Islamic Etiquette

One visiting the sick pught to wear clean clothes with good scent in order to make the patient feel better both spiritually and physically. At the same time, it is inappropriate to wear fancy clothes that are more appropriate for occasions of happiness. One should avoid wearing a strong smelling perfume which may inconvenience the sick.

Visitors should avoid causing distress to the sick by conveying bad news such as failing business, a death or similar bad news. Also, visitors should not enquire about the details of the illness for the purpose of mere conversation. This will not benefit the sick in any way, unless the visitor is a specialized physician. Similarly, visitors should not recommend to a patient any food or medicine that might have helped them or someone else. Such recommendations might lead the ill person, out of ignorance or desperation, to try it, causing further complications or even death.

Do not critcise or object to the treatment by the physician in the presence of the ill person for it cast doubt in the mind of the sick.

It is the right of your Muslim brother that you visit him during the time of illness. This will enhance and nourish the bond of Islam and brotherhood between you. The rewards for this are so great that they cannot be overlooked by one who wishes to increase his deeds.

Rasulullah [Sallallahu álayhi wa sallam] said, “When a Muslim visits his brother, he will remain in the khurfah of paradise until he returns.” Rasulullah [Sallallahu álayhi wa sallam] was asked, “What is the khurfah of paradise?” He replied, “The harvest of paradise.” Rasulullah [Sallallahu álayhi wa sallam] said, “One who goes walking to visit a patient, continues to sink in the mercy of Allah. When he visits, he will be totally immersed in mercy.” [Ahmad & Ibn Hibbán in his Sahih]

Forget not that there are certain etiquettes which will make yout visit to an ill person a refreshing and morale-boosting one for him. By abiding these etiquettes, you will assist in easing his pains and you will also make him more conscious of the rewards that he will gain in return for being patient during his suffering.