyed because of proclaiming the “good news” willingly? w80 1/1 31 - Are there “four horsemen of the Apocalypse”? Or are there five? w80 1/15 30 - Previous to my studying the Bible, my wife and I were divorced, not due to immorality but because we just did not get along. Now I have become a Christian. Biblically, am I free to remarry? w80 1/15 31 - Does not 2 John 7 show that Jesus would return in the flesh? (2 John 1:7) w80 2/15 31 - What is meant at Amos 5:5, which says, “Do not search for Bethel”? (Amos 5:5) w80 3/15 31 - Should congregation action be taken if a baptized Christian accepts a human organ transplant, such as of a cornea or a kidney? w80 4/15 30 - In 1 Corinthians 7:36-38 the New World Translation mentions a man’s giving “his own virginity” in marriage. Most other versions use such phrases as “his virgin daughter” or “his partner in celibacy.” Why do Bibles differ so much in this passage? (1 Cor. 7:36-38) w80 6/1 30 - What was the “meaning of the loaves” that is mentioned in Mark 6:52? (Mark 6:52) w80 6/1 31 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he wrote that the existence of sects among the Corinthians would make manifest persons who were approved? w80 6/15 31 - The Bible records three serious mistakes that David made during his kingship. What shows that God had not failed to do his part to keep David from stumbling, as he did in using Abigail?—1 Sam. 25:32-34. (1 Sam. 25:32-34) w80 6/15 31 - At Habakkuk 2:5, who is the one that “has made his soul spacious just like Sheol,” and what does this mean? (Hab. 2:5) w80 7/1 31 - Why does the November 15, 1979, issue of The Watchtower (pages 26, 27) speak of the “new covenant” being near the end of its operation, when Hebrews 13:20 speaks of this covenant as being “an everlasting covenant”? (Heb. 13:20) w80 7/15 30 - Why is it that Jehovah’s Witnesses do not celebrate birthdays? w80 8/1 30 - When a friend of mine became a Christian, his wife divorced him and refuses even to see him. Though he realizes from the Bible that he is not free to remarry, he has been dating someone. What does the Bible indicate about such dating, and how can I best help him? w80 8/1 31 - Proverbs 10:6 reads: “Blessings are for the head of the righteous one, but as regards the mouth of the wicked ones, it covers up violence.” What do these words mean? (Prov. 10:6) w80 8/15 30 - At Colossians 3:23 Christians are counseled to serve their masters “whole-souled as to Jehovah, and not to men.” Does this mean that secular work done as to Jehovah is part of our sacred service? (Col. 3:23) w80 9/1 29 - What guidance does the Bible provide concerning gambling? For example, would it be bad for a Christian to put up small money stakes in a card game played just for entertainment? w80 9/15 31 - Paul said that a congregational overseer must be “a husband of one wife.” Why would he list that among the qualifications for overseers, since no Christian could be a bigamist or a polygamist? w80 10/1 31 - The conclusion that the Flood occurred 1,656 years after Adam’s creation rests on the ages in the genealogical list in Genesis chapter 5. The Bible there says how old each man was when he became father to the next. But is it not possible that each was some months older or younger, which could change the total considerably? (Gen. 5:1-32) w80 10/15 31 - In speaking of “the sign of [his] presence and of the conclusion of the system of things,” Jesus said to his disciples: “Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur.” (Matt. 24:3, 34) How are we to understand this? (Matt. 24:3, 34) w80 11/1 30 - In view of Judges 4:4, can Deborah be viewed as one of the judges of ancient Israel, along with Samson, Gideon and others? (Judg. 4:4) w80 11/1 30 - Does the missing of Christian meetings in itself constitute an unforgivable sin, since, at Hebrews 10:24-29, the apostle Paul speaks of this sin right after discussing the importance of meetings? (Heb. 10:24-29) w80 11/15 30 - The December 1, 1979, issue of The Watchtower refers to the United Nations as being “the eighth world power.” Is not the Anglo-American, the Seventh World Power, the last world power? w80 11/15 31 - When does the “revealing of the sons of God” take place, as mentioned at Romans 8:19, and for what purpose? (Rom. 8:19) w80 12/1 30 - Should a distinction be made between God’s kingdom and Christ’s kingdom? Also, since the apostle Peter refers to “the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” how is it that Jesus’ rulership comes to an end when he “hands over the kingdom to his God and Father”?—2 Pet. 1:11; 1 Cor. 15:24. (2 Pet. 1:11; 1 Cor. 15:24) w80 12/15 30 - In fulfillment of the first prophecy, at Genesis 3:15, when is the head of the “serpent” bruised by the “seed” of God’s woman? (Gen. 3:15) 1981 - 20 questions
w81 1/1 31 - How is the “breath of life” mentioned at Genesis 2:7 related to the “spirit” of man mentioned elsewhere in the Bible? (Gen. 2:7) w81 1/15 31 - The Commentary on the Letter of James, on page 47, states: “Besides being the God of Christians, Jehovah is also their Father, for he has begotten them by means of his spirit to be his sons.” And the question on page 57 relating to this reads: “How is God also the Father to Christians?” Does this mean that all dedicated and baptized Christians have been begotten by God’s holy spirit to be his sons? w81 2/1 31 - Are Jesus’ words at Matthew 18:18-20 to be understood to mean that heaven is bound by decisions made by men on earth? (Matt. 18:18-20) w81 3/1 30 - When an innocent mate resumes sexual relations with an adulterous mate after learning of the adultery, does such resumption of sex relations constitute evidence of forgiveness by the innocent mate? w81 3/15 30 - According to Hebrews 12:22, 23 (Authorized Version) the apostle Paul speaks of “the spirits of just men made perfect.” Could these “men” be those faithful ones about whom Paul wrote at Hebrews chapter 11? (Heb. 12:22-23; 11:1-40) w81 4/1 31 - Why do some Bible versions render Titus 2:13 as if it were referring only to one person, Jesus, calling him God and Savior? (Titus 2:13) w81 5/1 30 - Since the word “organization” does not occur in the Bible, even in its original languages, what right do we have to say that God has an organization or to speak of God’s organization? w81 6/1 31 - Would it be wrong for a Christian to use wind chimes in his or her home? w81 6/1 31 - In recent years I have read of “test-tube” babies being born. What is the Biblical view of the procedure used in this? w81 6/15 31 - How many Passovers occurred during Jesus’ earthly ministry? w81 7/1 30 - Can a dedicated and baptized Christian take up professional boxing and still remain in good standing with his congregation? w81 7/1 31 - At Matthew 4:1 it is said that “Jesus was led by the spirit up into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil.” Does this refer to God’s holy spirit? (Matt. 4:1) w81 7/15 30 - Romans 8:30 speaks of Christians being “glorified.” When does this occur, and how is this ‘glorifying’ connected with their being “called” and “declared righteous”? (Rom. 8:30) w81 8/1 31 - What is the definition of “Christendom” as used in Watch Tower publications? w81 8/1 31 - The appendix of the 1970 edition of the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (pages 1455 and 1456) states that the Hebrew expression ha-A·dōnʹ is limited to Jehovah God. Why, then, does the footnote to Romans 10:9 (in the 1971 edition) show that this expression does not there refer to Jehovah? (Rom. 10:9) w81 9/1 31 - In the illustration of the 10 virgins (Matt. 25:1-13), who made the cry: “Here is the bridegroom! Be on your way out to meet him”? (Matt. 25:1-13) w81 10/15 30 - How should a Christian view using blood as fertilizer, as animal food or in some other way that does not involve his eating it? w81 11/1 31 - In the parable of the “talents,” who are represented by the three slaves?—Matt. 25:14-30. (Matt. 25:14-30) w81 11/15 30 - When you face difficult trials or tasks, is it appropriate to ask for “a double portion” of God’s spirit, as Elisha did? w81 11/15 31 - Does Matthew 26:74 mean that under pressure the apostle Peter used profanity? (Matt. 26:74) 1982 - 23 questions
w82 1/1 31 - Why did God have Moses ask Pharaoh’s permission ‘to journey for three days into the wilderness,’ since he had purposed that the Israelites leave Egypt permanently? w82 1/15 31 - My son, who was baptized as a teenager, is now married and has a family. Because of the pressure of earning a living he has cooled off spiritually and does not associate with the congregation. Should he be viewed as a “disassociated” person? w82 2/1 31 - As to ‘marking’ a disorderly person in the congregation, can I do this whenever I feel that it is needed, or should I wait until the elders have given a talk on the problem? w82 3/1 31 - What should be used for the emblems at the celebration of the Lord’s Evening Meal, and how should these emblems be treated? w82 3/15 31 - How should individual Christians and the congregation as a whole view the Bible advice to marry “only in the Lord”? w82 4/1 31 - Even as a baby, Jesus was perfect; so why does Luke 2:22-24 speak of Mary’s taking him to Jerusalem ‘when the days for purifying them according to the law came to the full’? (Luke 2:22-24) w82 4/15 31 - What did Jesus mean when he said: “The lamp of the body is the eye. If, then, your eye is simple, your whole body will be bright”? w82 5/1 31 - Why does the rendering of Proverbs 11:16 in the New World Translation differ from some other translations, and how is this verse to be understood? (Prov. 11:16) w82 5/15 31 - Genesis 19:24 speaks of ‘the Lord’ raining