Donating ones organs to others.

Question:

In the past months the government of Trinidad has invited an organ donor program. In this regard, I ask the following question: What is the Islamic viewpoint of donating ones organs to others while still living and after death?


Answer:

In response to your question we wish to advise that donating one’s organs to others whether the donor is alive or dead is unlawful and impermissible in Islam.

In this regard we wish to explain that the organ transplant in some cases would be permissible when the limbs, organs or body of a human being is not used. One form of this is the substitute for a part of a human body from vegetation or minerals which are made useful and beneficial through scientific and medical skills. This is permissible in Islam. Another form of organ transplant is that the substitute of a part of the human body is from the organs of animals. This is also permissible provided that the animal is not forbidden in Islam. The other form of human organ transplant is that of using the organ/s from another person’s body. According to the teaching of the Holy Quraan and the traditions of the Holy Prophet (SAW), this sort of transplant is not permissible as it is considered to be against human sanctity and honour.

The verdict of the scholars in this regard is that it is not permissible for a person to sell his life or parts of his body nor can he give them as a donation or gift to another person nor can he destroy or kill them with his power and authority. These are all forbidden in Islam.

And Allah knows best.
Mufti Waseem Khan