What do Judaism think about organ transplated?

Answer 1

Orthodox Judaism has no issue with stem cells, be they embryonic or otherwise. However, stem cells can not be created for the express purpose of research. If additional stem cells remain from the attempts to perform in-vitro fertilization or due to gene therapy requirements, these may be used for research.

Judaism, unlike Christianity, holds that life begins at first breath, not conception. Therefore a stem cell is not a "human life" and can be treated similarly to a non-human animal.

There are less religious Jews who have differing opinions on stem cells, but there is no movement in Judaism that actively condemns stem cell research.

Answer 2

• Judaism allows blood, bone marrow and organ donation if it will save lives. However there are strong objections to interfering with the body after death which should be buried intact and as soon as possible.

• Judaism is clear that no organ may be removed from a donor until death, as defined in Jewish law, has definitely taken place. This can cause problems with possible heart and lung transplants where timing is particularly critical.

• Jews may not agree to their organs being donated into an organ bank, or for medical research as they cannot guarantee that the donated organs would be involved in a life saving situation.

Answer 3

Judaism generally supports organ transplants as a way to save lives, as long as it does not involve desecrating the body or causing harm to the donor. Organ donation is seen as a mitzvah, or a positive act, since it can help fulfill the Jewish value of pikuach nefesh, or the obligation to save a life.