Euthanasia and the Passive Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Treatment in the Light of the Teaching of the Church

Abstract

This article examines the ethical and theological dimensions of euthanasia and passive life termination within the framework of Orthodox Christian teaching. It presents euthanasia as a complex and controversial bioethical issue, shaped by diverse medical, legal, philosophical, and religious perspectives. While contemporary discourse often emphasizes individual autonomy and the so-called “right to die,” Orthodox theology affirms the sanctity of human life as a divine gift, whose beginning and end lie solely in the will of God. The study distinguishes between active and passive forms of euthanasia, highlighting the moral challenges posed by modern medical technologies that can prolong the dying process. It underscores the Orthodox Church’s rejection of euthanasia as a form of suicide and homicide, while allowing for the refusal of disproportionate medical interventions that offer no real benefit to the patient. Drawing on the thought of contemporary Orthodox theologians such as Mantzaridis, Breck, Evdokimov, and Zezioulas, the article interprets suffering not merely as a negative condition but as a potential means of spiritual transformation and participation in Christ’s salvific work. Ultimately, the Church’s response integrates compassion with a firm commitment to the sacredness of life, offering a theological vision that transcends utilitarian ethics and points toward eternal communion with God.