down sulfur and fire ‘from the Lord’ on Sodom. Does this indicate that God is a trinity? (Gen. 19:24) w82 6/1 31 - What did Jesus mean when he said about a demon: “This kind cannot get out by anything except by prayer”? w82 6/15 31 - Would it be wrong for a Christian, under medical treatment, to allow leeches to be applied to him to draw off some blood? w82 7/15 30 - Is it all right to break God’s law in order to save a life, as has been reasoned from Matthew 12:1-8? (Matt. 12:1-8) w82 7/15 31 - In The Watchtower of April 15, 1982, page 26, paragraph 19, it states that in the persecution of Jehovah’s Witnesses at Gbarnga, Liberia, in March 1963, a few compromised but the majority maintained their integrity. However, the Yearbook for 1977 states that the majority compromised their faith. Why this discrepancy? w82 8/1 31 - How can Revelation 7:17 be applied to Christians today, for we still cry sometimes? (Rev. 7:17) w82 8/15 30 - How advisable is it to have your child live with worldly relatives simply because they can offer the child material advantages? w82 8/15 31 - Jesus told a man whom he had healed: “Do not sin anymore, in order that something worse does not happen to you.” Did he mean that we get sick because we have sinned? w82 9/1 31 - If a faithful Christian wife has been divorced by her husband, though neither of them is guilty of adultery, would it be Scripturally proper for her to share the marital bed with him when he visits the family? w82 10/1 31 - Why did some Jews think that John the Baptizer was Elijah, as mentioned at John 1:21? (John 1:21) w82 11/1 31 - What was “the sign of Jonah” mentioned in Matthew 16:4? (Matt. 16:4) w82 11/1 31 - Why is the audience sometimes invited to stand for song and prayer at Christian meetings and conventions? w82 11/15 31 - Why is the phrase “which is in heaven” omitted from John 3:13 in the New World Translation and some other versions? (John 3:13) w82 11/15 31 - Was Paul referring to the Jews or to the Gentiles when he said at Romans 1:25 that some “rendered sacred service to the creation rather than the One who created”? (Rom. 1:25) w82 12/1 31 - Revelation 20:5 says that “the rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.” Will this be before the final test or after it? (Rev. 20:5) 1983 - 18 questions
w83 1/1 30 - How can we assist those in our congregation who have a disfellowshipped relative? w83 1/15 31 - At Philippians 2:9 Paul says about Jesus: “God . . . kindly gave him the name that is above every other name.” In what sense was Jesus given a “name that is above every other name”? (Phil. 2:9) w83 2/15 31 - Does Hebrews 1:6 refer to the second coming of Jesus? (Heb. 1:6) w83 3/1 30 - Since Jesus said that Christians are to be “no part of the world,” how should we act with regard to community issues or social concerns, such as environmental conservation? w83 3/1 31 - What is meant by Paul’s words at 1 Corinthians 14:36: “Was it from you that the word of God came forth, or was it only as far as you that it reached?” (1 Cor. 14:36) w83 4/1 31 - Why, in recent years, has The Watchtower not made use of the translation by the former Catholic priest, Johannes Greber? w83 4/1 31 - What does Hebrews 1:7 mean when it says that God “makes his angels spirits, and his public servants a flame of fire”? (Heb. 1:7) w83 4/15 30 - Might the Bible’s prohibition about blood apply only to blood from a victim killed by man, not to unbled meat of an animal that died of itself or blood from a live animal or human? w83 5/15 31 - Was Samuel a prophet? I had thought so, but reading Hebrews 11:32 in my Bible suggests that he may not have been. (Heb. 11:32) w83 6/1 31 - Why did Stephen, at Acts 7:14, say that there were 75 persons in Jacob’s household when they moved into Egypt, whereas Genesis 46:26 says that there were 66 and Genesis 46:27 mentions 70? (Acts 7:14; Gen. 46:26, 27) w83 7/15 31 - Since a brother who continues in armed employment would not be regarded as exemplary, would it be wrong for one of Jehovah’s Witnesses to seek the protection of armed law-enforcement officers? w83 8/15 31 - Childbirth is a natural process, so would it be wrong for a Christian to practice as a midwife, despite not meeting the state’s license or certification requirements? w83 8/15 31 - Should one speak of “chapters” regarding the sections of the Bible book of Psalms? w83 9/1 31 - When Hebrews 8:13 spoke of the Law covenant as “growing old . . . [and] near to vanishing away,” was it referring to the approaching end of the Jewish system in 70 C.E.? (Heb. 8:13) w83 10/1 31 - Does Jesus’ promise of everlasting life, as given at John 11:25, 26, apply only to the anointed, or do these words embrace also the “great crowd,” who look forward to life in the Paradise earth? (John 11:25-26) w83 11/1 31 - Did the Pharaoh of the Exodus die when the Egyptian army was destroyed in the Red Sea? w83 12/1 31 - Do the restoration prophecies of Isaiah and other ancient prophets have their final fulfillment in the spiritual paradise of God’s people today, or do they also have a literal application to the Paradise of the future “new earth”? w83 12/15 30 - Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses say that there will be a future Paradise on earth, since 2 Corinthians 12:1-4 links “paradise” with “the third heaven”? (2 Cor. 12:1-4) 1984 - 23 questions
w84 1/15 31 - Is there any Scriptural reason why Jehovah’s Witnesses should not accept blood substitutes or “artificial blood”? w84 2/15 31 - How does what Jesus said in John chapter 10 about sheepfolds relate to the Abrahamic covenant? (John 10:1-42) w84 3/1 31 - Is Jesus the “God” referred to at Hebrews 1:8? (Heb. 1:8) w84 3/1 31 - In Jesus’ parable of the wheat among the weeds, do the “weeds” include those who recently have become apostates? w84 3/15 30 - My friend had a miscarriage. As a woman I sympathize with her, but would it be proper to encourage her to hope in a resurrection? w84 3/15 31 - Since the Bible speaks of certain men as “anointed” because they were specially chosen, or appointed, by God, could all overseers today be termed “anointed ones”? w84 4/1 30 - What is the difference between immortality and everlasting life? w84 4/1 31 - Is it correct to conclude from John 20:25 that Jesus was impaled with a separate nail through each hand? (John 20:25) w84 5/1 31 - Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses decline to exchange their Bible study aids for the religious literature of people they meet? w84 5/15 30 - If the child of a congregation elder is guilty of serious wrongdoing, does that automatically disqualify the father from being an elder? w84 5/15 31 - Could a Christian accept a bone-marrow transplant, since blood is made in the marrow? w84 6/15 30 - Since Jehovah’s decree at Jeremiah 22:30 prevented a descendant of Jehoiachin (Jeconiah, or Coniah) from ever being on the throne of David, would this not annul any right of Joseph to confer upon Jesus the legal right to the kingdom? (Jer. 22:30) w84 6/15 31 - Would it be wrong to smoke nontobacco cigarettes as an aid in overcoming tobacco addiction? w84 7/1 31 - Once a person becomes one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, is he always counted as such? w84 7/1 31 - If Moses truly was meek and modest, how could he write in Numbers 12:3 that ‘Moses was by far the meekest of all men’? (Num. 12:3) w84 7/15 31 - First Timothy 4:10 calls God “a Savior of all sorts of men, especially of faithful ones.” So will any unfaithful ones be saved? (1 Tim. 4:10) w84 9/1 31 - How did the serpent in the garden of Eden communicate the temptation to Eve? w84 9/15 31 - Hebrews 3:1-6 mentions Moses, Jesus and Jehovah God in connection with a “house,” but what “house” is meant? (Heb. 3:1-6) w84 10/1 30 - Since the Christian way of life is said to be rewarding even now, why did Paul write: “If in this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are of all men most to be pitied”? w84 10/15 31 - Do Jehovah’s Witnesses regard alcoholism as a disease? w84 11/1 31 - Does Jesus’ producing so much wine at the marriage in Cana indicate that hundreds attended that feast? w84 11/1 31 - Why has The Watchtower referred to incidents recorded in First Maccabees, since that book is part of the Apocrypha? w84 11/15 31 - Why do children of Jehovah’s Witnesses not do holiday-oriented classwork, since other students carry out such assignments regardless of their religion? 1985 - 17 questions
