Why Does Shunning Not Qualify as Psychological Violence According to Jehovah's Witnesses?

Introduction

The practice of shunning, or avoiding former members of the Jehovah's Witnesses organization, has been subject to scrutiny and debate. Governments and human rights organizations, such as the Norwegian government, have criticized this practice, labeling it psychological violence. However, Jehovah's Witnesses view their actions as a form of loving and biblical guidance. This article explores their perspective and the basis for their beliefs.

The Basis for Shunning According to Jehovah's Witnesses

According to Jehovah's Witnesses, shunning is based on religious and biblical principles. They believe that shunning is a means of upholding the moral and spiritual standards set forth in the Christian Bible. For them, shunning is a way to demonstrate love by holding individuals accountable for their actions and providing a path for repentance.

Scriptural Support

The Bible, particularly Matthew 18:15-17, is cited to justify the practice. This passage advises on dealing with those who have sinned against their brethren. It states:

"If he does not listen even to the congregation, let him be to you just as a man of the nations."

This scripture, they argue, supports the idea that if a person does not heed the congregation's advice and repent, they should be treated as someone outside the religious community.

Prohibited Actions and Shunning

Jehovah's Witnesses clarify that they do not shun those who simply stop preaching or associating with them. Shunning applies only to those who commit serious sins and do not repent. Additionally, they do not cut off all contact with disfellowshipped relatives. Instead, they limit interactions to necessary family matters, with the hope of encouraging return to God and his organization.

The Perspective of the Norwegian Government

The Norwegian government, which has classified the practice of shunning as 'psychological violence,' distinguishes it from the way Jehovah's Witnesses view it. The government's position stems from its protection of human rights and psychological well-being. However, for Jehovah's Witnesses, their practices are rooted in faith and the belief that they are protecting their members from corruption and apostasy.

Is Shunning a Loving and Biblically Supported Practice?

Jehovah's Witnesses argue that their practices are not only biblically supported but also loving. They believe that shunning is a form of protection for the congregation. By avoiding those who have committed serious sins, they are maintaining the spiritual purity of their community. They emphasize the importance of adhering to God's standards and encourage repentance among those who have strayed.

Scripture and Psychological Violence

They also reference 1 John 8:44, where it says, 'he [the devil] was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him.' According to Jehovah's Witnesses, liars and slanderers follow the example of their father, the devil. Therefore, any false statements made about their religion are seen as coming from this source.

Conclusion

The practice of shunning, as understood by Jehovah's Witnesses, is not meant to be cruel or unusual by today's standards. Instead, it is seen as a way to maintain spiritual health and protect the community from those who have committed serious sins. While the Norwegian government may view it as a form of psychological violence, Jehovah's Witnesses maintain that it is a loving and necessary measure motivated by their religious beliefs.

Further Reading

For those interested in better understanding this practice, the article 'Breaking the Cycle of Hatred' provides insightful perspectives and can help foster empathy and understanding.