Beliefs about Sanctity of Life and Pikuach Nefesh

Life is sacred

God created humans in His image, so life must be protected. Human life is given by God and only He can fully give or preserve it. “In the image of God, He created him, male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:26–27)

Prioritising life

Saving life (Pikuach Nefesh) overrides almost all commandments. Obeying God includes protecting others.

Exceptions

Only idolatry, incest, and adultery cannot be broken to save life. All other mitzvot may be set aside in emergencies.

Practical applications

Doctors may respond to emergencies on Shabbat, organs may be taken from a dead body to save life, and fasting may be broken to preserve life.

Scriptural support

“Before you I have placed life and death, the blessing and the curse. You must choose life, so that you and your descendants will survive.” (Deuteronomy 30:19)