w85 2/15 31 - If a Christian cannot be at the celebration of the Lord’s Evening Meal, what should he do? w85 3/1 31 - When Abraham (and later Isaac) represented his wife as his sister, was this an example of the wife-sister relationship that once existed in the Middle East? w85 3/15 31 - Was it predetermined that Adam and Eve would have to die, since Hebrews 9:27 says that “it is reserved for men to die once for all time, but after this a judgment”? (Heb. 9:27) w85 4/15 30 - If a Christian feels that someone in the congregation is not the best of association because of that person’s conduct or attitude, should he personally ‘mark’ that individual in accord with 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 15? (2 Thess. 3:14-15) w85 5/1 31 - In view of reports that doctors may be able to reverse a voluntary sterilization, might not some Christians choose it as a form of birth control? w85 5/15 31 - Since it was the two-tribe kingdom of Judah that was taken captive to Babylon in 607 B.C.E., how was it that members of all 12 tribes of Israel returned from Babylon 70 years later? w85 6/1 31 - Are there things that we should avoid saying when we pray to Jehovah? w85 6/15 31 - Was Dinah, the daughter of Jacob, raped by Shechem, and was it solely an act of violence, or did he want to marry her? w85 7/1 31 - What is symbolized by “the feet and the toes” of the “immense image” described at Daniel 2:31-45? (Dan. 2:31-45) w85 7/15 30 - Did 2 John 10, which says not to receive into one’s home or to greet certain ones, refer only to those who had promoted false doctrine? (2 John 1:10) w85 8/1 31 - How does the holy spirit work along with the modern-day Governing Body in the appointment of elders? w85 9/15 31 - How was Jerusalem “in slavery with her children,” as the apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 4:25? (Gal. 4:25) w85 10/1 31 - The Bible says that Samson ripped apart a lion “just as someone tears a male kid in two.” Does that mean that it was common for people back then to tear apart young goats? w85 10/15 30 - Are the remnant of the Lord’s anointed on earth a part of Jehovah’s heavenly, wifely organization, “Jerusalem above”? w85 10/15 31 - Do those of the “great crowd” become part of Jehovah’s universal organization? w85 11/1 31 - Does a “Declaration Pledging Faithfulness” in an existing marital relationship have the same permanence as a legalized marriage? w85 12/1 31 - Was the apostle Paul part of the Christian governing body? 1986 - 20 questions
w86 1/1 31 - Since Psalm 37:29 has been translated “The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever,” does it refer simply to Israel’s permanently occupying the Promised Land? (Ps. 37:29) w86 2/15 30 - In John 6:53, was Jesus referring only to anointed Christians when he commented: “Most truly I say to you, Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in yourselves”? (John 6:53) w86 2/15 31 - Gospel accounts and reference works seem to differ as to when Jesus ate at the house of Simon the leper in Bethany and was anointed with perfumed oil. When was it? w86 3/15 31 - After David and Bath-sheba sinned, why did their son have to die, since Deuteronomy 24:16 and Ezekiel 18:20 say that a son is not to die for his father’s error? (Deut. 24:16; Ezek. 18:20) w86 4/1 30 - Why have Jehovah’s Witnesses disfellowshipped (excommunicated) for apostasy some who still profess belief in God, the Bible, and Jesus Christ? w86 5/1 31 - Are Jehovah’s Witnesses as firm about gluttony among their members as they are about the harmful tobacco habit? w86 5/15 31 - What did Jesus mean in saying that “the water” that he dispensed would become “a fountain of water bubbling up to impart everlasting life”? w86 6/1 31 - Did Jonathan lose God’s favor when he ate some honey after King Saul cursed any soldier who would eat before the fighting was over? w86 6/1 31 - How many judges, such as Samson and Gideon, were there? w86 7/1 31 - How could Jesus be “a god” who was created by Jehovah when in Isaiah 43:10 Jehovah says: “Before me there was no God formed, and after me there continued to be none”? (Isa. 43:10) w86 7/15 31 - In Jesus’ illustration about a rich man who was not rich toward God, who were the “they” that demanded the man’s soul? w86 8/1 31 - Can a Christian who has earthly hopes be spoken of as part of the “great crowd” now, in view of the fact that he has not yet survived “the great tribulation”?—Revelation 7:9, 14. (Rev. 7:9, 14) w86 8/15 31 - Who or what is pictured by “Leviathan” of Isaiah 27:1? (Isa. 27:1) w86 9/1 30 - Is there a distinction between “creation” and “creationism”? w86 10/1 30 - How can a Christian distinguish between bribing (condemned in the Bible) and giving a “tip” or “gift” for a service rendered? w86 10/15 31 - What is the fitting response of the congregation if someone leaves the true Christian faith and joins another religion? w86 10/15 31 - When the Jews returned to Jerusalem from captivity in Babylon, was their trip about 500 miles (800 km) or 1,000 miles (1,600 km)? w86 11/1 31 - I have been of the understanding that since man’s fall into sin God has dealt with humans only through his Son. So how could Jehovah deal directly with Satan, as the book of Job shows? w86 11/15 31 - Why did David knowingly endanger Ahimelech the high priest, leading to the priest’s death, as David confessed in 1 Samuel 22:22? (1 Sam. 22:22) w86 11/15 31 - Is it appropriate for two or three brothers to share in immersing a person during Christian baptism? 1987 - 16 questions
w87 1/1 30 - In ancient Israel a cycle of 49 years was followed by a Jubilee year (50th year). Does that Jubilee correspond to the period following God’s creative week of 49,000 years? w87 2/15 31 - Once someone has signed a Declaration Pledging Faithfulness, can that arrangement be terminated? w87 3/15 31 - What is meant at 2 Samuel 18:8, which says: “The forest did more in eating up the people than the sword did”? (2 Sam. 18:8) w87 4/1 31 - Is it fitting for a Christian to permit an autopsy on a relative? w87 4/15 31 - May a person making a dedication of his life to Jehovah God rightly speak of it as a vow? w87 5/1 30 - Is it fitting to speak of a coming “new world”? w87 5/15 31 - Moses told the Israelites that “the things revealed belong to us and to our sons to time indefinite.” (Deuteronomy 29:29) Have these “things revealed” come to include the light that has been shed on God’s Word during these last days? (Deut. 29:29) w87 6/1 30 - Is it wise for a Christian whose mate has died to remain single in the hope of being reunited in the future? w87 6/15 31 - When on the stake, Jesus cried: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Did he lack faith, believing that God had deserted him? w87 7/15 31 - Are Jehovah and Jesus the ones meant at Proverbs 30:4, which asks: “What is his name and what the name of his son?” (Prov. 30:4) w87 9/1 29 - What is God’s “book of life,” and how can my name be written in it and kept there? w87 9/15 31 - What is “the seed of God” mentioned at Malachi 2:15? (Mal. 2:15) w87 10/1 30 - Why did Jesus say that a proselyte of the Pharisees was “a subject for Gehenna twice as much so” as the Pharisees? w87 10/15 30 - What was Moses’ error that cost him the privilege of entering the Promised Land? Was it that he hit the rock instead of just speaking to it or that he failed to glorify Jehovah God? w87 11/15 29 - Was Paul referring to Jehovah or to Jesus when he wrote: ‘The Lord said to me: “My power is being made perfect in weakness”’? w87 12/1 31 - Some scholars contend that “rope” should replace “camel” at Matthew 19:24, which reads: “It is easier for a camel to get through a needle’s eye.” Which word is correct? (Matt. 19:24) 1988 - 13 questions
w88 1/15 30 - Who were “the twelve” that Jesus appeared to, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15:5? (1 Cor. 15:5) w88 2/1 30 - Why do so few of Jehovah’s Witnesses partake of the bread and the wine at the yearly celebration of the Lord’s Evening Meal? w88 2/15 31 - God’s people are supposed to ‘care for those who are their own,’ so how could Abraham just send Hagar and Ishmael off into the wilderness? w88 5/15 31 - What did Jesus do “to prepare a place” in heaven for his followers? w88 6/1 30 - Do Jesus’ words at Matthew 11:24 mean that those whom Jehovah destroyed by fire in Sodom and Gomorrah will be resurrected? (Matt. 11:24) w88 6/15 31 - In view of Jesus’ words at John 15:15, should Christians view themselves as his “slaves,” or can we consider ourselves to be his “friends”? (John 15:15) w88 7/1 31 - Did the Jews have legal authority to execute Jesus, as suggested by Pilate’s words at John 19:6? (John 19:6) w88 7/15 30 - Was Jesus referring to Judas when he told Pilate: “This is why the man that handed me over to you has greater sin”?—John 19:11. (John 19:11) w88 7/15 30 - What was the point of Jehovah’s telling Ezekiel that his face was to be hard, like the faces of the Jews? w88 8/1 31 - Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would have no sin.” (John 9:41) Did he mean that some humans are sinless? (John 9:41) w88 9/1 31 - Did sick and crippled individuals actually get healed in the disturbed waters of Bethzatha, as John 5:2-7 suggests? And if so, by what power did those miracles occur? (John 5:2-7) w88 10/1 30 - Since Daniel had said that he would not accept gifts from King Belshazzar for interpreting the handwriting on the wall, why was he found wearing the clothing and necklace afterward? w88 11/1 31 - To what was Jesus referring as “these” when he asked the apostle Peter, “Do you love me more than these?” 1989 - 17 questions
