Biblical Answer

The Sacredness of Human Life

The Christian view of human life is rooted in the biblical concept that human beings are created in the image of God (Gen 1:27). This means that human life has a unique value and worth that is not found in the natural world. The sacredness of human life is an essential principle in God's scheme of things, and it is reflected in the biblical prohibition against murder (Gen 9:5-6).

Why Human Life is Sacred

The sacredness of human life is not based on its utility or value to society, but rather on its inherent value as a creation of God. Human life is sacred because it bears God's image, and this image is what gives it its value and worth. This is why the Bible prohibits the taking of human life, even in cases where it may seem necessary or justified. The authority for punishing the taking of human life is not given to individuals, but to God alone (Gen 9:5-6). This means that human life is not just a value to be weighed against other values, but rather it is a fundamental principle that underlies all other values.

The Implications of Sacred Human Life

The recognition of the sacredness of human life has significant implications for how we live our lives and treat others. If human life is sacred, then we must treat every human being with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, status, or circumstances. This means that we must reject practices such as murder, abortion, and euthanasia, which devalue human life and treat it as if it were nothing more than a commodity to be used or discarded. Instead, we must strive to live our lives in a way that reflects the sacredness of human life, by treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect, and by promoting a culture of life that values and celebrates the inherent worth and dignity of every human being.