Q&A: Studying Anatomy Through Cadaver Dissection
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This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
Studying Anatomy Through Cadaver Dissection
Question
Rabbi, as part of our nursing studies, we as first-year students are required to be present at cadaver dissections. During the dissection we focus on the anatomical and physiological aspects, with the lecturers teaching about the parts of the body. Is this permitted according to Jewish law?
Most of the bodies come from the United States because there are very few body donors for science in Israel.
Answer
In my opinion it is certainly permitted, and even obligatory. This is an essential part of your medical training. That applies even to the bodies of Jews. Using non-Jews does not solve anything, in my opinion.