w89 1/15 31 - Why did Jesus promise that those putting faith in him ‘would never die at all,’ when in fact all his listeners did die?—John 11:25, 26. (John 11:25-26) w89 2/1 31 - Did the Law covenant end when Jesus died on the stake, and when was it replaced by the new covenant? w89 2/15 29 - Does the material on being approved by God mean that Christians may speak to one who once was considered an “approved associate” but later, because of wrongdoing, was to be avoided? w89 2/15 29 - In view of Titus 1:6, must a man’s children all be baptized if he is to qualify to be an elder in the congregation? (Titus 1:6) w89 3/1 30 - Do Jehovah’s Witnesses allow the use of autologous blood (autotransfusion), such as by having their own blood stored and later put back into them? w89 4/1 30 - Why did The Watchtower of September 15, 1988, indicate that Protestantism has defiled herself even more than Roman Catholicism? w89 5/1 31 - Does Jehovah use trickery or deception with people, including his servants, as Jeremiah 4:10 and Jer 20:7 seem to suggest? (Jer. 4:10; 20:7) w89 5/15 31 - Was the apostle Paul showing ethnic prejudice in agreeing with a blanket criticism of the Cretan people? w89 6/15 29 - Is it compatible with Bible principles for a Christian married couple to use birth control pills? w89 7/1 29 - Is there a minimum age for a Christian man to be recommended as a ministerial servant in the congregation? w89 7/15 30 - Is it appropriate for a Christian to buy lottery tickets as mere entertainment if the proceeds go to a charity? w89 8/1 29 - Why does Lamentations 4:10 refer to mothers who ate their own children as “compassionate women”? (Lam. 4:10) w89 8/15 30 - ◻ Is Jesus the Mediator only for spirit-anointed Christians or for all mankind, since 1 Timothy 2:5, 6 speaks of him as the “mediator” who “gave himself a corresponding ransom for all”? (1 Tim. 2:5-6) w89 9/15 31 - Scientists hold that some stars burn out or explode, so why does Isaiah 40:26 say that “not one of [the stars] is missing”? (Isa. 40:26) w89 10/1 30 - Did first-century Christians believe that the end of this wicked system would come within their lifetime? w89 11/15 31 - Why did God’s Law say that an Israelite man who had sex relations with an unengaged virgin had to marry her and could never divorce her? w89 12/1 31 - In view of the new information about unbaptized ones starting out in the public ministry, may a Bible student be invited along for a while to see how the work is done? 1990 - 11 questions
w90 2/15 29 - Should a Christian avoid coffee and tea because they contain the addictive drug caffeine? w90 3/15 31 - Should we conclude from Matthew 7:13, 14 and Luke 13:24 that even in the resurrection, most humans will reject true worship? (Matt. 7:13-14; Luke 13:24) w90 4/1 31 - When did the seven angelic trumpet blasts of Revelation begin to sound? w90 5/1 30 - Did Jehovah God speak to Adam directly, or did he speak through the Word, the only-begotten Son of God? w90 5/15 30 - Is it appropriate for a Christian to go hunting or fishing? w90 6/1 30 - Do Jehovah’s Witnesses accept injections of a blood fraction, such as immune globulin or albumin? w90 8/15 30 - Will some anointed Christians survive the “great tribulation” to live on earth in the new world before being taken to heaven? w90 10/15 30 - Why does the New World Translation render the Hebrew word ʽa·rumʹ at Genesis 3:1 as “cautious” since other Bible translations say “cunning” or “clever”? (Gen. 3:1) w90 10/15 30 - Since Jehovah’s Witnesses know that the dead are unconscious, why do they still feel it is important to attend funerals of fellow believers? w90 12/1 30 - At Romans 8:27, the New World Translation renders the Greek phroʹne·ma as “meaning,” but in Ro 8 verses 6 and 7, the rendering is “minding.” Why is the same Greek word translated differently? (Rom. 8:6-7, 27) w90 12/1 30 - Why does the New World Translation at times render the Greek word pi·steuʹo as “believe” (like most translations) and at other times as “exercise [or put] faith in”? 1991 - 16 questions
w91 1/1 30 - Did the young Jewish woman Esther have immoral sex with the Persian king to win his favor and thus gain advantages? w91 2/1 29 - Why is the rendering of 2 Peter 1:19 in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures different from that in other Bibles? (2 Pet. 1:19) w91 2/15 31 - Job 33:24 speaks of “a ransom” being found for Job, allowing him to avoid dying. Who was to be that ransom for Job? (Job 33:24) w91 3/1 31 - Angels are spirits, without material bodies, so why do you show them in illustrations as having wings? Is this just religious tradition? w91 3/15 29 - Which Bible writer was a “general,” as mentioned in the book The Bible—God’s Word or Man’s?a w91 4/1 31 - John 18:15 mentions a disciple known to the high priest. Is this the same disciple who earlier fled “naked,” as reported at Mark 14:51, 52? (John 18:15; Mark 14:51-52) w91 5/15 31 - At Matthew 10:21, was Jesus warning us that many brothers in the congregation will turn against their spiritual brothers? (Matt. 10:21) w91 6/1 30 - Is it fitting for a Christian woman to use jewelry or makeup, dye her hair, or follow similar practices? w91 6/15 31 - How strenuously should a Christian resist a blood transfusion that has been ordered or authorized by a court? w91 7/15 31 - Why did Jesus institute the Memorial with only the apostles and not other disciples who would be taken into the new covenant? w91 8/1 31 - What basic counsel is Proverbs 27:23 offering to spiritual shepherds as well as to Christians in general? (Prov. 27:23) w91 9/1 31 - What was “the good” that the apostle Paul could not do, as he mentioned at Romans 7:19? (Rom. 7:19) w91 9/15 31 - Why does Isaiah 11:6 say that “the wolf will actually reside for a while with the male lamb”? Will such peace not be permanent? (Isa. 11:6) w91 10/15 30 - When someone dies, is it proper for Christians to give flowers to the family or to send flowers to the funeral home? w91 11/15 31 - Why is 29 C.E. considered to be a pivotal date in Bible history rather than 14 C.E., the start of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, who is mentioned at Luke 3:1? (Luke 3:1) w91 12/15 28 - What should a Christian family do if their child has to attend a school where religious instruction is compulsory? 1992 - 13 questions
w92 1/15 31 - Why did Noah send out from the ark a raven and then a dove? w92 2/1 31 - Did Pharaoh actually marry Sarah, Abraham’s wife, as it appears from the rendering of Genesis 12:19 in some Bible versions? (Gen. 12:19) w92 2/15 29 - Should we conclude from Matthew 11:11 that Jesus knew in advance that John the Baptizer would die before Jesus? (Matt. 11:11) w92 3/1 31 - Hebrews 9:16 says that a covenanter must die for a covenant to become valid. But God made the new covenant, and he did not die. So how can we understand this verse? (Heb. 9:16) w92 4/1 31 - Was Zechariah, the father of John the Baptizer, made deaf as well as mute, as Luke 1:62 seems to indicate? (Luke 1:62) w92 6/1 31 - Does the Bible support the existence of unicorns, which are mentioned in some versions? w92 6/15 30 - How do Jehovah’s Witnesses view the purchasing of stolen goods? w92 7/1 31 - Did the writer of Proverbs 30:19 truly feel that how a man slyly seduces a maiden was “too wonderful”? (Prov. 30:19) w92 8/1 31 - Should we understand from Job 1:8 that during the period when Job lived, he was the only human who was faithful to Jehovah? (Job 1:8) w92 9/1 30 - Do Jehovah’s Witnesses avoid celebrating birthdays because the practice had some religious meaning in ancient times? w92 10/15 30 - How concerned should Christians be that blood components, such as dried plasma, might have been added to food products? w92 11/15 30 - At Hebrews 11:26, is Moses being spoken of as “the Christ,” or was he rather a type of Jesus Christ? (Heb. 11:26) w92 12/1 30 - Does Matthew 28:17 mean that some apostles continued to doubt long after the resurrected Jesus had appeared to them? (Matt. 28:17) 1993 - 10 questions
w93 1/1 31 - What responsibility do Christians have in slowing down the polluting of our environment—land, sea, and air? w93 1/15 31 - What can a Christian do when he or she is unable to find a suitable marriage partner? w93 2/1 31 - If a Christian is sick or is traveling and thus not able to be at the Memorial celebration, should he celebrate it a month later? w93 5/15 31 - Will people be resurrected if they do not accept true Christianity now and die before the start of the great tribulation? w93 6/15 31 - Since Christians do not wager money, may they accept tickets or participate in drawings in which they may win prizes? w93 8/1 31 - Should John who baptized Jesus be referred to as “John the Baptist” or as “John the Baptizer”? w93 9/15 31 - At Romans 9:3, the apostle Paul wrote: “I could wish that I myself were separated as the cursed one from the Christ in behalf of my brothers, my relatives according to the flesh.” Did he mean that he would sacrifice his life to save fellow Jews? (Rom. 9:3) w93 10/1 29 - Would it be fitting for a Christian to go into business with an unbeliever, since the Bible tells us: “Do not become unevenly yoked with unbelievers”? w93 10/15 31 - Does the expression “gifted with the spirit,” found at 1 Corinthians 14:37, mean that a person has received holy spirit in the sense of being anointed, or does it mean that he has a miraculous gift from the spirit? (1 Cor. 14:37) w93 11/15 31 - Since the ancient priest named Melchizedek was a real human, why does the Bible say that he was “without genealogy”? 1994 - 8 questions
w94 1/15 31 - Since the Bible often mentions “the fatherless boy,” does this indicate less concern for girls? w94 2/1 31 - God warned Cain that ‘sin was crouching at the entrance and for him was its craving,’ which seems to allude to a wild beast and its prey. (Genesis 4:7) Why would that language be used if before the Flood, animals ate only vegetation? (Gen. 4:7) w94 4/15 31 - When Saul’s soldiers ate meat along with the blood, why were they not executed, since that was the punishment set out in God’s Law? w94 8/1 31 - We enjoyed studying prophecies of Daniel as treated in “The Watchtower.” Why, though, did the dates for the three and a half times of Revelation 11:3 differ from the “Revelation Climax” book? (Rev. 11:3) w94 8/15 31 - Since Jesus descended from both Jesse and David, why is he called “the root” of his ancestors Jesse and David? w94 9/15 30 - In these difficult economic times, more and more individuals and companies are resorting to bankruptcy. Is it Scripturally proper for a Christian to file for bankruptcy? w94 10/1 31 - Would it be proper to accept a vaccination or some other medical injection containing albumin derived from human blood? w94 10/15 31 - At Matthew 3:7, why does the “New World Translation” use the longer expression “caught sight of” rather than “saw” as used in many other Bible translations? (Matt. 3:7) 1995 - 11 questions
