The Jewish perspective on anatomical gifts

According to Gabrielle Loeb, Judaism’s perspectives on Organ Donation After Death, The Philadelphia Jewish Voice, Sept. 2008:

Although many Jews believe that Jewish law forbids organ donation, most rabbinical authorities not only permit it, but also encourage it. In 1990, the Rabbinical Assembly of America approved a resolution to “encourage all Jews to become enrolled as organ and tissue donors by signing and carrying cards or driver’s licenses attesting to their commitment of such organs and tissues upon their deaths to those in need.” Organ donation during life is generally permitted as long as there is little risk for the donor and great benefit for the recipient, but in the case of an already deceased donor, the risk is not an issue. For already deceased donors, the main issues are Kavod Ha-met (honor of the dead) Nivul Ha-met (disgrace if the dead), and the definition of death.