Are text messages and phone calls sufficient for offering condolences to the bereaved, instead of personal attendance, and is this considered in accordance with the Sunnah?
Consoling the afflicted can be done through any legitimate means, such as writing, calling, speaking in person, or delegating someone. The purpose is to comfort the afflicted and encourage them to be patient and accept God's decree. The of Usama ibn Zayd indicates the permissibility of offering condolences without a personal visit, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, did when he sent someone to console his daughter. This shows that condolences can be offered through any legitimate means. Imam Ahmad mentioned that if someone receives condolences via a letter, they should verbally respond to the messenger. Sheikh Ibn Baz affirmed that condolences can be offered through writing, phone, or a visit, and that a visit is the most complete way.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/17473
Where this answer came from
- Source platform
- Ftawy
- Original fatwa ID
- 17473
- Added here
- . This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
- Text
- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
- Read the full ruling
- Read the full answer on Ftawy