Exploring the Sanctity of Life in Orthodox Christian Ethics: Reflections on Abortion, Infanticide, and Drug Use

Orthodox Christian Ethics upholds the sanctity of life from conception to natural death as a core principle. This perspective profoundly influences its perspectives on abortion, infanticide, and drug use, where each topic is carefully considered with moral gravity.

1. Abortion: Orthodox Christian Ethics unequivocally sees abortion as the unjust ending of human life, regardless of gestational stage. It is regarded as a serious transgression, often equated to murder.

Biblical References:

Biblical verses like Psalm 139:13-16 align with the Orthodox church’s stance on this matter. It's worth checking out this particular verse for more insight.

Jeremiah 1:5: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you a prophet to the nations."
Exceptions: The Church may recognize tragic situations, like when the mother's life is directly threatened, but never excuses the act itself.

2. Infanticide: Similar to abortion, infanticide, the killing of newborns, is deemed a grave sin in Orthodox Christian Ethics as it defies the sanctity of life and the divine gift of children.

Biblical References:

Exodus 20:13: "You shall not murder."

Matthew 19:14: "But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Exceptions: No exceptions are accepted for infanticide within Orthodox Christian teachings.

3. Drug Use: The consumption of recreational drugs or non-prescribed substances goes against the ethos of stewardship of the body in Orthodox Christian Ethics. Such substances can have detrimental effects on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, jeopardizing one's relationship with God.

Biblical References:

Romans 12:2: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.".

1 Corinthians 6:19-20: "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have from God? ...

It is important to avoid recreational drugs and focus on maintaining a healthy and responsible lifestyle in harmony with Christian values.

Important

The Church emphasizes compassion, forgiveness, and repentance for individuals struggling with drug issues. Open dialogue and seeking advice from spiritual leaders are encouraged when grappling with challenging situations.

In conclusion, Orthodox Christian Ethics values life from conception to death, condemning abortion and infanticide, while discouraging non-prescribed drug use. Compassion, forgiveness, and responsible decisions underlie its stance on these complex and sensitive topics.