To a purely materialistic view as present mainstream medical science holds, the different parts of our body, living or dead are simply like parts of a machine. Hence there is no real difference between one human being and another except the genetic / hereditary / physical makeup. As regards our thoughts and feelings they have no such lasting impact upon the body.
According to the Science of Consciousness which is what we can define spiritual / occult teachings, matter, even non-living matter, an inert stone for instance is open to forces and energies and carries the imprints of its handlers. It can even be charged through special means with benevolent and malevolent powers. Modern Science hastily dismisses all this as mere superstition before even exploring and examining it.
If we take this latter view then the dead body carries within its cells the imprints of the person, his deeds, his experiences, his inner states and the impact of outer circumstances. When the tissues or organ of such a person is transplanted to another it is bound to create a confusion until the time these imprints are absorbed and integrated with the recipient. The human being and the body are a living whole and when we transfer a part from one person to another it may surely give life but will also bring in all kinds of imprints. There have been instances wherein a person started seeing flashes of a killer after the corneal transplant. Since generally the organs are taken from dead bodies following sudden deaths it can carry imprints of the trauma to the recipient. As far as the donor is concerned it is important to remember that when a personal departs it is not like a sudden all or none phenomenon. But we often treat the dead body simply dead. But the soul takes time to gather the experiences of one life, even the force of life, though it leaves the breath continues to operate in subtle ways. The cells do not die immediately. During this time, the person who dwelt within the body is gathering his or her lifetime experiences as someone undertaking a long journey with an intention of changing his place and environment may do. The soul needs to carry some important impacts, if possible, all the important moments. That is why most traditions allow time between the clinical death and the actual burial or cremation. Generally, this process takes 24 hours except in those who have lived a very superficial life with few soul moments. So, to disturb the body during this period and take out organs and tissues is not only akin to stealing the house while you were busy packing but also it gives a horrifying sensation to the one who is departing. Though the body is dead the vital continues to linger much longer and experiences the life of sensations and desires. So, while all this need to give life through organ donation is alright from an ignorant sentimental philanthropic point of view, it is certainly not desirable from the total view of things. Even where the person has made a will, he has done so in a state of ignorance and based on a superficial understanding of life. It is always good to inform him and then let him decide if he still wants to do so. As far as giving life is concerned, it continues in another body changing the form. Therefore, it is best avoided until there are truly compelling circumstances which are indeed quite rare.
Affectionately
Alok da
Reference:
On Death (RE 017)
YT Link: https://youtu.be/85BujCQS5Bc
