The governing body of the Jehovah’s Witnesses has reaffirmed its longstanding position on blood treatment, emphasising that members have the liberty to decide how their own blood is handled in medical and surgical procedures, as the Bible does not provide specific guidance on the use of a believer’s own blood.

“Regarding the use of one’s own blood, our position has been as is stated in the October 15, 2000, Watchtower. There it says a Christian must decide for himself how his own blood will be handled in the course of a surgical procedure, medical test or current therapy,” Gerry Losch, a member of the board, said in a video broadcast.

Reiterating the religion’s stance, the body said such options are not limited to only blood tests and kidney dialysis but also includes whether a Christian allows his own blood to be removed, stored for a given period of time before it can be readministered to the same believer.

“Each Christian must decide for himself how his own blood will be used in all medical and surgical care.  This includes whether to allow his own blood to be removed, stored and then given back to him,” Mr Losch said.

He also acknowledged that some Christians may oppose such practices, stressing that the matter remains a “personal decision.”

“Others may object. Each Christian must make the personal choice in all matters involving the use of his own blood with regards to medical or surgical care,” Mr Losch reiterated.

Since the video went viral, some blogs and media reports have misinterpreted the clarification as a shift in the Jehovah’s Witnesses’ longstanding stance on blood transfusion but the position has been in place for about 26 years.