Sanctity of Life

Question 1

SOWAA against murder (3)

Answer 1

• ‘I put to death and I bring to life’
• ‘You shall not murder.’
• ‘If anyone takes the life of a human he must be put to death.’

Question 2

SOWAA against tattoos.

Answer 2

‘naked I came from my mother’s womb and naked I shall depart.’

Question 3

What is pikuach nefesh?

Answer 3

The preservation of human life overrides almost all other religious considerations.

Question 4

SOWAA for pikuach nefesh.

Answer 4

‘that he shall live by them and not that he shall die by them.’
‘Do not do anything that endangers your neighbour’s life’

Question 5

Explain two reasons why the concept of pikuach nefesh is important for Jews today. (4)

Answer 5

• One reason is because some Jews believe that abortion is not allowed because of the belief of the sanctity of life. This is important because according to pikuach nefesh, it can be allowed if the mother’s life is in danger.
• A second reason is because transplant surgery is not allowed because there is a mitzvah that prevents interference with dead bodies. This is important because according to pikuach nefesh, the mitzvah can be broken as it saves the life of a living person.