The Ruling on Surgery to Correct Physical Defects: Scholarly Opinion and Islamic Evidence
Learn the Islamic ruling on surgical procedures to correct congenital or acquired defects according to Al-Azhar scholars, with supporting Qur’anic and prophetic evidence.
The Islamic Ruling on Surgical Procedures
Dr. Atia Laashin, a member of Al-Azhar Fatwa Committee, clarified that performing surgical operations to correct congenital or acquired physical defects is permissible in Islamic law, as long as the purpose is treatment and restoration to the natural state, not unnecessary alteration of creation.
The Honor of Human Creation in Islam
He emphasized that Allah created human beings in the best form and honored them above many of His creation, citing the verse:
“We have certainly created الإنسان in the best stature.” (At-Tin 95:4)
He also referred to the verse:
“And do not throw yourselves into destruction.” (Al-Baqarah 2:195)
The Principle of Treatment in Islam
The Legitimacy of Seeking Treatment
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Seek treatment, for Allah has not sent down a disease except that He has also sent down its cure.”
This establishes the legitimacy of medical treatment and correcting harm affecting the human body.
Ruling on Correcting Congenital and Acquired Defects
Permissibility of Surgery
It is permissible to perform surgeries aimed at correcting:
- Congenital defects a person is born with
- Acquired defects resulting from accidents or illness
Purpose of Surgery
The aim must be restoring normal function and appearance, not changing Allah’s creation for mere beautification or vanity.
Evidence from the Sunnah
Hadith of ‘Arfajah ibn As‘ad
The companion ‘Arfajah ibn As‘ad lost his nose and initially used a silver replacement, which caused infection. The Prophet ﷺ then instructed him to use a gold prosthetic, showing permissibility of medical correction.
Hadith of Qatadah ibn al-Nu‘man
The Prophet ﷺ restored the eye of Qatadah after it was injured, and it became even better than before, demonstrating the legitimacy of treating deformities.
Islamic Legal Principle
Islamic rulings are based on:
- Bringing benefits (maslahah)
- Preventing harm (mafsadah)
Therefore, correcting physical defects is permissible because it achieves benefit and removes harm.
Conclusion
Surgery to correct congenital or acquired defects is permissible in Islam when intended for treatment and restoration of normal condition, based on Qur’an, Sunnah, and the objectives of Islamic law in preserving human well-being.
FAQ
Is cosmetic surgery allowed in Islam?
Yes, if it is for treatment or correcting a defect, not for unnecessary alteration.
What is the ruling on correcting birth defects?
It is permissible to restore normal appearance or function.
What is the evidence for surgical treatment?
Prophetic traditions encouraging treatment and correcting physical harm.
Is medical treatment obligatory?
It is generally permissible and may become necessary in some cases.
What is the purpose of surgery in Islam?
To remove harm and restore normal function, not to alter creation without need.
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