The Ruling on Abortion in Islamic Sharia – A Comparative Study

Abstract

This research aims to study the Islamic legal rulings related to abortion, by explaining its definition, its stages, and the ruling of each stage according to the development of the fetus, and by clarifying the excuses that are legally acceptable for performing abortion. The research also presents the opinions of the Islamic schools of jurisprudence on the matter, along with medical and social developments, and discusses the fatwas of contemporary jurisprudential assemblies.
The research concludes that abortion after the soul is breathed into the fetus is religiously prohibited, except if continuing the pregnancy poses a confirmed danger to the mother’s life. As for abortion before this stage, it is a matter of scholarly debate, and it may be permitted for a valid reason under specific legal conditions. The research also recommends the need for cooperation between jurists and medical professionals in addressing these issues to achieve a balance between preserving life and human dignity.