There has been much discussion on the morality of War (killing on a societal level).
On a more personal level, is it moral to kill someone to protect yourself or property?
Is it okay to kill someone who is going to kill your wife or kids?
What do the scriptures and modern day Prophets say on this subject?
One of the ten commandments tells us "Thou shall not kill" and we know through Joseph Smith that in fact means "Thou shall not murder", meaning shed innocent blood. I believe killing someone in self-defense is not murder hence I do not think we are breaking the commandment . Same applies if someone tries to murder your family.
W. Cole Durham, Jr said:
QUOTE |
The Church defines "murder" as the deliberate and unjustified taking of human life. If death is caused by carelessness or by defense of self or others, or if overriding mitigating circumstances prevail (such as deficient mental capacity or state of war), the taking of a human life may be regarded as something other than murder. In making the assessment of a member's guilt or innocence of murder, Church leaders are encouraged to be responsive to inspiration and to submit the facts of the case to the office of the First Presidency for review. In the final analysis, only God, who can discern the thoughts of the heart, can judge whether a particular killing is an unforgivable murder or not. |
QUOTE |
The Lord said, 'Thou shalt not kill.' Does that mean that every person who kills will be condemned, no matter the circumstances? Civil law recognizes that there are gradations in this matter - from accidental manslaughter to self-defense to first-degree murder. I feel that the Lord also recognizes differences in intent and circumstance. |