Religious Views on Abortion - The Basics
Ever wondered why abortion sparks such passionate debates? It all comes down to a fundamental question: when does a person become a person? This question has shaped religious thinking for centuries and continues to influence modern debates.
Catholic beliefs are crystal clear on this issue. They believe human life is sacred and irreplaceable, starting the moment conception occurs - when sperm meets egg. Catholics view humans as made in Imago Dei (God's image), making us uniquely valuable compared to animals. This concept is called speciesism - the idea that humans sit higher in the hierarchy than other creatures.
Jewish perspectives share some similarities with Catholic views. Jews believe that God gives life and is the only one who can take it away. The concept of Pikuach Nefesh (duty to save a life) means doctors should always try to preserve life. Like Christians, Jews reference "You shall not kill" from the 10 Commandments and the powerful verse "Before I formed you, I knew you" from Jeremiah.
Key Point: Both religions see life as a gift from God that begins before birth, making abortion a serious moral issue rather than just a medical procedure.