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Visiting a grieving family

You do not need the perfect words. Go, sit with them, help with something practical, and pray for the one who has died.

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Ink drawing of a covered pot tied in a red cloth, a plate of dates and a brass teapot on a tray.
  1. What to say

    The Prophet ﷺ sent these words to his grieving daughter: To Allah belongs what He took, and to Him belongs what He gave, and everything with Him has an appointed time. So be patient and hope for reward. Saying innā lillāhi wa innā ilayhi rājiʿūn and making duʿāʾ for the one who has died is always right.

    Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1284 · Qurʾān, al-Baqarah 2:156

  2. Tears are a mercy

    When the Prophet ﷺ wept as his grandchild was dying and was asked about it, he said it was mercy that Allah places in the hearts of His servants. Let the family grieve.

    Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1284

  3. Bring food

    The family is occupied with what has happened. Cook for them, or organize meals for the first days, so they do not have to.

    Sunan Abī Dāwūd 3132 (ḥasan)

  4. Mourning lasts three days, except for a widow

    Mourning is kept to three days, except by a widow, who mourns four months and ten days, or until she gives birth if she is pregnant. After the first days, check in on her quietly with help for errands and appointments.

    Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1280 · Qurʾān, al-Baqarah 2:234