Anti-natalism is the philosophical view that assigns a negative value to birth, and advocates against human procreation. Some anti-natalists believe that it is morally wrong to have children, as bringing new humans into existence inevitably causes them to experience suffering. The Bible does not directly address anti-natalism, but it does offer perspectives on childbearing, the value of life, and the problem of suffering that can inform a Christian view of anti-natalism.
The Bible Encourages Procreation Within Marriage
The Bible begins with God commanding Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28). This establishes childbearing as part of God’s creative intent for humanity. Later Scripture affirms that children are a blessing from God (Psalm 127:3-5) and portrays them as a reward for righteousness (Psalm 128:1-4). Bearing children is normalized and celebrated throughout the Bible, especially within marriage. The New Testament affirms this positive view of procreation (1 Timothy 5:14). Overall, Scripture presents childbearing as something good and part of God’s design.
An anti-natalist argument based on avoiding all human suffering would reject this biblical paradigm. However, the Bible recognizes hardships in life as inevitable in a fallen world (John 16:33) and contains many narratives of people who led faithful lives despite great suffering. A biblical view sees value in human life beyond just the avoidance of suffering.
All Human Life Has Value to God
A core biblical teaching is that all people are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), which gives human life inherent dignity and value. This value is present from conception and across all stages of life (Psalm 139:13-16). Even a difficult life has meaning when considered from an eternal perspective (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). And God can bring redemptive purpose out of suffering (Romans 8:28).
So while an anti-natalist might assign negative value to a potential life because of inevitable suffering, the Bible would reject that from a view that all life has meaning and potential. Scripture affirms the value of living faithfully in the midst of life’s difficulties and sorrows (James 1:2-4).
God is Sovereign Over Human Life and Suffering
From a biblical perspective, God is sovereign over creation, human life, and human affairs. He gives life (Acts 17:25), and only He has the right to take life (Deuteronomy 32:39). Human beings do not have absolute autonomy over life and death decisions, no matter how well-intentioned our motives.
God allows suffering in the world for now, even using it to accomplish His sovereign purposes (John 9:1-3). But He also promises to redeem all suffering for those who love Him and ultimately create a world without pain or sorrow for those who trust in Christ (Revelation 21:3-4). With this eternal hope, followers of Christ can find meaning even within great suffering in the present age.
So while anti-natalism seeks to avoid potential suffering through abstaining from procreation, the Bible presents a perspective of meaning and redemption in suffering. An anti-natal approach rejects God’s sovereignty and ignores the hope of eternity.
Avoiding Selfish Motives is Important
When considering childbearing, the Bible warns against selfish motives like status-seeking or living vicariously through one’s children (1 Samuel 1-2). Instead, Scripture encourages nurturing children in the Lord (Ephesians 6:4) and raising up the next generation of believers (Psalm 78:5-7). So motives matter, even in decisions about procreation.
Some anti-natalist arguments are motivated by antinatalism itself becoming an identity and status symbol. A biblical view would reject antinatalism that arises from selfish motives rather than genuine altruistic concern. When people pursue God’s will with humility and wisdom, He can guide decisions about childbearing and other major life choices (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Procreation and Childlessness Both Have a Place
Although bearing children is portrayed positively in Scripture, the Bible also recognizes God’s sovereignty over the womb and that He sometimes closes wombs for His own purposes (Genesis 20:17-18; 1 Samuel 1:5-6). Some people in Scripture who deeply loved God never had children, like Jesus Himself, the Apostle Paul, and the prophet Jeremiah. So procreation is not universally mandated in Scripture.
The Bible also recognizes ethical celibacy and singleness as positive lifestyles honored by God (1 Corinthians 7:6-9). So while God created humans to be fruitful and multiply, the Bible presents this more as general norm than rigid mandate. Childlessness also has a place in God’s sovereign plan.
Humility is Needed in Approaching Procreation Decisions
Given the complexities involved, Christians should approach procreation decisions with wisdom, thoughtfulness, and humility. The decision whether to have children can be difficult and multi-faceted, involving factors like family health issues, economics, and more. Some Christian couples may feel called to procreate enthusiastically, while others may feel led to adopt needy children or pour their lives into spiritual offspring.
Since followers of Christ have different callings and giftings (1 Corinthians 12:4-6), dogmatic anti-natalism does not seem to align with a biblical view. But prayerful consideration about when and whether to have children is often appropriate and wise.
We Are Called to Value and Protect Life
While the Bible does not forbid thoughtful family planning, Scripture consistently affirms the value of human life inside and outside the womb (Psalm 139:13-16). Followers of Christ are called to speak and work against forces that demean or destroy life, like abortion or euthanasia. Christians also have a mission to care for vulnerable children through adoption and orphan care (James 1:27).
So a passive anti-natalism that sees value only in avoiding potential suffering seems incompatible with a biblical call to champion and protect life. A Christian view of procreation involves celebrating life as a gift from God, not just minimizing universal suffering.
Conclusions
In summary, the Bible does not directly address anti-natalism but provides some relevant perspectives:
- Childbearing is presented positively within marriage in Scripture.
- All human life has inherent dignity and value from conception.
- God is sovereign over life, death, and suffering.
- Selfish motives should be avoided in procreation decisions.
- Both procreation and childlessness have a place in God’s plan.
- Wisdom and humility are needed in difficult procreation decisions.
- Followers of Christ are called to value and protect life.
The Bible emphasizes finding meaning amidst suffering and does not support the pessimistic worldview behind anti-natalism. However, Christians should thoughtfully and prayerfully consider their motives and calling when making major life decisions like having children. A biblical view of procreation involves celebrating children as gifts from God, not just minimizing global suffering.