Whenever you visit the sick or the dead, supplicate for good because angels say" Amen" to whatever you say. She added: When Abu Salama died, I went to the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and said: Messenger of Allah, Abu Salama has died. He told me to recite:" O Allah! forgive me and him (Abu Salama) and give me a better substitute than he." So I said (this), and Allah gave me in exchange Muhammad, who is better for me than him (Abu Salama).
The Book of Prayer - Funerals
Sahih Muslim 919
Hadith Commentary
This noble hadith from Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) contains profound wisdom regarding visitation of the sick and deceased. The instruction to "supplicate for good" demonstrates that our presence should bring spiritual benefit, not mere formality. The angelic "Amen" signifies divine acceptance of sincere prayers offered in such solemn moments.
The specific supplication taught by the Prophet (ﷺ) encompasses three essential elements: seeking forgiveness for oneself and the deceased, demonstrating the interconnectedness of the Muslim community; requesting improved circumstances, reflecting tawakkul (reliance on Allah); and accepting divine decree with patience and hope.
Umm Salamah's practical implementation and subsequent blessing—being granted the Prophet himself as spouse—stands as eternal testimony to the efficacy of Prophetic guidance. This illustrates that Allah's compensation often exceeds human expectation when we follow revealed instructions with complete submission.
Juridical Rulings
Visiting the sick is a collective obligation (fard kifayah) while offering specific prayers is recommended (mustahabb). The presence of angels during such visits indicates the spiritual significance of these acts.
The prescribed du'a demonstrates the proper etiquette: brevity, comprehensiveness, and focus on spiritual benefits rather than worldly matters. This supplication remains valid for all Muslims facing similar circumstances.