w95 2/1 31 - Who were the Philistines mentioned in the Bible? w95 4/1 30 - What attitude should be displayed at Christian baptisms? w95 4/15 31 - Technically speaking, is there a difference between the Biblical terms “other sheep” and “great crowd”? w95 6/1 30 - How do the benefits of Christ Jesus’ high-priestly services, mentioned at Hebrews 4:15, 16, apply to the “other sheep” now? (Heb. 4:15-16) w95 6/15 31 - According to Galatians 6:8, “he who is sowing with a view to his flesh will reap corruption from his flesh, but he who is sowing with a view to the spirit will reap everlasting life from the spirit.” What “spirit” is meant, and how can we thus reap life? (Gal. 6:8) w95 7/1 31 - Was God being partial in choosing for the early governing body men who had the same racial and national background—all being Jews? w95 7/15 31 - Was Mary who became the mother of Jesus already pregnant when she went to visit her relative Elizabeth? w95 8/1 31 - First John 4:18 tells us: “There is no fear in love, but perfect love throws fear outside.” But Peter wrote: “Have love for the whole association of brothers, be in fear of God.” (1 Peter 2:17) How can we harmonize these two verses? (1 John 4:18; 1 Pet. 2:17) w95 9/15 30 - What did the disciple James mean when he said: “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, knowing that we shall receive heavier judgment”?—James 3:1. (Jas. 3:1) w95 11/1 30 - At 1 Peter 2:9, the “King James Version” calls anointed Christians “a chosen generation.” Should this affect our view of Jesus’ use of “generation” recorded at Matthew 24:34? (1 Pet. 2:9; Matt. 24:34) w95 11/15 30 - At Philippians 2:9, Paul said about Jesus: “God exalted him to a superior position and kindly gave him the name that is above every other name.” What is this new name? And if Jesus is inferior to Jehovah, how is Jesus’ name above every other name? (Phil. 2:9) 1996 - 9 questions
w96 1/15 31 - Ephesians 3:14, 15 says that to God “every family in heaven and on earth owes its name.” Are there families in heaven, and does each human family somehow get its name from Jehovah? (Eph. 3:14-15) w96 4/15 28 - Jesus said: “If you forgive the sins of any persons, they stand forgiven to them; if you retain those of any persons, they stand retained.” Do these words mean that Christians can forgive sins? w96 5/1 31 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he said that he was “forgetting the things behind and stretching forward to the things ahead”? (Philippians 3:13) Can a person deliberately forget something? (Phil. 3:13) w96 6/1 31 - We sometimes hear brothers speak of or pray for God’s Kingdom to come to the earth. Is this a correct expression? w96 6/15 31 - Can we say that God’s servants today who have the earthly hope have as much of God’s spirit as do spirit-anointed Christians? w96 7/15 30 - I understand that the Greek word “toʹte” (then) is used to introduce what follows. So why does Matthew 24:9 read: “Then [“toʹte”] people will deliver you up to tribulation,” whereas the parallel account at Luke 21:12 says: “But before all these things people will lay their hands upon you and persecute you”? (Matt. 24:9; Luke 21:12) w96 8/1 30 - Does Jesus now know the timing of Armageddon? w96 8/15 30 - The reports for some years show that the number partaking of the Memorial emblems increased slightly. Does this suggest that many new ones are being anointed with holy spirit? w96 9/1 30 - Would it be wise for a Christian to consult a mental-health practitioner? 1997 - 10 questions
w97 2/1 29 - According to news reports, after a baby is delivered, some hospitals save the placenta and umbilical cord to extract things from their blood. Should this concern a Christian? w97 2/1 29 - The article “Let Us Abhor What Is Wicked,” appearing in “The Watchtower” of January 1, 1997, seemed to be focusing on pedophilia. How is this practice to be defined? w97 2/15 29 - “The Watchtower” of August 15, 1996, said: “In the final part of the tribulation, ‘flesh’ that has fled to Jehovah’s side will be saved.” Is that suggesting that after the first phase of the great tribulation, many new ones will come over to God’s side? w97 4/1 27 - What should a Christian do when called for jury duty? w97 5/1 29 - Could it be said that the recently updated understanding of the word “generation” at Matthew 24:34 allows for the idea that the end of the system of things could be delayed into the distant future? (Matt. 24:34) w97 6/1 28 - “The Watchtower” of November 1, 1995, focused on what Jesus said about “this generation,” as we read at Matthew 24:34. Does this mean that there is some question about whether God’s Kingdom was set up in heaven in 1914? (Matt. 24:34) w97 6/15 30 - What does the Bible indicate about capital punishment, the death penalty, for criminals? w97 7/1 30 - We were thrilled with our study of Jesus’ parable of the sheep and the goats. In view of the new understanding presented in “The Watchtower” of October 15, 1995, can we still say that Jehovah’s Witnesses today are sharing in a separating work? w97 8/1 30 - Since Jehovah’s Witnesses strive to be honest and they trust one another, why do they feel that it is important to make a written contract when there are business dealings between them? w97 8/15 30 - Is the Tetragrammaton (the four Hebrew letters of God’s name) found in the Hebrew text of Matthew copied by the 14th-century Jewish physician Shem-Tob ben Isaac Ibn Shaprut? 1998 - 3 questions
w98 6/15 30 - Jesus urged: “Exert yourselves vigorously to get in through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will seek to get in but will not be able.” (Luke 13:24) What did he mean, and how does it apply today? (Luke 13:24) w98 8/1 30 - According to Matthew 17:20, the apostles were unable to cure an afflicted boy ‘because of their little faith.’ At Mark 9:29, however, their inability is linked to a need for prayer. Why are different reasons given in different Gospel accounts? (Matt. 17:20; Mark 9:29) w98 10/15 30 - Many of Jehovah’s Witnesses observe wedding anniversaries. A birthday is an anniversary of when you were born. So why celebrate wedding anniversaries and not birthday anniversaries? 1999 - 5 questions
w99 4/15 28 - Some of Jehovah’s Witnesses have been offered employment involving religious buildings or property. What is the Scriptural view of such work? w99 6/15 27 - Since sterilization procedures are now said to be reversible on request, might a Christian view them as a birth-control option? w99 7/15 29 - Is the ‘marking’ mentioned at 2 Thessalonians 3:14 a formal congregational process, or is it something that Christians individually do in avoiding unruly ones? (2 Thess. 3:14) w99 8/15 30 - How seriously should Christians view an engagement to marry? w99 11/1 28 - How do Jehovah’s Witnesses view voting? 2000 - 6 questions
w00 3/15 29 - At Romans 12:19, was the apostle Paul indicating that Christians should not become wrathful, when he said: “Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but yield place to the wrath”? (Rom. 12:19) w00 4/15 31 - Three of the Gospels relate the complaint about Jesus’ being anointed with costly oil. Did many apostles complain, or was it primarily Judas? w00 6/15 29 - Do Jehovah’s Witnesses accept any medical products derived from blood? w00 8/15 31 - Isaiah chapter 53 contains a famous Messianic prophecy. Isa 53 Verse 10 says: “Jehovah himself took delight in crushing him; he made him sick.” What does this mean? (Isa. 53:1-12) w00 10/15 30 - In the light of Bible commands about the proper use of blood, how do Jehovah’s Witnesses view medical procedures using one’s own blood? w00 12/15 28 - To what extent need a faithful Christian wife resist a divorce action brought by her mate? 2001 - 15 questions
w01 2/15 28 - How should true Christians view the common practice of individuals’ giving to others copies of commercial software programs for computers? w01 5/15 27 - When was “the Holy of Holies” anointed, as foretold at Daniel 9:24? (Dan. 9:24) w01 6/1 30 - In view of Jehovah’s willingness to forgive sins by the merit of the ransom sacrifice, why is it necessary for Christians to confess to the older men in the congregation? w01 6/15 31 - Why does the New World Translation at 2 Peter 3:13 speak of “new heavens [plural] and a new earth,” whereas Revelation 21:1 foretells “a new heaven [singular] and a new earth”? (2 Pet. 3:13; Rev. 21:1) w01 7/15 28 - At 1 Peter 4:3, we read that some Christians had once shared in “illegal idolatries.” Are not all idolatries illegal, condemned and forbidden by God? (1 Pet. 4:3) w01 8/1 31 - Where was Daniel when the three Hebrews were tested before the huge image that Nebuchadnezzar had erected on the plain of Dura? w01 8/15 31 - For how long a period of time did Job suffer? w01 9/1 31 - Colossians 1:16 says about God’s Son that “all other things have been created through him and for him.” In what sense were all things created “for” God’s Son, Jesus? (Col. 1:16) w01 9/15 28 - What does it mean to worship Jehovah “with spirit”? w01 10/1 30 - What is the “rest” referred to at Hebrews 4:9-11, and how does one “enter into that rest”? (Heb. 4:9-11) w01 10/15 31 - How were the poles for carrying the ark of the covenant positioned, since 1 Kings 8:8 indicates that they were visible from the Holy? (1 Ki. 8:8) w01 11/1 31 - Did Jehovah make his covenant with Abraham in Ur or in Haran? w01 11/15 27 - How did the serpent in the garden of Eden convey to Eve the idea to break God’s law regarding the tree of the knowledge of good and bad? w01 12/1 30 - Does God’s direction recorded at Jeremiah 7:16 mean that Christians would not pray about someone who has been expelled from the Christian congregation because he is an unrepentant sinner? (Jer. 7:16) w01 12/15 28 - How can a Christian wife balance loyalty to God with submission to her unbelieving husband if he shares in religious holiday activities? 2002 - 18 questions
