The act of donating blood is considered haram (forbidden) by some Islamic scholars because of the belief that we do not fully own our bodies and therefore do not have the right to freely dispose of body parts or fluids.
This perspective stems from the theological view that the human body is a trust (amanah) from God and should be treated with respect. Here's a more detailed explanation:
- Lack of Ownership: The core argument against blood donation revolves around the concept of ownership. Islamic teachings suggest that humans are custodians, not owners, of their bodies. We are entrusted to care for them in accordance with Islamic law.
- Forbidden Handling of Body Parts: Based on the premise of not owning our bodies, these scholars believe that freely handling or disposing of body parts, including blood, is unlawful.
However, it's crucial to acknowledge that there are varying interpretations and exceptions within Islamic jurisprudence:
- Saving a Life: The provided reference mentions that "if someone donated blood to save the life of a near relative, it is allowed.” This highlights the principle of necessity (darurah) in Islamic law, which permits certain actions that are normally prohibited if they are essential to saving a life. Saving a life is considered a paramount objective. This exception can extend beyond just near relatives to anyone in need, according to other scholars.
- Different Scholarly Opinions: It is vital to note that not all Islamic scholars agree that blood donation is absolutely haram. Many scholars permit blood donation, especially when it is for a medically necessary purpose, such as saving someone's life. They may argue that donating blood in such situations aligns with the Islamic values of compassion, helping others, and preserving life.
In summary, the prohibition on blood donation stems from the belief that humans are not the owners of their bodies and are therefore not permitted to freely dispose of body fluids. However, exceptions are made, especially when donating blood is necessary to save a life, and there are diverse scholarly opinions on this matter.
