Although it now inflames modern political debate, abortion has occupied Jewish legal writings for centuries. With both sensitivity and firmness, Jewish authorities have tackled some of the most difficult challenges of this agonizing procedure. When does life start? When is abortion allowed? And is there room in Judaism for the woman’s right to choose? We turn to the early early Jewish thinkers to discover a unique and surprising perspective on this sensitive issue.
This lecture was delivered at the 8th annual National Jewish Retreat. For more information and to register for the next retreat, visit: Jretreat.com.