Is it a Sin to Kill Bugs?

As a child, I often collect bugs outside our house only to kill them. I always thought they were dirty and could bring diseases. As I was growing up, I got curious about lots of stuff especially when it is related to morality. One question I usually ponder is, is it a sin to kill bugs? I know it’s weird, but it is true! That’s why in this blog post, we will thoroughly discuss this topic.

Catechism

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church,

CCC 2415 The seventh commandment enjoins respect for the integrity of creation. Animals, like plants and inanimate beings, are by nature destined for the common good of past, present, and future humanity. Use of the mineral, vegetable, and animal resources of the universe cannot be divorced from respect for moral imperatives. Man’s dominion over inanimate and other living beings granted by the Creator is not absolute; it is limited by concern for the quality of life of his neighbor, including generations to come; it requires a religious respect for the integrity of creation.

If you read the second paragraph, it is clear that animals are destined for the common good of mankind. There should be a harmonious relationship between us and these creatures. If it is in our common good as humans to kill them, it is okay and acceptable.

Biblical Reference

Here is one bible passage that talks about insects.

The various winged insects that walk on all fours are loathsome for you. But of the various winged insects that walk on all fours you may eat those that have legs jointed above their feet for leaping on the ground; hence of these you may eat the following: the various kinds of locusts, the various kinds of bald locusts, the various kinds of crickets, and the various kinds of grasshoppers. All other winged insects that have four legs are loathsome for you.

Leviticus 11:20-23

Although mentioned, when you read thoroughly the verse above, it is actually not about killing but part of the prohibition by God of eating them like various animals, such as pigs and shrimp.

Killing bugs is Not a Sin

So, with all the information above.

Is it a sin to kill bugs?

No. It is not a sin as long as you are doing it to stop the possible negative effects they could bring. They are God’s creatures but if they could harm you and cause you disease, it is a common good to kill them.

Conclusion

God created us all. As we are enjoined to respect human life, we must also not be cruel to other non-human living things such as animals. If these animals could possibly cause humans diseases, or put their lives in danger, it is for the common good that we protect ourselves from these and kill them.

That said, we must also know that killing them just for fun or out of curiosity can tell us about ourselves, and what really is in our hearts or minds.

May we all respect God’s creatures.

Loving Mother, pray for us.