Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1997

Publication Title

Journal of Law and Health

Keywords

Jewish law, euthanasia, assisted suicide, bioethics, organ transplants, suicide

Abstract

Core values of the Jewish heritage are life and family, not death. An interpretation of Halachah which permits a broad definition of passive euthanasia without lapsing into acceptance of active euthanasia or its more evil cousin, assisted suicide, is consistent with these values. Also consistent with these values and the Jewish tradition is a modern definition of death which recognizes advances in medical technology that were beyond the knowledge or imagination of those who created the vast body of Rabbinic law. This approach will not only ease the suffering of families, it will allow organ transplants to save the lives of others and to thereby achieve t'kun olam, the repair of the world.

Volume

11

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