Reproductive Ethics

Abstract

Abstract Ancient Israelites faced myriad sources of compromised health that had deleterious effects on women’s fertility, the survival of their pregnancies, and the wellness of newborn children. In the area of medical ethics, issues pertaining to fertility are of special interest to the present study of ancient texts and modern appropriations. Women’s inability to become pregnant and the desire to produce healthy children are dominant themes in Israelite foundation myths. Current advances in ways to deal with infertility and safeguard the health of fetuses deeply challenge Jewish ethicists who seek to support the human desire to create new life. A range of Jewish ethicists make an effort to understand and allow for that process within the contours of the ethical tradition while avoiding interference with God’s role as ultimate creator. This chapter is enriched by the reflections of contemporary women in their own voices.