Pikuach nefesh
3 quotes
Biography
Pikuach nefesh, which means 'saving a soul' or 'saving a life', is the principle in Halakha that the preservation of human life overrides virtually any other religious rule of Judaism. In the event that a person is in critical danger, most mitzvot become inapplicable if they would hinder the ability to save oneself or someone else.
"One of the most basic principles in Jewish law is that human life comes first. Almost any religious commandment can be broken in order to save the life of a human being."
"In Judaism, human life is essential and so pikuach nefesh, the obligation to save a life in jeopardy, is considered a major value to uphold."
"We did everything to save lives, despite Shabbat. People asked, "Why are you here? There are no Jews here," but we are here because the Torah orders us to save lives ... We are desecrating Shabbat with pride."