Judaism B&T - The sanctity of life

Question 1

Define ‘sanctity of life’ (pikuach nefesh)

Answer 1

The belief that human life is sacred as it was given by God

Question 2

What laws can be broken is someones life is in danger?

Answer 2

Almost any law can be broken to save someones life

Question 3

Give 2 situations in which Shabbat laws can be broken?

Answer 3

1. When breaking a door to prevent it closing on a child

2. Movin rubble from a collapsed wall to save a child

Question 4

Give a quote that shows why human life is important

Answer 4

“Let us make man in Our image” Genesis

Question 5

Give a quote that shows the consequences of taking a human life

Answer 5

“If he strikes mortally any human life, he shall be put to death” - Leviticus

Question 6

How is Pikuach Nefesh applied today?

Answer 6

1. A person who is ill is not required to fast on Yom Kippur
2. Drs can answer emergency calls on Shabbat
3. Abortions can take place if mothers life is at risk
4. Jews can’t do anything that could hasten death e.g. suicide, euthanasia (one type), assisted suicide
5. some types of euthanasia is allowed. e.g. switching off life support machine

Question 7

Why may orthodox and reform jews views differ on the matter of Abortion?

Answer 7

Orthodox jews may allow it only to save mothers life whilst reform jews may allow it for wider circumstancs such as social, medical reasons and considering age of the foetus

Question 8

Give 3 different views on organ donation

Answer 8

1. Organ donation when the donor would not be affected is encouraged
2. Donation from a dead body is also permitted
3. As most organs need to be transplanted before the heart stops beating, this suggests the donation causes death.