Hinduism and Medical Ethics Jothi

Hinduism Faith of those who lived south of Sindhu river in the Indian subcontinent Ancient practices, time period not known Practice varies widely Reformers like Gandhi

Basic Principle: Bhagawath Gita The doctrine of reincarnation, which sees life as a repeating cycle of birth, death and rebirth, is basic Hindu thinking All life is sacred because all creatures are manifestations of the Supreme Being."

Basic Principle: Bhagawath Gita "Hindus believe that all life is sacred, to be loved and revered, Practice ahimsa or non-violence

Hinduism and abortion Hindu medical ethics stem from the principle of ahimsa - of non-violence Hinduism is therefore generally opposed to abortion except where it is necessary to save the mother's life. But in practice, individual preferences

Hinduism and abortion However, abortion is practiced in Hindu culture in India, because the religious ban on abortion is sometimes overruled by the cultural preference for sons. This can lead to abortion to prevent the birth of girl babies.

Hindus and death Most Hindus are cremated as it is believed that this will help their soul to escape quickly from the bodycremated O Supreme light, lead us from untruth to truth, from darkness to light and from death to immortality

Hindus and death The ashes of the deceased are sprinkled on water. Many people take the ashes to India to put on the waters of the Ganga; others may take them to the sea near to where they live

Infertility.No problems with AIH and IVF but may not accept AID. Family life is very important in Hindu life, couple are anxious to have at least one son

Treatment Hindus have no problems with blood transfusion or organ transplantation Withdrawal of treatment is acceptable as it is thought to alleviate one’s suffering in terminal illness

Contraception Contraception views vary widely among Hindu scholars The Dharma emphasizes the need to act for the sake of the good of the world.

Contraception Hindus believe that producing more children than one or the environment can support goes against this Hindu code. Although fertility is important, conceiving more children than can be supported is treated as violating the Ahimsa (nonviolent rule of conduct)

Food Good proportion of Hindus are vegetarians (non violence to animals) Most don’t eat beef, as Cows are thought to be holy animals

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