Is today's Watchtower signing a departure from that position?
In paragraph 3 of the study, we refer to the arranged marriage of Isaac. (w12 5/15 p. 3) However, we immediately follow this up with a proviso:
"We should not conclude from this that a person—well-meaning though he or she may be—should become an unsolicited matchmaker."
We then refer to Song of Solomon in paragraph 5 which refers to the love between a man and a woman being so strong that even rivers cannot wash it away. This passage of scripture compares love to the "blazings of a fire, the flame of Jah". We then conclude the paragraph with these words: "When weighing wedlock, why should a servant of Jehovah settle for anything less?"
Wouldn't an arranged marriage be settling for something less?
True, Jehovah allowed for arranged marriages in Israelite and pre-Israelite times. He also allowed for slavery and polygamy, even making provision for them in the law. Christians don't practice the latter two. In fact, you'd be disfellowshipped if you did. So what about arranged marriages?
Without coming right out and saying it, the governing body seems to be inching away from our position of quiet acceptance of this practice.
Of course, the very first marriage was arranged. However, that was God and if Jehovah wants to arrange a marriage, who's to argue.
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Comment by Villagewoman on 2013-03-04 21:05:29
Your in the Mountain View, California, Congregation ?
I am confused, if you "respect the organization" ? So why do you here in this blog, say things that would result in you being dis-fellowshipped for apostasy, if your identity were known to Watchtower Headquarters ? You are not allowed to disagree. If you raised your hand in a Watchtower study at a Sunday meeting and said these things you would find yourself before the elders, and removed from your position.
Then marked, then dis-fellowshipped, then shunned.
Comment by Meleti Vivlon on 2013-03-04 23:55:58
Good question. You've made me think. I'm not sure it is appropriate to refer to an organization as something deserving respect. But I respect the office of those taking the lead among us. Still truth trumps respect. As for revealing my identity, what would be served? Even if I could be sure of not experiencing any negative repercussions, I would decline because it is the message that deserves the focus, not the human. Examine the message. If there is truth to it, accept it. If not, reject it. As for disrespecting those taking the lead, it is best to leave such matters up to Jehovah and just focus on one's own spirituality and relationship with God.