Islam and abortion

Islam and Abortion

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The topic of abortion in Islam is complex and multifaceted, reflecting a range of interpretations and opinions within the Islamic tradition. Abortion, or the termination of a pregnancy, is addressed in various ways by Islamic scholars and is influenced by the teachings of the Quran, Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), and the rulings of Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh).

Overview

Abortion is a topic that intersects with various aspects of Islamic ethics, law, and personal faith. The Islamic perspective on abortion is not monolithic; it varies according to different legal schools (Madhhab), regions, and the scholars’ interpretations of religious texts. Generally, the sanctity of life is a paramount principle in Islam, with the majority of scholars agreeing that life begins at conception. However, there is considerable debate about the circumstances under which abortion may be permitted.

Ethical Considerations

Islamic ethics consider the sanctity of life, the rights of the unborn child, and the wellbeing of the mother. The primary sources for Islamic law and ethics, the Quran and Hadith, do not explicitly mention abortion but provide principles that scholars use to derive rulings.

Jurisprudential Views

The major Islamic schools of jurisprudence (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali) offer differing views on abortion, primarily focusing on the stages of pregnancy:

• Pre-ensoulment (before 120 days): Most schools allow abortion for a valid reason, though what constitutes a valid reason can vary widely.
• Post-ensoulment (after 120 days): Abortion is generally prohibited unless the mother's life is in danger.

Exceptions

While abortion is generally discouraged, exceptions are widely recognized in cases where the pregnancy poses a significant threat to the mother's life or health. There is also consideration for severe fetal abnormalities, though opinions vary.

Modern Debates

The advent of modern medical technology and changing social conditions have prompted renewed discussion among Muslim scholars and communities regarding abortion. Issues such as genetic testing, women's rights, and societal welfare are part of contemporary debates.

Case Studies

Examples from various countries show how Islamic teachings are interpreted and implemented in national laws and medical ethics. Countries with majority-Muslim populations have diverse legal approaches to abortion, reflecting the range of Islamic thought on the issue.

See Also

• Islamic bioethics
• Family planning in Islam
• Rights of the unborn in Islam

References

• A comprehensive study of Islamic perspectives on abortion can be found in works such as "Islam and the Question of Abortion" by A. R. Omran.
• The Islamic Fiqh Academy and its rulings provide insight into contemporary scholarly opinions on abortion.

External Links

• World Health Organization (WHO) - Information on global health issues, including reproductive health.
• Islam and Abortion: Ethical Perspectives - An article exploring the ethical dimensions of abortion in Islam.

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