What causes infant mortality?

Understanding the Origins of Suffering and Death

From a scriptural perspective, physical death was not part of humanity’s original design. According to Genesis, humanity fell under the curse of mortality when sin entered the world (Genesis 3:17–19). This fallen condition affects every realm of creation, as it is written: “For the creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God… For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until the present time” (Romans 8:19, 22). Infant mortality emerges within this larger context: a world marred by sin, disease, and suffering that ultimately claim lives, even those of the youngest.

The Biblical Witness to Infant Mortality

Scripture touches on the reality of children who die, acknowledging both sorrow and trust in God’s sovereignty. One poignant example appears when King David’s infant son became severely ill and died as a consequence of David’s sin (2 Samuel 12:15–23). David fasted and grieved, yet after the child’s death, he worshiped God, testifying, “I will go to him, but he will not return to me” (2 Samuel 12:23). This passage illustrates both the heartbreak earthly parents endure and the confidence that God remains righteous despite tragedy.

Elsewhere in Scripture, Jesus shows a special tenderness toward children when He declares, “Let the little children come to Me and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mark 10:14). Though not addressing infant mortality directly, this statement implies the preciousness of young lives before God.

Physical and Natural Causes

From the standpoint of lived experience, infant mortality can arise from numerous factors. Historically, unsanitary conditions, lack of medical knowledge, and congenital defects led to high infant death rates in many eras. Archaeological and anthropological studies of the ancient Near East, along with records from the Roman era, point to strikingly high infant mortality—often exceeding 30%—due to diseases such as dysentery or complications during childbirth.

Modern science has identified various biological and environmental causes, including inadequate prenatal care, genetic disorders, and contagions that newborns cannot fully combat. Despite tremendous advances that have lowered infant mortality in many parts of the world, these physical causes still exist and demonstrate the fragility of life in a realm affected by corruption and decay (Romans 8:20–21).

Spiritual and Philosophical Considerations

Theologically, the question of why some infants die can be one of the most difficult for people to reconcile with a belief in a loving Creator. According to scriptural teaching, the reality of sin introduced both spiritual and physical death (Romans 5:12). While personal sins may not directly cause a child’s death, the broader implications of brokenness in nature—what many refer to as “the curse”—invariably impact every living being. Thus, disease, natural disasters, and diverse challenges persist until the promised restoration of all things.

Philosophically, some wonder why an omnipotent God does not intervene in every such case. Here, passages like Deuteronomy 32:39 confirm divine sovereignty: “There is no God besides Me. I bring death and I give life.” While this truth does not erase grief in losing an infant, it points to God’s overarching authority and plan that is ultimately redemptive.

God’s Sovereign Grace and Comfort

Scripture repeatedly affirms that God is the source of comfort amid sorrow (2 Corinthians 1:3–4). In the midst of heartache, believers can take solace in the hope of resurrection. Such hope hinges on the historical resurrection of Christ, attested by numerous eyewitness accounts recorded in Scripture and supported by robust textual and historical integrity. This cornerstone event—“If Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless and so is your faith” (1 Corinthians 15:14)—assures believers that death does not have the final word.

Outside the Bible, certain historical and anecdotal accounts also attest to miracles of healing and divine interventions (consistent with the testimony of modern-day medical professionals who have documented cases of seemingly inexplicable recoveries). These accounts, while not negating every instance of infant mortality, underline the reality that God can and does work miraculously in the lives of children and families according to His will.

Intelligent Design in a Fallen World

From analyses of biology to geological studies of the earth’s features, there is compelling evidence that life is intricately designed. The complexity of cellular structures and the fine-tuning of universal constants signal purposeful arrangement by a Designer. By one perspective, the original design was “very good” (Genesis 1:31), yet Scripture teaches that this good creation was subject to “futility” because of sin (Romans 8:20). Consequently, the introduction of death and suffering extends to all aspects of life, including infants.

Geological examples—like the global flood layers that align with scriptural evidence for a historical deluge—further point to large-scale events that drastically altered living conditions. These massive upheavals changed the environment in ways that can exacerbate disease, famine, and other factors harming the vulnerable. Thus, even though design appears evident at every level of creation, the fallen state of the world remains the key reason for suffering, including the tragic loss of very young lives.

Responding to Infant Mortality with Compassion and Hope

Throughout biblical teaching, believers are urged to show compassion, practical help, and comfort to those who experience loss. James 1:27 encourages care for orphans and widows—an example of looking after society’s most vulnerable. Though specifically mentioning widows and orphans, this principle can be extended to all who suffer from the pain of child loss.

In times of sorrow, faith communities often stand beside grieving parents, providing support and prayer. Christians are called to “[mourn] with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15). This posture acknowledges that, while Scripture provides deep spiritual truths, it also makes room for lament, empathy, and tangible help.

Looking toward Eternal Restoration

Scripture promises a future where death, sorrow, crying, and pain will cease (Revelation 21:4). The same God who created life stands ready to redeem and restore all creation. Believers embrace the anticipation of this restored reality through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, who conquered the grave and secured the hope of eternal life. This hope does not minimize present pains or explain every tragic event, including infant mortality, but it paints a greater picture of ongoing divine redemption.

Conclusion

Infant mortality arises from various interconnected factors—biological, environmental, and spiritual—within a world that has become subject to decay following humanity’s fall into sin. While Scripture and experience affirm the heartbreak of such loss, they also uphold the sovereign goodness of the Creator, the promise of ultimate redemption through Christ, and the assurance that suffering and death are not the end. In facing the question of why infants sometimes die, Scripture centers on humanity’s need to trust God’s redemptive plan, extending compassionate care on earth and holding tightly to the hope of eternal restoration.