Is Abortion Haram?
Islam prohibits elective abortion but permits it in specific circumstances. Most scholars allow abortion before 120 days (when ensoulment is believed to occur) for serious reasons. After 120 days, abortion is only permitted to save the mother's life. The consensus is that abortion without valid reason is haram.
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Quranic References
- Quran 23:12-14 — Describes the stages of fetal development: clot, lump, bones, flesh.
- Quran 6:151 — 'Do not kill your children for fear of poverty. We provide for you and for them.'
- Quran 17:31 — 'Do not kill your children out of poverty. We will provide for you and them.'
- Sahih Bukhari — The Prophet said each of you is collected in the womb of his mother for forty days, then becomes a clot for a similar period, then a lump for a similar period, then an angel is sent to breathe the soul into him.
In-Depth: Islam Perspective
Islam takes a nuanced, stage-based approach to abortion. The key concept is ensoulment (nafkh al-ruh), which according to hadith occurs at 120 days (about 17 weeks) of gestation. Before ensoulment, most scholars permit abortion for serious reasons (fetal abnormalities, rape, risk to mother's health), though some schools restrict even early abortion. After 120 days, the vast majority of scholars prohibit abortion except to save the mother's life. This is based on the Islamic legal principle that when two lives are in conflict, the existing life (the mother) takes precedence over the potential life (the fetus). Abortions performed for reasons of gender selection, convenience, or family planning are universally condemned.
What You Can Do
- If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and are unsure what to do, seek counsel from a trusted religious leader, counselor, or medical professional.
- Muslim: Consult with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar about your specific situation. Remember that Allah is the Most Merciful and judges each case individually.
- If you are struggling emotionally after an abortion, know that healing is possible. Many faith-based organizations offer post-abortion counseling and support.
You Know the Truth. What You Do Next Matters Forever.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said Allah rejoices more when you return than a man who finds water in the desert. But tawbah has a deadline — and you don't know when it is.
Make Tawbah Before the Door Closes →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be forgiven for having an abortion?
Yes. All three faiths teach that God is merciful and forgives those who sincerely repent. Islam teaches that Allah forgives all sins for those who repent.
What if the pregnancy is from rape?
Islam: Most scholars permit abortion before 120 days for rape.
When does life begin according to religion?
Islam: Biological life exists from conception, but ensoulment at 120 days gives the fetus enhanced moral status.
