What Does the Bible Say About Abortion — In Biblical Context
While the Bible doesn't use the word 'abortion,' it consistently presents unborn life as valuable and known by God from conception.
While the Bible doesn't use the word 'abortion,' it consistently presents unborn life as valuable and known by God from conception.
"For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made." — Psalm 139:13-14 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
Scripture teaches that God is intimately involved in forming life in the womb. Psalm 139:13-16 declares, 'Thou hast covered me in my mother's womb... I am fearfully and wonderfully made.' Jeremiah 1:5 records God saying, 'Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee.' When Elizabeth was pregnant with John the Baptist, the baby 'leaped in her womb' at the sound of Mary's voice (Luke 1:41-44), suggesting personhood before birth. The sixth commandment, 'Thou shalt not kill' (Exodus 20:13), establishes the sanctity of human life. While specific situations involve complex pastoral care, the biblical trajectory strongly affirms the value and personhood of unborn life as created by God with purpose.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, Psalm 139:13-14, sits inside Psalms 139. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made."
Supporting Passages
"Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee."
"And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost."
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