Question:
Is it halachically okay to do genetic testing? Is it getting in the way of Hashem’s will to give a couple a child with a genetic disorder? . Rav Moshe Feinstein stated that testing should be done! (Igrot Moshe E. H. 4:10.) What sources did Rav moshe base this ruling off of?
Answer:
Hello,
R’ Moshe teshuva is referring to doing Dor Yishorim types of genetic testing before couple gets married, in order to rule out the tremendous heartache involved in having children with Tay-Sachs, or other such deadly diseases. R’ Moshe rules that since it is now very easy to do, coupled with the aspect that there is tremendous pain involved, with having such children, therefore he rules that it is not an infringement on the mitzva of “tamim tihiye”. Have no fears, if Hashem wants to give couple a child with a genetic disease, He has plenty of ways to do it. However, if he gave us a means of helping ourselves, according to Rav Moshe it is part of a person helping himself and not closing his eyes and saying, “I will rely on Hashem”. It is noteworthy, that he doesn’t write that one is obligated, rather that it is the correct thing to do.
Best wishes
