Respect Human Life

Do Not Murder

Man is created in the ‘image’ of G-d. Man’s life is a holy gift, which no one has the right to take away from him. One must respect and encourage the continuation of mankind. One who kills a soul it is considered as though he has murdered the entire world and harmed the Creator in whose image he was created.

The practical implication of the commandment

A complete prohibition to kill any human being, including a fetus in its mother’s womb.

A Slightly Deeper Look

The record of man’s inhumanity to man begins with the story of Cain and Abel. Man is indeed his brother’s keeper.

The prohibition against manslaughter – including abortion – comes to protect man from the bestial tendency which lies within him. Man the attacker denies the sanctity of human life, and ultimately attacks G-d, who created us in His image.