This practice, known as autotransfusionrepresents a novelty within a doctrine that had traditionally rejected any use of blood in health situations.
However, the organization maintains one of its fundamental principles unchanged, which is why receiving blood transfusions from other peopleeven in emergency situations. This standard is based on a literal interpretation of various biblical passages that urge believers to “abstain from blood“, which historically has led to rejecting this type of procedures even when they are vital.
For decades, this position has been a distinctive feature of the group and has generated intense debate around the world, especially in critical medical contexts. In some cases, the decision of those who refused transfusions despite the risk to their life has even been valued as an example of faith.