The Bible does not directly mention the word "abortion," but it addresses themes related to the sanctity of life and the taking of innocent life. Several key Bible passages are often cited to show a biblical perspective against abortion:
- Genesis 9:6 states that shedding human blood is forbidden because humans are made in God's image.
- Exodus 20:13 commands, "You shall not murder," which is interpreted as prohibiting the killing of innocent life, including unborn children.
- Exodus 21:22-25 prescribes penalties if a pregnant woman is harmed and the baby is injured or killed, showing the value of unborn life.
- Psalm 139:13-16 talks about God forming a person in the mother's womb, indicating life begins before birth.
- Jeremiah 1:5 says God knew and consecrated a person before birth.
- Proverbs 6:16-19 condemns "hands that shed innocent blood."
- Other passages condemn the sacrifice or shedding of innocent children's blood as evil.
The Bible emphasizes that life is a gift from God, who alone has the authority to give and take life, and underscores the value of the unborn as human life. Therefore, many Christian interpretations conclude that abortion is the taking of innocent life and is against God's will, equated morally with murder. The emphasis is on the protection of the unborn and respect for life created by God.
Additionally, the Bible speaks of God's knowledge and purpose for a person even before birth, reinforcing the sanctity of life in the womb. Though abortion as a modern practice is not explicitly named, the biblical principles about innocent life and murder are applied in Christian ethical teachings on abortion.
In summary, the Bible's teachings about the sanctity of life, God's role as Creator, and the prohibition against murder inform the Christian view that abortion is morally wrong according to biblical principles.
