Does Jainism allow abortion?
Answer
In Jainism, abortion is generally not considered acceptable, because it is viewed as hiṃsā — harm to a living being.Explanation
Jain Dharma places the highest importance on ahiṃsā. A developing life is regarded with deep respect, so intentionally ending that life is seen as morally serious and spiritually harmful.Spiritual Understanding
From a Jain perspective, abortion creates pāpa because it involves the destruction of life. Jain ethics encourage compassion, restraint, and protection of life whenever possible.Takeaway
So, the traditional Jain view is: abortion is not approved as a normal choice. Jainism would encourage seeking a path that causes the least harm and respects life as much as possible.