Rukhsah (concession) in Shari`ah for a person who wants to donate blood for a patient who is in dire need of it? Is blood transfusion prohibited?

A: The basic rule is that treatment must be with lawful things, which are legally permissible. However, if there is no way to treat the patient but through blood transfusion due to his disease and weakness, provided that specialists think he will most probably benefit from it, there will be nothing wrong with treating him and alleviating his disease and weakness through blood transfusion. Allah (may He be Exalted) says, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 173 He has forbidden you only the Maitah (dead animals), and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that which is slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allâh (or has been slaughtered for idols, on which Allâh’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering). But if one is forced by necessity without willful disobedience nor transgressing due limits, then there is no sin on him. Truly, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. He also says, Surah Al-An`am, 6: 119 While He has explained to you in detail what is forbidden to you, except under compulsion of necessity.

May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions!