The Torah's Perspective on Autism

Hello and blessings,

 1. Rabbis explain that children who enter this world as autistics are actually souls of righteous individuals who have come to rectify final corrections in the world (and so that they do not commit any sins, their free will has been taken from them), therefore they should be treated with special honor. Nevertheless, this is a very difficult and great trial for their families, and this trial is also connected to the rectification that family members need to perform from previous incarnations and to do kindness for the soul of the autistic individual. 

2. The Torah states (Leviticus 19:14): "Do not curse the deaf, and before the blind do not put a stumbling block; and you shall fear your God, I am Hashem."

There is a commandment to care for the disabled and the needy. Individuals with caregiving needs, disabilities, etc., have received attention in the Torah through many commandments that care for the weak and needy in society, and it is required to consider them. For this reason, many charitable organizations like Ezrat Zion were established by the Haredi community.

From a halachic perspective -

There are many laws that discuss the laws pertaining to individuals with mental limitations. In halacha, they are referred to by terms such as "deaf," "mute," and "fool" - these halachic expressions are intended to describe limitations as well as intellectual disabilities, and they have been discussed in the Talmud and halachic texts. Depending on the severity of the limitation, they are also exempt from punishments and commandments. Judaism teaches to treat individuals with disabilities with kindness and respect, and to be careful of their dignity, so as not to hurt their feelings.

With blessings,

Daniel Bals