Biblical Answer

The Sacredness of Human Life

The Christian view of human life is higher and lower than other cultures. The sacredness of human life is a fundamental principle in God's scheme of things. Even after the fall, murder was prohibited, and the reason given was that humans were made in the image of God (Gen 9:6). This means that human life bears God's image, and therefore, it is sacred.

The sanctity of human life is not only because it bears God's image but also because of its inherent value. Humans are valuable because they are created in God's image, and this value is not diminished by the fall. In fact, the fall makes human life even more valuable, as it is now a life that is in need of redemption. The sacredness of human life is a critical value that is essential for the continued pursuit of other values. Murder, killing, and racism are all antithetical to this value, and they are therefore condemned by God.

The sacredness of human life is also reflected in God's law, which prohibits the taking of human life. The sixth commandment, "You shall not murder," is a clear expression of this principle. The reason for this prohibition is not given here to individuals, but to God, who is the one who gives life and who judges all life. The sacredness of human life is not just a human value, but a divine value that is rooted in God's character and nature. As such, it is a value that is essential for human flourishing and for the creation of a just and compassionate society.