Abortion has been an age-old question in Hinduism and has had an impact on the politics, society, and religion of India. Throughout history, it has been subject to varying rulings and interpretations, leading to a somewhat complex religious and social history on the topic. This complexity is due to the fact that Hinduism does not have a single ruling set down by any source, but rather a range of views held throughout its long history.
The main question is whether a fetus is considered something with life, or is simply a part of the mother’s body. The answer to this question lies in both the religious and the legal realm in India. On the one hand, the majority of religious Hindu texts, including the Manu Smriti, consider abortions performed outside of retribution, or adding to an existing family, to be a sin. On the other hand, the Indian Penal Code makes allowances for abortions prior to the 20th week of gestation.
As a result of this distinction, Hinduism does not generally reject abortions outright. However, it does usually carry with it a certain stigma and is often seen as a last resort due to the moral weight attached to it. This is one of the reasons why Hindus often opt for alternatives such as adoption or contraception. The topic is complex and depends upon the situation and the person’s views on the matter.
Despite the differentiation between legal and religious issues, Hindus often feel conflicted when it comes to the current conversation surrounding abortion. Many feel that it is a decision that should be left up to the individual and that ultimately, their conscience should be the ultimate guide. They are often divided on the use of contraception and control of fertility, in general.
Beyond the religious context, there is also a social context to consider. Pre-natal sex screening, which is illegal in India, is a common occurrence in some regions. This can lead to abortions being performed for the ‘wrong’ reasons and is a source of moral concern for many Hindus. This, combined with the fact that often poverty and lack of education lead to an increase in the number of abortions, lead to the debate being much more complex.
At the same time, many Hindus argue that the fetus and the mother should be seen as two distinct entities, which should be respected and treated as such throughout the process. This view is often seen as in line with the traditional Hindu beliefs of ahimsa, or non-violence and sawitri, or the pursuit of knowledge through self-improvement.
Sanctity of Life
For many Hindus, the question of abortion comes down to the sanctity of life. Hinduism emphasises the unity of creation, meaning that all life has a place in the Universe and must be respected. This view means that from a religious perspective, all life must be considered before any decision can be taken. In this way, Hinduism has a non-judgmental approach to the issue, with the individual being responsible for their own decisions.
Alternatives to Abortion
Since abortion is often viewed as something immoral, many Hindus opt for alternative approaches when it comes to pregnancies that are not desired. Adoption is seen as a positive way to provide a family for a baby, while contraception is also often seen as a better approach than taking a life. This is one of the main reasons why sex education and family planning are common topics in many Hindu societies, with the overall focus being on creating a sustainable future.
Context Dependent
Ultimately, the question of whether abortion is allowed in Hinduism or not is a complex one and cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. It is a decision that should be taken on a case by case basis and should take into account the whole situation of the person involved. No decision should be made lightly and should be taken after due consideration and reflection.
The Role of Karma
Karma is another important element of Hinduism when it comes to the question of abortion. It states that the consequences of one’s actions will bear upon them in future incarnations, meaning that any decision taken must be weighed carefully in order to ensure that the outcome is positive for all involved. As such, any action taken should be done with respect for life, for all involved, and for the faith as a whole.
Feminism and Abortion
Hinduism and feminism have been closely linked since ancient times, with many of the teachings taking into account the needs and rights of women. This includes the right to control their own fertility, as well as the right to obtain an abortion if desired. Though it may not be a commonly discussed topic, feminists in India have been a vocal proponent of allowing women the right to choose their own reproductive health, and this is often in line with Hindu beliefs.
Conclusion
Whether or not abortion is allowed in Hinduism is a complicated question with no single answer. Ultimately, the decision is closely tied to individual beliefs and context, and should only be taken after appropriate consideration and respect for all involved. Respect for life and for personal autonomy must be taken into account, and any decision that is taken should be done with a view towards personal and spiritual growth.
