Reform Judaism

All denominations of Judaism agree that the supreme Jewish value and greatest mitzvah is saving a life. Pikuach Nefesh (saving a life) is such a sacred principle that it takes precedence over almost every other religious act or consideration. Because of this, the lifesaving act of organ, eye, and tissue donation is viewed as a sacred act and overrides all other religious considerations such as body integrity and expedient burial.

"Organ donation is a matter of life and death...Reform Judaism’s devotion to pikuach nefesh (saving a life) and our conviction that ‘You shall not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor'(Leviticus 19:16) compel us to support and encourage organ donation." -Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism

Q. What does Reform Judaism say about organ and tissue donation?

A.The Reform movement has been a strong supporter of organ & tissue donation for more than 50 years. In 1996 the Union for Reform Judaism initiated the “Matan Chaim: Gift of Life” program to promote organ donation and to encourages its members to participate in this great mitzvah.

Q. Doesn’t Judaism require us to be buried with our bodies intact?

A.The Jewish value of Kevod Meit (honoring the deceased) generally requires the body to be buried intact. However, because organ and tissue recovery is a dignified medical procedure that saves multiple lives, the sacred act of donation brings honor to the deceased and enhances his or her legacy.

Q. Does organ or tissue donation interfere with Jewish funeral or burial rites?

A.No. An organ donor can be buried in a Jewish cemetery with any/all traditional funeral and burial rituals.