A visit that heals two hearts

Illness is one of life’s greatest tests. It reminds us of our dependence on Allah (S.W.T), the fragility of our bodies, and the blessing of good health. During such times, a simple visit from a fellow Muslim can become a source of comfort, hope, and immense reward.

In Islam, visiting the sick (‘iyadat al-marid) is more than a social courtesy. It is a right of one Muslim over another and an act of worship that draws a believer closer to Allah.

The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W said:

“The rights of one Muslim over another are six…”
Among them he mentioned:
“…when he falls ill, visit him.” – (Muslim)

Every visit should remind the sick person that they are not forgotten and that the Muslim community stands beside them with compassion and prayer.

The Adab of visiting the sick

• Visit with a sincere intention, seeking Allah’s pleasure rather than fulfilling a social obligation.
• Choose an appropriate time. Ensure your visit does not inconvenience the patient or their caregivers.
• Keep the visit brief, unless the patient wishes you to stay longer.
• Speak words of hope and encouragement. Remind the patient of Allah’s mercy and the rewards of patience.
• Make du’a for the sick person, asking Allah to grant them complete healing.

The Prophet (PBUH) would supplicate for the sick, saying:

“Laa ba’sa, tahuurun in shaa Allah.”

He also taught this beautiful supplication:

“Allahumma Rabban-naas, adhhibil-ba’s, ishfi anta ash-Shaafii, laa shifaa’a illaa shifaa’uk, shifaa’an laa yughadiru saqaman.”

“O Allah, Lord of mankind, remove the suffering and grant healing. You are the Healer. There is no healing except Your healing, a healing that leaves behind no illness.”
(Bukhari & Muslim)

When we visit the sick, we strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. We remind one another that trials are temporary and that Allah’s mercy is always near.

The Prophet (PBUH) narrated that Allah will say on the Day of Judgment:

“O son of Adam, I was ill and you did not visit Me.”

When the servant asks how that could be, Allah will say:

“Did you not know that My servant was ill, and had you visited him, you would have found Me with him?” – (Muslim)

What an incredible honour—that visiting a sick believer is described as drawing near to Allah Himself!

Practical tip: Not every visit requires travelling. If distance or circumstances prevent you from visiting, make a phone call, send a thoughtful message, or make sincere du’a for the person. Sometimes a few words of kindness can bring great comfort to a struggling heart.

Takeaway: When you visit the sick, you do more than comfort a believer. You answer a call to mercy, strengthen the bonds of the Ummah, and earn the pleasure of Allah.