What is the ruling on using the cadavers of the deceased and aborted fetuses (those with abnormal births) for dissection by students of knowledge?

The fundamental principle is that the sanctity of a Muslim is preserved, whether alive or dead. However, Islamic law necessitates the realization of benefits and the prevention of harms. For this reason, Muslim scholars have permitted the dissection of a deceased's body for the purpose of medical education, due to the general benefit it entails, such as saving the lives of patients and alleviating their suffering. This is a necessary or urgent benefit, which takes precedence over the specific sanctity of the deceased, while keeping in mind the principle of prioritizing the stronger of two benefits or committing the lesser of two harms.

One must resort to the body of a non-Muslim if available, or use alternative educational methods if possible, because necessity is determined by its extent. Reputable scholarly bodies have issued fatwas to this effect.