force. Had the Sadducees known the Scriptures they would have known that the Scriptures taught the resurrection. Had they known the power of God they would have known that God would be equal to any problem involved in the resurrection.

● We are an engaged couple that expect to get married soon and we would like to know if it would be proper for Witnesses to have one of the popular wedding marches played and to throw rice after the bridal party.—J. B., United States.

If one desires to have music at a wedding, it would seem to be more fitting to have Kingdom songs at a theocratic wedding than one of the popular wedding marches, which have pagan or mythological backgrounds. However, Kingdom music should not be used for dancing.

As for throwing rice, The Encyclopædia Britannica, 1959 edition, Volume 4, page 122, states: “The throwing of rice, a very ancient custom but later than the wheat, is symbolical of the wish that the bridal may be fruitful.” Since this is of pagan origin and, in effect, an invoking of magic, a performing of a rite in the hope of beneficial results, it should be avoided by Christians. As regards other wedding arrangements, moderation is indicated; and it would always seem best to err on the conservative side, exercising more restraint than needed rather than less than what is necessary.—See The Watchtower, June 15, 1952.

● What is the authority for the use of the expression “magic-practicing priests” in the New World Translation of the books of Genesis, Exodus and Daniel? I cannot find another translation that uses this expression.—L. B., United States.

The Hebrew word translated “magic-practicing priest” in Genesis, Exodus and Daniel, as, for instance, in Genesis 41:8, is hhartumimʹ. This word is defined by the Lexicon in Old Testament Books by Koehler and Baumgartner, Volume I, page 333, column 1, as “epithet of magic practicing priests,” and it shows the ancient derivation of the word. It also suggests rendering the word in translations as “soothsayer priests.” This lexicon was published in completion in 1951.

This rendering of the New World Translation is therefore both literal and explicit, in keeping with its being a literal translation.

Announcements

FIELD MINISTRY

Through Jehovah’s undeserved kindness he has made provision for paradise to be restored on earth under the kingdom by Christ. Jehovah’s witnesses everywhere demonstrate kindness by directing the attention of sheeplike persons to Jehovah’s own loving-kindness. This they will do during May by offering the book From Paradise Lost to Paradise Regained, with a booklet, for a contribution of 75c.

NEW WORLD TRANSLATION

Still taking the lead in popularity, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures is a modern English version that makes Bible reading even more enjoyable and understandable. The Hebrew Scriptures are available in five volumes: Vol. I (Genesis to Ruth), Vol. II (1 Samuel to Esther), Vol. III (Job to The Song of Solomon), Vol. IV (Isaiah to Lamentations), Vol. V (Ezekiel to Malachi). The Christian Greek Scriptures (Matthew to Revelation) are available in one volume. Regular edition, each volume, $1; deluxe edition, each, $3. Send today.

“WATCHTOWER” STUDIES FOR THE WEEKS

June 25: Rejoicing in New World Associations. Page 296.

July 2: Overseers for the Joy of the Flock. Page 302.