In the following essay I would like to consider the topic of abortion from the point of view of Islamic religion. Furthermore, I will explain the religious principals behind Islam’s position in regard to abortion. Lastly, the actual state of things will be considered; I will examine the reasons that cause Muslim women to choose abortions and the potential consequences of illegal abortions.
According to Islam, on the fourth-fifth month of pregnancy, the fetus becomes a spiritual being. Consequently, following this period, abortion is seen as an unforgivable sin. At the same time, there are different policies in regard to abortion in Muslim countries. For instance, in Turkey and Tunisia abortions have been legalized, while in Egypt and Iraq they are illegal and can only be done if the pregnancy threatens the woman’s life.
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It could be said that based on Islamic religious beliefs abortion is permissible during the first four months of pregnancy, but only if there are substantial reasons for this. In addition, it could be plausible if the pregnancy is threatening to the mother’s life, in cases of rape, or if there are deformations in the fetus.
Despite this fact, research data show that legalization of abortions in some Islamic countries has made these operations much safer for women. In addition, family planning has become more popular in those countries where abortions have been legalized. This has led to a drop in abortion rates and increased the use of contraception among couples. Additionally, in countries where abortions are illegal there is a much greater number of deaths due to unsafe abortion methods and conditions.
While abortion is one of the oldest medical practices which dates back to ancient times, not all contemporary cultures and religions approve of it. Tragically, in Middle East and North African countries (also called the “MENA” region) about 11% of women who undergo abortions die. The fact that abortions are illegal does not mean that women tend to avoid them more. However, the “illegal” status makes the intervention much more dangerous because of two main factors: illegal abortions are often performed in environments which are not safe by individuals who may lack professional medical skills. As a result, numerous women’s lives are put in danger.
Next, I would like to further explore the key values of Islamic religion and why it disapproves of abortion. In the Muslim world family is perceived as one of the greatest values. Despite globalization and cultural fusion, Muslim countries remain to a large extent traditionalist in their views. Family is seen through the lenses of marriage. Furthermore, having children is one of the top priorities of marriage. As a matter of fact, until recently, contraception was not supported in Islamic culture; abortions and contraception were seen as obstacles to childbearing.
Henceforth, when it comes to Muslim countries, there is a split between those which have chosen to legalize abortions and those which refuse to legalize this medical practice. However, when considering the differences in abortion rates for these two groups, the difference is less than one would expect it to be: 22 million abortions occur within the formal healthcare system and 20 million abortions occur outside of the legal system.
Next, I will go on to examine the reasons why Muslim women choose abortion despite its numerous dangers and illegal status. One of the key reasons is the family’s financial situation. Low income causes many couples to avoid having too many children. What is more, women may choose abortion if they become pregnant in a relationship prior to marriage (or within an extramarital relationship). In the Muslim world, marriage is one of the most important values and sexual relationships prior to marriage (or outside of marriage) contradict the Islamic paradigm. Another possible reason is that women carry most of the responsibilities that relate to family and childcare. Possibly, it may get to difficult for a woman if she has numerous children. As a result, she might choose abortion when it comes to having one more child. This may be looked upon as a “westernization” tendency, since in Western countries women often choose lives which go beyond marriage and motherhood, actively pursuing professional and other interests. Lastly, if a disease runs in the family (genetic predisposition), the woman might choose to have an abortion in order to avoid having sick children.
Importantly, I would like to refer to Qur’an and its teachings on life, children, and family. According to Islam’s religious writings, human life is sacred and anyone who takes another’s life will be punished by God. Killing a human being is considered an extreme sin (see Qur’an 5:32). Furthermore, it is said in Qur’an that on the Day of Judgement, God will punish those parents who have killed their children (see Qur’an 81:8-9). Furthermore, this is what Qur’an says about poverty: “Do not slay your children for fear of poverty. We shall provide for them and for you” (Qur’an 17:31). Further, it says stated that one should rely on Allah and he will provide all that is necessary for the family and its children (see Qur’an 6:151).
Henceforth, the topic of legalizing abortion is an ongoing debate for a number of Muslim countries. While some have followed the example of the Western world (making abortions legal), others choose to stay loyal to Islam tradition. At the same time, when looking at statistical data, it becomes clear that illegal abortions present an obvious danger for women’s health and even lives.
In my opinion, there should be certain restrictions for carrying out abortions even when it is legalized. On one hand, there should be clear guidelines for situations when abortions are appropriate and when they are not (for instance, during 2-3rd trimesters of the pregnancy). On the other hand, there are situations when an abortion might be preferable.
Finally, I believe that the solution lies in legalizing abortion while further increasing emphasis on sexual education and family planning. Planned childbirth and pregnancy prevention education could lead to greater responsibility among men and women alike in regard to pregnancy.
