What does the Bible say about suicide?

The Bible does not explicitly provide a comprehensive theological discourse on suicide, but it addresses the sanctity of life, human suffering, and God’s care for His people. Through its principles, it offers guidance, hope, and reassurance to those struggling with despair or contemplating self-harm.

Key Biblical Principles About Suicide

  1. Life Is Sacred
    • Human life is a gift from God, and He is the ultimate authority over life and death.
    • Genesis 1:27 (NIV):
      “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
    • Psalm 139:13-14 (NIV):
      “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
  2. God Is the Author of Life
    • The Bible emphasizes that God determines the span of our lives, not us.
    • Job 1:21 (NIV):
      “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.”
    • Deuteronomy 32:39 (NIV):
      “There is no god besides me. I put to death and I bring to life, I have wounded and I will heal, and no one can deliver out of my hand.”
  3. Hope in Suffering
    • The Bible acknowledges the reality of suffering but also offers hope and assurance of God’s presence.
    • Psalm 34:18 (NIV):
      “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
    • Romans 8:38-39 (NIV):
      “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers… will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
  4. God’s Call to Cast Burdens on Him
    • When life feels overwhelming, God invites us to bring our burdens to Him.
    • Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV):
      “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

Examples of Suicide in the Bible

The Bible includes accounts of individuals who took their own lives. While it does not explicitly condemn or condone these actions, these examples provide context for understanding the complexities of despair:

  1. Saul (1 Samuel 31:4-5)
    • Saul, wounded in battle, took his own life to avoid capture by the Philistines.
    • His armor-bearer also committed suicide after Saul’s death.
  2. Ahithophel (2 Samuel 17:23)
    • Ahithophel, a counselor to Absalom, hanged himself after his advice was rejected.
  3. Judas Iscariot (Matthew 27:3-5)
    • Judas, overwhelmed by guilt for betraying Jesus, hanged himself.

These accounts show individuals who faced overwhelming despair, but they also highlight the absence of God’s guidance in their choices.

What the Bible Offers to Those Struggling with Suicidal Thoughts

  1. God’s Love and Care
    • Isaiah 41:10 (NIV):
      “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
  2. Purpose in Life
    • Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV):
      “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
  3. Assurance of God’s Presence in Trials
    • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV):
      “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles.”
  4. Strength Through Christ
    • Philippians 4:13 (NIV):
      “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Seeking Help

While Scripture provides hope and reassurance, it is also important to seek help if experiencing suicidal thoughts. God works through relationships, counselors, and medical professionals to bring healing and restoration.

  • Proverbs 11:14 (NIV):
    “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”

Conclusion

The Bible emphasizes the sanctity of life, the hope we have in God, and His willingness to provide help in times of despair. Suicide is a tragedy that underscores the depth of human suffering, but God’s love and grace are available to bring healing and restoration. Anyone struggling with such thoughts is encouraged to reach out to God in prayer and seek support from trusted people or professionals.