Suicide in Scripture

Question

How many suicides are recorded in the Bible?

Answer

The Bible records seven suicides and one attempted suicide. They are:
Abimelech (Judges 9:54) - suicide with the aid of another.
Samson (Judges 16:30)
King Saul (1 Samuel 31:4)
Saul's armorbearer (1 Samuel 31:5)
Ahithophel, a type of Judas below (2 Samuel 17:23)
Zimri (1 Kings 16:18)
Judas, the son of perdition (Matthew 27:3-5)

The Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:16-40) was an attempted suicide.

Suicide is not the unpardonable sin. While it is very grievous, there remains forgiveness for some, such as Samson, at the Cross.

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Answer by Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr.

Dr. Joseph R. Nally, Jr., D.D., M.Div. is the Theological Editor at Third Millennium Ministries (Thirdmill).