I’ve been researching suicide within the context of religions for many years, but I never seem to find clear answers to fundamental questions, such as, how is suicide portrayed and view by the major religions? Is it mentioned in their Holy Books? In general, the answer is: suicide is condemned by them for it is considered a mortal sin. This doesn’t seem enough because I know that it’s not that simple, so I’ve been searching for religious leaders and scholars that can be more specific, individuals who can give my audience knowledgeable guidance on this topic. 

Today, I’m talking to Dr. Marty Michelson, PhD, who is a trained Biblical expert on Jewish scripture (old testament). He is Christian and has several degrees from a number of Universities, lecturing internationally. Marty is the author and contributor to various of books, including “Reconciling Violence and Kingship" and "The Greatest commandment: The LORD’s Invitation to Love.” He is an ordained Reverend in the Church of the Nazarene, and a mental health professional. 

Our conversation will focus on Judaism and Christianity. I will continue to search for guests who can talk about other major religions. If you know someone, please let me know by sending me a message through my website and clicking on the Podcast page. 

For select lectures, sermons & thoughts from Dr. Marty Michelson, visit his website at: www.martymichelson.com 

Visit my page www.understandsuicide.com   

Watch this interview on my YouTube channel "Understand Suicide:” https://bit.ly/3iPq5Sv 

Donate to the podcast: https://bit.ly/3maL9RO   

Find my book "Understanding suicide: living with loss, paths to prevention:” https://amzn.to/2ANczuR  

Exchange experiences on my Facebook page: https://bit.ly/3h8sIet