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Judaism: Beliefs and Teachings

The sanctity of life and Pikuach Nefesh

  • 3 things to know
  • Component Group 1

Overview

Genesis 1:27 and Exodus 20:13, the Mishnah on saving one life, Leviticus 19:16, saving life on Shabbat and fast days, the treatment of animals, and whether the principle extends to relieving suffering.

What you need to know

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Key term

What does the sanctity of life mean?

Key term

How does Genesis 1:27 support the sanctity of life?

Key term

What does Exodus 20:13 teach Jews about taking life?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    What does the sanctity of life mean?

    Model answer

    The sanctity of life is the belief that human life is holy because it comes from G-d. Life must be protected and respected.

  2. 2

    How does Genesis 1:27 support the sanctity of life?

    Model answer

    Humans are made in the image of G-d. Harming a human being is therefore an offence against G-d's image.

  3. 3

    What does Exodus 20:13 teach Jews about taking life?

    Model answer

    Exodus 20:13 commands, “You shall not murder”. Jews see deliberately taking an innocent life as a grave sin.

  4. 4

    What does the Mishnah teach about destroying or saving one life?

    Model answer

    The Mishnah says that whoever destroys one life destroys a whole world. Whoever saves one life saves a whole world.

  5. 5

    What does Pikuach Nefesh mean?

    Model answer

    Pikuach Nefesh means the obligation to save a human life. The obligation overrides almost all other mitzvot.

  6. 6

    What does Leviticus 19:16 teach?

    Model answer

    Jews must not stand idly by while a neighbour's life is in danger. The rabbis read the verse as a duty to rescue.

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