Preparing for death is not the equivalent of terminating life

End of life counseling may take two different forms, in almost opposing directions. One kind of counseling assists elderly people (or people with terminal illnesses of any age) to prepare themselves for death. This may include psychological support, palliative care and legal preparations. In theory, no one can be against such help. We help new parents as their babies arrive into this world from another one; similarly, we should help the dying with their departure.

Separately, there is counseling on how to end life. About this, most religions -- and perhaps also most ethical people -- think that life is of supreme importance, and should not be terminated by will - either the will of others or one's own. Even the meaning of the word suicide is, literally, "self murder." There are, of course, considerations that differ with cultures and religions about many details, such as situations in which there is unbearable pain connected with loss of hope. However, generally speaking, the idea of helping and abating death, even with the consent of the victim, is not a good idea.

By Adin Steinsaltz  |  November 5, 2009; 3:05 PM ET
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