A Sikh perspective on organ donation

Is organ donation permitted for Sikhs?

Organ donation is the gift of an organ to help someone who needs a transplant.

The Sikh philosophy and teachings support the importance of giving and putting others before oneself.

Seva (the act of selfless service, to give without seeking reward or recognition) is at the core of being a Sikh.

Indeed, Guru Nanak (founder of the Sikh faith and first of ten Gurus) and Guru Granth Sahib (Sikh Holy Scripture) devoted their lives to humanity and sacrificed their lives looking after the welfare of others.

Seva can also be about donating your organ to another - Sikhism does not attach taboos to organ donation and transplantation and stresses that saving a human life is one of the noblest things you can do.

Sikhs also believe that your body does not need all its organs at or after death.

The Sikh religion teaches that life continues after death in the soul, and not the physical body. The last act of giving and helping others through organ donation is both consistent with and in the spirit of Sikh teachings.
Lord Singh of Wimbledon CBE

Director of the Network of Sikh Organisations, UK (endorsed by Sikh Authorities in Amritsar, Punjab)

Organ Donation and the Sikh faith

Diljit's story

Manjinder's story

Further information

Making a donation is your choice. But it can be seen differently even in the same religious groups. If you have any doubt, you should approach your religious adviser.

Make sure you talk to your family and friends about your decision so they know your wishes.