Visiting the sick, either at hospital or their home, is a recommended
philanthropic
Philanthropy is a form of altruism that consists of "private initiatives for the public good, focusing on quality of life". Philanthropy contrasts with business initiatives, which are private initiatives for private good, focusing on material ...
deed in different cultures and religions, including
Christianity
Christianity is an Abrahamic monotheistic religion, which states that Jesus in Christianity, Jesus is the Son of God (Christianity), Son of God and Resurrection of Jesus, rose from the dead after his Crucifixion of Jesus, crucifixion, whose ...
,
Judaism
Judaism () is an Abrahamic religions, Abrahamic, Monotheism, monotheistic, ethnic religion that comprises the collective spiritual, cultural, and legal traditions of the Jews, Jewish people. Religious Jews regard Judaism as their means of o ...
and
Islam
Islam is an Abrahamic religions, Abrahamic monotheistic religion based on the Quran, and the teachings of Muhammad. Adherents of Islam are called Muslims, who are estimated to number Islam by country, 2 billion worldwide and are the world ...
and is considered an aspect of benevolence and a work of mercy.
In Judaism, for instance, the act is called ''
bikur cholim'' and is considered a part of ''
mitzvah
In its primary meaning, the Hebrew language, Hebrew word (; , ''mīṣvā'' , plural ''mīṣvōt'' ; "commandment") refers to a commandment Divine law, from God to be performed as a religious duty. Jewish law () in large part consists of disc ...
'' (commandment). In Christianity it may be done by relatives or friends or formally by a chaplain or minister.
Format
Visiting the sick is mainly performed on a voluntarily basis. The purpose of the visit is to reflect on shared feeling with the sick person and to spend some warm quality time with them, providing them with inspiration and
positive feelings that can help them fight their sickness and get well soon.
See also
*
Anointing of the sick
References
{{Charity
Philanthropy
Commandments