Whether abortion constitutes a major sin in Islam is nuanced and depends on the stage of pregnancy.
Islamic Views on Abortion
Islamic scholars hold varied opinions on abortion, primarily differentiated by the gestational age of the fetus.
- All Muslim scholars agree that abortion after 120 days is considered killing a soul and is forbidden unless the mother's life is in danger based on the reference material.
- The reference also states that all Muslim scholars agree that abortion is not something good and women should not do it at any stage of her pregnancy.
Summary of Islamic Perspectives on Abortion
| Gestational Age | Islamic Ruling |
|---|---|
| Before 120 days | Varied opinions exist, but generally considered less severe, with some scholars permitting it under specific circumstances (e.g., significant health risks to the mother). |
| After 120 days | Considered a major sin, equivalent to killing a soul, and is forbidden unless the mother's life is at risk. |
| At any stage | Abortion is not something good, and women should not do it. |
Therefore, while abortion is not considered a "good" thing at any stage, it's considered a major sin (akin to murder) after 120 days of gestation, with exceptions made when the mother's life is in danger.
