Is Suicide a Sin in Judaism?
Judaism considers suicide a violation of the commandment to preserve life (pikuach nefesh). However, rabbinic authorities recognize that mental illness can render a person not fully accountable. The focus is always on compassion and prevention.
The fact that you're reading this is a sign.
You cannot return to a path you've never truly studied. Every day you remain distant from Torah is a day the yetzer hara gains ground.
Torah / Talmudic References
- Genesis 1:27 — Humanity created in God's image (every life has infinite value).
- Deuteronomy 30:19 — 'Choose life, that you and your offspring may live.'
- Talmud Yoma 85b — Pikuach nefesh (preserving life) overrides virtually all other commandments.
- Maimonides, Hilchot Rotzeach 2:2 — A suicide is treated differently when mental illness is involved.
In-Depth: Judaism Perspective
Judaism places the highest possible value on human life. The principle of pikuach nefesh (preserving life) overrides virtually every other commandment — you can break Shabbat, eat non-kosher food, or do almost anything else to save a life. Suicide contradicts this fundamental value. The Torah commands 'Choose life' (Deuteronomy 30:19). However, rabbinic authorities have long recognized that mental illness creates a different moral situation. The Talmud and later poskim (rabbinic authorities) distinguish between a person of 'sound mind' who acts deliberately and someone overwhelmed by psychological suffering. Maimonides writes that a person suffering from mental anguish is not held to the same standard. If you are in pain, Judaism says: your life is infinitely valuable, your suffering is real, and seeking help is not weakness — it is the highest form of honoring the life God gave you. Call 988.
What You Can Do
- 🆘 IF YOU ARE IN CRISIS RIGHT NOW: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). Or text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line). You are not alone and you are not beyond help.
- Jewish: 'Choose life' (Deuteronomy 30:19). Your community values you. Speak with your rabbi. Call 988. The world needs you in it.
- Remove access to means if you're having thoughts. Lock up medications, remove firearms. This one act saves lives.
- Tell someone. Anyone. A friend, family member, clergy, doctor. The darkness lies when it tells you no one cares. People do care. Call 988 now.
You Know the Truth. What You Do Next Matters Forever.
The Talmud teaches that teshuvah was created before the world itself — Hashem believed in your return before you were born. But the gates don't stay open indefinitely.
Begin Your Teshuvah Now →Frequently Asked Questions
Will I go to hell if I commit suicide?
No faith tradition claims to know the final judgment of any soul. God's mercy is greater than our despair. Focus on getting help now, not on fear of the afterlife.
Does God forgive suicidal thoughts?
Yes. Having thoughts of suicide is not a sin — it is a symptom of suffering. All three faiths recognize the difference between intrusive thoughts and deliberate actions. What matters is reaching out for help.
Is it selfish to commit suicide?
No. Suicide is not selfishness — it is the endpoint of unbearable pain that has overwhelmed a person's ability to cope. The most selfless thing you can do right now is to reach out for help. Call 988.
Why does God allow suicidal suffering?
This is one of the hardest questions in all of religion. No simple answer exists. What all three faiths agree on is that God is present in suffering, that communities are called to help those in pain, and that professional help is a gift, not a sign of weak faith.
