What If You Could Answer a Prayer
and Save a Life?
What does halacha (Jewish law) say about Jewish organ donation?
Most rabbis support organ donation
as a great mitzvah!
Unfortunately, there are still many misunderstandings and misconceptions about this topic. And although most authorities DO support it….there are some points of disagreement.
We hope that providing a balanced look at this important subject will help you make an informed personal choice. If you have any unanswered questions, please talk to your rabbi.
THE NEED FOR ORGAN DONATIONS
United States (2017), from UNOS.org
JEWISH ORGAN DONATION
According to “The Times of Israel”, Jews (both Israeli and Diaspora) have much lower organ donation rates than other groups of people. Why are Jews choosing not to donate? There seem to be three main reasons.
Halacha
Most authorities permit (and even encourage) organ donation. But misconceptions & outdated beliefs keep Jews from donating.
Superstitions & Misconceptions
You don’t need your organs for eventual resurrection. And what about ayin harah, the evil eye?
Emotional Distress
It’s hard to think about death, but saving a life is a mitzvah. And what if you or a loved one needed an organ to live?
ORGAN DONATION IN ISRAEL
In 1985, the Chief Rabbinate of Israel appointed a committee of rabbis and medical-rabbinic advisors to discuss and rule on the issue of organ donation. This led to passage of the Israel Brain-Respiratory Death Law, 5768-2008, which defined the conditions under which organ donation and transplantation are allowed.
The Law’s Requirements
Organ donation must be carried out according to halacha, and the law sets out strict standards.
Remaining Controversies
Most authorities agree that organ donation is a mitzvah, but some disagreements remain.
WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW
Talk to Family & Sign an Organ Donor card
Let your family know your wishes. Sign up as a donor through your local motor vehicle agency, or HODS (the Halachic Organ Donation Society).
Support
Learn how you can show your support and help people in need of life-saving organ transplants. National Donate Life Month
LIVING DONATION SAVES LIVES
Become a living kidney donor for someone in need:
- Renewal matches Jewish donors and recipients.
- The National Kidney Foundation provides information and resources.