Organ donation and religion
Some people may worry that organ donation breaches tenets of their religion. A cursory reading of some religious texts may lead to this conclusion, but the reality is that, although some groups discourage organ donation, major world religions permit and in fact encourage the practice.
Laws in Judaism and Islam, for instance, prohibit desecration of the human body. But both religions note that prohibition is trumped when it comes to saving a life. In fact, Judaism considers post-mortem organ donation in order to preserve a life to be a "mitzvah" – a worthy deed.
The late Pope John Paul II was once quoted as saying that "any act that can save a life, such as organ donation, is a great thing and quite acceptable within our faith". Such a view dates back to Jesus himself, who championed healing the sick as one of his cardinal beliefs and practices.
Similar support for organ donation is found in many other faiths, such as Hinduism and Buddhism. The Hindu Temple Society of North America has stated that Hindus are not prohibited from donating organs and that choosing to do so is entirely up to the individual.
Reverend Gyomay Masao, president and founder of The Buddhist Temple of Chicago, says, "We honor those people who donate their bodies and organs to the advancement of medical science and to saving lives."
Even groups such as the Christian Scientists and the Jehovah's Witnesses, often thought to be sternly against organ donation, leave the decision to the individual, although the Jehovah's Witnesses require the removal of all blood from the organ before transplantation.
Seventh-Day Adventists, known for a strong focus on health and clean living, strongly encourage organ donation and run hospitals specializing in it.
Preventing the death or suffering of others is held in the highest regard by all faiths. Ultimately, the choice to do so, according to the various religions, is yours.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Organ-Donation-The-Gift-of-Life
