KILLING / MURDER
Understanding the Commandment: “Thou Shall Not Commit Murder”
The commandment “You shall not kill” (Ex 20:13) is more accurately translated as “You shall not commit murder” (Ex 20:13). This distinction is crucial because it differentiates between unlawful killing and other forms of taking life that were sometimes sanctioned in the Old Testament. For example, God commanded the Israelites to engage in warfare to inhabit the Promised Land and justified the death penalty in certain situations. Additionally, God Himself executed judgment by killing the firstborn of the Egyptians when Pharaoh refused to release the Israelites (Ex 12:29).
CATHOLIC TEACHINGS ON LIFE AND DEATH
The Catholic Church upholds the sanctity of life, teaching that “God alone is the Lord of life from its beginning until its end: no one can under any circumstance claim for himself the right directly to destroy an innocent human being” (CCC 2258). This principle underpins the Church’s stance on various life issues:
Legitimate Defense
The Church acknowledges the right to self-defense. According to CCC 2264, “If a man in self-defense uses more than necessary violence, it will be unlawful: whereas if he repels force with moderation, his defense will be lawful”. This teaching is rooted in the principle that one must prioritize their own life over that of an aggressor, provided the response is proportionate.
Capital Punishment
The Church’s position on the death penalty has evolved. Pope Francis has stated that “the death penalty is inadmissible because it is an attack on the inviolability and dignity of the person” (CCC 2267). The Church now works towards the abolition of the death penalty worldwide, emphasizing the possibility of redemption and the protection of human dignity.
Intentional Homicide
Intentional and direct killing is gravely sinful. CCC 2268 states that “the murderer and those who cooperate voluntarily in murder commit a sin that cries out to Heaven for vengeance”. Furthermore, the moral law prohibits actions that indirectly cause death or expose others to mortal danger without grave reason (CCC 2269).
Abortion
The Church teaches that “human life must be respected and protected absolutely from the moment of conception” (CCC 2270). Abortion is considered a grave moral evil as it involves the deliberate termination of an innocent human life.
Euthanasia
Euthanasia, or the act of intentionally ending the life of a person who is handicapped, sick, or dying, is morally unacceptable. CCC 2277 states that “whatever its motives and means, direct euthanasia consists in putting an end to the lives of handicapped, sick, or dying persons”.
Suicide
Suicide contradicts the natural inclination to preserve life and is gravely contrary to the love of self and neighbor. CCC 2281 explains that it “unjustly breaks the ties of solidarity with family, nation, and other human societies.”
Military Service and War Killings
While the Catholic Church recognizes the legitimacy of military service and the potential necessity of armed defense, it increasingly emphasizes peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and the moral complexities involved in modern warfare. The Church calls on Catholics in the military to be guided by their faith and properly formed consciences in navigating these difficult issues.
REFLECTION
As Christians, we are called to uphold the sanctity of life in all its forms. The commandment “You shall not commit murder” extends beyond the mere act of killing to encompass a broader respect for human life. This respect is rooted in the belief that every person is made in the image and likeness of God (Gen 1:27). Therefore, our actions and decisions must reflect this fundamental dignity.
In our daily lives, we can embody this respect by:
– Advocating for the protection of life at all stages, from conception to natural death.
– Supporting policies and practices that promote non-violent conflict resolution.
– Providing care and compassion to those who are vulnerable, including the sick, elderly, and marginalized.
– Educating others about the Church’s teachings on the sanctity of life.
By living out these principles, we bear witness to the Gospel’s message of love, mercy, and justice. Let us strive to be instruments of God’s peace, respecting and cherishing the gift of life that He has bestowed upon us all.