Definitions by JW Terms

Apostate

In the Jehovah’s Witness (JW) religion:

Any baptized JW who openly disagrees with or speaks out against either the JW religion or the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society (WTBTS).

Apostates are considered dangerous “followers of Satan” and are therefore shunned.

JW1: I haven’t seen Kyle recently. Where has he been?
JW2: You haven’t heard?! He’s an apostate!
JW1: Too bad. I liked him.

Apostate by JW Terms January 12, 2019

The Society 

When used by Jehovah’s Witnesses, refers either to their religion as a whole or specifically to the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society.

The Society has published new direction about proper dress and grooming.

The Society by JW Terms December 8, 2018

Raised in the Truth

To be raised in the Jehovah’s Witness religion. (See definition for In the Truth).

Both my parents are Witnesses, I was raised in the Truth.

Raised in the Truth by JW Terms December 8, 2018

Society Literature 

When used by Jehovah’s Witnesses, refers to anything published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society (or, “The Society” for short).

Antonym: Apostate Literature

Wouldn’t you prefer to read some society literature instead of that worldly novel?

Society Literature by JW Terms December 8, 2018

Worldly 

When used by Jehovah’s Witnesses, refers to any person, thing, or practice NOT associated with Jehovah’s Witnesses.

You’ll never find happiness if you marry a worldly person.

Worldly by JW Terms December 8, 2018

Out 

The state of no longer being one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Short for the phrase “out of The Truth.”

The phrase could refer to someone that has been disfellowshipped, has been reproved, has been branded an apostate, or has publically disassociated themselves; however, it could also refer to someone that is technically still one of Jehovah’s Witnesses but was able to fade from the religion with receiving any official punishment for doing so.

I can’t believe you’re out. You’re the last person I thought would leave The Truth.

Out by JW Terms November 17, 2018

COBE 

In the Jehovah’s Witness religion, basically the boss elder of an individual congregation.

Stands for “Coordinator of Body of Elders.” Formerly called “Presiding Overseer” or “PO.”

My COBE says we’re not allowed to wear skirts above the knee.

COBE by JW Terms November 17, 2018