w02 2/1 29 - To what extent do the limits on marriage between relatives set out in the Mosaic Law apply to Christians today? w02 2/15 29 - What is the meaning of the comment at Hebrews 12:4: “You have never yet resisted as far as blood”? (Heb. 12:4) w02 3/1 30 - Is it correct to say that Jehovah’s mercy tempers his justice? w02 3/15 19 - Did the imperfection of the virgin girl Mary have a negative effect on the conception of Jesus? w02 4/15 31 - Is it proper to approach God in prayer without saying something like “in Jesus’ name”? w02 5/1 30 - When John saw the “great crowd” rendering sacred service in Jehovah’s temple, in which part of the temple were they doing this?—Revelation 7:9-15. (Rev. 7:9-15) w02 5/15 28 - Would it be advisable for a true Christian to attend a funeral or a wedding in a church? w02 6/1 29 - Is complete immersion in water required if a person wants to be baptized but has a severe handicap or is in very poor health, which would make immersion difficult? w02 6/15 30 - If someone commits suicide, would it be advisable for a Christian minister to give the funeral talk? w02 7/15 26 - In what situations is it appropriate for a Christian woman to wear a head covering for spiritual reasons? w02 8/1 28 - Did Abel know that an animal sacrifice was needed to gain God’s favor? w02 8/15 30 - What guidance do the Scriptures provide about child training when one parent is one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and the other is not? w02 9/15 30 - • Is Lucifer a name that the Bible uses for Satan? w02 9/15 30 - • Why does 1 Chronicles 2:13-15 refer to David as the seventh son of Jesse, whereas 1 Samuel 16:10, 11 indicates that he was the eighth? (1 Chron. 2:13-15; 1 Sam. 16:10-11) w02 10/15 27 - Would it be a form of interfaith to purchase a building from another religious group and convert it into a Kingdom Hall? w02 11/1 31 - Is it wrong to bet if only small amounts of money are involved? w02 11/15 30 - Are vows made to God always binding? w02 12/1 29 - Should we conclude from Revelation 20:8 that there will be a vast number of people misled by Satan at the final test? (Rev. 20:8) 2003 - 20 questions
w03 1/1 31 - What did Paul mean when he said: “As often as you eat this loaf and drink this cup”? w03 1/15 21 - Is it Scripturally acceptable for a Christian to place his hand on the Bible and swear to tell the whole truth in court? w03 2/1 30 - Why does the Bible say that a person should scream if threatened with rape? w03 2/15 31 - Why does Isaiah 30:21 speak of Jehovah’s word as coming from “behind you,” since the preceding verse Isa 30:20 places Jehovah in front by saying, “Your eyes must become eyes seeing your Grand Instructor”? (Isa. 30:20, 21) w03 3/15 31 - Can anything be done if an infirm anointed Christian finds it impossible to attend the congregation’s commemoration of the Lord’s Evening Meal? w03 4/1 31 - Why does the numbering in the book of Psalms differ in various Bible translations? w03 5/1 31 - If a Christian hears voices, does that necessarily mean that he is under demon attack? w03 5/15 30 - Why did The Watchtower of April 1, 2002, state on page 11, in paragraph 7, that water baptism of new Jewish believers at Pentecost 33 C.E. was in symbol of “their personal dedication to God through Christ,” whereas the previously held view was that immersion of the Jews from 33 C.E. until 36 C.E. did not require such a personal dedication? w03 6/1 31 - Is it wrong to take the life of a very sick or old pet? w03 6/15 30 - Does Satan the Devil have the ability to read the human mind? w03 7/1 30 - At Hebrews 2:14, why is Satan called “the one having the means to cause death”? (Heb. 2:14) w03 8/1 28 - Jehovah allowed polygamy among his ancient servants, the Israelites, but he does not allow it now. Is his standard changeable? w03 9/1 29 - In many parts of the world, it is customary to give wedding gifts. What Scriptural principles should we consider when giving or receiving such gifts? w03 9/15 30 - What does having “life in himself” mean? w03 10/1 29 - What is baptism for the dead? w03 10/15 27 - To whom was Jehovah referring as “one of us” at Genesis 3:22? (Gen. 3:22) w03 11/1 31 - Why did Elisha ask for “two parts” of Elijah’s spirit? w03 11/15 27 - How should Christians view the use of birthstones? w03 12/1 29 - In what sense did Ezekiel become “speechless,” or “mute,” during the time of Jerusalem’s siege and destruction? w03 12/15 28 - In his model prayer, did Jesus imply that God’s will was being done in heaven even though the wicked angels had not yet been cast out? 2004 - 20 questions
w04 1/15 30 - What circumstances caused Judah to have sexual relations with a woman he thought was a harlot, as stated at Genesis 38:15, 16? (Gen. 38:15-16) w04 2/15 31 - After the Flood, Noah sent out from the ark a dove that returned with “an olive leaf.” Where did the dove find the leaf? w04 3/1 29 - Since Levites had no inheritance in ancient Israel, how could the Levite Hanamel sell a field to his Levite cousin Jeremiah, as noted at Jeremiah 32:7? (Jer. 32:7) w04 3/15 28 - What occurred during the incident recorded at Exodus 4:24-26, and whose life was in danger? (Ex. 4:24-26) w04 4/1 29 - Why does 1 Corinthians 10:8 say that 23,000 Israelites fell in one day for committing fornication, while Numbers 25:9 gives the figure as 24,000? (1 Cor. 10:8; Num. 25:9) w04 5/15 29 - • How can we grieve God’s holy spirit, since it is not a person? w04 5/15 30 - • Jesus Christ compared a rich man’s difficulty in getting into the Kingdom with a camel that is trying to get through a needle’s eye. Did Jesus have in mind a literal camel and a real sewing needle? w04 6/1 29 - Why did David, a faithful servant of Jehovah, allow his wife Michal to have a teraphim image, or idol, as indicated at 1 Samuel 19:12, 13? (1 Sam. 19:12-13) w04 6/15 29 - Do Jehovah’s Witnesses accept any minor fractions of blood? w04 7/1 30 - At 2 Corinthians 6:14, to whom is Paul referring when he uses the term “unbelievers”? (2 Cor. 6:14) w04 7/15 26 - What is foreshadowed by the arrangement of the Jubilee year mentioned in the 25th chapter of Leviticus? (Lev. 25:1-55) w04 8/1 28 - What did Jesus mean when he told his disciples: “I began to behold Satan already fallen like lightning from heaven”? w04 8/15 30 - Some have claimed that Paul was not shipwrecked on the island of Malta, south of Sicily, but on another island. Where was he shipwrecked? w04 9/1 30 - Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses take the number 144,000 mentioned in the book of Revelation literally and not symbolically? w04 9/15 28 - Why were Israelite men permitted to marry captive foreign women when the Mosaic Law commanded that no marriage alliance be formed with foreigners?—Deuteronomy 7:1-3; 21:10, 11. (Deut. 7:1-3; 21:10-11) w04 10/1 29 - When the apostle John wrote that “perfect love throws fear outside,” what did he mean by “perfect love,” and what “fear” is thus thrown outside? w04 10/15 29 - When Jesus instructed his followers “to lend without interest, not hoping for anything back,” did he mean that they should not ask back even the principal? w04 11/1 30 - How does the Christian congregation view gluttony? w04 11/15 30 - Where will the demons be during the Thousand Year Reign of Christ? w04 12/1 31 - Why did the resurrected Jesus invite Thomas to touch him yet stop Mary Magdalene from doing so earlier? 2005 - 17 questions
w05 1/1 31 - Does Stephen’s exclamation at Acts 7:59 indicate that prayers should be directed to Jesus? (Acts 7:59) w05 1/15 30 - How could Samson touch dead bodies that he had slain and still remain a Nazirite? w05 1/15 31 - Does the statement that Samson ripped apart a lion “just as someone tears a male kid in two” suggest that the tearing apart of young goats was a common practice in his day? w05 2/15 27 - Did David, a man agreeable to God’s own heart, treat his captives savagely, as some conclude from 2 Samuel 12:31 and 1 Chronicles 20:3? (2 Sam. 12:31; 1 Chron. 20:3) w05 3/15 30 - Does the eating of the loaves of presentation by David and his men indicate that God’s law can be broken with impunity under difficult circumstances?—1 Samuel 21:1-6. (1 Sam. 21:1-6) w05 4/1 29 - Should a Christian give a government employee a tip or a gift for his services, or would that be viewed as bribery? w05 4/15 31 - Did not the apostle Paul compromise his Christian faith when he said before the Sanhedrin: “I am a Pharisee”? w05 5/1 29 - Why did Paul write regarding a Christian wife: “She will be kept safe through childbearing”?—1 Timothy 2:15. (1 Tim. 2:15) w05 5/15 31 - Why were David and Bath-sheba not put to death for committing adultery, whereas their newborn son died? w05 6/1 31 - Upon hearing that the imprisoned Peter was at the door, why did the disciples say: “It is his angel”?—Acts 12:15. (Acts 12:15) w05 7/1 27 - Deuteronomy 14:21 reads: “You must not eat any body already dead.” Does that contradict Leviticus 11:40, which reads: “He who eats any of its dead body will wash his garments, and he must be unclean until the evening”? (Deut. 14:21; Lev. 11:40) w05 7/15 31 - Since King Solomon of ancient Israel in his old age turned unfaithful to God, can we conclude that he will not be resurrected?—1 Kings 11:3-9. (1 Ki. 11:3-9) w05 8/1 31 - Does the word “probably” at Zephaniah 2:3 mean that servants of God cannot be sure of receiving eternal life? (Zeph. 2:3) w05 8/15 31 - In ancient Israel, what was signified by the miraculous light sometimes called Shechinah that appeared in the Most Holy of the tabernacle and the temple? w05 9/1 27 - What basis is there for saying that such phrases as “the one alone having immortality” and the one “whom not one of men has seen or can see” refer to Jesus rather than to Jehovah God? w05 9/15 29 - Could playing violent computer games affect one’s relationship with Jehovah? w05 11/1 31 - Can a Christian maintain a good conscience if he accepts employment that involves being armed? 2006 - 16 questions
