What Does the Bible Say About Suicide?

Suicide is a painful and serious topic that touches many lives. Though the Bible does not give a direct commandment about suicide, it does speak clearly about life, suffering, and the hope we can have in God. By looking at Scripture, we can find truth, encouragement, and the value God places on every human life.

Suicide in the Bible: Biblical Examples

The Bible includes several accounts of people who died by suicide. These stories show the sorrow and consequences surrounding such decisions, but they do not offer approval or praise.

• Saul – After being wounded in battle, Saul took his own life to avoid capture (1 Samuel 31:4).
• Ahithophel – After his advice was rejected, he hanged himself (2 Samuel 17:23).
• Judas Iscariot – After betraying Jesus, Judas was filled with guilt and hanged himself (Matthew 27:5).

None of these examples present suicide as an honorable or faithful act. Instead, they are linked to despair, disobedience, or betrayal.

Life Is a Gift From God

God is the author of life. He created each person with purpose and value. The Bible shows over and over that life is precious.

• Genesis 1:27 – “So God created man in his own image… male and female he created them.”
• Psalm 139:13-14 – “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

These verses remind us that each person is made in the image of God. Life is not something to throw away—it is something to steward and honor.

God Cares in Times of Suffering

Many people in the Bible felt deep sorrow, fear, and even despair. But instead of ending their lives, they turned to God. Their stories offer hope.

• Elijah – He was so discouraged that he asked God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4). But God met him with comfort, food, rest, and purpose.
• Job – After losing everything, Job cursed the day he was born (Job 3:11). Still, he never turned from God and was later restored.
• David – He often cried out to God in his pain. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

These examples show that pain is real, but God is near. He never leaves us in our suffering.

Jesus Offers Hope and Healing

Jesus came to bring life—full and eternal.

• John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”
• Matthew 11:28-29 – “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
• Romans 8:38-39 – “For I am sure that neither death nor life… will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Jesus doesn’t promise an easy life, but He promises to walk with us through it. He gives strength to the weary and hope to the hopeless.

Suicide and Salvation

Some people wonder: if someone dies by suicide, can they still be saved? This is a heavy and tender question. While suicide is a sin—it goes against God’s will for life—it is not beyond God’s grace.

• Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”
• Romans 10:13 – “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Salvation is based on faith in Jesus Christ, not on a person’s final moment. God is merciful. He alone knows the heart.

What Can We Do?

If you or someone you know is struggling, it’s important to speak up. The Bible calls believers to care for one another.

• Galatians 6:2 – “Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.”

Don’t suffer in silence. God has placed people around you—family, friends, pastors, counselors—to help.

Summary Table

If you are hurting, remember this: your life matters. You are loved by God. His Word gives light in the darkest night.