How Far Will You Go to Give?: Judaism and Organ Donation

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Have I given more than I’ve taken, or taken more than I’ve given? Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz examines this question by reflecting on his own experience with kidney donation. Taking us through the personal, emotional, and halakhic reasons behind his decision to donate a kidney, Rabbi Yanklowitz explores the traditional basis for Jewish hesitation around organ donation, and ultimately concludes that not only is this act permitted for many individuals, but it may also be a mitzvah.

Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz is the founder and president of Uri L'Tzedek. He is the author of Jewish Ethics & Social Justice: A Guide for the 21st Century.
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