Ahimsa and the Unborn

Overview

Recall questions on the meaning and reach of ahimsa, the precept grounding it and its bearing on the embryo and unborn child.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What does the term 'ahimsa' mean and from which language is it derived?

   Model answer

   Ahimsa is the principle of non-violence or non-harming, derived from the Sanskrit meaning 'not to injure'.

2. 2

   Beyond physical violence, what other forms of harm does ahimsa encompass?

   Model answer

   Ahimsa extends to include harmful speech, thoughts and intentions.

3. 3

   Which Buddhist precept provides the ethical foundation for ahimsa?

   Model answer

   The first precept, which prohibits taking life.

4. 4

   What central question do Buddhist views on the embryo and unborn child relate to?

   Model answer

   The question of when consciousness or sentience begins.

5. 5

   Why do some Buddhists believe abortion violates ahimsa from the moment of conception?

   Model answer

   Because they hold that consciousness arises at conception, meaning the embryo is a sentient being deserving protection from that moment.

6. 6

   How do Buddhists who believe consciousness develops gradually approach the issue of early-stage embryos?

   Model answer

   They allow for more nuanced positions on early-stage embryos, as the embryo may not yet possess full consciousness or sentience.

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