The Bible does not explicitly mention abortion using modern terms, but several passages address related themes about the value of life and the protection of the unborn, which are often interpreted in the context of abortion discussions. Key biblical references include:
- Exodus 21:22-25, which discusses a situation where a pregnant woman is harmed and gives birth prematurely, indicating consequences for causing harm to the unborn.
- Psalm 139:13-16, which describes God knitting a person together in their mother's womb, emphasizing the sanctity of life before birth.
- Jeremiah 1:5, where God says He knew the prophet before forming him in the womb, implying life and purpose before birth.
- Proverbs 6:16-19, which condemns "hands that shed innocent blood," often applied to the unborn.
- Exodus 20:13, “You shall not murder,” is cited to underline that taking innocent human life, including unborn life, is against God's law.
- Passages such as Psalm 106:37-40 and 2 Kings 21:6 condemn the sacrifice of children, which is interpreted as against taking innocent life.
While the Bible does not directly use the word abortion, these verses collectively are understood by many as affirming the sanctity of life beginning in the womb and opposing the taking of innocent life, which is the foundation for the biblical objection to abortion.