w06 1/1 30 - Psalm 102:26 states that the earth and the heavens “will perish.” Does that statement mean that planet Earth will be destroyed? (Ps. 102:26) w06 1/15 31 - Did the ark of the covenant contain only the two stone tablets, or did it also hold other items? w06 2/1 31 - Did Joseph, a faithful servant of Jehovah, use a special silver cup to read omens, as seems to be indicated at Genesis 44:5? (Gen. 44:5) w06 2/15 31 - What three dangers was Jesus warning against at Matthew 5:22? (Matt. 5:22) w06 3/1 28 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he stated that women should “keep silent in the congregations”? w06 4/1 31 - What can we learn from the prohibition found at Exodus 23:19: “You must not boil a kid in its mother’s milk”? (Ex. 23:19) w06 4/15 31 - If a person is being harassed by the demons, what can he do to get relief? w06 5/15 31 - What is causing “the desirable things of all the nations” to come into the “house” of true worship?—Haggai 2:7. (Hag. 2:7) w06 6/1 31 - In the Mosaic Law, why were certain natural sexual functions viewed as making a person “unclean”? w06 6/15 30 - What did Jesus mean when he told Nicodemus: “No man has ascended into heaven but he that descended from heaven, the Son of man”?—John 3:13. (John 3:13) w06 7/15 29 - Can a person be disfellowshipped from the Christian congregation for engaging in uncleanness as he can be for fornication or loose conduct? w06 8/1 31 - How do we know that the description of wisdom at Proverbs 8:22-31 applies to Jesus Christ in his prehuman existence? (Prov. 8:22-31) w06 8/15 31 - After the final test at the end of the Millennium, will it be possible for humans to sin and die? w06 9/15 30 - What is the congregation’s responsibility if a Christian driving an automobile has an accident that results in the death of others? w06 10/1 31 - Why does the New World Translation say at Deuteronomy 31:2 that Moses would “no more be allowed to go out and come in” as Israel’s leader, when other translations indicate that he was no longer able to do so? (Deut. 31:2) w06 12/1 30 - Was Jesus being disrespectful or unkind in the way he addressed his mother at the wedding feast in Cana?—John 2:4. (John 2:4) 2007 - 17 questions
w07 1/1 30 - What is the sealing referred to at Revelation 7:3? (Rev. 7:3) w07 1/15 31 - In what sense did the congregator find only “one man out of a thousand” but not “a woman among all these”?—Ecclesiastes 7:28. (Eccl. 7:28) w07 2/1 31 - What is “the war . . . of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon, and what will be the outcome?—Revelation 16:14, 16. (Rev. 16:14, 16) w07 2/15 30 - The Bible does not mention toasting, so why do Jehovah’s Witnesses avoid sharing in toasts? w07 3/15 31 - How many of the clean beasts did Noah take into the ark—seven of each clean beast or seven pairs of each? w07 4/1 31 - How are we to understand Paul’s words that a widow must be “a wife of one husband” in order to qualify for assistance from the Christian congregation?—1 Timothy 5:9. (1 Tim. 5:9) w07 4/15 30 - Should a Christian avoid beverages and foods that contain caffeine? w07 5/1 30 - When does the calling of Christians to a heavenly hope cease? w07 6/1 31 - Does Proverbs 22:6 guarantee that if Christian children are properly trained, they will not depart from the way of Jehovah? (Prov. 22:6) w07 6/15 31 - Did the serpent that spoke to Eve have legs? w07 7/15 26 - Since the harvest officially began when all male Israelites were attending the Festival of Unfermented Cakes, who harvested the firstfruits of the barley that were brought to the sanctuary? w07 8/1 31 - Why did King Saul ask David, “Whose son are you, boy?” after David killed Goliath, even though Saul had earlier sent for David to be his attendant?—1 Samuel 16:22; 17:58. (1 Sam. 16:22; 17:58) w07 9/1 31 - What did Jesus mean when he said that his faithful slave would be “discreet”? w07 9/15 31 - Since the Jews were commanded to have “nothing leavened” during the Passover, why did Jesus use wine—a product of fermentation—when instituting the Memorial of his death?—Exodus 12:20; Luke 22:7, 8, 14-20. (Ex. 12:20; Luke 22:7-8, 14-20) w07 10/1 31 - Was it not wrong for Jacob to misrepresent himself as Esau, as recorded at Genesis 27:18, 19? (Gen. 27:18-19) w07 11/15 31 - Is it proper for one of Jehovah’s Witnesses to attend the wedding of a non-Witness relative or acquaintance? w07 12/1 31 - How should a Christian view hunting and fishing? 2008 - 3 questions
w08 6/15 28 - The apostle Paul stated that ‘all Israel would be saved.’ (Rom. 11:26) Did he mean that at some point all Jews would be converted to Christianity? (Rom. 11:26) w08 9/15 32 - In his letter to the Hebrews, the apostle Paul spoke of “the laying on of the hands.” Was he referring to the appointing of elders or to something different?—Heb. 6:2. (Heb. 6:2) w08 12/15 32 - At Nehemiah 8:10, the Jews were told to “eat the fatty things,” even though the Law at Leviticus 3:17 said: “You must not eat any fat.” How can these statements be harmonized? (Neh. 8:10; Lev. 3:17) 2009 - 6 questions
w09 3/15 32 - The Scriptures mention “the book of Jashar” and “the book of the Wars of Jehovah.” (Josh. 10:13; Num. 21:14) Those two books do not appear in the Bible canon. Were these inspired writings that have been lost? (Josh. 10:13; Num. 21:14) w09 4/15 12 - Is there any hope of a resurrection for a baby that dies in its mother’s womb? w09 5/15 18 - When was Satan cast out of heaven?—Rev. 12:1-9. (Rev. 12:1-9) w09 6/15 32 - Jesus had gone throughout the land in his preaching work. So how could the apostle Peter say that the Jewish people and their rulers “acted in ignorance” in having him executed?—Acts 3:17. (Acts 3:17) w09 10/15 12 - What lesson is imparted at Proverbs 24:27? (Prov. 24:27) w09 11/15 12 - Is it appropriate for a sister to wear a head covering when interpreting Bible discourses into sign language at Christian meetings, assemblies, or conventions? 2010 - 7 questions
w10 2/15 22 - Under what circumstances might rebaptism be considered? w10 2/15 22 - What factors should Christians take into consideration when it comes to sharing living accommodations? w10 3/15 28 - Does Ezekiel 18:20, which says that “a son himself will bear nothing because of the error of the father,” contradict Exodus 20:5, which says that Jehovah brings “punishment for the error of fathers upon sons”? (Ezek. 18:20; Ex. 20:5) w10 5/15 21 - Since Jehovah forbids idolatry, why did he not punish Aaron for making the golden calf? w10 8/15 6 - Why could Jesus tell a woman who was known to be a sinner that her sins were forgiven?—Luke 7:37, 48. (Luke 7:37, 48) w10 11/15 22 - Jesus told his listeners: “You must . . . be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” How can humans today “be perfect”?—Matt. 5:48. (Matt. 5:48) w10 12/15 30 - At Genesis 6:3, we read: “My spirit shall not act toward man indefinitely in that he is also flesh. Accordingly his days shall amount to a hundred and twenty years.” Was Jehovah limiting the life span of humans to 120 years, and did Noah preach about the coming Flood for that long? (Gen. 6:3) 2011 - 7 questions
w11 2/15 12 - Why did Moses become angry with Aaron’s sons Eleazar and Ithamar after the death of their brothers Nadab and Abihu, and how was his anger appeased?—Lev. 10:16-20. (Lev. 10:16-20) w11 3/15 6 - When Jesus Christ sent out the 12 apostles to preach, were they told to carry staffs and wear sandals? w11 3/15 6 - Who were the “lady, even ladies” to whom Solomon referred?—Eccl. 2:8. (Eccl. 2:8) w11 8/15 17 - Is it possible to say exactly how many Messianic prophecies are contained in the Hebrew Scriptures? w11 8/15 22 - How are we to understand the figures in the annual service report? w11 10/15 32 - What should I do when I have a question about something I read in the Bible or when I need advice about a personal problem? w11 11/15 21 - Is it possible to determine the exact time of day that the impalement of Jesus Christ took place? 2012 - 6 questions
w12 3/15 30 - Could a Christian’s practice of viewing pornography become so bad that it results in his being expelled from the Christian congregation? w12 5/15 22 - How is the death of God’s loyal ones “precious in the eyes of Jehovah”? w12 6/15 19 - When did the Anglo-American World Power become the seventh world power of Bible prophecy? w12 11/15 20 - Do Jesus’ words found at Matthew 19:10-12 suggest that those who choose to remain single have received the gift of singleness in a mysterious way? (Matt. 19:10-12) w12 12/15 14 - Before coming to a knowledge of the truth, my wife and I submitted to in vitro fertilization because of our desire to have a baby. Not all our fertilized eggs (embryos) were used; some were frozen and stored. Must they be retained, or may they be disposed of? w12 12/15 16 - An unmarried couple who are studying the Bible want to get baptized, but they cannot legalize their union because the man is not in the country legally. The government does not allow an illegal alien to get married. May they sign a Declaration Pledging Faithfulness and then get baptized? 2013 - 5 questions
