Which commandment protects human life

In the context of the Judeo-Christian religious tradition, the commandment which is typically interpreted as protecting human life is the Fifth Commandment, which is often rendered as "You shall not murder" or "Thou shalt not kill" in different biblical translations. It's found in the biblical books of Exodus (20:13) and Deuteronomy (5:17) in the Old Testament. This commandment is understood to uphold the sanctity of human life by prohibiting the unlawful taking of an innocent person's life.

Extra: The Ten Commandments are a fundamental set of biblical principles that play a critical role in Christianity and Judaism. The commandments are not just religious rules but have also influenced secular laws and ethics. They are considered to be a moral foundation that guides the behavior of believers.

Regarding the Fifth Commandment specifically, the wording differs between Bible translations and even within different religious traditions. For instance, "You shall not murder" underscores the prohibition of unlawful killing with malicious intent, whereas "You shall not kill" could be interpreted more generally to prohibit taking life. However, within the context of the commandment, the broader consensus leans towards the former interpretation, centering on the unlawful and unjustified taking of life being forbidden. This leaves room for discussions about situations like self-defense, capital punishment, and war, which are often treated differently across various legal and moral frameworks.

The implications of this commandment extend into many areas of social ethics and law, such as discussions about euthanasia, abortion, and the right to life. It underscores the intrinsic value of human life in moral philosophy and theology, serving as a foundation for the belief in the inherent dignity of every person.