Pikuach Nefesh is a very interesting aspect
of Jewish law. It highlights the importance placed on life. It shows that g-d
cares about the Jews. His commandments are to guide us rather than rule us. Pikuach
Nefesh literally translated means ‘saving a life’. The concept explains that most
of Jewish law can and should be set aside in order to avoid endangering a
person's health or safety. The preservation of human life takes precedence over
all the other commandments in Judaism. This interpreted from the verse,
"You shall not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor" (Leviticus
19:16).
When life is involved, all Sabbath laws may
and must be suspended to safeguard the health of the individual. Here’s an
example: If someone gets injured or ill on Shabbat or a Chag, you may drive him
or her to the hospital if required. Rather than doing a sin this is actually
considered a mitzvah, however you must only break Shabbat where required. If
you can avoid it you must. This law also applies on a fast day. If you are
pregnant or ill and it is vital for you to eat you must.
Another implication of Pikuach Nefesh is
when Jews are in a country where they are under immense pressure because of
their religion. Jews may be faced with the choice between conversion and death.
Does Pikuach Nefesh hold up against this extreme?
To explain this we must explore the three
exceptions to Pikuach Nefesh.
1.
Idolatry
2.
Adultery or Incest
3.
Murder
This is because the Rabbis believe that
these three sins are so sinister that you should take you own life before
committing these sins.
If you are being publically forced to
worship another religion, you should not. However, according to Rambam you can
convert temporarily to avoid death.
