Abortion in Judaism presents a complete Jewish legal history of abortion from the earliest relevant biblical references through the end of the twentieth century. For the first time, almost every Jewish text relevant to the abortion issue is explored in detail. These texts are investigated in historical sequence, thereby elucidating the development inherent within the Jewish approach to abortion. Following the examination of the foundational sources, a range of contemporary responses from across the Jewish spectrum is also introduced in order to probe their place in this history, as well as to discern the directions in which they would have the law proceed. The impact of Jewish abortion law upon Israeli legislative enactments is evaluated, along with the social outcomes of such legislation. Finally, the work considers the insights that this thematic history provides into Jewish ethical principles, as well as into the role of halakhah within Judaism.
• A complete history of abortion in Judaism • A full account of Jewish attitudes, doctrines, practices and policies on abortion through the years • Based on religious textual sources, legal records and philosophical writings
Contents
1. The conundrum takes shape: foundational verses; 2. Evaluating life: Rabbinic perspectives on fetal standing; 3. Divining a prohibition: the positions of the Rishonim and Acharonim; 4. No clear consensus: the sages of a rising modernity; 5. The struggle returns: Jewish positions begin to take form; 6. Confronting a new reality: legislation for a Jewish state; 7. A Halakhic challenge: discerning Jewish abortion principles; Bibliography; Index.
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