Prefer Jewish News on Google
The Bible Says What?! Thou shalt not kill – but what about abortion?
Rabbi Miriam Berger reflects on scripture's problematic stance on a modern topical issue
“Thou shalt not kill” isn’t a controversial mitzvah until it is used as a proof text to forbid abortion.
The termination of an unwanted pregnancy is never something taken lightly, but by Israeli law, unless circumstances conform to a very specific set of criteria, the woman in question has to be interviewed by a panel of professionals to decide whether a termination is permitted.
Women allege the process to be invasive and humiliating.
Member of the Knesset Rabbi Yehudah Glick, as well as Muslim MK Abd al-Hakim Hajj Yahka have asked the Israeli parliament to discuss putting a member of clergy on the panel representing the religion of the woman in question.
Their request suggests this medical procedure is of a religious nature and does not take into account whether the woman herself feels this is a matter which she values a religious response to.
The Jewish view on abortion can be interpreted most liberally as it asserts that the existing life – that of the mother, has to take priority over the potential life – that of the developing foetus.
The scope for different rulings appeals to what an individual rabbi would view as the potential threat to the woman’s well-being of having to carry to term and bring up the child.
An unwanted pregnancy as a result of abuse, for instance, could result in severe physiological distress for the mother, though may not pose any physical threat.
As a rabbI, I see my role when it comes to the question of abortion as one of pastoral support and not as an arbiter of halacha.
I take very seriously the value of human life and see Divinity in every successful pregnancy, but I value a society in which people make informed decisions for themselves and interpretations of Halacha need a vote, not a veto.
Rabbi Miriam Berger is rabbi of Finchley Reform Synagogue
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
