Abstract
Is suicide the unforgivable sin? Most Western arguments against suicide stem from Christian arguments. Christianity has a long-standing position that suicide is morally wrong. However, on the issue of suicide and salvation, Christianity is divided. Debate, discussion, and interpretation through the centuries have led to two different positions. This result has divided the Christian community in multiple ways. These beliefs have likely impacted the level of stigma associated with suicide losses, suicide attempts, and suicide survivors within Christianity. The stigma of suicide can be lethal if it is not properly addressed. Stigma can easily push people away from caring communities of support and from God. This paper examines the two predominate Christian theological positions on suicide and highlights areas where stigma has hindered help, support, and care. Lowering the negative effects of suicidal stigma is a foundational piece of the solution for communities of faith to engage people at risk of suicide.
Highlights
Suicide the Unforgivable Sin?Over 703,000 people die by suicide each year, according to the World Health Organization (World Health Organization 2021, p. 1)
Protestants believe that the idea of a Christian going to Hell because of suicide would mean that his or her salvation was a work undone by the act of suicide
As the paper has outlined, the major traditions of Christianity forbid suicide based on the beliefs expressed in Scripture
Summary
Over 703,000 people die by suicide each year, according to the World Health Organization (World Health Organization 2021, p. 1). According to the American Association of Suicidology, suicide claimed the lives of 47,511 people in 2019. People seek help as they struggle over the loss of a loved one or even their own thoughts of suicide. People seek out clergy to ask important questions of faith, belief, and practice. They bring tough questions that demand religious answers as grieving communities pursue peace and comfort. This article examines Christian theology and its beliefs on suicide. Mason identifies that reflecting “theologically on suicide is important because (1) Christians hold a spectrum of nuanced beliefs, (2) few denominations have a stated position on suicide, and (3) your theology affects what you do” I write from this point of view and from a desire that Christians see the Imago Dei in all people
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