Is it permissible to refuse chemotherapy or surgical removal of a tumor if it entails risks such as paralysis or loss of a sense, and only prolongs life by a few years with increased pain and fatigue, while not undergoing treatment leads to death in an easier and less painful manner?

Treatment is recommended, not obligatory, according to the majority of scholars. This is supported by the hadith of the black woman who preferred patience with her illness and Paradise over asking the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) to pray for her healing.

When benefits and harms converge, the benefit is given precedence if it outweighs the harm; otherwise, averting harm is prioritized.

The preference between seeking treatment and abstaining from it is a matter of disagreement. Some scholars believe that seeking it is better, while others hold that seeking it and abstaining from it are equal. Some consider it highly emphasized, bordering on obligation, while the most apparent view is that it is simply recommended. The matter also varies depending on the patient's condition and ability to endure.