Euthanasia According to the Jewish Religion

Euthanasia is a highly debated subject in today's society. Philosophers argue whether assisting a person's death is morally right, and whether the government should prohibit the practice. The key issues behind these arguments involve the nature of the action, and the instances in which it occurs. The range includes passive voluntary euthanasia on one end of the spectrum and active involuntary euthanasia on the other. As the law stands right now, in most states any type of euthanasia is illegal. The philosophers protest against a paternalistic government, while the government argues the right to protect the sanctity of life. However, all these issues have no depth when it comes to the Jewish view on euthanasia. According to Jewish law, a life is on loan to a person from God. To assist in someone's death, to knowingly kill someone, or to take one's own life are all contrary to Jewish law and by that regard, are not morally permissible.…