Topical Encyclopedia Infanticide, the act of intentionally causing the death of an infant, is a grievous sin that stands in stark contrast to the biblical view of the sanctity of life. Scripture consistently affirms the value and dignity of human life, including that of infants and children.Sanctity of Life The Bible begins with the affirmation that human beings are made in the image of God, which establishes the inherent worth of every person. Genesis 1:27 states, "So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." This foundational truth underscores the value of all human life, including the lives of infants. Prohibition of Murder The commandment "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13) is a clear directive against taking innocent life. This commandment is part of the moral law given by God to His people and reflects His character and the value He places on human life. God's Care for Children Scripture reveals God's special concern for children. In Psalm 127:3 , children are described as a blessing: "Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward." This verse highlights the positive view of children as gifts from God. Condemnation of Child Sacrifice The Bible explicitly condemns the practice of child sacrifice, which was prevalent among some ancient cultures. In Leviticus 18:21 , God commands, "You must not give any of your children to be sacrificed to Molech, for you must not profane the name of your God. I am the LORD." This prohibition reflects God's abhorrence of practices that devalue and destroy human life. Judgment on Nations Practicing Infanticide The Bible records God's judgment on nations that engaged in infanticide and child sacrifice. In 2 Kings 17:17-18 , the Israelites are condemned for adopting such practices: "They sacrificed their sons and daughters in the fire. They practiced divination and sought omens and sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the LORD, provoking Him to anger. So the LORD was very angry with Israel, and He removed them from His presence." Jesus' Love for Children In the New Testament, Jesus demonstrates His love and care for children. In Mark 10:14 , Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." This statement reflects the high value Jesus places on children and their place in the kingdom of God. Protection of the Innocent The Bible calls for the protection of the innocent and vulnerable. Proverbs 24:11-12 exhorts, "Rescue those being led away to death, and restrain those stumbling toward the slaughter. If you say, 'Behold, we did not know about this,' does not He who weighs hearts consider it? Does not He who guards your life know? Will He not repay a man according to his deeds?" This passage emphasizes the responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves. In summary, the biblical witness consistently upholds the sanctity of life and condemns practices that harm or destroy innocent lives, including infanticide. The Scriptures call believers to value, protect, and cherish all human life as a reflection of God's image and love. Nave's Topical Index Exodus 1:15,16And the king of Egypt spoke to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah: Nave's Topical Index Matthew 2:16-18 Acts 7:19 Library Preface Resources Should the Hebrew midwives be commended for lying? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Moses' mother? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about euthanasia / assisted suicide? | GotQuestions.org Infanticide: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |