The Governing Body has recently placed a large priority on simplicity and clarity in their teachings and publications. For example:The Watchtower Study Edition, March 15, 2015, Pages 8-10:
In recent years, the spiritual instruction provided by Jehovah’s organization has reflected an increased emphasis on simplicity and clarity. Consider three examples. First, there is the simplifiededition of The Watchtower.* This edition has proved to be, in effect, a loving gift to those who struggle with language or find reading a challenge.
As we might expect, over the years Jehovah has helped “the faithful and discreet slave” to become steadily more discreet. Discretion has led to greater caution when it comes to calling a Bible account a prophetic drama unless there is a clear Scriptural basis for doing so.Additionally, it has been found that some of the older explanations about types and antitypes are unduly difficult for many to grasp. The details of such teachings—who pictures whom and why—can be hard to keep straight, to remember, and to apply. Of even greater concern, though, is that the moral and practical lessons of the Bible accounts under examination may be obscured or lost in all the scrutiny of possible antitypical fulfillments. Thus, we find that our literature today focuses more on the simple, practical lessons about faith, endurance, godly devotion, and other vital qualities that we learn about from Bible accounts.
So that's why I am starting a new series of posts on this website entitled "Simplified Suggestions." I'll be giving suggestions to the Governing Body for much simpler, accurate, interpretations based on the context. Now, for this first post in this series, it will be all about...
The Identity of the 144,000 (Revelation 7:4-8, Revelation 14:1-5) -- Simplified Suggestion
My Simplified Suggestion for this topic is to Suggest two possible interpretations, one symbolic and one literal:
1:) Symbolic: 144,000 is 12 multiplied by 12,000. The emphasis is on two "Twelves" just like in Revelation 21:14, with the 12 Tribe-Leaders of Israel and the 12 Apostles being the foundation of the Heavenly Temple. So this is simply symbolizing all those who take the lead in worshipping God in this new arrangement of Gentiles together with Jews. No literal number intended.
2:) Literal: The 144,000 refer to actual Jewish virgin men who will be chosen as special prophets during the Great Tribulation time period.
I prefer Option 1.
Either one is simpler than the current JW idea.
