Blood donation

Question

Assalamu Alaikum,

I am interested in becoming a committed blood donor for the Canadian Blood Services, but before I proceed I wanted to make sure that what I’m doing is OK to do according to Islam. I know that as a muslim I am not permitted to be an organ donor (with the exception of one kidney)…is that correct? So instead I wanted to find other ways to help the community, and I thought of becoming a blood donor, and I want to make sure that Allah has permitted this for me?

I am waiting for your response before I proceed with this, so that I can feel confident in my decision.

Answer

 بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

الجواب حامدا ومصليا ومسلما

In principle, one is not allowed to remove parts of their body without due necessity. Thus, one may donate blood only if it is necessary for the wellbeing of another person. However, since there is always a general need for blood donation and it is usually needed for immediate care, it is permissible to donate blood in advance so it may be used promptly for those in need of it. It should also be noted that it would not be permissible to take any exchange in lieu of such donations. 

والله اعلم

Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala knows best.

Sulaiman Yusufi

Approved by Mufti Husain Ahmad Madani