Jehovah’s Witnesses’ View on Education and Biblical Principles
Jehovah’s Witnesses view secular education as important and valuable for acquiring practical wisdom, teaching reading and writing, and fulfilling the scriptural obligation to provide for one’s family, according to jw.org. Parents are responsible for guiding their minor children’s education, while adult members make personal choices regarding additional training.
Practical Wisdom and Family Provisions
The organization views education as a vital tool for gaining practical wisdom and developing problem-solving skills. Members value learning about people, cultures, the natural world, and the human body.
Education also helps individuals fulfill the biblical command to support their households. Having good skills makes it easier to provide for a family than lacking such knowledge, according to jw.org.
Global Literacy and Schooling Efforts
Parents within the community are encouraged to ensure their children receive schooling, even in regions where education is not free, is difficult to access, or is uncommon. Members also participate in global literacy efforts.
Between 2000 and 2025, literacy programs helped around 130,000 people learn to read and write. The organization printed over 13 million learning aids in more than 130 languages to support these educational initiatives.
Weighing Additional Training Options
Adult members decide for themselves whether to pursue additional training or university education beyond basic schooling. The organization advises individuals to weigh factors such as the time commitment, potential costs, and the risk of peer pressure or environments associated with drug and alcohol use.
Some educational paths offer practical skills and income in a short timeframe without high debt. Others require high costs and time away from family and religious activities.