JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your question concerning hypnotism.

Hypnotism is the inducement of a sleeplike state during which an individual remains responsive to outside suggestion. In other words, a person under hypnosis temporarily loses full control over his thought processes and his actions.

Christians ought never to be involved in any such practices! The Bible says, "Gird up the loins of your mind" (I Pet. 1:13). We are to control our EVERY THOUGHT so that it is in obedience to Jesus Christ (see II Corinthians 10:5). This would be impossible to do in a trancelike condition during which one's mind can be manipulated by outside suggestion.

Rather than purposely allowing our minds to become blank and giving control to others, we are told to fill our minds with those things that are true, honest, pure, lovely, and of good report (see Philippians 4:8). God gives His people the spirit of a sound mind (II Tim. 1:7).

You may wish to request our booklets WHAT SCIENCE CAN'T DISCOVER ABOUT THE HUMAN MIND and HUMAN NATURE -- DID GOD CREATE IT? They explain why it is so vitally important that we remain vigilant in controlling our every thought, emotion, and attitude. We would be happy to send either one or both of these important booklets to you free upon your request.

Whenever we may assist you further with your study of the Bible, we hope you will let us know. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT