May I donate an organ while I am alive?

Yes, as long as the donor is not likely to come to harm. Islam praises sacrifice for the sake of another life, but a life that is certain must not be put at risk for an uncertain hope.

Islam awakens a spirit of sacrifice in people. Whoever gives something of himself so that another person can live does something very good. The first verse above says that whoever saves a single life is like one who has saved all of mankind. Donating an organ while alive can be exactly that. So it is not only permitted but praiseworthy.

But Islam also gives a rule for this. Something certain must not be sacrificed for something uncertain. The donor’s life is certain. Whether the donation will save the recipient is never fully certain. If removing an organ would put the donor in serious danger, it is therefore not permitted.

It is different when the donor will come to no harm, or when harm is very unlikely. Then he may give his organ and so save another person’s life. Whether this is the case is something doctors judge in each individual situation.

In this way two commandments come together. The second verse above praises those who prefer others to themselves, even when they have little. The third verse sets a sensible limit to this generosity, for no one should cast himself into ruin with his own hands. Whoever keeps both in mind can give with a clear conscience.