What does the Bible say about miscarriage?

Definition and Terminology

In Scripture, miscarriage typically refers to the loss of a pregnancy before birth. The ancient Hebrew language uses terms such as “shakol” (שָׁכֹל) to convey the idea of bereavement and loss of offspring. This concept appears in various passages and must be understood within the broader biblical narrative that affirms the value of life, including the life of the unborn.

Key Old Testament References

One noteworthy passage is Exodus 21:22–25, where a scenario is described in which a pregnant woman is injured as a bystander in a conflict between men. The text in some translations specifies a premature birth, and in others, a miscarriage. Interpretations vary, but it underscores the responsibility toward both mother and child:

“When men strive together and strike a pregnant woman so that her children come out, but there is no further injury, the offender must be fined whatever the woman’s husband demands and the court allows. But if a serious injury results, then you must require life for life.” (Exodus 21:22–23)

This passage contains principles of justice and highlights that both the unborn child and the mother are taken into account.

Hosea 9:14 contains a plea for divine judgment in which the prophet prays, “Give them a womb that miscarries and breasts that dry up!”. Although it reflects a context of national judgment, it reveals how the community saw childbearing and, by contrast, the profoundly painful experience of losing a child in the womb.

The Sanctity of Life Before Birth

Throughout Scripture, the unborn are portrayed as known and loved by God. Passages such as Psalm 139:13–16 show how intimately God is involved in the creation of each human life in the womb:

“For You formed my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:13–14)

Similarly, Jeremiah 1:5 underscores personhood and calling from conception: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; and before you were born I set you apart.”

Such verses affirm that the biblical worldview upholds the value of the unborn and the preciousness of each life, regardless of developmental stage. Many have concluded these teachings align with modern observations of the intricate complexity of the developing embryo, demonstrating the purposeful handiwork of God.

God’s Sovereignty and Compassion

Scripture repeatedly shows that God is sovereign over all aspects of life, including conception, pregnancy, and birth. In many instances, biblical figures struggled with infertility or the threat of miscarriage, prompting them to seek God’s mercy. The Lord’s involvement does not always mean a guaranteed outcome of safe delivery, but it does point to His overarching care (cf. Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 1–2).

In discussions of tragedy, including miscarriage, Scripture points to a world marred by sin that results in brokenness (Romans 8:20–22). Nevertheless, believers find solace in God’s compassionate nature: “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

Examples and Applications

Though direct accounts of miscarriage are relatively few, the Bible’s teaching on childbearing, the dignity of every person, and the reality of suffering shape how readers might approach this painful topic:

1. Recognizing Loss: Scripture identifies children as gifts and blessings (Psalm 127:3). The loss of a child before birth, therefore, is a truly grievous event, warranting genuine mourning and support within the faith community.

2. Consolation in God’s Character: Believers cling to the God who knows every detail of human life, including the unborn. His sovereignty assures that no life, no matter how brief, goes unnoticed by Him.

3. Hope of Eternal Life: David’s statement regarding his deceased infant—“I will go to him, but he will not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23)—is often cited as evidence of hope in reuniting with children who die prematurely. While there are interpretive nuances, it offers comfort that God’s care extends beyond earthly life.

Practical Advice for Comfort and Support

For those who experience miscarriage, Scripture encourages believers to “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). The faith community is called to come alongside grieving parents with empathy, compassion, and prayer. Additionally, the Bible reminds the faithful that God is the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3).

The Broader Theological Context

In the biblical timeline, every human being is made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). This intrinsic worth applies from conception onward. Historical and archaeological insights into ancient Near Eastern culture further confirm the high regard for childbirth and family life characteristic of the Hebrew people. Their recorded prayers and sacrificial rituals strongly emphasize the importance of offspring, underscoring how devastating miscarriage would have been within that context.

Modern understanding of human development has only amplified the wonder of what Scripture has affirmed for millennia: life in the womb is knitted together with mind-boggling detail. This points to an intelligent Designer whose handiwork is reflected in every stage of pregnancy.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not provide a detailed medical explanation of miscarriage, it strongly testifies to the preciousness of human life, including children prior to birth. The passages addressing miscarriage or the premature loss of an infant illustrate the depth of heartbreak that accompanies such events and the seriousness with which Scripture treats even an unborn child.

In every case, God’s sovereignty, compassion, and knowledge of the unborn are established. Individuals and communities are called to grieve with those who suffer and to trust in the steadfast goodness and ultimate purposes of the Creator who “works all things for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28).