Amman: The General Iftaa Department has declared that post-mortem organ donation is permissible under Islamic law, emphasizing its classification as an act of charity aimed at preserving life.
According to Jordan News Agency, the department issued a religious ruling confirming that organ donation after death aligns with Sharia principles. The fatwa describes it as an act of charity and cooperation in doing good, underscoring the Sharia's objective of preserving life.
The department highlighted the Quranic verse, "whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of humanity," to support its stance. It also referenced the principles "Necessity permits what is forbidden" and "Necessity is determined by its extent" to further justify the permissibility of organ donation. The act of donating organs posthumously is considered a righteous deed, with the reward extending beyond the donor's lifetime. The department noted that the need for an organ transplant can surpass a poor person's need for financial help, advocating for the relief of distress and kindness toward others as encouraged by Sharia law.
Organ donations from deceased individuals must adhere to stringent Sharia and medical guidelines. These include the definitive verification of the donor's death, ensuring the body remains intact, and the confirmation by medical professionals of the transplant's potential success. Additionally, a will from the donor or consent from the heirs is required, contingent on the organ type and transplant circumstances, as outlined in the edict.
The fatwa also addressed organ donation from living donors, stating that donors must be of sound mind and legal capacity, ensuring the donation does not harm them or disrupt their normal life. The transplant must be the best and most likely successful medical option. The sale of organs or receiving financial compensation is strictly prohibited.
The department encourages viewing organ donation as a noble form of solidarity and benevolence, particularly in light of medical advancements that allow for successful transplants, thus saving lives and improving health. The Iftaa Department has a history of issuing rulings supporting organ donation, including those regarding cornea donation in 1984, organ donation in 2010, and partial liver donation in 2011.