Reviewed by: Ustadha Heba Zaki Ahmed
Islamic Perspective on Organ Transplantation
“[…] And whoever saves a life, it would be as if he had saved mankind entirely.”
— [Quran, Surat Al-Ma’idah 5:32]
Organ transplantation offers hope to thousands each day. Yet, for every 27 minutes that someone receives an organ, another individual passes away approximately every two hours waiting for one. The demand for organs far exceeds the availability, with only a small percentage of potential donors able to contribute. A single organ donor can save up to five lives and significantly improve the quality of life for many more.
What is Considered an Organ?
In medical terms, an organ includes parts of the human body such as tissue, cells, or blood. Although many organs cease to function shortly after death, certain organs remain viable for transplantation if the donor has recently passed away or is a living donor. Islamic scholars from various schools of thought often cite the Quranic verse above (5:32) to highlight the importance of saving lives and have deemed organ transplantation permissible to fulfill this noble purpose.
Islamic Principles Governing Organ Transplantation
In Islam, the permissibility of organ transplantation is based on two essential principles:
- Necessities Overrule Prohibition: In cases of medical necessity, certain prohibitions may be lifted to save or improve lives.
- Choosing the Lesser of Two Evils: When two unfavourable choices are present, Islam recommends choosing the option that brings the least harm.
Shari’ah Rules and Guidelines for Organ Transplantation
Organ Transplants Within the Same Person
Transplanting one’s own body tissue, such as skin, cartilage, or veins, for restorative purposes is permissible. However, using such procedures solely for cosmetic enhancement without medical necessity is generally discouraged.
Conditions for Donors
- Free Will: A living donor must give consent voluntarily, without any coercion.
- No Life-Threatening Risks: The donated organ should not compromise the donor’s life or overall health, as life is a sacred trust from Allah. Irreplaceable organs, like the heart or brain, cannot be donated.
- No Financial Transactions: Selling organs is forbidden, as the human body is regarded as Allah’s property and should not be commodified.
Organ transplants between living individuals are permitted for non-essential organs such as the liver, kidney, lungs, blood, and skin, as long as the donor is of sound mind and legally capable. In cases where the donor is not competent or is deceased, a guardian or close family member may make the decision, provided the donation poses no harm to the donor’s body. Transplants from deceased donors are permitted, especially for parts like the cornea. However, life-dependent organs, such as the heart or brain, are prohibited from being transplanted from one living person to another.
The Concept of Sadaqah Jariyah in Organ Donation
Some scholars regard organ donation as a form of Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), as the impact of saving or improving lives continues long after the donor’s passing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged acts of lasting charity, which support the notion that organ donation can be a way of continuing good deeds even after death.
“[…] But whoever is forced [by necessity], neither desiring [it] nor transgressing [its limit], there is no sin upon him.”
— [Quran, Surat Al-Baqarah 2:173]
Conclusion
Organ transplantation aligns with Islamic values in several ways:
- Seeking Cure is Obligatory: Islam encourages seeking medical treatment to maintain health and preserve life.
- Saving or Enhancing Life is a Priority: Islam places a high emphasis on saving lives or improving the quality of life wherever possible.
- Exceptions for Necessity: In life-saving cases, what is normally forbidden may become permissible if it brings about greater good.
In Islam, anything specifically prohibited by Allah in the Quran is clear; however, organ donation and transplantation have not been explicitly forbidden. In fact, the Quran encourages actions that save lives, underscoring the significance of helping others in need.
For those interested in furthering their understanding of Islam’s teachings on health, life, and charity, AlQuran Classes offers specialized Quran programs for all ages. Take advantage of a 3-day free trial to explore these teachings deeper.
