Here’s the deal with abortion in Judaism: As opposed to other religions that center entirely on the fetus, Judaism’s top priority is the health and well-being of the mother. There is not one single, direct reference in the bible to abortion.

The closest reference we have is a hypothetical situation where two men argue and “hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her…and he shall pay as the judges determine.” So, in the case that a woman miscarries due to the brawl, the punishment is monetary compensation- unless the mother is fatally injured. in that case, “thou shalt give life for life.” This clearly indicates that a fetus is not considered a life as there is no capital punishment.

Judaism takes an even more extreme approach in protecting the mother. If the fetus is in any way endangering the physical health or life of the mother, an abortion is not only permitted but required. The fetus is even called a “rodef” and treated by law as if it is in “pursuit” of the mother, whose life takes precedence.

Some Rabbis even account risk to a mothers psychological and mental health as grounds for an abortion. In other instances, like in the case of rape or incest, Rabbis may make exceptions and permit abortions as well as taking medication to prevent or terminate a pregnancy.

The general consensus among the Rabbis is that a fetus in not “alive” until birth, once the head comes out. That being said, the Rabbis do not by any means take abortion lightly and really delve into all possible scenarios and on a case by case basis. All life forms are sanctified in Judaism and we strive to promote life always. However, until birth, the fetus is considered a part of the mother and aborting the fetus may fall under the prohibition against bodily harm.

Just on a human level, it is important to understand that an abortion is an extremely difficult and emotional decision for anyone, not a careless approach to life. This is a choice for a woman to make with advice that she chooses to solicit, whether it be medical, spiritual, or religious- not the state government.