w13 5/15 13 - Did the Israelites execute criminals by hanging them on stakes? w13 6/15 22 - Who were “the sons of the true God” mentioned at Genesis 6:2, 4 as living before the Flood? (Gen. 6:2, 4) w13 6/15 22 - The Bible says that Jesus “preached to the spirits in prison.” (1 Pet. 3:19) What does this mean? (1 Pet. 3:19) w13 8/15 8 - Would it be appropriate for Christian parents to sit with a disfellowshipped child at congregation meetings? w13 9/15 32 - Why did Jesus give way to tears prior to the resurrection of Lazarus, as described at John 11:35? (John 11:35) 2014 - 7 questions
w14 2/15 26 - What basis did first-century Jews have for being “in expectation” of the Messiah? w14 6/15 7 - Is cremation proper for Christians? w14 8/15 29 - Jesus told the Sadducees that resurrected ones “neither marry nor are given in marriage.” (Luke 20:34-36) Was he talking about the earthly resurrection? (Luke 20:34-36) w14 9/15 22 - Do David’s observation at Psalm 37:25 and Jesus’ statement at Matthew 6:33 mean that Jehovah would never allow a Christian to lack sufficient food? (Ps. 37:25; Matt. 6:33) w14 11/15 28 - How are elders and ministerial servants appointed in each congregation? w14 11/15 29 - Who are the two witnesses mentioned in Revelation chapter 11? (Rev. 11:1-19) w14 12/15 21 - What did Jeremiah mean when he spoke of Rachel’s weeping over her sons? 2015 - 6 questions
w15 2/15 29 - What can be done to assist brothers and sisters who suffer from adverse reactions to fragrances? w15 2/15 29 - Do secular sources support the existence of Pontius Pilate? w15 2/15 30 - Does a female Kingdom publisher need to wear a head covering if she conducts a Bible study in the presence of a male publisher? w15 3/15 17 - In the past, our publications often mentioned types and antitypes, but in recent years they have seldom done so. Why is that? w15 5/15 29 - Who is Gog of Magog mentioned in the book of Ezekiel? w15 11/15 13 - What evidence is there that the ancient city of Jericho was conquered without a long siege? 2016 - 10 questions
w16.03 29 - When were God’s people held captive by Babylon the Great? w16.03 31 - Did Satan physically take Jesus to the temple when tempting him? w16.04 32 - What are the “token” and the “seal” that each anointed Christian receives from God?—2 Cor. 1:21, 22; ftn. (2 Cor. 1:21-22) w16.05 30 - What can help Christians determine whether it is appropriate to give gifts or tips to government employees? w16.05 31 - How can the congregation express its joy when an announcement is made that someone has been reinstated? w16.05 32 - What could have caused the water of Jerusalem’s pool of Bethzatha to be “stirred up”? w16.06 16 - Whom do the man with the secretary’s inkhorn and the six men with smashing weapons described in Ezekiel’s vision symbolize? w16.07 31 - What is the meaning of the joining together of the two sticks described in Ezekiel chapter 37? (Ezek. 37:1-28) w16.08 30 - Why was handwashing an issue for Jesus’ antagonists? w16.09 13 - What is “the word of God” that Hebrews 4:12 says “is alive and exerts power”? (Heb. 4:12) 2017 - 5 questions
w17.02 29 - The apostle Paul wrote that Jehovah “will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” (1 Cor. 10:13) Does this mean that Jehovah assesses in advance what we can bear and then chooses the trials we will face? (1 Cor. 10:13) w17.07 31 - Would it be fitting for a Christian to keep a firearm, such as a handgun or a rifle, for protection against other humans? w17.08 32 - Why do Matthew’s and Luke’s accounts about Jesus’ early life differ? w17.12 16 - Might married Christians view the IUD (intrauterine device) as a form of birth control that is compatible with the Scriptures? w17.12 14 - In ancient Israel, was the line leading to the Messiah tied to the right of the firstborn? 2018 - 6 questions
w18.03 13 - Why do Jehovah’s Witnesses depict the apostle Paul as being bald or having little hair? w18.04 30 - Why is it not permissible to post publications of Jehovah’s Witnesses on a personal website or on social media? w18.04 32 - In the 2013 revision of the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, Psalm 144:12-15 applies to God’s people. The previous rendering applied this to the wicked foreigners, who are mentioned in verse 11. Why was the wording adjusted? (Ps. 144:11, 12-15) w18.07 32 - If an unmarried couple spend the night together under improper circumstances, would that constitute a sin meriting judicial action? w18.11 31 - Who were the Benefactors of whom Jesus spoke on the evening before his death, and why were they given that title? w18.12 8 - In what sense was the apostle Paul “caught away to the third heaven” and “into paradise”?—2 Cor. 12:2-4. (2 Cor. 12:2-4) 2019 - 2 questions
w19.12 14 - The Bible says that at least two witnesses are needed to establish a matter. (Num. 35:30; Deut. 17:6; 19:15; Matt. 18:16; 1 Tim. 5:19) But under the Law, if a man raped an engaged girl “in the field” and she screamed, she was innocent of adultery and he was not. Given that others did not witness the rape, why was she innocent while he was guilty? (Num. 35:30; Deut. 17:6; 19:15; Matt. 18:16; 1 Tim. 5:19) w19.12 15 - When Satan told Eve that she would not die if she ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and bad, was he introducing to her the idea common today of the immortality of the soul? 2020 - 6 questions
w20.03 31 - Who were the Jewish temple police? What were their duties? w20.06 17 - Are the qualities listed at Galatians 5:22, 23 the only aspects of “the fruitage of the spirit”? (Gal. 5:22-23) w20.07 31 - When did Jesus become High Priest, and is there a distinction between when the new covenant was validated and when it was inaugurated? w20.09 31 - Is Ecclesiastes 5:8 referring to human rulers, or is Jehovah involved? (Eccl. 5:8) w20.12 14 - Do the apostle Paul’s words found at 1 Corinthians 15:29 mean that some Christians back then got baptized on behalf of dead people? (1 Cor. 15:29) w20.12 15 - Proverbs 24:16 says: “The righteous one may fall seven times, and he will get up again.” Does this refer to someone who repeatedly falls into sin but then is forgiven by God? (Prov. 24:16) 2021 - 5 questions
w21.03 31 - Why should Christians exercise care regarding the use of electronic messaging applications, such as those for texting? w21.04 30 - Why did Jesus just before his death quote David’s words found at Psalm 22:1? (Ps. 22:1) w21.06 31 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he said: “Through law I died toward law”?—Gal. 2:19. (Gal. 2:19) w21.07 30 - How should Jehovah’s Witnesses view using matchmaking websites to find a marriage mate? w21.12 14 - What is the point of the command found at Leviticus 19:16 not to “stand up against the life of” another person, and what lesson can we learn from it? (Lev. 19:16) 2022 - 7 questions
w22.03 13 - Why does 2 Samuel 21:7-9 say that David “showed compassion for Mephibosheth” but then handed Mephibosheth over for execution? (2 Sam. 21:7-9) w22.04 28 - What does the Bible say about the taking of oaths? w22.04 30 - If a Christian divorces his wife without Scriptural grounds and then marries another person, how does the congregation view the previous marriage and the new marriage? w22.07 31 - What did Jesus mean when he said: “Do not think I came to bring peace”? w22.09 27 - What did the apostle Paul mean when he referred to himself as “one born prematurely”? (1 Corinthians 15:8) (1 Cor. 15:8) w22.09 26 - Who will be resurrected on earth, and what type of resurrection will they experience? w22.12 14 - Was the psalmist David exaggerating or unrealistic in writing that he would praise God’s name “forever,” as recorded at Psalm 61:8? (Ps. 61:8) 2023 - 4 questions
w23.03 14 - Why did the man called “So-and-so” say it would “ruin” his own inheritance if he married Ruth? (Ruth 4:1, 6) (Ruth 4:1, 6) w23.06 31 - After Jesus’ birth, why did Joseph and Mary remain in Bethlehem instead of returning home to Nazareth? w23.08 18 - How did the article “Let Your Name Be Sanctified” in The Watchtower of June 2020 clarify our belief regarding Jehovah’s name and his sovereignty? w23.10 30 - Did the Israelites have anything to eat in the wilderness besides manna and quail? 2024 - 7 questions
w24.02 30 - What does the Bible reveal about Jehovah’s ability to foretell the future? w24.06 19 - Do the words “You will guard them,” found at Psalm 12:7, refer to “the afflicted” (verse 5) or to “the sayings of Jehovah” (verse 6)? (Ps. 12:5, 6, 7) w24.07 30 - Who is the “woman” mentioned at Isaiah 60:1, and how does she “arise” and “shed light”? (Isa. 60:1) w24.08 7 - Is the marking described at 2 Thessalonians 3:14 an action taken by the congregation or by individual Christians? (2 Thess. 3:14) w24.09 19 - When Jesus instituted the Lord’s Evening Meal, where were the 70 disciples whom he had earlier sent out to preach? Had they abandoned him? w24.10 31 - How tall was the porch of Solomon’s temple? w24.12 30 - Who are “the chosen angels” mentioned at 1 Timothy 5:21? (1 Tim. 5:21) 2025 - 3 questions
w25.08 31 - When will the current preaching work end? w25.09 31 - The writer of Proverbs 30:18, 19 said that “the way of a man with a young woman” was ‘beyond comprehension.’ In what sense is that true? (Prov. 30:18-19) w25.11 31 - What “thought” will Jehovah put into the hearts of the nations in the near future? 2026 - 2 questions
w26.02 30 - When will the nations proclaim “peace and security”? w26.06 31 - As noted at Galatians 4:24, what two covenants did the apostle Paul refer to? (Gal. 4:24)
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