Is it true that Orthodox Judaism bans organ donations and autopsies?

Answer 1

In most cases, yes, it is true. There are some notable exceptions. Live organ donation, where the donor survives, is permitted. Autopsies are only permitted, grudgingly, in the case of criminal investigation...and then only to retrieve evidence...full blown autopsies in these cases are not recommended.

In the case of organ donation, there are two issues that prevent most. First is that organ harvesting surgeries are usually the proximate cause of death (defined as when the heart stops). Under Jewish Law, this is murder. Brain death has no meaning in Jewish Law. The other problem would be in the case of post-mortem harvesting. This is considered to be defiling the dead and as humans are to be buried whole, this kind of procedure is problematic.

Answer 2

Judaism and Organ Donation

Contrary to common myth, all Jewish denominations encourage organ and tissue donation. The mitzvah of saving a life, pikuach nefesh, is considered one of Judaism's highest values (Hadassah - Pikua Nefesh)

In principle, Judaism supports and encourages organ donation in order to save lives. This can sometimes override the strong objections to any unnecessary interference with the body after death, and the requirement for immediate burial of the complete body.

It is understandable that there will be worries about organ donation. At a time of stress and grief, linked to sudden unexpected illness and death, reaching a decision about donation can be difficult for a family. It is at this time that halachic guidance is so important.

Judaism insists that no organ may be removed from a donor until death. Judaism insists that honour and respect are due to the dead (kavod hamet). After donation, the avoidance of unnecessary further interference with the body, and the need for immediate interment, are again of prime concern.

"One who saves a single life - it is as if he has saved an entire world."
Pirke D'Rav Eliezer, chapter 48

Answer 3

Yes. It's a tradition that stems from the believe that your body does not belong to you, but to god. Of course these traditions began long before things such as organ donations were possible. Modern Jewery tend to agree to both organ donations and autopsies, but there are orthodox sects that still honor the old traditions.

Answer 4

autopsies are not, unless an autopsy is needed to find out who killed the person, etc.

as for organ donation, its fine when you are alive, but after death it gets tricky. generally its not allowed by jewish law. "The only exception would indeed be directly to save a specific life, because saving life overrides almost every other Jewish law. BUT when you sign a consent to have your organs removed, they will remove them whether or not they are needed for an immediate transplant. They may use them for research, or they may store them away, or even throw them out. Unless there is an actual person who immediately needs the organ, it would be forbidden to tamper with the corpse."

Answer 5

Generally autopsies are not performed. However, organ donation, in certain situations, is both permitted and encouraged.

Answer 6

Yes it is true, the reason being that all body parts are Holy and should be interred intact. Just as they were given or rather lent to you from God.

Answer 7

True.
The human body is sacred, and needs to be buried whole.
BTW; Cremation is forbidden as well...

Answer 8

It is true.